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The threat of a full-blown tantrum is real when tracking down the best gifts for kids and infants. Shopping at a mainstream children’s toy shop or book store comes with the risk that the child you’re buying for already has what you eventually pick, leaving disappointment on the present front. Moreover, you may think that musical instruments or curated arts and crafts are unique choices that could spark a lifelong passion, but some adults just hear noise and see mess. Then, of course, there are the families with a very specific aesthetic or strong opinions about plastic.
Gathering intel is the best place to start when narrowing down gift ideas, which is why Vogue enlisted the opinions of three discerning mothers, who were more than happy to help. “My son loves dressing up, so he enjoys any kind of costume – at the moment he’s into medieval knights – and my daughter, Phoenix, just wants my mobile phone,” offers British Vogue’s contributing beauty editor, Tish Weinstock. “Something sentimental for both the baby and the family is ideal – a gift that can be kept forever is the best choice,” adds Tiffany Hsu, Mytheresa’s chief buying officer. “Alternatively, something practical that truly benefits the parents is also a great option.” A stellar point – it’s worth considering who has to assemble that toy, dress that baby, or put drawings on the fridge, too.
Active gifts can never go amiss, but be sure to check in advance whether it’s already on their Christmas gift list, whether safety gear is needed and whether there is enough storage space. “My son got a scooter for his second birthday and he’s hardly taken a step since!” says Tallula Christie, co-founder of BeauBeaus Cafe, who likes to keep her gifts for children “minimal, somewhat practical, fun, and engaging.”
From magic tricks to tents, crayons to booties, scroll on for the best gifts for kids and infants – and helpful tips on how to choose what to buy.
Tish Weinstock: British Vogue’s contributing beauty editor and mum of two.
“I usually search for gift ideas online and then I try to tailor the present to the kid. If it’s my own children, I like to get something that they’re into or that I can selfishly join in with. Every child is quite different, so don’t get upset if they hate your present! I’m so bad at wrapping, so anything outsourced is ideal for me. I bought Reuben a giant wooden pirate ship I found on Etsy that we assembled in the garden. It came in pieces so he was livid but, after my husband built it, he was obsessed. I also bought him a science kit which I loved – potentially more than he did.”
From educational children’s toys and historic costumes, to nostalgic books that will catapult you back to your childhood, run through Tish Weinstock’s edit of gifts for kids this Christmas and beyond, below.
Tallula Christie: BeauBeaus Cafe co-founder and mum of two
“I try to keep gifts for children relatively minimal, somewhat practical, fun, and engaging. Books and arts and crafts are a safe shout, but you don’t want to fall into the trap of getting the obvious, as chances are you aren’t the only one. Anything with wheels is all the rage in our house. I stay away from plastic as wooden, rubber, or mechanical toys tend to be more open-ended allowing for more imaginative play. My biggest “don’t” is toys that play irritating music. Beautiful clothes to pass down through generations are a great infant gift idea. The best children’s gift we’ve given was art materials – I get sent pictures of new creations to this day.”
A strong desire to fuel imagination and creativity characterises Tallula Christie’s children’s gift edit. Her gift ideas keep on giving; for the parents and loved ones who’ll admire their kids’ progress.
Tiffany Hsu: Mytheresa chief buying officer and mum of one
“Quality and material come first for children’s gifts and, while ideally I prefer natural fibres and organic options, style is also important to me. Always give items a few months older, be weather-sensitive and, preferably, choose more unisex items such as cardigans and accessories. The current gift trend for babies leans towards what I refer to as “grandad-core” – traditional with a twist. Scandinavian brands do this very well. I once surprised someone with a Yoyo X Bonpoint pushchair, while my go-to gift is a pushchair shearling foot-muff for winter. It’s something everyone needs but rarely buys in advance. It’s universal, practical, lasts more than three months, and there are some super stylish versions available.”
Comfort, cosiness and longevity define Tiffany’s gift edit. Scroll on for her thoughtful yet practical selection.
