Once Halloween passes, just about every retailer and news outlet in the world comes out with a list of seasonal “must haves” for kids. Rather than chronicle the hottest toys and techno gadgets, here is a list of some items that may not be such a great idea for giving:
1. A live pet: In most cases, getting a new pet is an event on its own—and one of the best ways to select a family pet is to see how the particular animal you have in mind reacts to your children. Showing up with a new puppy or kitten on Christmas morning is a surefire recipe for chaos! If you absolutely must give a pet as a gift, pick him out well in advance, and make sure he is comfortable in his new surroundings before the excitement of Christmas morning.
2. 5,000 piece puzzles: Unless your child or the intended recipient is a puzzle fanatic, and has completed large puzzles before, giving a huge puzzle with many pieces will not go over well. Even if the child has expressed an interest in the scene or character the puzzle is depicting, giving a gift that is well beyond the basic skill level is setting him up for failure. Puzzles are great—just choose one with an appropriate skill level for the recipient.
3. Cash: A fistful of cash just screams “I didn’t have time to shop for you”. With the exception of older teens, most kids won’t be thrilled with a handful of cash—even a gift card is a better choice!
4. Something you think they should want: A football is a great gift—to a boy who is interested in sports. The same football may be ignored, or even resented by a music lover. Try to buy gifts that reflect your child’s actual interests, not the things you think they “should” like.
5. Mature content items: Ratings are in place for a reason—most parents know to check for ratings and reviews before buying a video game or movie, but grandparents and other family members can easily overlook ratings. If a child you know has requested a hot new game or toy, and it has a questionable rating, check with the parents before purchasing.
6. Things that make noise: If you enjoy a quiet home, a drum set, keyboard, or electronic noisemaker is probably not the best choice. Some electronic toys for toddlers blast Barney or Elmo at top volume to encourage play—this is cute the first three or four times, but after the hundredth time, it gets a bit old. Buy these for your kids at your own risk, you will be hearing them until the batteries die.
7. Things that are messy: Clay, tiny beads, paint, chemistry sets, and pottery kits are tons of fun, and make tons of mess. These are great gift items—for your own kids, but probably not the best things to give to other people’s children, unless you want to cover the cleaning costs!
Author Resource:
Denise Sanger is the owner of http://www.newcooltoysonline.com which features a fantastic selection of outdoor toys including the ride-on toys and battery ride on toys. The company is located in Sunny Florida and may be reached at 877-950-7665
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