December 13, 2006 Sheri

What I’m buying my kids…

A lot of people have been asking what we’re getting our own kids for the holidays. Like all of you, I’m struggling to find the perfect things for each of my daughters. But I’m also acting as a proxy shopper on behalf of grandparents, great grandparents and other family members. So I’ve got my hands full.

Here’s what’s on the list so far. For my 4-year-old, I’ve got several small things. Cranium’s Giggle Gear Goggles, MagnaTiles (a new item that sold out so quickly I didn’t even get to write about it yet – we have more on the way), a couple of age-appropriate science kits, a floor puzzle with the Solar System (she wants to be an astronaut), and some Kumon activity books. She’s also asking for ski equipment and roller skates. Personally, I think she’s asking for a broken limb, but it’s my job to worry, right? For the big gift, we’re considering the new ride-on Vespa from Perego, or a P’kolino Klick.

For my 2-year old, lots of puzzles and probably a play kitchen. From one grandmother, she’s getting a LIKEaBIKE . This European import has no pedals; the goal is to teach balance. Supposedly kids who can master this sort of “running bike” can transition to a regular bicycle without ever needing training wheels. As usual, the second child gets the short end of the stick. We’re still scouting for more ideas.