The Best Gifts for Kids, According to Reddit
Never let the fear of striking out stop you from playing the game—and never let the fear of giving the wrong thing stop you from giving generously whenever you can. Truly, when you give from the heart, there are no “wrong” donations, but there are certainly more useful than others, so if you’re going to be donating to a toy action or similar initiative this holiday season, it’s worth figuring out what to send. Here’s what Reddit has to say about it this year.
Give toys without batteries
One Redditor noted that if you’re donating to a toy car, you should choose toys that don’t require batteries. It’s not certain that the family will be able to afford batteries, but even if they can, it’s better to opt for something rechargeable or something not technical at all. If you’re donating something that requires batteries, include additional items in the donation. Heck, throw in a few battery packs along with your donation to cover any other battery powered toys sent in.
In general, stay away from gifts that also require any additional items or elements. One person suggested a basketball, as it only requires a hoop to play with, but it can still be dribbled and played in its absence.
Don’t Forget Older Children
“If you can think of boys aged 8 to 18,” another user replied . “They are often overlooked. A basketball or headphones can make a huge difference to these kids. It’s not about the subject matter, it’s about the sudden feeling that they can matter.” Many other commentators echoed this sentiment, remembering what it was like to be a teenager who was once given drab gifts.
Think about something a teenager or teenager might need, like a ring lamp or a phone stand. Choose something specific for the older age group, rather than a one-size-fits-all gift for all ages, to make your donation truly special to someone.
Enlist the support of your own children
One Redditor said they take their kids shopping and let them choose gifts for other kids of the same age. Pick a day to go donation-only shopping if you can, so you can bring your kids without ruining their own gifts. Not only does this ensure you get a cool and kid- approved gift, but it’s also a great way to show them the value of the donation, which is a parental win.
LEGO
Time and time again, Reddit users have recommended LEGO sets. Even the basic sets are fun for all ages and don’t require anything else to play, but if you can buy a specialized set, that makes the gift even more exciting. LEGO bricks can be added to other sets, but they are great on their own, which makes them better than, say, a train set that needs special add-on sets to make it interesting.