Is this a thing and is it a good idea?

[Pointlessfan]

My SIL has 2 small children (primary age). We never know what to get the family for Xmas and usually end up giving the kids toys, of which they all ready have hundreds and then DVDs, chocolate etc to the adults. I hit upon the idea for this year of giving them a voucher for a theme park, Sea Life centre, cinema or something so they can have a family day out.
I've looked online but I can only find discount codes or online booking which isn't really what we want to do. Is it possible to get gift vouchers for such places and if so, is that a good present or do you think the kids would prefer something to unwrap on Xmas day?

[PoppyWearer]

I think it's a fabulous idea.

Yes, you can get vouchers - Merlin vouchers for example, or cinema vouchers.

As a parent I would far rather that than a toy. The child may not appreciate it at the time of opening, but will love the experience later. Could you find a small toy to wrap to fit with the theme of the voucher?

[Pointlessfan]

That's a brilliant idea, if I got a Merlin voucher they could go to Sea Life and I could get a soft toy fish or something to wrap up for each child. Pleased you think it's a good idea. Thank you.

[olbas]

Brilliant idea, so much so that I'm stealing it!

[KatyMac]

I think it's a fab idea - make sure the vouchers have a reasonable life (ie not out of date by March) as I got caught out once

[Pinkje]

How about an annual subscription to the National Trust or magazines for everyone.

[Pointlessfan]

That's a good idea too, what sort of magazine would 5 and 7 year olds enjoy?
Pleased others think it's a good idea. I think they'd def enjoy a good day out somewhere.

[spideysenses]

That's a great idea! I might just put it on my list of ideas for next year...
I know my own would love that as a gift especially the sealife centre with the little fish to unwrap.

[meandjulio]

magazine for kids - The Phoenix - no adverts, really funny, great stories.

[Pinkje]

National Geographic do a junior edition of their magazine. Would they like a Beano comic perhaps.