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The Brightside: Want, Need, Wear, Read - 2024

The Brightside: Want, Need, Wear, Read - 2024
The Brightside: Want, Need, Wear, Read. A Mindful Christmas Gifting Guide for Kids.



Want to know how to stick to budget and gift kids mindfully this Christmas? “Something they want, something they need, something to wear, something to read” 


It’s our tried and true mantra at Banabae each holiday season. A method that encourages meaningful gift choices and an understanding of needs and wants while reinforcing the joy of giving and receiving.

1. Something They Want

Children have a knack for making lengthy or extortionate wish lists during the holiday season. To ensure you’re giving them something they truly desire while staying within your budget, have a heart-to-heart conversation with your kids. Ask them to prioritise their top wishes. This can help you identify what they truly want and appreciate, and it also teaches them about setting priorities and making choices.


2. Something They Need

This category is all about practicality. Take a look at what your children genuinely need, whether it’s school supplies, new swimmers for holidays, or any other essentials. Prioritising their needs ensures that your gift has a lasting, positive impact on their daily lives. 


 Instead of buying these items separately, you can bundle them together in a creative and appealing way. For example, create a “Back-to-School Essentials” kit with all the necessary supplies or a “Summer Holiday Pack” with summer clothes and accessories.



Back to School Bundle - Reef
Island Time Eco Rashie and Paddle Pant Bundle

3. Something to Wear

The “Something to Wear” category can be both functional for us and still fun for the kids. As they are constantly growing clothing is always an essential and practical gift for kids. This is your opportunity to let them express their personality through their wardrobe. Consider their favourite colours, styles, or graphics when picking out clothing items. To stay on budget, look for versatile clothing pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. 

Buying only one or two special pieces that will last rather than a fast fashion haul of cheap products that won’t last long enough to be passed down to younger siblings, cousins or friends. Of course, we also recommend you support businesses that use ethical and sustainable production methods and embrace natural fibres. There are so many amazing local and ethical kids’ brands to choose from.


Side Stripe Cord Shorts - Ecru
Heaps Good Kids Cord Cap - Eco Red
Wave Rider Linen Shirt - Kids
Rad Kid Tonal Long Sleeve Tee - White

4. Something to Read

Books make excellent gifts, and they offer countless benefits. Encouraging a love for reading and learning is a valuable gift in itself. When choosing books for your kids, consider their interests, reading level, and age-appropriate content. 


 You don’t have to break the bank to gift books. Local libraries often have sales of gently used books, and there are many budget-friendly bookstores and online options. You can also look for classic books that have stood the test of time or explore second-hand bookstores for unique finds.


Sunday Skating
Bees Are Our Friends
The Twelve Days Of Kindness

Over the coming weeks, we will be sharing more ways to gift with the “Something They Want, Something They Need, Something to Wear, Something to Read” approach. We hope it provides some inspiration for you over the busy holiday season!


Suggestions for mindful gifting this holiday season:

Polka Dot Swirl Dress
Rad Kid Terry Bucket Hat - Green Apple - AUD $45.00
Retro Sport Shorts - Yellow
Rad Kid Vertical Stripe Hemp Tee

More from the Brightside blog:

The Brightside: DIY Christmas Wreath
The Brightside - Sustainable Gift Wrapping Guide
The Brightside - Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide