Every time your child gets invited to a birthday party, do you feel the pressure mounting? You know, as a good guest, your child has to bring a gift along to the shindig, but you don’t really know the child who is being celebrated and your child does not necessarily know much about their likes and dislikes like either – it can be a real bind! The good news is, no matter how much or little you know about the birthday boy or girl, you can always find something they’ll love, and below are some top tips to help you do just that.
Understand the Age Group
When picking a gift, the first thing you need to be aware of is that it’s crucial to consider the age of the child who is being gifted. That being the case, here’s a breakdown to help you choose wisely:
Toddlers (1-3 years)
For the tiny tots, it’s pretty much all about sensory play and soft cuddles, right? That means, luckily for you, that plushies are a no-brainer here. Soft, huggable, and free of small parts, they can become a cherished companion for your toddler. But let’s not stop there! Consider large-piece puzzles or musical toys that are easy to handle and can help in developing those fine motor skills and an appreciation for rhythm. These beautiful hand-knitted clothes by Scottish designer, Lorraine Hyslop of Bo-peep Handmade, would make a gorgeous present for a young child.
Little Kids (4-7 years)
This age is all about exploration and imagination. Gifts that spark creativity are gold. How about an action figure from their favorite cartoon or a craft kit to keep their hands busy? Storybooks are also fantastic, opening doors to new worlds. These gifts help children in this age group dive deep into the realms of fantasy and discovery, nurturing their growing minds.
Older Kids (8-12 years)
As kids grow, so does their curiosity and capacity for complex tasks. Board games that challenge them or beginner science kits that introduce basic concepts in a fun way are superb choices. Sports equipment can also be a hit, catering to their developing physical skills and need for active play. Such gifts not only keep them engaged but also encourage learning through play, which is the best kind of learning. For children that love helping mum and dad in the kitchen, these beautiful aprons by UmmPixies will help get them ready for the next edition of Bake Off!
Personal Interests
Knowing what the child is passionate about can significantly narrow down your options. Is the child animal crazy or a budding sports star? Maybe they have a penchant for dinosaurs or dreams of space exploration. Matching the gift to their interests not only ensures the gift will be a hit, but it also shows that you care about what makes them unique. For instance, a child who loves astronomy might appreciate a star projector or a book about the planets. So, don’t be afraid to ask their parents or someone in the know if your kid doesn’t exactly have all of the info you need to clue you in!
Educational Gifts
In a world that’s becoming increasingly complex, educational gifts are more relevant than they have ever been before. Think about interactive reading systems, math games that don’t feel like homework, or even building sets that teach the basics of engineering and physics. These are gifts that parents will thank you for, and they might even ignite a lifelong passion or career interest in the young recipients.
Gifts for the Artistic Child
For the child who loves to draw, paint, or craft, it’s smart to tailor your gift to their artistic endeavours. High-quality art supplies, a DIY pottery kit, or even a how-to-draw book can make their day even more special than it was already going to be. These gifts encourage expression and creativity, providing an outlet for their emotions and thoughts. Plus, it’s always fun to see what they create and know you had a part in their creative process.
Digital Drawing Pads
For the artistically inclined, digital drawing pads open up a new dimension of creativity. They can sketch, paint, and even animate with ease. Plus, it’s a clean and organized way to keep their art in one place!
Active Play
To balance the screen time, consider gifts that encourage physical activity and play. These gifts help children develop motor skills, coordination, and, importantly, they’re great fun to use!
Simple yet effective, a good old-fashioned jump rope can provide hours of fun and is excellent for fitness. Sports equipment like soccer balls, basketballs, or even a mini golf set can also be perfect gifts, especially if the child shows interest in sports. For the thrill-seekers, skateboards and scooters make for exciting gifts. They not only promote physical activity but also skills like balance and spatial awareness. Don’t forget to pair these with safety gear like helmets and knee pads!
Personalised Gifts
For something truly unique and special, personalized gifts can create lasting memories. These bespoke surprises show thoughtfulness beyond the usual store-bought items:
Imagine a book where the child is the protagonist alongside their favourite characters. Custom storybooks make the child a star of their own adventure, boosting their reading interest and self-esteem.
Craft Kits
For those who love to create, craft subscription boxes deliver all the materials needed for a new project with each delivery. It’s a great way to continually challenge them and keep their creative juices flowing. Science and Exploration Kits are perfect for budding scientists and curious minds. Each box can be a new experiment, a building project, or a puzzle that teaches something new about the world.
Ethical Toys
Choose toys made from sustainable materials to help instil an understanding of environmental stewardship. These can range from wooden toys to recycled-plastic playsets. Some companies donate a portion of their proceeds to charitable causes. Opt for gifts from these brands to help children learn the importance of charity and helping others. By the same token, a homemade gift, whether it’s a knitted scarf, a hand-painted picture frame, or a custom-decorated journal, can be much more meaningful than something off the shelf.
Pictured below, Yoyo Children’s Wear offers fun and funky children’s clothing and accessories, all handmade from scratch, from the pattern design and cutting through to the sewing and stitching. These clothes are ethical and sustainable ‘slow fashion’ for young ones.
