How to Select a Gift for a 5-Year-Old Boy

Consider the world of a kindergartner as you shop to please that special five-year-old boy in your life.

Things You'll Need

• Bookstore Gift Certificates
• Children's Clothes
• Birthday Cards
• Children/teen Gift Certificates
• Music
• School Supplies
• Action Figures
• Children's Board Games
• Children's Puzzles

Instructions

1. Ponder his point of view: Is he hooked on puzzles? Taking things apart? Sports? Painting?

2. Browse a toy store, real or virtual, and find something that seems likely to fit his fancy.

3. Consider software, books, music, sports equipment, board games, activity kits and action figures.

4. Check in with his parents if you're in doubt. They're likely to know what might please him - and they also know what he already has.

5. Be practical: Give clothes or school supplies.

6. Go for a gift certificate if you're out of time or ideas, and he'll get the joy of picking out his own present.

7. Take him on a one-on-one outing: His parents will get a break and you'll get some quality time together.

8. Think long-term and make a donation to his education fund.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure whatever gift you settle on is returnable; avoid contributing to the pile of untouched items in the closet.

• Read warning labels carefully - you want your present to be safe for a five-year-old.