Gifts for under $2000

Kimesha Walters, Contributor

It's that time of the year again, when children get excited about the festive season. But the recent weeks have been tough for many, especially those who were severely affected by Hurricane Sandy, and the aftermath - including flooding, and loss of valuable possessions, all of which have threatened to dampen the Christmas spirit.

Nonetheless, the little ones will be anticipating their usual Christmas gifts, and with so many things for parents to cater for, POSITIVE Parenting has simplified your shopping experience by selecting 20 fun and interesting gifts you can choose. Although a bit on the conservative end - these can bring a well needed boost of happiness and exhilaration to your little one. Check these out:

1 Action Figures - Whether it is Spiderman, Superman, Dora, Ben 10 or Naruto, these toys will mean the world to any child who receives them.

2. Alphabet and number puzzles - These bring a new angle to learning words and numbers.

3 Cars, trucks and bike - These come in various shapes, sizes and colours and can bring a world of fun for any toddler or even teenagers. Whether battery-operated, hand-held, remote-controlled or manually powered, they are guaranteed fun! Prices vary and increase with the size of each toy as well as its functions.

4 Track-racing cars - Cars are fun by themselves, but combine these with a super racing track which gives multiple flips and extraordinary speed, and the excitement and fun are multiplied 10 times over.

5 Building Blocks - These are colourful and fun, ideal for the little ones who love the excitement of stacking them, then seeing and hearing them crashing down.

6 Christmas Cards - These will make anyone feel extra special from kids to adults including grandparents, and most likely, will cost less than $1,000.

7 Colouring books (with crayons) - These are interesting ways to get your little ones interested in the books while they are at home for the holidays.

8 Dolls - Remember the days when your doll was your favourite toy and even best friend at times? Your little girl will enjoy a doll just as much or even more. After all, what better way to spend the holiday than to plait and comb a doll's hair and play house while dishing out instructions to her as a mommy?

9 Dress-up sets - Does your little one like to role play? Does he or she like to dress as a doctor, nurse or a favourite TV character? Miniature sets are available just for this purpose. Take, for example, a pirate set, which will sure get your bundle of joy excited about his newest adventures. Featuring a pirate's hat, sword, hook and the signature eye patch, this one will definitely be a keeper.

10 Dressing tables and accessories - If your little princess enjoys being 'dolled up', then she will love this vanity set which comes with accessories fit for a princess.

11 Footballs/basketballs - These are a good way of keeping your little ones active at a low cost.

12 Hula hoops - Get into the rhythm of learning a new skill while exercising.

13 Kitchen sets - These feature complete kitchen accessories in plastic - cups plates and utensils. For the older children, miniature imitation kitchen sets (identical to actual ones) are also available.

14 Learning charts - These are ideal if your child loves a subject, even if he or she needs help in grasping new concepts. They are normally large and colourful and should keep their interest.

15 Musical toys - Musical toys such as guitars or complete sets are a good source of entertainment for kids, and they will be extra happy to share with friends and relatives.

16 Reading books - Stories are a great way to engage your child and let their imagination run wild. Buy books suitable for the different age groups, read to them while teaching them new words along the way, or have the child read stories to you.

17 Stationery sets from their favourite TV shows and personalities - You know their favourite character, so this should be pretty easy.

18 Sunglasses - Your little one will look even cooler this Christmas with a nice pair of shades to turn up their 'swag'. Various designs and colours are available for both boys and girls.

19 Teddy bears - What better way to snuggle up at nights than with a teddy bear? These come in a variety of sizes and colours, and there's one just right for your little boy or girl.