There are a few issues that may be considered when choosing presents for children:

• Is it appropriate for their age and development?
• Will they like it/be able to make use of it?
• Is it affordable/worth it?

For example, buying a telescope will only result in disappointment if there’s nowhere to set it up and actually use it. Many gifts such as viewing equipment, books and games may require adult guidance, particularly with younger children. When selecting such a gift, make sure an adult will be available to help.

Astronomy is a field full of gift possibilities, and when perusing for presents you’re probably going to feel spoiled for choice. It’s worth keeping in mind that there is a lot of junk out there, and you don’t always get what you pay for. Astronomy is popular, and companies are out to profit. Does it look cheap and tacky? It could well be.

Observational equipment such as telescopes and binoculars will require guidance when used by younger children, and can be a fun way to spend time together (for all ages). If you’re not in an area where you can easily view the skies, it might be worth considering something else. For example, I live in a city centre apartment with no roof, garden access or space to set it up indoors.

Binoculars are a good place to start, even if you can make room for a telescope. They are great for viewing the sky and are often cheaper (and more portable) than telescopes. Unfortunately there is some awful astronomy equipment out there, so do be careful. Good brands of both binoculars and telescopes include Celestron, Orion and Pentax.

There are a great many board and computer games with astronomy themes. Educationallearninggames.com lists several astronomy-themed games for a number of ages. I recommend The Solar System game, for 8-year-olds and over – a fun and educational game containing interesting facts about the solar system.

There are also a great number of jigsaws, including 3D globe puzzles. Do check the age guidelines carefully, as some puzzles are not designed for younger children due to small parts. Some puzzles may look like they’re child-friendly when they are actually aimed at adults. The same goes for many astronomy novelties, such as paperweights and lamps.

Books and posters can also make great presents, and astronomy has no shortage of these. Book covers, especially in astronomy, can be quite deceptive, so it’s important to check the reading level first. Astronomy magazines tend to be aimed at older readers, but an astronomy-enthused teenager may appreciate a subscription to a magazine such as Night Sky.

Many everyday products come with astronomy themes – bedding, lighting, clothes, stationery and even food, such as astronaut ice cream. CafePress is an example of a site that has all sorts of astronomy-themed items such as custom-made t-shirts, mugs and mouse pads. You’re welcome to design your own items.

To name every type of product would be beyond the scope of this article, but hopefully these ideas will offer guidance and inspiration. Read Choosing Toys for Your Kids (at kidskeephealthy.com) for more information on selecting toys that are appropriate for young children. The Spectrum Scientifics website is one of many sites with a range of astronomy-themed gifts for kids.

Sources

Choosing Toys for Your Kids, Keep Kids Healthy website, accessed: 30th October 2008, no author specified.