Top Ten Best Birthday Party Presents For Kids – To Have On Stand-By

Now that all five of our children are attending public school, we’re receiving a lot of birthday party invitations.  Sometimes, there isn’t much notice for the parties, or the invitations find strange hiding places for a few weeks.  Here is my list of presents to keep on hand, as emergency birthday presents.

For The Lego Kid

It seems like most kids would be happy with Lego’s as a birthday present.  The problem that we often face is that the child really likes one type of set, and already has them all.  Our son Trey was really into Batman for several years.  At his last birthday party, he received three identical Batman Lego sets.  A better idea (and cheaper way to buy Legos) is to pick up some of these sets, with animals and creatures.  They are compatible with Legos, and a less expensive option.  While most kids have lots and lots of bricks, they are unlikely to have these unique minifigures.

The Crafty Kid

I did this for our littlest one last Christmas.  He was always stealing random things to use as craft supplies.  Kids love to make things and this is a great mix of different items.  He is still using this craft kit – and we added some extra construction paper.

Coloring Book Alternative

Coloring books are fun, but they only last so long.  We have these reusable sticker boards and use them all of the time.  There are so many different stickers, with different background boards, and they can be used over and over again.  We have even purchased them as gifts for family and friends.

The Warrior

We have had these laser guns for over three years and they are still working great!  These would be great and super-fun to have on hand for a higher-end present.

A Stem Present

My oldest son received this solar-powered, build your own robot set a few years ago.  It is a super cute learning toy.  He has really enjoyed being able to take it apart and rebuild it, over and over again.

For A Younger Reader

Have you seen these books before?  We absolutely love how these books make reading such an interactive experience.  You shine a flashlight behind the page and images appear.  One of these books with a flashlight would make an original and awesome gift (because what kid doesn’t like to play with a flashlight).  Also, if you order on Amazon, check out the used copies available, because sometimes they are in almost perfect condition, for a lower price.

For Creative Building

My kids keep asking for more sets of these magnetic shapes that can be built into an endless variety of creations.  The openings make these building tiles perfect for using with other toys.  In our home, they usually make ships and other toys ride inside of them.

A Magical Present

Confession: I would love to play with one of these!  Light up, bubble guns look awesome.  There are a variety of sizes and colors available, but this one is a great deal in pink or purple.

The Performer

Our niece absolutely loves to sing and put on a show.  We gave her this microphone for Christmas and now we’re always receiving videos of her performances.  It lights up, comes in different colors, and is even rechargeable.  This microphone would make a great, affordable birthday present for a child.

The Sparkly One

These diamond paintings are perfect for age 8 or 9, and up.  My daughter has already made a bunch of these and has them hanging in her room.  This gift will keep kids busy on a rainy day (without a screen) and end up being a pretty keepsake.

That’s my list of go-to birthday presents for kids.  If you stock at least one or two these items in a present closet, you will always be ready for an unexpected birthday party invitation.  You should also be able to save money by planning ahead, instead of making a last minute run to the store.  Most of these items should also be available with Amazon Prime, if you’re looking for a last-minute present for a kid’s birthday party.