The Christmas season is the favorite time of the year for many people. It is no secret that for children the most important aspect of this celebration are presents. Every child, regardless of age, dreams of getting something special. Parents act as magicians trying to surprise and please their beloved children.
However, can you provide your child with something fun to play with and at the same time help your child improve and grow into a better individual? For parents who want a complete guide on how to buy the best gift that will make both the child and the parents smile, here it is exactly for this case!
Gifts for the littlest ones
The needs of a child below the age of 3 must be put into consideration while selecting developmental toys. Here are some types of toys and aspects to pay attention to:
- Toys with interesting textures: you can encourage your child’s tactile development by selecting toys that have multiple surfaces and textures.
- Toys for motor skills development: consider buying soft toys and other toys containing parts that can be turned, pushed, or pulled.
- Sounds and music: Little children need these musical instruments and sound-making objects to develop their hearing although most of the time these annoy parents.
- Books: soft books with colorful pictures and touch help develop a child’s sight and sense of touch.
- Bath toys: children prefer to play with a float, so toys floating in a tub will certainly make water procedures more enjoyable and easier for parents.
- Toys with mirrors: Toys with mirrors promote self-awareness and visual perception.
- Puzzle toys: puzzles, pyramids, and jigsaw puzzles with large elements are suitable for small hands and develop logical thinking.
When choosing a gift for your baby, it is important to think about its safety. The main rules when choosing:
- Avoid toys with small parts that can be swallowed. Make sure the product you are about to buy is sturdy.
- Avoid hazardous chemicals and fragile materials. Be sure to read the labels and information on the packaging. The safest options are wood and silicone.
- Never buy toys with sharp edges for your baby. Run your finger over the edges of the product to assess possible harm.
- Children’s hearing is very vulnerable and loud sounds frighten them. The permitted volume for children up to 3 years of age should not exceed 75 decibels.
Gifts for primary school-age children
To choose a Christmas present for child between the ages of three and six, it is important to consider their level of development and safety. Interaction with parents and participation in shared play are also important factors in a child’s successful growth.
- Constructors of low levels of complexity will help to develop creative thinking, motor skills, and logic not only for children but also for parents. Abstract constructors can help a child to try his/her hand at creativity and art.
- Games that teach letters, numbers, shapes, and colors promote early learning skills that will be very useful in the easier adaptation to school.
- Coloring books, molding kits, and creative craft kits develop fine motor skills, creative skills, and imagination.
- Bikes, skateboards, balls, racquets – support physical activity, and develop coordination and social skills in team games.
- Role-play kits such as a doctor, cook, and builder, promote imagination and social skills.
- Games that require strategy, memory, and attention help develop cognitive skills. For example, card and board games.
- Electronic toys with educational programs, musical instruments, and robots that can be programmed can help develop a child’s interest in technology. It’s also fun!
While children at this age may seem pretty independent already, their comfort and safety should not be overlooked. Here are some things to consider:
- Ensure that electronic toys have covered or insulated wires with strong housing, and do not fall apart easily. Children should never be allowed to use toys plugged into the mains for playing. Go for battery-powered toys; they are much safer.
- For active and athletic play, make sure you have a helmet, knee pads, and other protective equipment. Bruises and bumps can discourage your child from engaging in outdoor activities for a long time.
- Take time to understand the warnings and directions on the labeling. These are vital in understanding the safety of using a particular toy.
For older children
When choosing toys for older kids, it is very important to consider their interests. Be sure to ask what your child wants and base it on their desires. If you want to make a surprise, here is what you should pay attention to:
- Advanced constructors such as LEGO Mindstorms can inspire an interest in engineering.
- Drones, smart toys, and robots provide an opportunity to learn about modern technology.
- Science experiment kits, chemistry labs, and astronomical telescopes can spark an interest in science.
- Gift cards for online courses in programming, graphic design, or video game creation will help your child develop in IT. When selecting courses, pay attention only to courses designed strictly for children.
- Such musical instruments as guitars, keyboards, or drums may open the way to creativity, foster musical talents in the course of life, and be one of the pleasures in it.
- Bikes, skateboards, roller skates, or equipment to play their favorite action sport are especially important in the age of smartphones, tablets, and computers.
- Support your child’s creative endeavors with high-quality art materials. Drawing sets, brushes, easels, or a graphics tablet will open up endless possibilities for your kid to express himself.
When choosing a gift, remember to consider your child’s interests, desires, and abilities. Remember that the best gift is one that reflects the child’s unique interests and personality.
Conclusion
Choosing gifts for children is a special and creative process that requires attention to the individual characteristics of each child. In the end, a well-chosen gift becomes not only a source of joy but also a wonderful way to show care and attention to the child.
