Quantcast
Channel: Amazon – The Sun
Viewing all articles
Browse latest Browse all 2939

31 Best gift ideas for kids 2024 UK, including experiences and personalised presents

$
0
0

LOOKING for the right gift for a child? It’s a big decision, and as it’ll help to make some of life’s special moments even more memorable.

If you’re looking for the perfect gift ideas for kids, there are plenty of options to choose from, and if you’re not sure where to start then you’re in luck, as we’re here to help.



 

Dr Jacqueline Harding, a child behavioural expert, said repetitive childhood play can provide a long-lasting memory imprint and have the potential to subconsciously steer their career path.

 

And they can help develop and deepen problem solving abilities and improve imagination and creativity.

 

Dr Harding explained how joy in early life from playing with toys can become a strong driver in later life decisions.

 

It follows research of 1,000 parents of 0-7 year olds, which found 75 per cent buy toys they hope will contribute towards their child’s future success.

 

More than half (51 per cent) deem their child’s playthings very important to developing their critical skills, crucial for everyday life.

 

The study was commissioned by Mattel, creators of Thomas & Friends, which has released a white paper from King’s College London revealing the social and cognitive benefits of train play for children.

 

Dr Jacqueline Harding said: “Favourite toys tend to be played with almost every day and it is this repetitive act that can leave an imprint on the young developing brain.

 

“So, it almost goes without saying that the playthings young children engage with on a regular basis can have a long-term effect and may even subconsciously steer them in a particular career direction.

 

“Of course, this is hard to prove beyond doubt as there are so many other factors involved - but taking toys seriously is a good idea as children spend so much time engaging with them, and choosing wisely according to their individual interests can pay real dividends.”

 

The biggest benefit parents believe children get from toys when it comes to improving critical skills is the improvement in their fine motor skills (68 per cent).

 

Almost as many (67 per cent) said it was how toys drive imagination and creativity, while 63 per cent think toys can help with problem-solving skills.

 

While 86 per cent went as far as saying they think toys can have a large or moderate impact on improving a child’s chances of a successful career, in the future.

 

But when it comes to actually choosing toys for their children, the top priority is that it they are age-appropriate (59 per cent).

 

Others want to ensure the toy is safe (55 per cent) or more than its perceived educational value (47 per cent).

 

It also emerged 58 per cent have particular brands or toy lines they turn specifically for their developmental value.

 

But 21 per cent fear their little ones don’t play with educational toys as much as they’d like, according to the OnePoll.com data.

 

Dr Harding added: “One astounding insight is that at two years of age children engage in the same level of mental work as adults whilst engaged in imaginative play.

 

“It is well established that imaginary play and creative pursuits offer up a wealth of surprising benefits that have exciting biological and neurological benefits for children and adults.

 

“During childhood, the brain is known to be particularly absorbent – this is known as ‘neuroplasticity’.

 

“In other words, it is easier to learn aspects of life – so not only does play yield a significant benefit during childhood itself but also in later adult life.”

 

It comes after a separate white paper by Dr Salim Hashmi, a researcher from King’s College, reviewed more than 1,600 scientific research papers to explore the advantages of playing with toy trains.

 

One of the primary benefits Dr Hashmi identified was children who play with toy trains can develop better thinking and social skills, allowing them to learn and practice collaboration, cooperation, and social understanding while interacting with others.

 

His study also highlighted how playing with toy trains allows children to develop and refine essential thinking skills, contributing to their problem-solving abilities.

 

Talking about his research for Thomas & Friends, Dr Hashmi said: “Constructing tracks, arranging train cars, envisioning scenarios, and enacting them during train play can stimulate cognitive development and enhance critical thinking, spatial analysis, and decision-making skills.

 

“Collaborative play with toy trains could help encourage teamwork, negotiation, and collaboration, as children share resources, ideas, and play together.

 

“Additionally, playing with toy trains provides children with opportunities to develop and practice problem-solving abilities.

 

"Overall, train play, is an excellent way for children to develop key skills.”

