When it comes to purchasing a gift for a friend or loved ones' 1 year old child there are many options to choose from, but there are definitely some better choices. You should take into account whether they are an only child or if they have older siblings.

If there is an older sibling it is best to select something brand new to the marketplace or something personalized. Baby clothing is always a fine choice, but be careful not to get something if they already have lots of hand me downs. Some of the best choices we've seen are monogrammed sweaters or sweat suits for a 12-18 month or 2 T size so they can wear it for a good amount of time before they grow out of it. There are always brand new toys to the market place and I recommend toys with an educational component to them. Whether it is a toy that speaks or helps with learning in a different way the educational toys are always well received by the parents and the child.

If they are an only child or you are aware of the items already in the house you have more range to pick from. Clothing and toys, custom gifts and rockers are great options. I would not recommend anything for the nursery decor as you may not know what style they like to decorate. Perhaps they don't like too many blues in the room even though the baby is male. They may prefer neutral colors. If the parents are into a particular theme like sports or cooking it's always fun to get a gift in that idea like a little baseball cap or one of the great plastic cooking stations for the one year old.

Some of the best manufacturers make gifts like turtles that light up the room and are great fun in the dark. Books are always a home run and balls. For whatever reason little kids love toy balls. They are just learning to throw and kick and balls fit in their tiny hands, but are too big (if you pick a proper ball) to put in their mouths so it's safe and fun. It will also help with their hand eye coordination. I'd suggest tying a balloon to your gif bag. It will be the hit of the party as that seems to be the best gift all by itself to the one year old and the other little kids there. Now that the one year old can stand or is soon to stand the sand and water play tables are great if you have some outdoor space. It's a great idea to use couscous instead of actual sand in case they put it in their mouths.

Also if there is an older brother or sister in the house it's would be a great gesture to bring a little gift for them as well. Even if it is just a $7 big brother or sister gift, a pack of stickers or a balloon, just showing you thought about them will go a long way with the entire family. Enjoy!