What to buy for 1 year old?

chickaroonee

My lovely friend is very generously lending me the following for when our daughter is born in the Spring:

Crib
Bouncer
Swing
Play mat
Car seat
Bath
Top and tail bowl
Changing mat

Which is virtually everything we need! I said I wanted to buy something for her daughter (who is 1 in the next couple of months) as a thank you, but she says no need and won't tell me anything they would like. However, I can't possibly not get her something to say thanks!

Any ideas what to buy? Although it is her daughter's 1st birthday soon, it's not really a birthday present as such I'm looking for, more just something to say thanks for all of this.

pingua

Meal out/cinema tickets for mum and you will babysit?

Perhaps try and think of something for mum? Book /wine/ flowers - although its baby birthday but mum may appreciate something for herself?
or,
Perhaps look at how much you want to spend and just look at a nice 'keepsake' for child rather than a toy that does not last? Personalised item perhaps?

MrsAnnie

Is your friend expecting all the items returned after a given time? You will probably want to establish the 'conditions' before hand to avoid any confusion. If so, somethings might not be in a 'returnable' condition and you may feel that you will need to replace some items. Do bear in mind that there might be costs involved.

What about a nice gift for her when you 'return the items' like a nice bottle of wine or a gift certificate to say thank you.

chickaroonee

Was already planning on buying her some flowers to say thanks, unfortunately I don't think the offer of babysitting will work as my baby is due around then and I think I might still be getting the hang of one

Yes I'll be giving them back at around 6 months - 1 year (most of this won't be needed after then and they are hoping for another child at this point) and will of course replace anything that's got worn. I still would like to get her a present on top of this, as it's really generous and only really leaves us a pram to buy.

Money_maker

1 year old - walkers (vtech very good), sit n ride, shape sorters, anything musical and annoying (!), clothes for spring, plastic rocker, wooden bricks etc.

starbump

The only things I can think of that should be universally appreciated are books, money and clothes. Lord knows babies go through clothes like nobody's business - barely in them for a few months before going on to the next size. You're forever playing catch up with their wardrobes. There is also the possibility that any clothes may be handed down to your friend's next child or your own.