Gift-giving is one of the most joyful parts of the holiday season, but let’s face it—sometimes, even the best intentions can lead to a present that misses the mark. Whether it’s a toy that’s already gathering dust or a gift that’s more frustrating than fun, some presents just aren’t as appreciated as we’d hope.
To help you avoid giving a “bad gift” this season, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 worst presents for kids. From impractical items to those that just don’t spark joy, here’s what to avoid when picking out presents for the little ones in your life.
1. Toys with too many small parts
While toys with tiny pieces can seem appealing (hello, educational building sets!), they are often a nightmare for parents and caregivers. Small parts can easily be lost, creating a mess or worse, posing a choking hazard. Keep in mind that younger children, especially toddlers, can get frustrated with toys that require a lot of fine motor skills or attention to detail, leading to more stress than fun.
2. Battery-operated toys with short lifespan batteries
There's nothing worse than giving a toy that requires batteries, only to have them run out before the kid has had a chance to enjoy it. Battery-operated toys that drain power quickly can be a real letdown, especially when parents are constantly having to replace batteries. Plus, not every household has spare batteries lying around.
3. Cheap, low-quality toys that break easily
We’ve all seen the cheap plastic toys that promise hours of fun but fall apart after only a few uses. These toys often lack durability, and a breakage within the first few days can be both disappointing for the child and frustrating for the parents. A toy that breaks easily also leads to more waste, which isn’t great for the environment either.
4. Clothes that aren’t practical or comfortable
While clothes can be a thoughtful gift, they often miss the mark when they’re not comfortable or suitable for the child’s age and lifestyle. Scratchy fabrics, overly fancy outfits (that will never be worn), or clothes in the wrong size are all common pitfalls. Kids grow fast, and buying clothes they’ll only wear once or twice isn’t always the best use of your gift budget.
5. Toys with annoying noises or lights
We’ve all experienced the noise-pollution nightmare of toys that make loud, repetitive sounds or flashing lights every time they’re touched. While these toys might initially seem fun, they often drive parents and caregivers crazy after just a few minutes. No one wants a toy that makes the same beeping noise over and over again, especially when it can’t be turned off!
6. Too many toy guns or weapons
While action figures and superhero toys can encourage imaginative play, toys that resemble guns or other weapons may not always be the best choice. These toys often don’t offer much in the way of educational value and can promote a more aggressive form of play. Additionally, some parents may feel uncomfortable giving children toys that resemble real-world weapons.
7. Overly complicated or advanced toys
Buying a toy that’s too advanced for a child’s age can end up being more frustrating than fun. Complex puzzles, intricate LEGO sets, or technology-driven toys might seem cool, but if they’re too difficult for the child to use, they’ll end up sitting in the corner untouched. Kids lose interest quickly if they can’t easily understand how to interact with the toy.
8. Pets (unless it’s a family decision)
While the idea of giving a pet as a gift can seem sweet, it’s often a bad idea. Pets require a lot of responsibility, care, and attention, and kids may not be equipped to handle the day-to-day needs of an animal. Furthermore, adopting a pet is a family decision that should be made thoughtfully, not something to be handed over as a surprise gift.
9. Too many video games or screen-time gifts
While many kids love video games, gifting too many screen-based toys can be a double-edged sword. Excessive screen time can negatively impact a child’s development, sleep habits, and social skills. Gifting too many video games or tech gadgets that encourage long hours of sitting might not be the healthiest option.
10. Gift cards (when you don’t know what they want)
Gift cards can feel like the safe option when you’re unsure of what to buy, but they often miss the mark. They can feel impersonal and lack the excitement of opening a thoughtfully chosen gift. While gift cards give kids the freedom to choose, they don’t offer the same sense of surprise or joy that a well-picked present does.
What to do instead
Instead of going down the path of gifts that might not hit the mark, consider giving a personalised book. Personalised storybooks are a wonderful gift because they combine the joy of storytelling with the magic of seeing the child’s name or likeness in the story. Whether it’s an adventure, a bedtime story, or a learning experience, personalised books are gifts that engage a child’s imagination, teach valuable lessons, and create lasting memories.
They’re practical, interactive, and—most importantly—meaningful. And the best part? They never go out of style!