By Lucy Corkhill
14th December 2012
Charity gifts are a great way of spreading the love at Christmas, and giving something a little quirky that makes the recipient feel good too. But charity Christmas gifts for kids? This can be trickier as most children want to receive something tangible on the big day. We’ve rounded up a few ideas which offer the best of both worlds, and allow us to teach our children about the wonderful spirit of caring for others. Why not sit round and enjoy reading Dickens’ A Christmas Carol together too – Scrooge is the perfect example of how sharing with others expands your life!
1). Adopt an animal
Children will absolutely love this wonderful gift. For as little as £3 per month, you can help to protect an endangered species of your choice, including a panda, bottlenose dolphin, tiger, polar bear, orang-utan, turtle, leopard or elephant. When you sponsor an animal, WWF will send your child a cuddly toy of the animal you choose, Wild World magazine 3 times a year and a magazine about your animal, a certificate, stickers, bookmark and more.
2). Make a Wish Foundation
The Make a Wish Foundation grants magical wishes to children living with life-threatening illnesses. There are many inspiring and moving videos and stories on their websites of the dreams they’ve helped make happen. They’ve teamed up with children’s products company Hippychick – each Wheelybug and Hipseat sold between now and Christmas raises money for Make a Wish. Wheelybugs are loveable ride-on bugs that go backwards, forwards, sideways and round and round, and are a great present for toddlers.
3). Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS)
CHAS have a wide range of toys on their website for little ones, from dominoes to lovely Jellycat soft toys. Money raised goes towards their family-centred hospices, Rachel House and Robin House, for children with life-limiting illnesses; bereavement support and spiritual care for siblings and parents; plus care at home.
4). RSPB membership
For just £17 a year, you can treat a special someone to a Wildlife Explorers Membership. They’ll receive an exciting member’s pack tailored to their age group, a magazine six times a year, a choice of free gift, and entry to over 100 nature reserves in the UK.
5). Save the Children Wish List
Winter clothes for a child, a place in school, mosquito nets and shoes are all some of the things on offer on the Save the Children Wish List. As it doesn’t include a tangible gift, this might be better suited to older children who will receive a beautiful gift card and poster. It’s inspiring to know that they will be reaching out to a child just like them somewhere in the world and making their Christmas special too.
