I’d say experiences is still a good answer, its what we ask for when it comes to the kids. They have tons of toys already, they don’t need more, and I’m too particular about tech for my.kids for anyone to buy them tech (without it just getting returned).

We go to animal preserves, science centers, art museums, renaissance fairs, etc. Tickets only for the kids, its more like “pick an event/activity” than anything else I guess.

Sometimes we wait for family to visit so they can go too, sometimes we just take lots of pictures.

Aside from that…

• Rock tumblers are great, but loud, so talk with parents first.
• There are some great kits out there to learn to sew.
• There are electronics kits for kids that basically snap together in different arrangements for different circuits
• Marble kits (where you build different layouts) can be fun
• Terrariums with guides are always a good option IMO
• Magnet blocks are also really fun and can be reused a bunch