Buying toys for children at Christmas can be a significant task, with parents spending an average of £95.58 on toys for each child every year. To ensure that the toys purchased are not abandoned once the holiday is over, parents shared their top toy recommendations for this Christmas, as well as money-saving tips. Keiran Walker, a father of two, recommended the Outsmarted The Live Quiz Show Board Game and Xshot Insanity HorrorFire Dread Hammer as affordable and entertaining choices for children.
Natalie Hull, a mother of two, highlighted the importance of affordability, longevity, and wow factor when choosing toys. She mentioned that she prefers toys that can be shared between her children, such as a football goal, as well as creative and challenging toys like the Dropzone game. Natalie emphasized the value of selecting toys that will continue to be played with long after Christmas, contributing to a more sustainable and long-lasting approach to toy buying.
Tom Church, a father and co-founder of LatestDeals.co.uk, suggested that a memorable Christmas for children does not require extravagant spending. He recommended educational, creative, and active toys such as the Orchard Toys Match and Spell Game, Play-Doh, and the John Lewis Wooden Chick Push Along Toy. By being a savvy shopper and taking advantage of deals and discounts, parents can find suitable toys for children without breaking the bank.
Jemma Zoe Smith, a mother and social media influencer known as Mama Educates, shared that she prefers to invest in high-quality toys for her seven-month-old son Bean. Rather than purchasing multiple toys, Jemma chose the Yoto mini, a screen-free audio player with story cards that can be read aloud. She views the Yoto as an investment in Bean’s future, as it offers the opportunity for expansion with additional cards for cooking recipes and music, providing long-term value and entertainment.
To save money on Christmas shopping, parents are advised to limit the number of presents given, consider organizing a Secret Santa with family and friends, and plan ahead by purchasing gifts during January sales. Using price comparison websites, shopping in Boxing Day sales, and shopping at outlet stores like Amazon Warehouse or Office Offcuts can help find the best deals and avoid overspending. With thoughtful consideration and strategic planning, parents can make Christmas memorable for their children while being mindful of their budget.
