Write a letter and make it an annual event. Write a letter to your child and tell he or she what they mean to you, what strengths they possess and what thoughts you want to share. An open, personal letter will become a keepsake to be treasured and it's an opportunity for parents who say things they might normally be bashful to say.
Introduce your child to the past with stories from your own childhood. If possible, take your child to visit your old neighborhood or make a special trip to see your hometown. Get out the photo albums from the past and share the pictures. If you have heirloom photographs from earlier generations, introduce your child to their ancestors. Share the old stories that have been handed down through the generations and teach history through family experiences.
Read together. Young children love to be read to but so do older children. Read a special story or novel aloud to the family. Stretch it out over several days during a special holiday time. Suggest books to read that you remember with fondness or read the same books so that you can talk about them. If you and and your child are both reading a Harry Potter book, you'll find common ground to discuss and enjoy.
Special gifts from the heart are as diverse as Americans. Before you buy the latest Barbie or DVD movie, use your imagination to give a lasting gift.