7 Best Christmas Gifts For Kids 2009
Every parent hopes they have chosen the best Christmas Gifts for kids in 2009 and look forward to those eager, happy little faces on Christmas day. However, making the right choice is not just a matter of spending money. It requires insight into childhood desires, as well as deciding what is good value for the child concerned. Research with some of the largest retailers shows that there are a number of standout toys and games you should consider.
As there are so many different ways that children can be entertained - and, despite your child's wishes, you can't try them all - some of the best options in different categories are listed below:
1. Board Games - The Settlers of Catan
Regarded as one of the best games ever designed, this trading and building game is set in the world of Catan, where strategy and judgment in trading resources is a highly valuable skill. Players are building a country, including cities and roads, and the board conditions are constantly changing. It is now the basis of many collections. Suits 3-4 players.
2. Dolls - Barbie & The Diamond Castle - Princess Liana Doll
A singing Barbie with a magical dress that is able to transform into a glittery gown as desired. This Barbie, with her long blond hair and purple tiara, is based on the character in the movie "Barbie and the Diamond Castle". Suitable for all aspiring Princesses.
3. Electronic Toys - Didj Custom Learning Gaming System from Leapfrog.
A handheld gaming and learning system that can be customized. It can also be connected to a computer to play enthralling games while learning schoolwork and are encouraged with a built-in reward system. There is a library of themes and favorite characters for redesigning the games. It provides all sorts of learning opportunities for children aged 6+.
4. Musical Toys - U-Dance from Tiger Electronics.
A motion-based dance game that entertains with music and dancing. The kids are reuired to keep up with the moves during sets of upbeat and fun songs. It is not only entertaining for the whole family but is also good for building fitness levels. Suits ages 8+.
5. Outdoor Toys - Triple Hit Baseball - Grow To Pro Series
This is not one of those toys which will be quickly outgrown as kids develop higher skill levels. It will provide increasing challenges as players move from beginner, through rookie to pro in developing their baseball skills. At Rookie level, the ball pops up out of the ground and dares the player to hit. The Pro level works from about 10 feet away and pitches the ball to a batter, who learns to face, swing and connect.
6. Puzzles - Safari Floor Puzzle 100 pc Floor from Melissa & Doug.
You need a bit of floor space for this beautiful depiction of an African plain or Savannah, with all the animals surrounding a watering hole. These are extra thick pieces which are easy to clean and will look like new long after other puzzles have been discarded. Children will love the colorful setting and the wildlife as they meet the challenge to assemble the puzzle.
7. Stuffed Animals - Golden Retriever from Webkinz.
No collection of toys is complete without a beautiful stuffed animal and this Golden Retriever is soft, plush and cuddly. There is a code which allows the pet to be brought to life through internet access. For children 3 yrs up who would like a pet that is already house-trained.
This is just a small sample of the hundreds of great Christmas gifts for kids - babies to teens - that have been researched, grouped and indexed, with more details, in a free illustrated Guide. Excite Your kids with some fabulous toys. Get a copy from Gifts For Kids You can also download a free copy of the Guide from
http://www.GiftsForKidsGuide.com/GiftsForKids-FreeGuide.html Get it now!
Guests ask what gifts kids would like(birthday)?
When I throw b'day parties for my kids (under 10 yrs), some parents ask something like 'hey, what is ryan into? we'd like to get something he enjoys'.
I used to hem&haw, and say something only after the parent insisted a few times. After a few parties, I'm more frank, and say something like: 'oh, thank you for asking, just having Tommy over will be great. Ryan loves books, trains & anything that moves'. Or: 'Andrea loves pretend play & anything Princess.'
My husband feels they might ask, but it is rude for me to mention what the kids are into. I am more like, hey, it is easier for that parent/kid, my kids and me(no returns).
I keep my reply generic, and do not mention any 'expensive' toys my kids might be into currently.
So, is it rude? Or just plain practical. THEY ask, and these are folks who we know but not very well, but kids get along great. My husband feels they can ask their kid what our kid likes...I feel, just mention couple categories..
who's more right?
Answer
I believe you are "more right". While your husband does have a good point, the two of you know your children's interests and hobbies far better than their friends do. It is nice to get your kids' friends involved in the process, but I think that should be up to the parents. Keeping your reply generic gives them clues; they can ask their kids to help pick out the perfect present, making it easier on everyone! It isn't rude; if they didn't want to give gifts, they wouldn't even ask.