Looking for affordable gifts that will bring joy and delight to the little ones? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of cheap gifts for kids that will stimulate their imagination, inspire creativity, and provide hours of excitement!
From budget toys and educational gifts to DIY projects and outdoor toys, these economical options offer both fun and value. When you are looking for gifts for kids, you will need to consider a lot of factors. For instance, check if the gift is age-appropriate and if it has a value that stimulates your kids’ development. Creative gifts that spark imagination or educational toys that promote learning are the most ideal.
Finding such gifts and toys can be pretty puzzling, especially if you are a young parent with a limited budget. But fortunately, our recommendation will get you covered! So, get ready to discover a treasure trove of discounted toys and budget-conscious gifts that will bring smiles to young faces while keeping your wallet happy!
Shopping Tips for Finding Cheap Gifts
When it comes to finding cheap gifts for kids, our little shopping advice can take you a long way! Here are some shopping tips to help you navigate the world of cheap gifts for kids!
1. Hit up the local dollar store
You’d be surprised at the hidden treasures you can find at your neighboring local dollar store. From coloring books and puzzles to small toys and craft kits, there’s no shortage of budget-friendly goodies for your kids! With only $1 per item, cheap toys from such stores can still keep your little ones entertained. It’s not about the price but the value!
2. Keep an eye on clearance racks
Don’t forget to scour the clearance sections of toy stores or department stores! They often have great discounts on last season’s toys or items with minor packaging damage. Snagging a bargain while bringing a smile to a child’s face? Score!
3. DIY it up
Tap into your creative side and make your own gifts! For example, you can use homemade playdough, sensory jars, personalized photo albums, or decorated t-shirts to create a toy. DIY gifts can be both heartfelt and easy on the wallet. Plus, your kids will know that you put some extra love and effort into the present. Involve them in the making process for family bonding!
4. Check out thrift stores
Much like dollar stores, thrift stores are like hidden treasure troves for affordable gifts. You can find gently used toys, board games, and even brand-name items at a fraction of the original price. It’s like giving a second life to these toys while saving some cash.
5. Hunt for online deals
Browse through online marketplaces, auction sites, and even local buy/sell groups for discounted toys and games. Just make sure to read the descriptions and check seller ratings! Also, factor in any shipping costs to ensure you’re getting a good deal.
Remember, finding discounted toys doesn’t mean compromising on fun or quality! With a bit of creativity and these simple shopping tips, you can discover unique presents that will make the kiddos jump for joy without breaking your budget
Cost-effective playthings for kids
When it comes to budget-friendly toys that can be enjoyed indoors, there are plenty of creative options that will capture your kids’ imagination and keep them entertained. Here are some cheap gift ideas for your kids that still provide a lot of value!
1. Building Blocks
Kids aged 1 to 6 love building and creating with blocks. Whether it’s wooden blocks or LEGO bricks, these toys allow them to construct miniature structures freely. Building blocks will unleash their imagination! This toy is cheap, starting from around $10, depending on the material, and it will not break because there’s no moving part. It is truly the pinnacle of cheap gifts for kids!
2. Play-Doh Modeling Clay
Much like building blocks Play-Doh modeling clay will allow your kids to be creative! The squishy, moldable nature of Play-Doh appeals to kids of all ages. They can shape, mold, and create endless objects, promoting sensory exploration, fine motor skills, and imaginative play. Choose the multicolored ones, and make sure that you buy a non-toxic version safe for children!
3. Puzzle Sets
From simple jigsaw puzzles to more difficult ones, kids enjoy the challenge of putting pieces together! If your kids are older, you can find puzzles with extra complexity. Puzzles start from around $5 or even cheaper, especially if you can find a used one in thrift stores. But not just cheap, puzzle is also educational!
4. Art and Craft Kits
Art and craft kits come in a variety of themes, such as painting, papercraft, jewelry making, or origami. You can also create your own custom kit tailored to your kids’ interests and ages. These hands-on activities allow them to express their creativity and improve concentration! Make sure that you supervise younger kids when they need to use scissors and glue.
5. Board Games
Gather the kids for a fun-filled game night with board games! From classic games like Game of Life and Monopoly to more modern ones, board games encourage social interaction, strategic thinking, turn-taking, and teamwork. It’s one of the best affordable gifts that provide maximum value for your money! Monopoly set, for example, can be as cheap as $10!
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6. Science Experiments Kit
DIY science experiment kits offer more attractive hands-on learning and discovery for older kids! They provide materials and instructions for exciting experiments that introduce kids to scientific concepts. This type of gift can spark your kid’s curiosity. You can find various affordable science kits on Amazon that allow kids to buy their own toy robots, for example. You can also try subscription-based kit providers like KiwiCo.
