Christmas are approaching. Everyone wants to meet this holiday season peacefully and without unnecessary stress. Unfortunately, Christmas gifts can cause more than a headache. And, if you do not have any children, how are you supposed to figure out what to get to your friends’ kids? Here are a couple of tips.
Wrong kinds of gifts
Might as well start off with things that you should not be getting. It is more than likely that the kid will have little pleasure in receiving a practical, daily-use item (think – something that the parents would be pleased about, such as a pair of thermal underwear or woollen socks for those cold winter days out in the snow).
Think seasonal. Do not get gifts that will have use only in summer months – beach balls, roller skates, etc. You will only upset the little one by giving something that cannot be played with right away.
Although this point does not qualify as “wrong”, the gift should always be wrapped. The unwrapping (read – tearing off the paper and throwing it carelessly on the ground) sometimes builds up the excitement and the anticipation.
Stuffed animals, you say? Yes, we all have had a favourite teddy (or any other fluffy creature) that we used to not be able to fall asleep without, but, if it absolutely must be a stuffed animal, make it count – make sure it is unique, original and age-appropriate (a robot with tiny little parts is not a good gift for a small child – choking hazard is real).
Right kinds of gifts
The age of the little one in question does play a significant role. If it is a new-born, you are gifting the parents more than the child. Do not be afraid to think practical and even consult the parents – they might need (and appreciate) a sling, washable diapers, rompers…
Whilst 1-2-year-old kids still do not understand what Christmas is all about, they are pleased with receiving gifts, and are eager to try them out (and put them in their mouth – keep that in mind, too!).
Once they reach the age of 3-5, that is when they learn how to play independently, and that is also when getting them toys becomes more interesting. Their phantasies bring them to enchanted castles in blanket forts, their dolls can talk, and imitating their parents and other adults – playing house, in other words – is the most fun. Many games for developing logic and thinking are available for that age group, too (and these are my personal favourites).
Happy holidays! Hope this helps!