Gift Ideas?

[An_Island_Girl]

Hello everyone,

I have a quick question that I am hoping some of you could help me out with. My DD4 has been invited to a birthday party for one of the little girls in her class. The birthday girl has downs syndrome and participates in the class a few days a week with her one to one aide. She does seem to have gross motor, social, and speech/cognition delays. I realize that every child is different, but I don't want to offend the family by gifting something that may be too difficult or seen as too baby... I am at a loss as to what toys I should avoid (if any)?

My ideas so far are: play food kitchen items, dress up cloths, dolls... how do these sound? :confused3

Thank you for any thoughts/ ideas you may have!

[kimsuenew]

It is wonderful that you are placing so much thought into this! :goodvibes I would recommend calling the parent and asking "Can you give me some ideas for gifts that Maddie might like". I bet Mom would be thrilled, that way your gift is age and developmentally appropriate, as well as being something she will enjoy. Another choice (without calling Mom) would be a really cute outfit/dress/shirt, if you can judge her clothing size easily!

[Forevryoung]

Another option would be books- provide a gift receipt just in case she has them already. :goodvibes

Think of the books that your daughter enjoys- pick ones with bright pictures, aren't too lengthy, and have basic/repetitive story lines

Two good ones would be Brown Bear, Brown Bear by Eric Carle (or any of his books!) and Chicka Chicka Boom Boom

[Val]

Calling the mom, just like you might call ANY mom, is a wonderful idea. You might open it up with "Is there any special character or theme that 'Maddie' really likes, or a special item like art supplies?"

[HopperFan]

Calling the mom, just like you might call ANY mom, is a wonderful idea. You might open it up with "Is there any special character or theme that 'Maddie' really likes, or a special item like art supplies?"

Parent of DS with Down Syndrome. Love this idea. I would have answered "He loves anything Disney, movies, music cds, books......" Giving the theme will help you know a level of enjoyment she will get.

Even my family who knows he well will always ask what he would like most.