7. Card Games
Card games like UNO, Go Fish, or Crazy Eights provide portable entertainment and can be enjoyed by kids of various ages! This type of toy can enhance memory, strategy, social interaction, and mathematical skills. Card games are also one of the cheapest toys that you can get for your kids.
8. Musical Instruments
Kids love exploring the world of music. So get them instruments like a recorder, xylophone, or harmonica! These musical instruments are available on the cheaper side, ideal for kids and beginners. Letting kids play with these instruments will allow them to experiment with sounds, rhythm, and melody. It’ll promote creativity and an appreciation for music.
9. Storytelling Kits
If you are looking for a gift that is engaging yet affordable, a storytelling kit is a good alternative! A storytelling kit contains items like story cards, puppets, or story dice, depending on the story. Buying a kit is much more affordable because you get multiple toys in one package, making it an ideal gift for your kids! They ignite kids’ imagination, language skills, and imaginative play.
10. Stacking Rings
Now here is something ideal for a toddler! Stacking rings are classic toys that help develop fine motor skills in your baby kids. It also trains hand-eye coordination and color recognition. This toy is readily available in any toy store and very cheap, starting from around $5! It’ll last a lifetime, too, because this toy is usually constructed from plastic, rubber, or wood.
11. Magnetic Drawing Board
Magnetic drawing boards allow your beloved child to create and erase drawings without the need for paper and crayons. It means that this toy is the ultimate cheap gift for kids! It encourages creativity and stimulates their imagination, providing endless hours of fun.
12. Ball Pit with Balls
Here is another toy that would suit a younger kid! A small ball pit filled with soft balls can provide hours of indoor fun. Pro tip: buy the balls in bulk for a cheaper price. Your kids can jump, dive, and toss the balls, getting some exercise. The softer balls are safe, and the colorful selection will stimulate their mind.
13. Mini Basketball Hoop
Get your kids a mini basketball hoop as a gift and set it up indoors! You can watch as they practice their shooting skills. It provides an active outlet, promotes hand-eye coordination, and encourages friendly competition!
14. Bowling Set
A mini bowling set with soft pins and a lightweight ball provides a fun indoor bowling experience. Kids can set up their own bowling alley and enjoy bowling strikes and spares. If you want to skimp on the cost even more, you can just get any type of ball separately and use makeshift pins from cardboard! Cheaper yet still fun!
15. Magnetic Building Blocks
Here is a versatile gift for your kids! Magnetic building blocks come in various shapes and sizes that easily connect to each other. Kids can construct structures, robots, cars, and more, promoting creativity. The way magnet sticks will be like magic for your little ones!
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16. Domino Set
A set of dominoes provides endless possibilities for building and toppling domino structures. Your kids can spend hours setting up intricate patterns and watch them tumble over and over. It is a cheap yet creative gift that keeps on gifting!
17. Play Tent
Your kids may be too young to go on a real camping trip. The solution: give them a play tent set! This tent creates a cozy and imaginative space for kids to play and relax indoors. It encourages imaginative play and independence. This gift can also serve as a reading nook or a private hideaway. When it comes to cost, don’t worry! The play tent is cheap compared to the real one.
Budget Outdoor Toys for Kids
When it comes to outdoor play, it’s not necessary to break the bank to provide your kids with exciting and engaging toys. There are plenty of budget-friendly options that encourage active play and create endless hours of fun in the sun! Here are some of them!
1. Sidewalk Chalk
Suitable for all ages, sidewalk chalk lets kids unleash their creativity and draw colorful masterpieces on the pavement! From younger ones scribbling to older kids creating intricate designs, it’s a low-cost activity that guarantees fun just outside of your backyard.
2. Bubble Blowers
Your young ones will have a lot of thrill in chasing bubbles created by a bubble wand. It’s a simple and affordable toy that brings magical moments and laughter to outdoor play. Take your kids to the park and watch them have fun with this simple yet exciting toy. Make sure that you use soap with safe ingredient for the bubble dipping mixture.
3. Water Balloons
Perfect for hot summer days, water balloons offer refreshing outdoor fun for your children! From gentle water play for younger kids to epic water balloon fights for older ones, these affordable bundles of joy provide cooling opportunities and plenty of excitement.
4. Jump Rope
A classic outdoor toy suitable for older kids, a jump rope promotes exercise and coordination. It’s an inexpensive way to get hearts pumping and have fun with friends! When you want to surprise your kid with a summer gift, this one could be a good alternative.
