From foam blocks to karaoke machines and mess-free colouring sets, a new list of gift ideas for children under five has been compiled based on recommendations from parents and family members. The suggestions aim to inspire grandparents, aunts and uncles looking for the perfect present for toddlers and pre-schoolers.
Calvin, father of two-year-old Axel, plans to buy crawling and sliding foam blocks. 'Axel is adventurous and fearless and imaginative. He loves climbing, jumping and sliding outdoors and indoors. He uses anything from pillows to mattresses to build his own personal jungle gym,' Calvin said.
Julie, grandmother to Leo and Holly, both aged three and a half, recommends magnetic tiles as an alternative to Lego. 'They're colourful and manageable by four- and five-year-olds, although I've been told that three-year-olds will start manoeuvring them. One of the popular ones is called Picasso Tiles,' she said.
Other popular picks include air-dry modelling clay for four-and-a-half-year-old Blake, an interactive storytelling toy for three-year-old Madison, and a doll set for two-and-a-half-year-old Kira. Chris, Kira's father, said: 'She really likes to replicate the adults that take care of her. So, she naps dolls, feeds them, and plays with them. It's good for her imagination and makes her feel responsible.'
For active children, a bike is a natural progression from a scooter, according to Pantea, mother of four-and-a-half-year-old Yasa. 'It's not only a rite of passage, it also builds self-esteem, improves coordination and health, and is fun!' she said. Other suggestions include Gabby's Doll House items, a karaoke machine, colour-changing water toys, and a crocodile block-stacking game.
Sensory toys also feature, with Julie recommending a liquid sensory fidget toy for three-and-a-half-year-old Holly. 'They promote fine motor skills, but also help with anxiety, and have a calming effect because of their texture. It can also be an occupational therapy toy,' she said. The full list of 30 gifts includes dress-up sets, educational games, and building blocks featuring popular characters like Moana and Minecraft.
