Frugal Birthday Presents for Kids

Does it seem like your child is invited to a different birthday party each weekend? Learn how to reign in the expense with these frugal present ideas.

Homemade gifts- There’s no rule that says every present must come from the store. Enlist the help of your child, and create a homemade gift that’s tailor-made to the recipient’s interests. Whip up a batch of homemade playdough, and pair it with a few cookie cutters; add beads and ribbon to an inexpensive pair of flip flops; or create a scrapbook that chronicles the friendship of your child and the birthday girl/boy.

You won’t spend much money on any of these gift ideas, and your child will enjoy creating the perfect gift.

Clearance goodies- The best time to shop for a birthday gift is long before you know your child has been invited to the party. Sound like a bit of a paradox? It isn’t really. Kids receive frequent party invitations, so go ahead and pick up appropriate gifts when you come across good deals. Clearance racks are a great place to look for low priced toys, so get in the habit of checking them often. After Christmas sales are another good option for low priced gifts.

Designate a place in your house to store these pre-bought gifts, and you’ll always have an affordable birthday present at the ready.

Sample surplus- Need a present for a glam girl? Gather up your free samples, and create a basket of beauty products to give. Make up, facial masks, nail polish and fancy shampoos will all receive rave reviews from the recipient, and won’t cost you a dime.

Dress up duds- Know a young child that enjoys playing make believe? Try a dress up kit. Just gather appropriate dress up clothes from thrift stores and yard sales (tutu, party dress, crown and jewelry for a girl or cape, mask and sword for a boy). Then, gather up the collection in a decorated box, and he or she will enjoy for hours of make believe.

Note: Another fun idea is to pick up Halloween costumes off-season. Think of all the things the recipient could be!

Art supplies- Encourage a child’s creative side by giving the gift of art supplies. To make this a low cost gift, stock up on cheap supplies during back-to-school sales. Construction paper, markers and crayons are just a few of the many supplies that can be picked up for mere pennies during the sale season.

To make this gift even more fun, be sure to throw in some stickers, finger paint or another kid favorite.

Put some of these gift ideas to use, and the endless cycle of birthday invites, won’t be a source of financial stress. Now, you just need to find a way to have a life in between all of the chauffeuring to parties.

-Erin Huffstetler

Erin Huffstetler is a freelance writer specializing in frugal living tips and tricks. Her work has appeared in numerous print and electronic publications including Family Circle, Guideposts For Kids and Pregnancy. As the stay-at-home mom of two young kids, Erin is always looking for new ways to live better for less. For fun decorating and craft project ideas check out Erin's "Trash to Treasures" and "Bead Making Basics" courses at Suite101.com.