Even if you have children yourself it’s tricky to find the perfect gift for a youngster, and there are many questions to consider: what does the child already own? What’s the special occasion? How old is the child? Will your gift suit the nursery decor? With so many things to bear in mind, many people play it safe by choosing a practical gift such as clothing, bedding or story books. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with this strategy of course, as busy parents will always appreciate a useful present and you can rest assured that your purchase will be well used.

But with so much choice available when it comes to children’s gifts, why not spend some extra time searching for a gift that is not only practical but also beautiful and memorable? For example, if you know that the child you’re buying for already has a roomful of books from other friends and relatives, how about tracking down some colourful children’s bookends to keep them company? Or if you have a fashion conscious friend whose child is already sporting a stylish range of kids’ clothes, buy them some trendy coat hooks to keep the nursery tidy and fun.

It shows real thought to find special gifts like this, but thanks to the growing number of innovative retailers on the market today there are many places to look for them. The internet is a good place to begin your search for a really unique purchase: for instance, handmade gift retailer Boo Boo Designs offers a great line in unusual and beautifully crafted nursery decor, including children’s bookends, easy to read clocks, children’s coat hooks and playful height charts.

It’s unlikely you’ll find really special items like this in your local supermarket, so the next time you’re looking for a christening gift or birthday treat, take the time to shop around. Finding something that won’t blend into the clutter of nursery decor is easier than ever, and buying a gift that’s both practical and beautiful will delight children and parents alike!