Great! How Do I Know What to Send?

What a sponsor sends in a DP or an Online In-Country purchase is entirely up to them! In fact, that is part of the fun of sending a package instead of a monetary donation. There is no quick, easy way to find out what your family or child may need or want—Children International will not do an inquiry for these types of gifts. However, there are a some staple items that are well-received and appreciated by children in all of CI's countries:

-pens, pencils, crayons and markers
-coloring books

-age-appropriate fiction and non-fiction books
-scissors, construction paper, glitter, and other arts and crafts supplies
-powdered drink mixes like Crystal Light, Kool-Aid or Tang
-hair accessories and jewelery

-toothbrushes, hair brushes, nail clippers

-washcloths, bars of soap

-stuffed animals, dolls, toy cars

-educational books and flashcards
-a hand-cranked flashlight
-holiday items such as a Santa hat or bunny ears
-a small photo album to hold the photos you send over the years

To add a personal touch your package, consider first writing to your child. In your letter, you can ask such questions as, “What is your favorite color?” and, “Who is your favorite cartoon character?” In this way, you not only learn a bit more about your child, but also can then shop for items to match these likes.

If you want to send clothes, you can attempt to determine your child's size by comparing their height and weight on their family report to a size chart (I've had good luck with this one). It's not an exact science, though, and there's a chance the clothes you choose will not fit. They won't go to waste, though--our children and their families are generous with their blessings, and a family member or a neighbor will make good use of the outfit!

You may also include items for your child's family members. Extra hygiene supplies and school items are useful for siblings, while a pair of sturdy work gloves would be appreciated by a parent.

You should not send liquids, gels, or anything that could potentially break open and spill in transit. Additionally, some centers have items they will not accept for cultural reasons--Children International will inform you of any such restrictions when you request the mailing address.