I’m not one of those mums who restricts chocolate completely from her diet but I definitely did when Ruby was smaller. She’s 3 now and is chocolate obsessed and I do try to keep it to Fridays and special occasions but Easter is just an absolute choc fest and there’s no avoiding it so we wanted to come up with some alternative ideas for Easter gifts for the littlest members of your families.
- A soft toy – I absolutely love love love the Jellycat bunnies and we have a few, they’re my go-to gift a lot of the time for new babies. Ruby has 2 in particular she takes to bed and just generally adores! Here’s a pic of Rubes with stripey who still goes most places with her.
- Books – it’s rare to find a child who has no interest in books especially young kids and you really don’t have to spend a fortune on books, even just gifting one is a treat in our house. Julia Donaldson is a big favourite of ours. The Tiger who came to tea, Guess how much I love you, Goodnight moon, Dear Zoo, any of the Usborne “That’s not my…” range – all classics. Some more here.
- Jigsaws – age dependent I guess but jigsaws again are very popular from a young age – the Ravensburger ones are great, they have a range called “My first…” which is aimed at up to 2 year olds and Ruby loves the 4 in a box ones for her age group. The Orchard Toys 2 piece jigsaws again are a great pick, I think there’s usually about 6 in a box. Those wooden puzzles where you slot the pieces in again are a great buy.
- Bibs – obviously we would say this but bandana bibs are a great little gift, at 3 for €12 you’re not spending a huge amount but they are cute and practical and we’ll even post them to the child for you with a gift note. Have a look at our current range of designs here. If you want to spend a bit more then our ZippyBoo suit is again a great option.
- Sticking with the eggs theme – Tomy do a little toy called squeaky eggs – sure to be a hit, it was in both of our houses!
- Duplo for the age 2+ kiddies – we’ve been growing our collection over the last 18 months or so and I can’t tell you how much she just loves her blocks. Smaller themed sets start at just €10 in Smyths or even online on Amazon.
- Play Doh – no parent will thank you for buying this but the kids will absolutely love you for it. (sorry)
- For the age 2+ again sticker books, colouring books, crayons all great choices. Tesco do a tub of paints which last for ages and are so reasonable for just €10.
- Ruby got a little set her first Easter with a small egg in it and a Peppa Pig (yes I hate her too but she loved it) bowl, cup and plate and she still uses it and loves it (thanks Michelle).
- Bath toys are another great gift and don’t have to be very expensive, cute little duckies are always a hit! Remember this Fisher Price one that I think ever home in Ireland had in the 80s and 90s?
Any other suggestions?