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10 Simple Prompts to Help Your Child Build a Meaningful Wish List

By Sarah Hauge, Publisher, Macaroni Kid, Englewood, Greenwood Village, Centennial November 14, 2023

It's the same story every year: Grandma just called again. She's asking for Christmas lists and I'm staring at a blank piece of paper. What do my kids like to play with? Do they really need more of anything? What do I tell her?

Avoid writer's block with this list of 10 prompts to help your child build a wish list.

1. I want to learn how to: _______________.

  • Consider: subscription boxes, books, classes, specialized kits, or tools.

2. I want to read about: _________________.

  • Consider: books, magazines, movies, & performing arts tickets.

3. I want to visit: _______________________.

  • Consider: special passes, memberships, coupons, luggage, or travel gear. 

4. It would be nice to help _________________ in our community.

  • Consider: donation of money, products, or services to a charity in their honor.

5. I've always wanted to try: _________________.

  • Consider: Is the child able to do this alone? What tools, supplies, or experience will he/she need to accomplish this? 

6. I need to earn $___ so that I can: __________.

  • Consider: cash, gift cards, special coupons, or an opportunity to buy something special together.

7. I like going to ________ with my family.

  • Consider: How can I bring the magic of this place to his/her home?

8. A skill I have recently mastered is: _________.

  • Consider: What do they need to further practice their skill? What would they like to try next?

9. I'm running out of: _________________.

  • Consider: clothes, art supplies, toiletries, or favorite snacks/drinks.

10. I can't live without: _______________.

  • Consider: What similar things are also needed?

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