✕
☰

What NOT to Give Kids for Christmas

by

My children began their Christmas lists in October. Curious to see what made the list this year, I read over my daughter’s shoulder and was shocked to see she had asked for a doll that spits up and wets itself, an expensive Lego set and a live donkey. These items were NOT on my Christmas list for my children. We asked Kansas City parents what gifts they most dislike to receive for their children.

 

A million pieces

Everyone is likely to get frustrated with a toy that comes with “a million” pieces. In no time, the pieces tend to get spread across the entire house, and getting them back together is nearly impossible. “Once the pieces are lost, the whole toy is pointless, because you can’t do anything with it if certain pieces are missing,” says Kassie Rew, Olathe mom of three. Prior to giving, also consider the ages of the children in the home. A 9-year-old may ask for Polly Pocket dolls or Legos, but those tiny pieces easily can turn into a choking hazard for a baby brother and a become a huge stress for the parents.

 

Some assembly required

Every parent cringes when their child opens a fun and exciting toy and the box has the words “some assembly required.” That innocuous phrase usually means the parent spends hours reading frustrating directions and assembling the toy late into the night. If you are giving a toy that requires assembly, please consider putting it together prior to giving.

 

A not-so-joyful noise

Loud toys have been irritating parents since toys were invented. Musical instruments, toys with hammers and battery-operated toys with no volume control all contribute to the already high level of noise pollution in the average household. When purchasing a loud toy for a favorite niece or nephew, please stop and imagine its being passed back to your own house when you have children. If that makes you shudder, keep shopping.

 

Batteries not included

While we are talking about battery-powered toys, please consider a few things as you purchase a gift. Does the toy require batteries? If yes, are the batteries regularly available at a reasonable price? “We don’t care for toys that require massive amounts of expensive batteries. Sometimes the batteries cost more than the toy itself,” says Jessi Cole, Overland Park mom of three. Check whether the toy comes with the batteries or whether you must purchase them separately. Make sure to have batteries on hand when the child opens the gift, so he can begin playing immediately.

 

Toys that encourage violence

Lauren Heller, Overland Park mom of twins, says, “Anything that encourages hitting or violence against siblings is discouraged. They fight enough as it is.” Toys such as Nerf guns, swords, punching bags and boxing gloves are not ideal for families that may not want weapons in the house. Amy Cameron, Olathe mom of three, has a different perspective. “A water gun, light saber or Nerf gun for only one sibling is not desired. They need to be equally armed.” Asking parents for permission before purchasing these items is best.

 

Purchasing a gift for someone is always challenging, because you want it to be enjoyed. Ask the parents what they suggest and whether anything is not permitted in the house. If you have a great idea, run it by them first. Consider buying classic toys that are always a hit or an experience like a membership to a local attraction. Even if you have purchased one of the toys mentioned above or do so in the future, don’t fret. Parents know it truly is the thought that counts and are grateful their children have generous people in their lives.

 

Gifts parents LOVE to receive for their kids

 

Sarah Lyons is an Olathe mom of six.

Back to topbutton