by Catalogs.com Info Guru Heather Vecchioni

Toys are often the “go-to” choice when it comes to deciding what to get children as presents.

But really, how many light-up, loud, often annoying, toys can a kid have? You may think mixing it up and selecting an alternative can be a challenge, but with so many choices, it doesn’t have to be. Think outside the box, and you’ll likely have fun deciding what to get the little ones in your life.

10. Clothes

Admittedly, clothes may not be a popular choice among youngsters for presents, unless they are budding fashion designers. However, they are with the parents. Stylish kids clothing is essential, and often, expensive. Earn some points with the little tyke’s parents by purchasing an outfit or two.

9. Season Pass

A season pass to a fun place could be the best idea for presents yet. This allows the entire family to go have fun, while you cover the cost. The pass could be to a variety of places: a museum, the park, the list goes on. You’re getting the child out of the house and off to explore new adventures; it doesn’t get much better than that.

8. Gift Certificate

Purchasing a gift certificate allows the youngster to select what he or she wants. However, select a certificate at a location in which toys are not available. For instance, an online educational store or the movies allows the child – and family – to make responsible choices and have fun at the same time.

7. Arts and Craft Supplies

Just about every child enjoys indulging in arts and crafts. Whether it’s painting, coloring, drawing or simply cutting out shapes, they are sure to have a good time. Additionally, this popular pastime is educational and is something the family can do together. Giving the supplies as gifts introduces the child to a whole new world that could become something he enjoys doing for the rest of his life.

6. Musical Instruments

Playing musical instruments is not only entertaining, but studies show it can make the musicians smarter, too. By buying the little one in your life a musical instrument, you are giving her the gift of knowing, and likely loving, music. Just check in with the parents before you buy that drum set – they may not appreciate the noise.

5. Puzzles

Encourage the child to put down the video games and enjoy a new learning activity by giving her puzzles. Puzzles make kids use their minds differently, and also helps to develop hand and eye coordination. Parents and siblings can also engage in the puzzles, allowing them to have important family bonding time.

4. Movies

Many children are clueless when it comes to the classics that the older generation knows and loves. Purchasing these films introduces the youngster to what life what like before they came into the picture, which can help them appreciate a simpler time. Watching movies also creates another opportunity for families to spend time together.

3. Camera

Have you ever wondered what life looks like through the eyes of the little one in your life? Find out by giving him a camera. You may be amazed at what he creates. You’ll discover what he sees and finds interesting. Print them out and save them for a keepsake.

2. Costumes

One of the most enjoyable activities for young ones is playing dress up. Giving them these costumes allows them to use their imagination, and have fun pretending to be others. Join in on the fun by dressing up yourself, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures.

1. Books

If you’re looking for a gift that is educational, provides hours of enjoyment and allows the family to spend time together, go with age-appropriate books. Reading to children helps them to develop a life-long love for the activity. Doing so also allows them to develop their imaginations, and helps them excel in school. Additionally, spending time together reading is precious. Children can never have too many books, and you can help them start their collection.

This occasion, do something different when deciding what to get children for presents. Skip the usual “toy” option and select a memorable gift, instead. You’ll see that doing so will likely be appreciated by both the parents and the children.