For kids

When a child is part of the draw, the best gift is one they can open and start playing with straight away. Look for things that invite making, building or exploring rather than another plastic figure that ends up under the sofa. The ideas below suit a wide range of ages, and most can be shared with a sibling or a parent on a slow afternoon. Before you buy, check the age on the box and think about the space at home: a floor puzzle needs a floor, and a bubble machine is happiest in a garden. A short note explaining how to play makes the gift feel even more thoughtful.

Updated 30 September 2026