Smart gifts…hmmm. This makes me wonder if the gifts should be smart, or if they should contribute to the “smartness” of the kid. Let’s take the latter and hope they coordinate with the former. Personally, I would presume, the shopper in question is trying to spend their money wisely on wise choices for gifts for kids.
? Beyond…
As you adjust your thinking, remember to consider such things as the ages of the children. Many frugal parents are so diligent they even prepare for usability of gifts beyond the age received. In this case, one would need to focus on durability and safety of the toys/gifts as well. Of course gifts like books have no such restrictions.
? Physical…
Does the gift encourage physical coordination and prowess? If the child can use several body parts at the same time, the gift would be a wise choice. One of my favorites not only for my children, but now also for grandchildren is the “Sit ‘n Spin”. It employed hand over hand coordination as well as strength while the child sat and pulled his way around and around the platform. Pre-bikes, as I call them, or “Big Wheels” offer physical activity in addition to “success” while bike-riding on the way to learning to ride tricycles and later a two wheel bicycle of his/her own. Scooters are also wonderful items in this category.
? Sounds…
Does the gift encourage listening skills? Being able to discern various sounds prepares the kid for sound patterns, as with music, as well as auditory learning. Additionally, documentation has proven that music goes a long way in enhancing intelligence. The Leap Pad and VTech line offer a menagerie of skills, including some playback music/auditory opportunities. Child size keyboards offer tunes and rhythms with playback as well, so the parents don’t miss one singe concert!
? More…
Other excellent choices for gifts include items where a child can, for example, “cook” in their own kitchen while modifying yet experiencing “real life.” All sorts of art sets from highly reputable companies allow children of all ages to indulge in creativity beyond their wildest dreams…and most offer tools that do not stain carpets, furniture, or children. Travel sets are also available. Certainly an amazing range of dolls from ones that are soft and cuddly, to those that do things and teach things while they talk to the kid…can be part of any child’s repertoire of gifts.
Faves…
In summary, I hope you will indulge this author and note that my personal favorites have stood the test of time. Those include, in the order of their appearance for all my grandchildren: while still in the womb and till this day – books; board games of all sorts; and as the kid learned to read, they received their own magazine subscriptions which were greatly anticipated either every week or each month. Wise shoppers cannot go wrong with these suggestions; no doubt there are many others. Take a day and enjoy the plethora of ideas available for smart shoppers for smart kids’ gifts.
Julie Myers is a mother of two who loves to sew when she has time. She enjoys sharing creative ideas and making great gifts for kids.
