It can be tricky trying to decide on the perfect present and gift for smaller children. But, it doesn’t have to be! Here’s a list of my kids favourite tried and true gifts.
Legos
Everyone knows legos are classic fun, creative staple toys. It’s one of the few toys that always makes the cut. It truly fosters my kid’s creativity in a way many toys (beyond magformers and learning resources cubes) have. The classic sets are your best bet for a first kit or even as an addition to your collection. They have the most bricks, especially the bigger cubes, and allow the most freedom to create whatever your kid wants.
Magformers
This is one of my kids’ favorite toys. They are basically cool shaped magnets but are super high quality. There are other knockoff versions, but i can’t speak to them as I wasn’t willing to find out whether they were good quality. Magnets are hazardous if ingested to both kids and pets, so it wasn’t worth the risk.
Tablet
This one will depend on your budget, preferences, and reasons for use. I like the iPad for obvious reasons. The UI is practically flawless. Everything syncs seamlessly, and it’s almost virus-proof. LOL. On the other hand, I like tablets for their affordable price points, UI freedom. I’m an android girl at heart.
Edible playdough
Instead of buying Play-Doh 4 kids five and under, it’s safer to make your own playdough if they have curious Minds. Obviously, your kids shouldn’t eat this as a snack; however, they won’t get sick if they eat some. This is a fun option because you can add all types of colors and flavors, and textures you wanted.
Water table
If you have a backyard or garden- a water table is a nice edition to foster free play.
Tent
My kids love tents, and I think all kiddos do because it helps create a safe space to play, wonder, or even think/cry. The kind of tent you buy and how you set it up gets to be unique to your littles. You can purchase a pop-up tent to give your kids a space to pretend. You can get extra fancy and create a more comfortable reading nook or an area to process emotions and feelings privately. Think: “a feelings corner kind of thing.”
Barbie dolls
I struggled to write this one down. I have this thing, this love-hate relationship with barbie. Considering that barbie now offers their fashionista collections, I’m a tiny bit more comfortable sharing this one. Barbie dolls give kids, yes boys too, the ability to play pretend in their own way. And now, barbie offers a bigger INCLUSIVE collection, which is extremely important.
Train track
I placed this one in the five and under section; however, train tracks are suitable for kids of any age.
Stuffed plush animals
But those of you that just rolled your eyes, I know it’s parents. We have more than enough stuffed animals; however, if your kid likes playing pretend like most stuffed animals are the easiest way to allow them to do this. A bonus is that they are mostly lightweight and are easy travel companions.
Paint & supplies
Art and craft supplies and finger paints are an excellent option for smaller children.
Art easel/ whiteboard
An art easel provides a more fun environment to paint, draw, or color. It also doubles as a tool for homeschooling. Same for whiteboards. Easy to use, fun, and multiple uses.
Play laptop
Play tablets are a fun way to introduce technology and feel grown-up like Mummy and Daddy.
Playphone
Like a toy laptop, play-phones gives kids their grown-up feel with lots of new buttons and sounds to explore.
Kids piano
If it wasn’t already obvious, I’m a massive advocate for introducing instruments to children at a young age. I believe that the piano is one of The best first instruments because they are one of the most Indestructible options on the market. No, I don’t suggest allowing your child to use a real Piano unless supervised. Piano’s are on the higher end of the price tag and should be treated with care.
Musical mat
Another option is the musical mat. This is handy because they are quite sturdy, and kids can play with them using their little hands or feet!
