| For the special event of a 1st birthday you want to | | | | Sorting shapes is something that the child does or will |
| make sure to choose a gift that makes the joyous | | | | soon be able to do. Check out the Learn & Laugh |
| event even better. In today's tech savvy world the | | | | Cookie Shape Surprise or the Honey Pot Shape |
| choices move far beyond the classic toys that most | | | | Sorter at Fisher-Price. |
| of us grew up playing with. Don't stress out too | | | | One year olds are beginning to mimic adult's activities. |
| much in finding the perfect gift for a one year | | | | A kitchen set or a baby doll are excellent ideas. |
| old...just follow our tried but true tips for successful | | | | Anything that will encourage the child's fine and gross |
| gift selection. | | | | motor skills is beneficial. A good idea is blocks for |
| 1) Make sure your gift is age appropriate. Be sure to | | | | stacking and knocking down. Today you can find |
| check the age suggestion on the toy you are | | | | everything from the classic wooden blocks to a high |
| considering. | | | | tech light up set. |
| 2) Do not be overly concerned about being gender | | | | There is no such thing as reading too much to a child. |
| specific. At one year old you should consider things | | | | Can't miss books include: |
| like being colourful, making noise and being safe. | | | | Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See by Bill |
| 3) Safe, easy to clean and durable items make the | | | | Martin, Baby! Talk! By Penny Gentieu, My Many |
| best gifts. | | | | Colored Days by Theodor Geisel - Dr. Seuss, |
| 4) Set a budget that is comfortable for you and stick | | | | Children at this stage are intrigued by animals and the |
| to it. | | | | sounds they make. Be sure to check out the ladybug |
| Further consideration when finding the perfect gift | | | | and cow Wheelybug. |
| for a one year old is their stage of development. Be | | | | Keep these three key words in mind: Imagine, |
| sure to match gifts to the stage of development of | | | | Explore and Create |
| the child. If you are not too familiar with the child | | | | Here is one final tip that we offer the gift buyer. |
| there are many sites on the internet that can help | | | | Children at this age have a short attention span and |
| you. Here are a few "rules of thumb" you may find | | | | may be more interested in the colourful wrapping and |
| helpful. | | | | ribbons than what is in the package. Don't be hurt if |
| At this stage the child is mobile. Gifts that encourage | | | | the child doesn't have a grand reaction. By following |
| movement (standing, crawling and walking) are good | | | | our simple suggestions your gift is sure to be a |
| choices. One of our favourites is the Wheely Bug. | | | | winner! |