need gift ideas?
Start with a "wow!" gift
Include a “Wow” Gift. Start with a medium to large item that will capture the child’s attention the instant he or she opens the box. Ideas include: soccer ball with pump, stuffed animal, toys (puppets, trucks, etc.), doll (baby, Barbie, etc.), musical instrument, outfit, shoes.
Toys
Include items that children will immediately embrace such as toy cars/trucks/boats, plastic dinosaurs, yo-yos, jump ropes, sports balls, interactive toys that light up and make noise (with extra batteries), small musical instruments (harmonica, recorders, etc).
School Supplies
Pens, pencils and sharpeners, crayons, markers, notebooks, paper, solar calculators, coloring and picture books, etc.
Accessories & Crafts
T-shirts, socks, hats, sunglasses, hair clips, jewelry, watches, flashlights (with extra batteries), etc. Make your own items such as hair bows, finger puppets, and friendship bracelets.
Non-liquid Hygiene Items
Toothbrushes, bar soap, combs, washcloths, etc. Toothpaste cannot be included in shoebox gifts, but a child’s oral hygiene can still be improved by regular use of a toothbrush alone.
Personalize It
You may enclose a note to the child and a photo of yourself, your family, or group. If you include your name and an address, the child may be able to write back after receiving your gift.
please do not include:
Please do not include used or damaged items; war-related items such as toy guns, knives, or military figures; seeds, chocolate or food; out-of-date candy; liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snow globes or glass containers; aerosol cans.
