Kana ganing wala kay anak, pero daghan kag kinugos—well, andam-andam na para Pasko, Ninong and Ninang!
At 28, I’ve been lucky enough to have two wonderful godsons, thanks to my closest friends who trust me with the responsibility of guiding and supporting their kids. While I may not fully grasp the gravity of this role, I’m on the lookout for gift ideas to make their holidays special. And what better way to find inspiration than scouring the internet and browsing through the Sugboanon marketplace?
Here are some affordable, thoughtful gift ideas for your godchildren that won’t break the bank:
Kid-Safe Art Materials
As an artist myself, I’m a firm believer in the power of creativity. Kids thrive when they can express themselves, and art is one of the best ways to do that. You can easily gift an art material set or create a DIY art basket filled with crayons, markers, colored pencils, and a stack of drawing paper or a small canvas. For younger children, you can opt for magic erasable boards to keep them busy and engaged while preventing any messes.
- Where to Buy? National Bookstore or any local school supply store.
- Tip: Be sure to choose non-toxic materials, as kids tend to put things in their mouths and touch their faces, and you want to ensure safety above all.
- Budget: Can range between Php 500.00 and above, depending on the type of set.
Blocks and Building Toys
Who doesn’t love a good set of blocks? From building towers to creating little cities, these toys encourage problem-solving and creativity. Opt for wooden blocks, as they’re less likely to chip their paint compared to the colorful plastic ones. You can choose from classic building blocks, car-shaped blocks, or even shape-based blocks that promote learning while having fun.
- Where to Buy? Toy stores or online marketplaces like Lazada or Shopee.
- Tip: Always check for age-appropriate recommendations and ensure they’re child-safe.
- Budget: Can range between Php 300.00 and above, depending on the type of set.
Interactive Books
As an avid reader, I believe in the power of storytelling. Books are not only a great way to introduce new words and concepts, but they also encourage children to develop a love for reading and help in improving their fluency. Interactive books that include sound effects, textures, or flaps to lift are great choices for keeping little ones engaged. These types of books make learning fun and memorable.
- Where to Buy? Book stores like Fully Booked or even online.
- Tip: Look for books with bright illustrations and a storyline suited for the child’s age.
- Budget: Can range between Php 500.00 and above, depending on the type of book.
Merch of Their Favorite Characters
I’ll never forget the Hello Kitty sofa set my godmother gave me when I was a child. It was the best thing ever! A fun way to delight your godchild is by gifting them something featuring their favorite characters—whether that’s a toy set, a plate, a tumbler, or a backpack. From Marvel superheroes to Disney princesses or Transformers, character-themed gifts are always a hit. Just be sure the items are made from food-safe materials for the sake of safety.
- Where to Buy? Department stores or character merchandise shops.
- Tip: Look for quality, safe, and durable materials, especially for food-related items.
- Budget: Can range between Php 500.00 and above, depending on the type of merch.
A Memorabilia Keepsake for the Parents
This might not be a gift for the child immediately, but it’s something that will become a precious keepsake as they grow older. Consider gifting a treasure box, a personalized photo frame, or a memory book that captures a family handprint or meaningful moments. These items serve as sentimental mementos that parents can cherish, and one day, the child will look back on them with fond memories.
- Where to Buy? Gift shops, online stores, or even DIY kits.
- Tip: Personalize it by adding a special message or detail that reflects your relationship with the family.
- Budget: Can range between Php 500.00 and above, depending on the type of set.
TIME – The Most Precious Gift
In this fast-paced world, we often find ourselves too busy to spend quality time with the ones we love. Sometimes, the best gift isn’t something material—it’s the gift of your presence. Instead of buying a physical gift, why not take your godchild out on an adventure? You could go ice skating, visit a theme park, or take a trip to the zoo. These experiences create lasting memories and will be something they’ll remember for years to come.
- Tip: Plan something age-appropriate and ensure you capture lots of photos during the outing. Memories are priceless!
- Budget: Can start at Php 250.00, depending on the activity.
Being a godparent is about being there for the child, offering guidance, and creating memories. This holiday season, instead of stressing over extravagant gifts, focus on giving thoughtful, meaningful presents that show you care—whether it’s through a fun activity, a creative gift, or a keepsake for their parents. Because after all, it’s not about how much you spend, but the love and thought behind the gesture. Happy gift hunting, mga Ninong and Ninang!
