Getting Kids Interested in Collecting

The general consensus concerning today's children and collecting is that kids just aren't interested if it doesn't blink, sparkle, or bleed. In this and a few future posts, we'll discuss some ways to get kids interested in collecting.

In a generation filled with 24 hour cartoon stations and video games, how can stamps, coins, and banknotes compete? I've found a few simple things to try as well and things to avoid when getting your kids started. First, avoid making a big deal of special handling. Kids tend to shy away from activities with too many rules. Instead, let them begin with collectibles of little value. Second, while kids do benefit from stories of your youth, try to guide them as they ask for help instead of showing them the "right way". For your own part, try not to get too disappointed if the first few attempts are short in duration. Casually, suggest they bring out the stamps or coins on future rainy days. You might also want to bait them a bit from time to time with items from your own collection, stressing that greater care should be used when handling your stamps.

Lastly, try giving them a few high denomination foreign coins or banknotes. They'll likely treat these with great care if they're in protective enclosures simply due to perceived value. While they'll mentally place a value on the collectibles with high denominations, they'll also learn that these can't be spent or used in the United States.

Feel free to share your thoughts and ideas.

-- James the Web Guy