Unlike toys that may break before next month, these gifts will last a lifetime:

• The gift of time. The old saying is true. Children really do spell love T-I-M-E. Give the gift of listening to your child, reading with your child, helping your child, and just hanging around with your child.

• The gift of understanding. Children aren’t perfect. (Neither are parents.) If your child makes a mistake, listen first.

• The gift of confidence. When you believe in your child, you help him believe in himself. When you tell him that you know he can do it, he’ll never doubt that he can. Years from now when he faces another challenge, he’ll hear your words in the back of his mind.

• The gift of enthusiasm. Whether you’re working on a household project or going out to toss a ball, do it with verve. Your excitement about the task will rub off on your child. When he has to tackle a tough project in school (or later in life), he’ll find the energy to carry it through.

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