When thinking about gifts for young children it is best to discuss ideas with the parents to avoid wasting time and money on useless presents. The list of really useful stuff for a one-year-old is really long so there should be something everyone can contribute.
Books for a Baby's First Birthday
Long before their first birthday children can develop a great appreciation for books if given the opportunity. At this age they will most enjoy books with pictures of other babies. These can be photographs or drawings. They will enjoy colourful animal and character books and books with lift up flaps.
Toys for One-Year-Olds
When in doubt the safest way to buy toys for young children is to stick to well-known reputable brands such as Vtech and Fisher Price. Choose based on the age guide on the side of the box. Little children like bright colours, music and flashing lights.
Dolls & Teddy Bears – Both boys and girls like these toys and enjoy having lots of them. An unusual stuffed animal toy such as a giraffe or elephant is likely to make the gift stand out and be played with for many years to come.
Baby Walkers – Many children are confidently walking by their first birthday but most do not master this for a few more months, so a baby walker could be a good gift.
Sit On and Ride Toys – These are suitable from 12 months+ and for indoor as well as outdoor use.
The toys featured in the photographs are suitable for children aged 12 months+ but can also be enjoyed by children who are older. Kids develop skills at different speeds. Some may have difficulty mastering a simple wooden block jigsaw until well into their third year, they will still enjoy doing jigsaws with mum, dad and others when only one.
A First Birthday Gift of Music CDs for Babies & Toddlers
Children enjoy classical and popular music, particularly if it is lively. There are CD compilations of good quality music especially for children. There are also CDs of popular nursery rhymes and children's songs.
Practical One-Year-Old Birthday Presents
Having children is expensive so practical gifts are most welcome by all families. Discuss with parents what practical gifts might be useful. One suggest would be a portable booster seat for sitting at tables when out and about.
Over the coming year the child will probably be moving out of a cot, crib or the parents bed into their own bed. They need not just a bed but all the associated bed linen.
Baby Clothes as Birthday Gifts
Day time clothes, night time wear, shoes, coat, slippers, hats all fit for only a few months. Getting the right thing can be tricky though so make sure you hand over a receipt so the item can be returned if the parents think it is unsuitable.
Many Gift Ideas for a Child's First Birthday
Most gifts for a first birthday are enjoyed by the whole family. A gift could be something for the whole family to enjoy, such as a baby sitter or a season membership to the local children's soft play ball park.
Some further ideas for presents for a first birthday can be found in articles about gifts for a first Christmas which includes information about keepsakes and birthday presents for a two-year-old.
Deborah Percy - BSc. MA. Managing Director of a heating & plumbing business. Interest in maths, science & research. Mother of 3, including twins.
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