Of all the challenges that parenting brings, you’d think that choosing a present for your little one is one of the easiest. Unfortunately, finding the right gift for a child can be incredibly frustrating and even a little confusing if you’re unsure what to look for.
Sadly, as they get older and move away from stuffed animals and brightly colored plastic playthings, it becomes even more difficult!
How to choose the right gift for a child in 6 steps
Taking a step back and having a think about what they would appreciate and what kind of gift won’t simply become clutter is a good place to start. So, if you’re hoping to buy a gift for your own child or hunting for the perfect present for a young family member, check out the factors you should consider before making a purchase.
1. Hobbies
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if the gift you gave them became a lifelong hobby? Whether they’re creative, sporty, or musical, try to hone in on their interests with the gift you give them. Or, even if they don’t have any obvious passions in their life just yet, what you give them could spark something in them, whether you buy them classes or equipment.
It could be a good idea to chat to them first, to try and gauge what kind of thing would suit them. For all you know, this could have a positive impact on them for the rest of their life, and could even end up influencing their career path in the future!
2. Versatility
If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to consider more versatile presents that provide your child with different options. For example, you could tell them that you’re going to take them on a day out, give them three options to choose from, such as the cinema, a theme park, seaside, etc., and then let them decide.
This way you are giving them the power, so that they can pick what they want to do, rather than you having to guess. You could do something similar with letting them pick a monthly subscription box for kids, or even a weekend away, for example.
3. The Parents
If you’re gifting for someone else’s child, then having a quick chat with their parents is always a good place to start. You can find out if they already have an item you have in mind, or what their likes and dislikes are.
Some parents may be particular about the types of toys they have in their homes, such as toy guns or weapons so reaching out to them first means no one gets upset and you don’t waste your money!
4. Consider Their Age Group
You can easily narrow down the choice of gifts available by simply shopping for their age group. It’s obvious that toys for 8-year-old girls and those for 2-year-old boys will be totally different.
However, use your own initiative, just because a toy is recommended for a 3-year-old, doesn’t always mean that they’re ready for it, or they may find the toy dull and need something a little more stimulating. Use your own knowledge about your recipient to make it easier.
5. Think about Something Educational
Would the child benefit from something a little educational? Every chance your child gets to learn something new or exercise their minds is an opportunity that shouldn’t be missed!
So, why not incorporate this into their gift? From puzzles and brain teasers to science experiments and STEM gifts and gifts that inspire creativity and free play. Inspiring their mind is a wonderful gift that you can share with a child of any age.
6. Gifts That Last Longer
Not all toys and gifts are made to last, so it’s a factor worth considering if you’re conscious of the environment or you want your recipient to get the most out of your present.
Gifts that stand the test of time such as wooden toys can also be preserved and used again for younger siblings, or toys like Lego, building bricks, even bikes and scooters can be used over and over again.
Also, by sometimes spending a little more initially and going for the better quality option, the gifts you buy for a child should be more resilient and long-lasting.
This means that you won’t have to deal with any tears due to broken toys, and eventually, if your child does grow out of it, you could even sell it on to bring another child just as much joy, as well as getting you a little bit of money back that you can then spend on the kids.
Final Thoughts
By taking on board all the above factors, your search for the perfect gift for a child will go a little smoother! Always keep the kid in question in mind, as although they are still developing, they will already have their preferences.
The best thing to do is to communicate with them and ask them directly what kind of things they like and are interested in. Good luck!
