Okay, so you aren’t exactly rich. But you want to get your kids a present that will make them feel like a rich kid – you want them to feel as if they’re getting something amazing and out of this world … but you don’t want to break the bank. How do you do it? If you’re struggling with ideas (or with funds), consider these “rich kid” gift ideas to put an extra sparkle in their eye.
Digital Camera
Even if your kid is not into photography, a digital camera is a great way to introduce them to the art form and get them doing something creative. This type of gift is great for older kids who are technology savvy and who love getting into gadgets and figuring out how they work (it’s also a great idea younger kids who love taking photos but who are sick of their “kiddy camera”).
The great thing about digital cameras is that they are fairly affordable these days, especially if you’re after an older model. If you hunt around online, you can probably get a good bargain. If you’re buying for more than one child, see if you can get a 2-for-1 deal in store. Make sure you get something durable and sturdy, especially if your kid is prone to dropping things or leaving them on the floor.
Designer Clothes
If your kid is all about their ‘look’, stocking them up with designer clothes can be a lovely way to spoil them, just this once. Branded clothes like Gap, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger all make children’s clothing and again, if you know your kid’s size, you should be able to find a bargain online or in an outlet store.
If you’re in that price range, though, where you still can’t afford this, do some research on the latest fashions and styles and see if you can find something similar which is “unbranded” but more affordable.
Cubby House
You may not be able to afford to buy your kids a replica Victorian mansion or a pirate-ship style house, but getting them a cubbyhouse is a fantastic way to encourage play, independence and to give kids their own world to disappear into. General department stores and specialised kids toy stores will always have some kind of cubby house in stock and they’re not ridiculously expensive – the only catch is, you might have to spend some time constructing it!
Film Cell
If your kid has a favourite movie, consider getting them framed film print that they’ll be able to treasure for years to come. These framed prints usually come with some actual film cells from the movie, a poster and sometimes a signature. It might take a little research to separate the authentic ones from the fakes, but if your kid is into movies, this is a great keepsake that will look great on their bedroom wall and which they can show off to their friends!
Games Room
You may not be able to afford a 90-inch screen and a surround-sound entertainment system, but putting together a play room or games room for your kid can be fun, easy and affordable. Search around and see if you can find some cheap games (table tennis, mini-pool table, an old arcade machine, to name a few). If your room is more video-game focused, big screen televisions are easy to come by these days and a couple of extra cheap-ish speakers can really make the room seem more exciting.
Pure-Bred Pony
Ponies are the stereo-typical rich kid gift and of course, you probably won’t be buying one of these. BUT you can consider getting your kid a pet. Puppies, kittens, rabbits, mice, guinea pigs – all animals are a great way to encourage bonding and teach responsibility in your kid’s life and a pet will undeniably brighten up their world. It doesn’t need to be pure-bred of course and the best thing about pets is that you can easily get one for free from your local pound or rescue shelter, though bear in mind you may have to pay for vaccinations and micro-chipping.
A personalized stool also makes a great gift for any child!