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Christmas Gift Ideas for Baby
Its baby's first Christmas! How exciting! It's a perfect time to start a tradition, like buying the little bundle of joy a special ornament for this holiday and every holiday to come, or you can just plain spoil them with lots of toys and fun-filled activities. Here are a handful of suggestions that will have them (and mom and dad, too!) cooing with glee:
Piggy Bank: A piggy bank is a collectible gift that will be treasured for a lifetime. One can also teach a young child the fundamentals of money management. What better way to get good habits started early? Personalize it with the child's name for an extra special touch. The best place to pick up a piggy bank is at a card or craft store.
Editor's note: My daughter was given the Toddot Baby's Silver Plated Piggy Bank, and she loves it. She puts coins into it and loves taking them back out too. When we moved, it was one of the first things she asked for.
Classic Baby Toys: Encourage imagination and learning with a time-honored and tested baby toy. Some of the better choices include a Little People Animal Sounds Farm, wooden ABC blocks, jack-in-the-box, shape sorter or an activity gym. Go to a toy store for the largest assortment of classic baby toys.
Editor's note: The toy I have to recommend most strongly is the Lamaze Multi-Sensory Clutch Cube. Mine has been a favorite of my daughter as an infant, then a favorite of her cousin, and now my son loves it as well. Three kids and it's still in great shape.
Teddy bears: Kids love teddy bears. A good teddy bear for an infant has eyes made from thread; not sewn-in buttons which can detach and be a choking hazard. Other animals work wonderfully as well, of course; just be certain to pick ones that are made for baby rather than for infants. It can take a bit of searching to keep it safe for baby, but parents who know what to look for will be grateful that you took the time.
Anything from Baby Einstein: The entire Baby Einstein collection is loved by parents and babies, too. The theory behind Baby Einstein is to teach a baby basic ideas and concepts. Select from their award-winning videos, DVDs, books and music, or go for one of their highly educational toys that will keep baby learning for hours. Baby Einstein products can be ordered online or picked up at your favorite toy or department store.
Music Cube: It's been proven that music stimulates the brain and encourages early learning skills. With the push of a button, a baby can compose and arrange musical scores and develop their creative mind. Your local toy store should carry several different types of music cubes or go online for more options.
Puppets: Puppets are an adorable gift to give a lively baby. Although the parents will be required to operate them for awhile, nothing could be better than watching their child think and interact with this benevolent present. Search online for a unique selection of handmade puppet creations.
LeapFrog LeapStart Learning Table: This award-winning educational toy will introduce a child to letters, numbers, shapes and colors through a fully interactive musical experience. It's a learning adventure that is sure to delight any baby! They're available at toy stores and mass-merchandisers nationwide.
There isn't a magical tool for finding the perfect gift for a child. But if it is a gift from the heart it will surely bring magic.