Gifting Outside the Box

Why we support gifting experiences for young people

Some of the best gifts can’t be wrapped in a box. They’re experiences that engage a youth’s interests, strengthen connections to friends and community, and get them outside – which just happens to build a foundation for flourishing. At the Health Foundation of East Texas, we encourage parents, friends and loved ones to consider giving gifts that spark joy you can’t find on a shelf.

Four smiling teenage boys sitting outdoors with skateboards, giving thumbs-up gestures. — We are committed to helping youth thrive through joyful, meaningful experiences.

Gift Ideas

You don’t have to spend a lot to give a meaningful experience. The best gifts reflect kids’ and teens’ interests and give them something to look forward to, explore, or enjoy with others.

Still want something you can wrap? Consider a related item: a stylish apron + a cooking class, a skateboard + a lesson to get started, a compass + a coupon to go orienteering together.

Here are some ideas for gifting experiences:

Exploring new things: Give tickets to a local museum, community concert, or nearby attraction. Try to gift at least two, so they can go with you or a friend.
Sparking creativity: Gift a pottery class, music lesson, robotics workshop, or other hands-on activity.
Getting outside: Plan a hiking adventure, a camping trip, or a day trying out orienteering.
Gearing up: Gift art supplies, chef’s equipment, a basketball hoop, mountain bike – anything that builds on their interests.
Discovering a passion: Support a new hobby, low-key sports league, or opportunity to learn a skill.
Gifting quality time. Plan fun outings together. Create a guidebook of local places to visit, a scavenger hunt in town, an ice cream taste test – let imagination be your guide.

Collage of young people enjoying different activities, including painting colorful artwork, crocheting with bright yarn, jumping at an indoor trampoline park, and horseback riding along a wooded trail.

The research of experiencing joy

Research suggests that experiences often bring more lasting happiness than possessions because they create memories, strengthen relationships, and become part of our identity. Long after a gift is forgotten or worn out, people remember the trip, the conversation, the mentor, the opportunity, and the time spent together. Experiences shape who we are in ways that objects rarely can.

Smiling girl shaping clay at a pottery table while two other children and an instructor work in the background.

Want to partner with us?

Great ideas and lasting change often start with collaboration. If you’re interested in partnering with us to help empower our community’s youth to have a healthy relationship with their smartphones, let’s start a conversation!

Silhouetted hands hold two interlocking puzzle pieces against a bright, golden sky.