Christmas Present Ideas For Kids

[redforever]

Originally Posted by meanmachine13

Melissa and Doug toys were a big hit when I worked at a kids store.

I will second that.

[ae118]

Board books are always great for this age and you have lots of recommendations. "That's Not My Monkey" (Usborne) and Sandra Boynton were big here, and Robert Munsch (currently Mortimer is top choice) as they get a little older. They love pretty much anything with good pictures and rhyming/good rhythm.

For the two year olds, maybe something from http://www.wowtoys.com/. They work using forward momentum instead of back. You can get these at Castle Toys for about $30, probably at Gracie & Gruff too if that downtown one still exists.

Also, Melissa & Doug toys, particularly beginner puzzles. Just don't get the one where the kid learns how to open a bunch of different locks - that's a bad choice.

[ma-skis.com]

any type of ball works for kids. those sport nerf balls or soft gator balls are particularly good. My kid plays with the same nerf balls he had since he was 1. every other toy barely lasts a month in terms of his interest level.