How To Find The Perfect Gift For A One Year Old - By: Felicity Lightbody

For the special event of a 1st birthday you want to make sure to choose a gift that makes the joyous event even better. In today's tech savvy world the choices move far beyond the classic toys that most of us grew up playing with. Don't stress out too much in finding the perfect gift for a one year old…just follow our tried but true tips for successful gift selection.

1) Make sure your gift is age appropriate. Be sure to check the age suggestion on the toy you are considering.
2) Do not be overly concerned about being gender specific. At one year old you should consider things like being colourful, making noise and being safe.
3) Safe, easy to clean and durable items make the best gifts.
4) Set a budget that is comfortable for you and stick to it.

Further consideration when finding the perfect gift for a one year old is their stage of development. Be sure to match gifts to the stage of development of the child. If you are not too familiar with the child there are many sites on the internet that can help you. Here are a few "rules of thumb" you may find helpful.

At this stage the child is mobile. Gifts that encourage movement (standing, crawling and walking) are good choices. One of our favourites is the Wheely Bug.
Sorting shapes is something that the child does or will soon be able to do. Check out the Learn & Laugh Cookie Shape Surprise or the Honey Pot Shape Sorter at Fisher-Price.

One year olds are beginning to mimic adult's activities. A kitchen set or a baby doll are excellent ideas.
Anything that will encourage the child's fine and gross motor skills is beneficial. A good idea is blocks for stacking and knocking down. Today you can find everything from the classic wooden blocks to a high tech light up set.
There is no such thing as reading too much to a child. Can't miss books include:
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See by Bill Martin, Baby! Talk! By Penny Gentieu, My Many Colored Days by Theodor Geisel - Dr. Seuss,
Children at this stage are intrigued by animals and the sounds they make. Be sure to check out the ladybug and cow Wheelybug.
Keep these three key words in mind: Imagine, Explore and Create

Here is one final tip that we offer the gift buyer. Children at this age have a short attention span and may be more interested in the colourful wrapping and ribbons than what is in the package. Don't be hurt if the child doesn't have a grand reaction. By following our simple suggestions your gift is sure to be a winner!

About the Author

Felicity is a intermittent scribe, writing occassional columns in the UK. The complete range of wheely bugs ride on toys as well as baby carriers are available with free delivery at Designer Ark. For more information please visit the designerark.co.uk website.

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Felicity-Lightbody/39388

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