 

TOP 10 TIPS ON CHOOSING A TOY FOR A CHILD, ACCORDING TO JACQUELINE HARDING

 

1. Take time to watch your child playing and try to get ‘into their thinking’ – what appears to light up their brain?

 

2. Guide children towards toys and play experiences that meet the need for them at their stage of development.

 

3. Be aware of the types of play that can aid them in their future – toys that help them begin to connect with others (when they are developmentally ready and able to do so).

 

4. Play with your child in a way that does not take over but allows them agency - a little control.

 

5. At other times, sit back and allow your child space to think while they play - being mindful that in their brain so much is taking place.

 

6. Talk to your child in ways that they can understand about what they are doing while they play – just gentle questions not an inquisition.

Children often wish to share with adults what they have achieved or what matters to them while they play.

 

7. Allow your child time to explain what they are doing. Younger children will perhaps just show you rather than talk about it while older children might wish to discuss how they solved a problem or found a solution while they played.

 

8. Help children begin to collaborate with others while they play. Sometimes this may just involve keeping a watchful eye and ensuring a fair distribution of resources, so conflicts are avoided.

 

9. Relish play and be respectful of the power it yields in terms of a child’s mental health and general wellbeing.

 

10. Guide children towards toys and play experiences that are inclusive and not gender specific.
Our top pick gift ideas for kids in 2024
getty

Finding the perfect gifts for kids can sometimes feel like embarking on a treasure hunt; challenging but exciting all the same.

Indeed, the sentiment behind a gift matters the most, but you’ll also want to pick a gift that the child will enjoy.

If you have little ones at home, you’ll know that much of your search might include educational games or toys that inspire creativity, while older children might request toys from their favourite franchise or TV show.

Whether it’s for a birthday or holiday, you’re shopping for, our curated selection is sure to delight children of all ages.

In our guide, you’ll find a diverse array of gift options for kids, ranging from traditional toys to unique experience gifts and personalised presents they’ll love.

You’ll find big names in this list including the likes of LEGO, Barbie and Harry Potter – but we’ve also considered a selection of treats for every budget.

Keep reading on to find our best gift ideas for kids of all ages for 2024.

Personalised gifts for kids

pandora
Personalised gifts for kids[/caption]

A personalised gift for a child adds an extra layer of charm and sentiment to any occasion or celebration.

Whether it’s a name-engraved toy, a custom-designed umbrella for rainy days outside, or their name in lights; these gifts are tailored specifically for the lucky recipient, helping to make them feel special.

Personalisation in gifts allows for a unique touch that reflects the child’s personality, interests and preferences.

Older kids may also love a personalised piece of jewellery that they can collect and add to as they grow up (Make sure you check out Pandora for personalised jewellery and charms).

These thoughtful presents create lasting memories and some will serve as treasured keepsakes for years to come.

  • Personalised Text LED Colour Changing Desk Light, £27 at Prezzybox – shop here
  • Your Treasury of Nursery Rhymes, £24.99 at Wonderbly – shop here
  • Matching Pink Siblings Denim Jacket Set, £65 at My 1st Years – shop here
  • Personalised Stars Children’s Bean Bag Chair, £59.99 at Not on the High Street – shop here
  • Engravable Heart Tag Dangle Charm, £35 at Pandora – shop here

Experience gifts for kids

red letter days
Experience gifts for kids[/caption]

If you’re hoping to create lasting memories, an experience gift for kids offers unforgettable opportunities for adventure, learning and fun.

Rather than trying to figure out what to buy a child who appears to have it all, an experience gift provides memories that they’ll treasure for a long time.

Whether it’s a day out conquering outdoor challenges, a virtual reality arcade, or a visit to a zoo or aquarium; these activities stimulate creativity and exploration.

These experience gifts cater to a wide range of interests and preferences for kids of all ages, and we’ve also included a few options that encourage quality time with family.

