They’re asking a lot of questions; they have all sorts of crazy theories why the sky is blue and what snowflakes are made of. They’re out of the baby bed and sleeping in their own room. In a word, they’re growing up. And because they are growing so fast, their likes and dislikes are changing faster. How do you buy Christmas presents for the little ones (whether your own or someone else’s) in your life when yesterday they wanted the latest Nintendo DS game but today they want Happy Feet with all the extras on DVD? It’s easy: become a “detective’ and do some investigating. The clues are easy to decode if you know what to look for.

Start by asking them what they want for Christmas. Make a list or if they are old enough, let them write it down themselves. Arrange the wish list in order of priorities. To weed out TV commercial-driven wants from genuine wish list wants, listen carefully. If kids keep repeating the same item over and over, then it’s most likely something they really would like as opposed to being TV-inspired.

While technology is constantly changing, wooden toys like train sets or train tables, dollhouses and rocking horses will never go out of style. Building blocks are another classic that will keep the boy or girl on your Christmas list busy for hours at a time. Another timeless gift idea is the traditional kitchen set – children like to pretend that they can cook in the kitchen just like an adult!

And for really keeping them entertained (while entertaining you), you can’t beat a musical instrument. This is the perfect age to help them discover their inner musician: children love sounds and to experiment with them. Give them a toy piano, a toy guitar or a something rattly and shaky like a percussive music table or drum kit they can really play.

Other handy tips for buying Christmas gifts for children 3 and up include:

When selecting gifts for kids you don’t know really well, choose age appropriate, unisex toys

If you don’t have a wish list to work off of, base your gift on the child’s most recent hobby, favorite movie or literary/superhero/cartoon character

If you need to have a few “generic” children’s gifts on hand in case of the unexpected, choose economical but fun favorites like giant coloring books, crayons and inexpensive craft kits.

Still not sure what to buy the young child in your life? Just keep in mind…fun, bright colors and pretty noises! Young children are very curious, energetic and love to explore. Give them a gift that will capture their imaginations and engage their minds, and you can’t go wrong.

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