One of the most frustrating things as a parent is buying the latest and greatest toy for your child only to discover that it is also the quickest to be be broken and the first to be ignored.
Instead of grabbing the hot new toy off the shelf when you’re shopping, consider these gift ideas for kids:
Books. Every child on the planet should get books as gifts. There are many, many fabulous options to choose from, or you can give a gift certificate to a book store and let children select their own titles.
Building blocks. Whether it’s Lego blocks, wooden blocks, Lincoln Logs, or TRIO toys, you’ll be sure to keep a child entertained for hours as they create a myriad of projects.
Modeling Compounds. Playdoh or Crayola modeling clay can offer a sensory experience for children while appealing to the artist in them.
Art Supplies. And speaking of artists… new markers, crayons and coloring books are always a treat for those who love to draw. Craft kits can also spur a child’s imagination.
Dolls and action figures. A quality doll or a set of action figures encourages imaginative play that can help a child make sense of the world around them.
Musical instruments. You may cringe at the thought of extra noise in your house, but toy drums and other toy instruments are a lot of fun for children. You just may inspire a future musician.
Board games. Board games aren’t just a gift for a child, they’re a gift for the whole family! You’ll have a blast as your child learns to follow rules, take turns, and handle the competition.
Sports equipment and outdoor gear. Kids cannot possible spend enough time being active and playing outdoors. Think balls, bats, gloves, roller skates, bikes, and sleds. Be sure to also buy the proper safety equipment (such as helmets and knee pads) to keep your kiddo safe.
Museum passes. For the kid who has everything, consider purchasing a family museum pass. You’ll get a year’s worth of educational entertainment and create memories that last a lifetime.
These are just a few of my ideas for gifts for children that will stand the test of time. They don’t need batteries, they hold up to serious play, and they create fond memories for your entire family. Of course, if all else fails, you could just give them a cardboard box.
What are some of your favorite gift ideas for kids?
Magazine subscriptions. It’s the gift that keeps on showing up in the mailbox all year long. I LOVED getting mail when I was a kid. (Okay, I still do.)
Oh so true. Children have such great imaginations and should be encouraged to explore to the end of the earth. That is why that often they would rather play with the box than the toy.
My children really enjoy playing video games but I make sure that they play ones that are not violent and help facilitate learning. I’m planning on buying a Nintendo Wii so that my kids have fun playing their video games but also get some physical activity. I’m trying to find the best deals since its a pricey gift. I found a Buy.com coupon for $10 OFF $75 at http://www.coupongravy.com/site/buy.com, but let me know if anyone else has any deals or coupons to suggest.