Grandparent Gift Stash

No one likes to dash to the store at the last minute, frantically searching for “just the right thing” with insufficient time or energy. If you don’t already have a gift stash, now might be the time to consider getting one. Getting your stash in good shape doesn't have to be onerous or overly expensive. Whenever you are shopping you might see something to add to your stash. It helps, however, to have a plan.

Many Grandparents have a grandparent gift stash which saves them unnecessary stress and bother. They keep a stash of toys, books, games, clothes, or hobby-related gifts for birthdays, Christmas and unexpected gift needs.  Whether it’s a grandchild’s birthday that just sneaked up on them, or a special event they hadn’t anticipated, the stash saves them from extra trips to the stores.

One grandmother I know keeps an updated list of clothing and shoe sizes for each grandchild, along with color likes and dislikes. She also has a “wish list” for each of her grandchildren in the day planner she carries when she shops. She divides the list as follows.

Gender. This savvy grandmother makes a list of everything she might like to buy for the grandsons, and then she makes another list for the granddaughters. She also lists a couple of gift ideas that would work for either male or female grandchildren. That said, she makes sure to keep her gifts in the “safe zone.” In other words, not every family is into war toys for boys or princess toys for girls.

Age. It may be easier to think about the ages and stages of your grandchildren and consider those ages when purchasing stash items. Sure, the building set is an amazing deal, but if it doesn’t fit the age or stage of either your adorable granddaughter or your handsome grandson, it's going to stagnate in your stash.

Individual. Some grandparents prefer buying gifts specific to a person’s interest. For example, if you see a special hobby-related gift that you know your granddaughter would love at a very special price (but you've already purchased her Christmas gift), why not buy that gift and put it in your stash for when her birthday comes around? Or what if you happen upon the skateboard your grandson has been just dying for, and it's practically being given away? Get it now, but don't forget you have it when it’s birthday time!

Using a list can help in that regard. Write down each purchase as you make it right on your idea list. Then, look at your list whenever a gift-giving occasion occurs. This will save unnecessary trips to buy more gifts. It also helps to have a special place for your gift stash so you don’t end up looking through every closet in the house when the time comes.

Stock Up on Cards, Too!

This gift stash principle also applies to buying birthday and all-occasion cards. Stocking up on cards ahead of time can save a lot of wear and tear on the nerves, as well as on the car! Dollar stores are excellent places to buy birthday, anniversary, get well, and sympathy cards. Most dollar stores sell cards for as little as two for a dollar. Most of these stores have an excellent selection for every occasion and for everyone from the youngest grandchild’s birthday to an adult grandchild’s graduation, marriage, or anniversary. Again, making a list and buying the cards when you are out and about anyway can save the day for you later when you need a card for that special occasion.

Even though you are busy, a little thought beyond your normal shopping routine can do wonders for your grandparent gift stash. So make a plan, and watch your gift stash grow. Before you know it, you will be prepared for any occasion.