- ANY thing soccer is good. She suggested a deflated soccer ball and pump. Not budget friendly but a good idea. Soccer is so big the world over so I don't think you could go wrong with soccer themed items. Skip American Football items, kids might not get.
- She said not to send screen printed shirts, but rather send solids and stripes. In another portion, she said most kids are wearing rags. i think i disagree with this. Wouldn't a new shirt be better than no shirt?
- She said to make sure the sizes are right (ie not XL adult shirt in teen boxes). Again, I am not sure how I feel about this. If the rest of the box is thoughtfully packed, the shirt is a bonus. I can remember when my children were small, they LOVED to give us presents. I imagine this is an universal experience and I think a child would love to be able to share something from their shoebox with an older sibling (who is too old to get a shoebox) or a parent.
- I haven't usually packed a tooth brush case and soap case. Her post makes a good case why these are important. I will be putting this on my must have list.
- She also suggests a high quality Melamine (PLASTIC) plate, bowl and/or cup. Again, this is something I haven't thought of. Target carries this kind of thing and I have often seen in the clearance end caps.
- She doesn't like stickers as there is no place for them to stick them. I am not sure I agree with this either although I think it depends what else is in the boxes. I always include a notebook, stickers allow some personalization of a boring notebook. Again when my children were small, they loved to stick them on each other. They don't take up any room, just something fun and colorful to add.
- Stuffed Animals? On her no list. I think it is important to include something soft and lovey to add. In fact, I also read that Australian OCC insists on this. Your thoughts?
in general, I think all shoe box "fillers" should read her post and take away from it what you think is important.
I would love to hear back from you on your thoughts.
Also, look at when this was written (May). Did you know shoeboxes are passed out year round? I would suggest that you don't include Christmasy items since it will be months and months later till "your" child will receive their box.
