Whether you're a Mom, an auntie or buying presents for your friend's tots, it's easy to stress about finding the perfect gift for the kids. It's probably safe to say no one needs another teddy bear, so here are a few gift ideas to help get you started.

The Tiny People (birth-24 months)

Babies aren't particularly discriminating. Heck, they spend most of their days sucking on their toes and eating the Cheerios you missed on your last sweep through with the vacuum cleaner. Your best bet is to buy something practical for Mom and Dad.

The No-Brainer: Clothes - buy at least 2 sizes ahead, which has the added advantage of end-of-season sales. When in doubt, a gift certificate for a quality store always works.

Something Different: Next-Stage Car Seat - the little ones will transition through 3 different car seats until they hit 4-ft 9-in (145 cm). This convertible Cosco seat is perfect for babies graduating from the backward-facing model and older. We love the cup holder!

Cosco High Back Booster, Amazon $52.73

The Preschool Set (ages 2-4)

Tots will play with anything, as many a nervous father watching his son play dress-up can attest. They are as happy with the uber-marketed toys as with the imagination-stimulating basics. One thing you should stay away from is clothes (unless you're looking to score points with your sister-in-law); this is an age where a new jacket is only interesting if it's covered in Nascar paraphernalia.

The No-Brainer: we wish it weren't so, but Elmo is still popular. Home center sets (ie. dishes, food) and workshop tools never fail to disappoint.

Something Different: Tots learn through play and art. Get the best of both with an art easel plus supplies. This model has a blackboard on the backside for extra play.


Melissa & Doug Standing Easel, Amazon $38.99

The Big Kids (age 5+)

Suddenly those easily satisfied kids have very specific ideas of what they like. Short of nabbing a photocopy of their letter to Santa, it can get tricky finding just the right thing. The good news is that the peer influence newly gained from socializing at school will ensure that really popular toys will universally satisfy.

The No-Brainer: my daughter has over 20 WebKinz. She'd still like more. My son will gladly take any superhero action figures, thank you very much.


Collectible Holiday Barbie is new every year. Amazon, $34.99

Something Different: sneak in a little educational value with a fancy Lego set or a chemistry kit (for the older kids). Include spending time with them as your gift; take them to the movies or Disney on Ice.

For the new parents and parents-to-be on your list, nothing goes over better than free babysitting and gift certificates to their favorite restaurant. Together Time is a rare commodity and might pave the way for further family additions ;) - that suggestion goes out to all the grandparents in the audience.

Have a unique gift idea for the kids? Share them here!

by Claire Rahn