5. Kite
Also suitable for your older kids, flying a kite provides an exciting way to enjoy the outdoors. With a range of prices, from basic designs to more intricate ones, kite flying combines outdoor exploration with the joy of watching colorful creations soar in the sky. Teach them how to fly kites and enjoy the breezy outdoors with this budget-conscious gift!
6. Hula Hoop
Suitable for all ages, hula hoops offer endless entertainment. Your young ones can learn to twirl and move their bodies, while older ones can invent new tricks! It’s an affordable toy that also promotes active play and carries little to no hazardous risk.
7. Sports Equipment
Whether it’s a soccer ball, basketball, or baseball set, sports equipment encourages outdoor play and teamwork. Prices vary depending on the specific sport and the quality of the equipment. Definitely a suitable gift for different age groups!
8. Nature Explorer Kit
Suitable for curious minds of all ages, a nature explorer kit includes items like a magnifying glass, binoculars, a bug-catching jar, and a field guide. You can find a complete set ready for your kids. However, we suggest that you buy the items individually for a cheaper option. Set them up into a kit yourself before gifting them to your kids!
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Affordable DIY Gifts for Kids
DIY gifts for kids will not break the bank! You can repurpose old things and turn them into cute little toys for your children. In this section, we’ll explore a collection of affordable DIY gift ideas that are perfect for little ones!
1. Cardboard Marble Run
Create a thrilling marble run using cardboard tubes, boxes, and other recycled materials. Cut and assemble the pieces to form ramps, tunnels, and twists. Involve your kids with this hands-on engineering project, as it promotes problem-solving and spatial reasoning. Once the track is ready, watch your kids having a lot of fun watching their favorite marbles race.
2. Homemade Sensory Bottles
For your younger kids, this DIY project is perfect. Fill plastic bottles with a variety of sensory materials like rice, beads, glitter, or sequins. Secure the lids tightly and decorate the bottles with colorful tape or stickers. These mesmerizing sensory toys provide visual and tactile stimulation for toddlers!
3. Paper Plate Frisbees
Decorate paper plates with markers or stickers and attach ribbons around the edges. These lightweight frisbees are perfect for outdoor play! Your kids will have fun moving around and training their hand-eye coordination. It is the epitome of a thrifty toy!
4. Sock Puppets
Turn mismatched socks into adorable puppets by adding googly eyes, felt, and yarn for hair. Let the child’s imagination run wild as they create characters and put on puppet shows. It enhances storytelling ability and fine motor skills!
5. Paper Bag Monster
Decorate paper bags with markers, stickers, or cut-out shapes to create friendly or silly monsters. Fill the bags with newspaper or tissue paper to give them a 3D effect. Just like the sock puppets, this simple DIY toy improves your kids’ storytelling ability and imaginative play.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, finding affordable gifts for kids doesn’t mean sacrificing fun, creativity, or thoughtfulness. With a bit of imagination and some careful shopping, you can discover a wide range of budget-friendly options that will bring smiles to their faces.
Whether it’s inexpensive toys, DIY gifts, or outdoor playthings, the key is to consider their interests, age suitability, and the potential for fostering their development. Embrace your thrifty spirit and let the magic of affordable gifts bring laughter and happiness to your precious children!
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Questions and Answers
Can you suggest inexpensive yet entertaining toys or games for children?
Check out the list that we have created above for inexpensive yet entertaining toys and games for children! From fun puzzles to DIY toys, we have them all!
Are there any DIY gift ideas that are both low-cost and enjoyable for kids?
We have compiled several low-cost DIY gift ideas that you can try out! Try the sock puppet or paper bag monster! You only need to repurpose old paper or socks that are no longer in use, so the cost is basically zero.
How can I find cheap but high-quality educational gifts for children?
You can check out your local dollar stores or thrift stores for cheap yet educational gifts for children. Also, do not forget to check the clearance rack for the best deal!
Are there any online resources or websites that offer discounts on kids’ gifts?
Try the following websites:
- RetailMeNot. It is a well-known coupon and deals website that offers discounts and promo codes for various retailers
- Amazon Warehouse Deals. It is a section of Amazon’s website where you can find discounted and open-box items.
- Overstock. It is an online retailer known for offering discounted prices on various products, including kids’ toys and gifts.
What is a silent gift?
It refers to gifts that don’t have electronic or battery-operated components, ensuring a more peaceful playtime experience. Silent gifts are often appreciated by parents who value a quieter environment. The majority of items in our list of cheap gifts for kids belong in this category! They focus on imaginative play, creativity, and hands-on engagement rather than noise and electronic features.