As a parent, seeing a massive smile on your child’s face is the most rewarding thing in the world. So, when we feel that they deserve a treat, it’s only natural that we want to surprise them with something they will love.
The world is a different place than it was 10-15 years ago, and children are into all sorts that, when we were their age, we couldn’t even dream about. But while no two kids are the same (by and large), there are some treats that they are almost guaranteed to love.
Ice Cream
Who doesn’t love ice cream? It’s the foundation of almost any good dessert (hot cookie dough covered in ice cream, anyone?) and makes for the perfect treat. Summer is when ice cream sales go through the roof, but that does not mean that your special little guy or girl will turn their nose up at it.
Of course, if you do give your kids’ ice cream then be careful to make sure it is not too much, and they don’t have it too often. This isn’t the healthiest option on our list by any means but, as long as ice cream is eaten in moderation, there is no harm done.
Weekend Away
Just like we adults do, children live for the weekend when there is no school – and even better when it’s half-term! If they have been working especially hard this term, then a weekend away will feed their sense of adventure.
In the UK, various parks have caravans for hire, meaning that families can stay onsite. Such parks have activities for all the families, so what may be a reward for the kids might also be something for mum and dad to savour. If nothing else, it will be good to get you and the family out of the house!
Theme Park
If there is one thing that almost every kid loves it is a trip to a theme park. Rollercoasters, amusements and games every which way you turn, there is always something to be involved with!
However, theme parks usually mean a lot of money on entrance alone, and that is before you line up for rides and add in the cost of food and drink. If you do surprise your kids with a day at the theme park, check on the park’s official website for discounted deals as, usually, you will find family deals and when their peak times are.
Tickets to Watch their Favorite Sports Team
If your child is a massive sports fan and idolizes the local sports team, then you will be their hero if you manage to get a couple of tickets to a game. Most sports teams encourage a family-friendly atmosphere, with many actually dedicating a space within the stadium as a family area, so worry not about foul and abusive language.
Much the same as theme parks look out for discounted deals with many clubs offering family bundles or free tickets for juniors with a paying adult. If possible, try to eat before or after attending a sports event, as food and drink is always notoriously overpriced in stadiums – and you run the risk of having food and bottles confiscated by stewards before entering.
A Meal of Their Choice
If you haven’t got the money to whisk your kids away for the weekend or splash out on potentially expensive tickets for the theme park or sports team, then keep it simple and let them pick what they want for dinner.
If your kids want pizza then order in or, to make it more fun, make one from scratch together. Not only will they be learning valuable skills (because everybody should know how to make pizza, right?) but it is a great opportunity for you to spend valuable time with the children.
If you decide to do any of the above suggestions as a way of rewarding your kids, you will be guaranteed to make them very happy indeed!