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5 Christmas gifts for kids that aren’t toys

For anyone who asks me, "What do your kids want for Christmas?", my response is always the same: "I'd prefer experiences over toys." 

Anyone with kids, or grandkids, will understand the clutter that toys make. You can't take a step without treading on a piece of Lego or a Barbie head. Plus, experience gifts are so much better for creating memories that can last a whole year – not five minutes until the next best toy comes out. Not to mention the impact on the environment. 

I've compiled a local gift guide of experiences that are sure to make your little ones smile.

1. Season Pass to Symbio Wildlife Park

An annual pass will set you back $120 for adults and $75 for kids, with bubs under three going for free. 

You can read my review here: ‘Symbio is the perfect size for kids’

2. Early Start Discovery Space Annual Membership

An annual membership is pretty reasonable considering how many times a year you will go. It is $50 for an adult and a child and kids under 12 months are free.

You can read my review here: Inspire imagination at the Early Start Discovery Space

3. My First Gym Membership

There are loads of different pricing options for membership depending on how many classes you want to sign up for but it ranges from $24.95 to $38.95 per week. My kids had a birthday party here once and they absolutely loved it and had a very good night's sleep after.

Photo: Jamberoo Action Park

4. Jamberoo Action Park 

You can get a one-off ticket for $59 online ($69 at the gate) for kids 4 to 12 years – kids under 4 are free. Or if you live close by, you can get the season pass for $199 online ($209 at the gate).

5. UOW Science Space Membership

The annual membership packages depend on your family size and prices range from one child and adult for $90 to two adults and two children for $110.

Happy shopping!