Survey Reveals What Parents Really Want for the Holidays

When you have kids, the holidays are often a little bit more about giving than receiving. But when the time comes for the spotlight to shine on parents, what do they really want for the holidays anyways?

Babysitting giant Care.com polled 1,000 parents across the US to get a pulse on how they are approaching the holiday season and what they want most. The survey lends insight into what’s on the minds of caregivers and how you can treat the parents in your life to something they’ll love.

The Top 3 Items on Parents’ Wish List

Cash

When you mix inflation with the rising costs of raising a kid, it’s no wonder that 54 percent of parents said they simply want cash for the holidays. From making ends meet to crafting the perfect Christmas for their children, a little bit can go a long way.

Short on cash or want to give something to go under the tree? Consider asking parents what toys they plan to buy for their littles. Almost 80 percent of caregivers surveyed said are stressed about affording gifts for their children this holiday season. Taking toys off their list means more cash in their pockets.

Gift Cards

Similar to the No. 1 wish for cash, 49 percent of parents hope to stretch their budgets further or get themselves a special something with gift cards. Think outside the box to provide a personal touch, getting them a gift card for an experience like a massage or travel voucher for their next trip.

Luxury Items

One of the top qualities of a great gift is something people want but wouldn’t splurge on for themselves. When asked, 22 percent of parents admitted they would like a luxury item like a fancy new piece of tech or a designer bag.

The Top 3 Things Parents Really Want

While material things are nice, there are some things that money can’t so easily buy but are all the more valuable. When asked what they really want this holiday season, here is what parents had to say.

A Full Night of Sleep

A recent survey shows that parents will lose around 130 nights of sleep before baby’s first birthday. So it’s no surprise that 43 percent of parents surveyed said they dream of a full night of sleep. Give the gift of a good night’s rest by offering to host a sleepover for the kids at your house or by hiring a babysitter so parents can take the night off.

A Peaceful Meal at a Restaurant with the Whole Family

Eating with picky toddlers or tired tykes can turn a nice meal into a stressful experience in the blink of an eye. Forty percent of parents surveyed said they crave a peaceful meal out with the whole family. Give the gift of a stress-free supper by gathering the family and providing games and activities to distract little ones during dinner.

The Kids in Bed Without a Fight

Hand in hand with dreams for a good night’s sleep is the wish for a bedtime routine without a fight. A little over 25 percent of parents surveyed said they yearn for their kids to go to bed without a fight. Help things go a little smoother for the parent you love by offering to help with the bedtime routine.

You can see the full results from the survey, including how parents are spending and tipping this holiday season, at Care.com. Still at a loss for what to get the parent in your life? Check out these 45 gifts for parents on the nice list.