  • MegaChoice for Kids and Teens, £39 at Find Me a Gift – buy here
  • Treetop Adventure at Go Ape for Two, £42 at Red Letter Days – shop here
  • Harry Potter Walking Tour for Two Adults and Two Children, £49 at BuyAGift – shop here
  • Young Driver Off-Road Adventure, £31 at Virgin Experience Day – shop here
  • Two Entry Tickets to SEA LIFE London Aquarium, £56 at Red Letter Days – shop here
  • Family Treasure Hunt Experience In London, £49 at Not on the High Street – shop here

Craft gifts for kids

argos
Craft gifts for kids[/caption]

Craft gifts for kids ignite imagination and creativity for endless hours of fun together as a family or in their downtime.

Perfect for little creators, craft kits are something to consider for the artist in the family.

From DIY kits to art supplies, these gifts provide the perfect opportunity for children to express themselves.

Whether it’s painting, sculpting, tie-dying, or creating awesome magic tricks these gifts encourage fine motor skills, problem-solving and of course, hours of fun.

We’ve chosen various themes and skill levels, catering to different interests and ages.

Not only will they entertain, but they’ll foster a growing love for artistic expression.

  • Water Marbling Paint Set, £19.13 at Amazon – shop here
  • Lego 100 Years of Disney Animation Icons, £49.99 at Lego – shop here
  • Decorate Your Own Canvas Tent, £47 at Hobbycraft – shop here
  • Marvin’s Magic Ultimate 250 Tricks & Illusions Set, £25 at Argos – shop here
  • Barbie Make Your Own DreamHouse, £24.99 at Very – shop here
  • Tybo Tie-Dye Design Studio Craft Kit, £17 at Argos – shop here
  • Mixed Media Easel Art Set, £49.99 at Ryman – shop here

Science gifts for kids

lego
Science gifts for kids[/caption]

Get ready to spark curiosity and ignite a passion for exploration and discovery in little scientists.

We’ve selected a range of kits for kids to learn, from chemistry sets to telescopes and experiment kits; these gifts provide hands-on learning experiences and hours of playtime.

These sets encourage critical thinking, problem-solving and experimentation in a fun and interactive way.

By fostering a love for science at a young age, these gifts lay the foundation for future innovation, shaping the minds of today’s kids and tomorrow’s scientists.

  • Science4you – Betabot Robot Building Kit for Kids, £19.99 at Amazon – shop here
  • Nickelodeon Experimake Colourful Crystal Creations, £12 at The Entertainer – shop here
  • John Adams Edible Science, £23 at Argos – shop here
  • 120+ Experiments Science Kits for Kids, £25.99 at Amazon – shop here
  • Lego Planet Earth and Moon in Orbit, £69.99 at Lego – shop here
  • National Geographic Earth Science Kit, £23.79 at Amazon – shop here

Editor's Pick: Learning Resources Botley 2.0 The Coding Robot Activity Set

The Botley 2.0 is the perfect way to introduce your little ones to the world of STEM, turning learning into a playful adventure in science, technology, engineering, and maths.

With everything you need for endless coding fun, this set includes Botley 2.0 The Coding Robot, a Remote Programmer, two face plates, 40 coding cards, six double-sided boards, 27 obstacle-building pieces, and a handy starter guide bursting with thrilling coding challenges.

Joined by Botley, your little ones will tackle challenges, crack codes, and conquer obstacles using coding cards.

But it’s not just about following instructions: it’s about sparking critical thinking and discovering creative solutions along the way.

Harry Potter, Minecraft and character gifts for kids

ARGOS
Pokemon’s back![/caption]

If you know a huge Minecraft fan, die-hard Disney fan or Harry Potter buff, then picking up a game or toy from either of these franchises is sure to go down well.

Luckily for shoppers, there’s plenty of choice out there, with everything from LEGO to video games and merchandise (I don’t know about you, but I still want a Star Wars lightsaber).

  • Minecraft Art Set, £18.99, Amazon – buy here
  • Spider Web Shooter Toy, £12.99, Amazon – buy here
  • Pokemon TCG: Battle Academy, £22, Argos – buy here
  • Star Wars Lightsaber Forge Yoda, £23.99, Amazon – buy here
  • Disney Illusion Island Nintendo Switch Game, £24.99, Argos – buy here

Editor's Pick: LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts: Room of Requirement Set

Wizarding enthusiasts will love this LEGO set.

