Most of us have children in our lives, even if they aren’t our own.  While, obviously, their tastes will vary with age and gender, here are some ideas to get the ball rolling:

• constructive, imagination-stretching toys.  We especially like anything by Melissa & Doug.
• literal “constructive” toys: building blocks, Legos, Tinkertoys, Lincoln Logs, etc. (Even big boys enjoy Legos. And if you add onto a set they already have, this option avoids creating storage issues.)
• “classic” toys: matchbox-type cars, yo-yo’s, jacks, pick-up sticks, marbles, etc.
• consumable craft/building items (These are great because Mom and Dad don’t have to figure out where to store them, long-term!)
• for girls: gift certificate for FashionPlaytes
• books
• dolls/doll accessories (clothing, furniture, blankets, etc.)
• storage for their toys
• age-appropriate games/puzzles
• learn-a-craft kit (store-bought, or assembled by you)
• coupon books for things to do together
• a “Things I love about you” jar, filled with slips of paper with things you really do love about the child
• for older children: journal
• discovery bottles
• for toddlers/preschoolers: “I dressed myself today” pin.  (Their parents will appreciate this, too!)
• how-to books or kits, for learning new skills
• for girls: hairthings
• “spy kit” or similar set
• science kits
• for girls: Piggy Paint (non-toxic nail polish)
• if you live in a snowy area: stuff to enjoy the snow (sleds, etc.)

When shopping retail online, remember to go through a site like Cashbaq, Big Crumbs, ShopatHome, Ebates, or Mr. Rebates, so you can get a percentage back! Especially if you’re buying a lot of gifts, this can really add up at this time of year. (If you have the time, compare them. Different ones have different retailers, and some that overlap have varying cash back amounts for the same one.)

See the other posts in this series:

• Gifts that Give Back
• Gifts to Make
• Gifts for Men
• Gifts for Women