It's always disappointing to give a gift that a child is mesmerized with for 10 minutes, then never plays with again. Or worse, a gift that is never loved at all. It doesn't matter if you are giving toys or socks - the key is to find gifts with lasting play value.

Question 1: Kids play best with toys that have lots of lights and buttons - the more stimulation the better.
You're right! Lots of lights and buttons can capture attention for a few minutes, but because they are passive, the child soon loses interest. The best gifts engage a child's imagination and have lasting play value-after all, a ball only has one setting.
Question 2: Kids will play best with a gift based on a character they see on TV.
Exactly! While familiar characters may generate initial excitement, the stories children see on TV limit the way they will interact with their playthings. Everyone knows that Batman can't fly, and Garfield hates dogs. With a fresh theme, the sky is the limit.
Question 3: Educational toys are the best tools for preparing young children for school.
Very Good! All kids eventually learn their letters and numbers, whether they have educational toys or not. "Most child development experts agree that play is the foundation of intellectual exploration. It's how children learn how to learn." (Source: The Case for Make Believe-Page 11)

Don't feel bad about choosing the fun gift over the dvds that promise to teach calculus to a 3 yr old. Chances are they will still grow up to be a little smartie.
Question 4: Video games are your best bet to get thank you's and kisses.
Impressive! Kids love video games-no question about that. But gifts that encourage playful interaction between human beings are the ones most likely to earn thank you's, kisses and moments to share together. If you do choose to give a video game, make it one you can play together with the child.
Question 5: Toys always make a better gift than utilitarian items the kids will get anyway, holiday or not.
That's right! Some of the most treasured items from childhood are a favorite everyday item. The trick is to find a way to excite their imagination and become part of their everyday play.
Your score is out of 5. It sounds like you've given some dud gifts in the past. Perhaps it's best to leave the gift selection to the experts. Check out the Kidorable Gift Finder.
Congratulations! Your score is 4 out of 5. Clearly you have gift buying experience. Thank you's and kisses are in your future.
Congratulations! Your score is 5 out of 5. You are a gift buying genius. Your friends are lucky to know you.