Preschool Graduation Gifts: No Toys Allowed

Posted by Charlene Prince Birkeland

My oldest son, Nol, is graduating from preschool this week. Besides wiping tears from my eyes at some point in the days preceding this milestone, I'm also pulling together a special gift for him from Mom and Dad.

Over the past few weeks, my husband and I have been discussing what present, if any, we should get for him. I mean, really, does he need a gift to mark the his preschool graduation? In the end, we decided that it is an important event. We are the epitome of proud parents and we Nol to know it. But he's five, so we need to keep the gift -- and the occasion -- in check.

We decided that for our little guy, preschool graduation gifts shouldn't include toys. While showing Nol we're excited for him and proud of all that he's learned, we also want to continue to encourage his insatiable curiosity and love of learning. We decided that despite the no-toy rule, we wanted the gift to include something fun and have an element of specialness.

So, come Wednesday, Nol will be opening a package that includes:

Love of Learning Factor: Three books with his favorite characters, including Mike Mulligan and More: Four Classic Stories by Virginia Lee Burton, Mercy Watson Fights Crime and The Ralph Mouse Collection. If you're in need of book ideas for the preschool/early reader age set, these books are fantastic and age appropriate for five-year-old kids.

Fun and Specialness Factor: Three tickets to watch his beloved Francisco Giants play ball on a special date with Mom and Dad. Since his little brother, Q., was born, time just with mom and dad has been hard to come by for Nol. Truth be told, we miss spending time alone with him too. So Nol will get a little "certificate" that explains Q. will be spending a day with his grandparents while we take Nol up to the city for a full day of fun. I can already see the smile on his face. And ours.

Any parents of preschool grads out there - how you are you celebrating the occasion?