This LEGO set features the iconic Room of Requirement scene.

It’s part of a series of modular sets that can be combined to create the complete Hogwarts Castle.

This set includes a removable room for the Grey Lady, with Harry, Hermione, Draco, and Blaise mini-figures.

Players will be able to immerse themselves in the magical world, stepping straight into scenes from books and movies, and build their figures such as Fiendfyre figure, and mischievous Cornish Pixies, ready to stir up some chaos.

Whether your little ones are seasoned LEGO masters or just starting on their magical journey, the possibilities are endless.

  • LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts: Room of Requirement Set, £45 from Argos – buy here

What do most kids get for Easter?

This answer varies depending on traditions and customs over the Easter holiday.

Most kids receive a variety of Easter treats and gifts, with chocolate eggs being the most popular choice.

These delicious treats often come in colourful wrappers or decorative packaging such as bunny or egg shapes, which adds to the festive spirit.

Additionally, Easter baskets are filled with an assortment of sweet treats, chocolates and small toys, whilst some may also receive plush bunnies, themed books, or craft kits to celebrate the holiday.

Traditional activities for kids on the Easter break include Easter egg hunts, egg decorating and more, enhancing the excitement with little children.

What is the best gift for kids?

The best gift for kids will be heavily dependent on the child and their interests.

The best gift will likely be the gift they keep mentioning every so often, something to do with their favourite character or film.

Listening to your child’s interests will help you to make the best decision, although, if they’re still quite young, a gift that offers new opportunities to play and learn is always a good idea.

Ultimately, the best gift for kids is one that reflects their interests, engages their senses, and nurtures their growth and happiness.

Are drones good gifts for kids?

Drones can be excellent gifts for kids, as they offer opportunities for exploration, outdoor activity and learning about technology.

They provide an exciting way to engage with STEM concepts, fostering curiosity and problem-solving skills and ultimately, are fun to fly around.

However, it’s essential to consider factors like age appropriateness, safety features, and supervision requirements when opting for a drone.

Make sure you follow age guidelines when buying drones.

Parental guidance is crucial to ensure safe and responsible drone use, especially for younger children.

With all things considered, drones can be thrilling gifts that spark an interest in aviation and technology.

How much can a parent gift to a child each year?

There is no specific annual limit on how much a parent can gift to a child.

How much you choose to spend on your child for the various occasions and celebrations throughout the year is completely down to personal preference and circumstances.

Some parents might opt to spend more for occasions such as birthdays and Christmas, as opposed to seasonal holidays like Easter, Halloween and others.

If there is a celebration for an achievement during these times, you might also want to commemorate the special day with a nice gift – which can sometimes be costly depending on the occasion.

What is a good amount of Christmas gifts for kids?

There is no right answer to this question, as determining a suitable number of Christmas gifts for kids can vary, and can depend on family traditions, budget and personal preferences.

While some families opt for a minimalist approach, focusing on quality over quantity, others may prefer a more generous approach, providing several gifts to create a sense of abundance.

Ultimately, the emphasis should be on thoughtful presents that cater to the child’s interests and needs.

Whether it’s a few carefully chosen items or a larger selection, the most important aspect is ensuring the gifts bring joy and create lasting memories for the children you’re buying for.

What is a good budget for Christmas gifts for kids?

Setting a budget for Christmas gifts for kids is important and will depend on various factors such as finances, the number of children and personal preferences.

A good starting point is to allocate an amount that feels comfortable, manageable and considerate of other expenses.

We’d recommend prioritising quality over quantity and focusing on gifts that align with the interests, hobbies and likes of the child.

Additionally, savvy shopping strategies like taking advantage of sales and discounts ahead of gift-giving can help you stretch your budget, while still providing memorable and meaningful gifts.


Want to find more savings on your online shopping? Then head to Sun Vouchers where you can get discounts and voucher codes from hundreds of top retailers including B&Q, Boots, Iceland, Lookfantastic, Dunelm, Adidas, Marks & Spencer and more.


Viewing all articles
Browse latest Browse all 2939

Trending Articles