3’ SS” Ga” | CHRISTMAS SHOPPING Know the child's interests before buying present CONFUSED ABOUT what to buy your child this Christmas? The easiest way to decide is by choosing what is appropriate for the child, says Gill Beattie, man- ager of the Toybox. “A lot of people have a fixed quantity of money they want to spend on a present but it’s much easier to buy something that is ap- propriate for the child. That means you have to know the child you’re shopping for,’’ says Beattie. Keep in mind the youngster’s age, interests and abilities, and you'll be able to make a better selection. Like adults, children love toys they can control and become frustrated by those they cannot master. if it’s clothes you’re after, it’s a good idea to go and see what your child wants. Name brands have tremendous power cver a child’s choice of clothing but sometimes a child’s image of what they see advertised isn’t what the item is. It’s smart to be practical and select the clothes your child needs, like a warm scarf instead of de- signer jeans, but don’t forget that children are happiest wearing something they like, and tend to throw clothes they don’t like to the bottom of the pile. If you decide on a toy, the general advice is to remember to match it with the child’s age group. Mobiles or squeeze toys are ap- propriate gifts for children up to Men's Tcp Quality Sweaters Reg. 39.99-44.99 six months, but when the child is one year toys that can be manipu- lated, that move when hit or make a noise are more appropriate. The best toys are ones that are tried and true, says Beattie, like wooden railway sets and Lego. Illustrated books, or books with tapes for children to read along as they listen are fun and chailenging. All kids want bicycles, sports equipment, roller skates, and when they get older they ask for video games, home computers and stereo sets. Whatever gift you buy for a child this Christmas, consider whether it will generate true inter- est, healthy growth and imagina- tion. When it comes to buying for adults, most children look for things that appeal to themselves. A pocket game, a stuffed animal, or miniature toy cars for collectors are gifts they often choose. “Toy cars are great for adults who have always wanted io own one and for the collector,’’ says toy expert Linda Brady. Most kids have a fixed budget so they’lI be looking for small, inex- pensive gifts, like a pen and pencil set, a book or a jig-saw puzzle. But with a little imagination and work a parent would love to receive patterned stockings, im- ported chocolates, silk ties or a gift certificate. Brightly-patterned scarves, mittens or gloves on sale, or something for the car like a fur-lined mit with a built-in scraper for those frosty winter mornings make good Christmas gifts. Golf Shirts 23 - Wednesday, November 23, 1988 — North Shore News NEWS photo Mike Wakefield WHETHER SHOPPING for chitdren or adults, knowing the likes and dislikes of the gift recipient helps in making decisions. When buying for children, make sure the gift is appropriate for the child’s age. Here, two- year-old Sean and his four-year-old sister Claire get some Christmas gift ideas for their father. Season’s & Pulse By Stanfield : Dress Skirt Season’s & Pulse Ladies’ Fleece Dress Pant ont 1 Earner o Ail our clothing is of Ist quality Mon.-Wed. 10-5 Thurs.-Fri. 10-9 Satrudays 10-5 Sundays & Holidays 12-5