There are some traditional toys that make great gifts for children
of all ages, and both girls and boys. Bubble toys and water toys are
terrific selections during warmer months, while puzzles and board
games are perfect for cooler times of the year. Look for traditional
toys that are appropriate for the age of the child you are buying for.
A toddler can put together simple puzzles with a few large pieces,
while a school age child would enjoy a more complex jigsaw puzzle.
If you are looking for a gift for an infant, try traditional toys like
rattles or teething toys. Many of these toys feature a variety of
activities to entertain and educate babies. Older infants, between 6
and 12 months old, may like soft traditional toys that require more
manipulation. Squishy fabric blocks, cuddly dolls with no loose
features, and stacking rings are usually well loved toys for this age.
The best traditional toys to select for toddlers include push and pull
toys and toys that encourage filling and dumping. Toddlers are just
learning to walk, so toys that offer stability as they practice those
first steps is usually a favorite. At this age, children also love to
experiment with emptying containers. Large blocks inside a box or bin
is a perfect gift choice. A few other traditional toys usually adored
by toddlers are shape sorters, soft, bouncy balls, and ride on toys.
Preschoolers spend most of their playtime pretending, so traditional
toys that encourage dramatic play make great gifts. Dolls and doll
accessories are perfect for girls, and many preschool age boys enjoy
cars or simple train sets. Toys that resemble household items, like
cleaning tools or miniature hammers and screwdrivers, are also a lot
of fun at this age. Crayons, coloring books, and sticker books are
another fun gift for preschoolers.
Once a child starts school, their interests are becoming more focused
and it is often harder to choose the right gift for a child you're not
around very often. Kindergartners and first graders are still
typically pleased with traditional toys like dolls or cars, but older
children may prefer something more mature. Simple craft sets, model
cars, and art projects are all ideas of some toys an older child may
enjoy. Themed notebooks or journals with neat pens are another great
educational gift for older school aged children.
When you shop for a gift for a child, especially if it's a child you
don‘t know too well, it is best to look for traditional toys that
have been proven over time to continuously entertain and educate
children. Themed toys quickly become outdated and electronic toys
consistently need new batteries, but traditional toys have been
amusing children for decades and will always make great gifts.
