We’ve needed first birthday gift ideas by the bucket load. This time last year we welcomed into our family two more lovely nephews, one from each side of the family: Phoenix and Phillipos.  I don’t know where the year went, but what I do know is it’s time to get shopping for their special first birthday gifts. In the same boat and not sure what to buy? Here’s our Top Ten First Birthday Gift Ideas…

Books:

At One most kids are really enjoying interactive play and practising their speech all of which can be encompassed within a bedtime story.  Early this year we published a list of best bedtime reads for under ones.  My personal top three best-loved book retailers are: Amazon, Waterstones and Daunts. Although all three have a well stocked and fully functioning online presence if you can it is well worth popping into either Waterstones or Daunts, both stores offer a full literary experience and staff are always more than happy to help you find one off titles or suggests the latest reads and authors.

Educational Toys:

Parents and kids a like love a good educational toy, for one they hugely enhance a child’s development, but most importantly they tend to be better made and of more use/function than your ‘of the moment’ fad offerings.  An all time fave in our house is anything by Melissa and Doug.

Soft Toys:

As well as being comforting soft toys also play a huge role in helping a child learn about their environment, through play. Which in turn can help to develop their ability to interact with others. Theons most favourite cuddlies (both of which he got for his 1st) include his Greek Fisherprice bear and Elmo (of course)!

Outdoor Play Equipment:

Summer time in particular is a great time to pick up outdoor play equipment at an array of prices for both budget and billionaire bank accounts.  Why not gift one of these:

paddling pool

At just £3 from George at Asda this is Theons all time hot day play go to, great for cooling down and splashing about.  This paddling pool is such a bargain you’ll have pennies left over to maybe through in some bubbles and a water gun!

water table/ sand pit

My nephew Phoenix got this set as an early first birthday gift. It was an absolute steal at £14.99 from Smyths Toy Store, especially since it also came with all the accessories you see in the photo!

balance bike

It’s a Nicko Mini Wooden Toddler Balance Bike/Trike, £39.99 from Amazon for my nephew Huxley, who absolutely adores his first birthday balance bike, which my brother fully recommends not only because it changes to grow with your child, but being a two in one it also saves on storage space and upgrade purchase costs.

Furniture:

Online stores such as Studio are fantastic for picking up reasonably priced, personalised kids bedroom furniture.  Great shouts to impress the ‘rentals are toy boxes (any help with hiding away the sea of kid crap a one year old manages to accumulate) and mini seating.

Bank Account:

By now baby should have their own passport and all the paper work needed to set up their own bank account, which is a quick and easy way for friends and family to gift them during birthdays and holidays and means that parents can manage the money in order to acquire the bits kiddo needs; much easier than receiving duplicate gifts or the wrong sized clothing which will have to be taken back and exchanged for vouchers any way!

A Day Out/Experience:

At one they’ve almost reached the toddler club (some may already be in) and so are really starting to actively explore and take in new surroundings, why not purchase a day out at the zoo or a sensory play day at the local play centre or soft play/ball-pit park.  You can often find great deals for the entire family on Groupon or Wowcher.

But, whatever you gift them just know (and don’t be disappointed), nothings going to impress them more than the box their present came in!

*Happy First Birthday (kai xronia polla) Phoenix and Phillipos!*