Gifts for children who already have everything

When children's houses are filled to the brim with toys from loving family it can be hard to find a gift that they will like, and that doesn't take up a lot of space in an overstretched home. It can also be difficult to find something for a baby who doesn't really know what's going on and their parents tell you not to bother because they are lucky enough to have so much already.
I found myself in these circumstances this Christmas, but still wanted to give something on Christmas day.

For the baby in the family I made a multi-coloured window star. It takes up no space at all and is pretty to look at. I'm also sure these stars aid imagination and intelligence in some way.

For the toddler in the family I decided to make some home-made play dough. I made four colours (the dark one is purple but didn't photograph very well) and added glitter to make them a bit festive! I think play dough is a great gift for a toddler, I've yet to meet one that doesn't enjoy playing with it. It shouldn't take up much space and obviously wont last more than a couple of months.

Here's the recipe I used (per blob):

1 tsp cream of tartar

1 cup plain flour

half cup of salt

1 cup water

1 tbsp cooking oil

food colouring (as much as you need to get the colour you want)

Glitter

Mix all ingredients in a pan over a medium heat, stirring continuously. When it leaves the sides of the pan it's ready! Don't worry if it's still a bit sticky, as it cools it becomes less so.

It keeps for about 2 months stored in an air tight container.

I wrapped the blobs of play dough into a cracker shape.

I hope they like their presents as much as I enjoyed making them!