Kids Birthday Gift Ideas

Don't know what birthday gift to buy? Here are some great birthday gift ideas that will help you get started.

Choose a gift that is gender and age appropriate. Other important considerations are the interest of the birthday child and your budget.

If your child is older, ask him/her for some birthday gift ideas. Chances are they will suggest something they like, rather than what they think the birthday child will like.

You may call and ask the parents of the birthday child for some gift ideas. Find out about the child's interests or hobbies. Does he like sports? Does she have a favourite movie star? This will give you some birthday gift ideas on shopping for the appropriate gift.

For babies and young children, look for bright colored toys that will stimulate their senses. Toys that encourage the child to interact, with flashing lights or sounds are popular.

From three or four onwards, the child's gender and interest come into play when choosing a birthday gift. Boys in general likes things that make a lot of noise or move very fast. Think cars, planes, guns, trucks, etc. Girls in general are more into dolls, soft toys and looking pretty. Accessories like purse and hair clips are good.

As they get older, boys lean towards things related to their favourite cartoon hero, while girls have a heightened interest in looking pretty. Clothing and bath or body products are a girl's favourite at this age.

With pre-teens and teens, they discover the world of movies and music. They start 'hanging out' with their friends and visit the malls. For gift ideas, look for the latest trends, look at their peers. Get a trendy shirt or accessory.

If all else fails, here are some ideas that work well for boys and girls of all ages. Personalised story books are popular gifts with the younger children. They get real excited at seeing their own name assume a character in their favourite story.

Another all-time favourite gift idea is board games. They suit both older boys and girls. But if you are planning to get a particular board game, do find out if the birthday child already has that game.

Gift certificates are popular with teenagers. No need to fret about what gift to buy. Besides, most of them would prefer to have their gift in the form of cash.

Do you have a great birthday gift idea? Tell us.