Gifting for Multiples
Real ideas from real NIMBA families
If you’re already past your first kid’s ‘gifting event’, you’re probably already across a lovely idea — the 8 Gift Rule — to simplify the gift-giving mayhem and keep things more meaningful and simple
  1. Something they want
  2. Something they need
  3. Something to wear
  4. Something to read
  5. Something used
  6. Something made
  7. Something to do
  8. Something played
To add to the complexity / cost / parenting anxiety, those of us with multiples face an additional set of gifting conundrums. Below are some ideas from the NIMBA community around what makes a good gift (or gifts) to spark inspiration for the coming silly season (and all other gifting days before / after..).
NIMBA families suggest...
  • Less is more: (If he comes to your place) let Santa do the trinkets while parent(s) look after a couple of exciting main items — kids are practically tapped out after stockings anyway.
  • Sometimes more actually is more: With open play toys like Magnetiles, Train Sets, Lego and Duplo, having more of the same can mean more engagement. It also helps for future gifts — “they’re really into Duplo!”
  • Does this toy encourage independent play? Think Paint Sticks & Watercolours (not Acrylic Paints), Walkie Talkies, and Board Games — great for similar-aged kids.
  • How much variety does it offer? Open-ended play items like stepping stones or blocks give great bang-for-buck.
  • Is it age-flexible? Ideal if you host visitors or have a wide age range at home.
  • How long will it last? Memberships to zoos, museums, or toy libraries can be gifts that last all year (and you don’t feel guilty leaving after an hour!).
  • Request experiences you wouldn’t normally pay for. Places like Collingwood Children’s Farm, MOPA and the Aquarium can be pricey — perfect gift voucher ideas for grandparents or family.
  • Can it be shared? When buying items like play kitchens or dollhouses, go wide or look for double-sided designs so more than one child can play at once.
  • Use the NIMBA Buy / Swap / Sell Page — Great for finding pre-loved, high-quality items or passing things on.
Specific Gift Inspiration
If you're stuck in a rut and need ideas, here’s a crowd-sourced list from NIMBA families of their most loved gifts:
Outdoor Play
  • Balance Bike
  • Trampoline
  • Sandpit
  • Trike
  • Scooter
  • Pavement Chalk
Memberships / Vouchers
Independent Play
  • Play Couch
  • Magnetic Tiles
  • Dolls House
  • Play Kitchen
  • Playdoh
  • Duplo / Lego
  • Tent / Teepee
  • Animal Figurines
  • Independent Music Player (Birdie / Yoto / Tonie)
  • Binoculars
  • ArtVo Voucher
Books featuring twins:
  • Twice the Love
  • Invisible String
  • A Twin is to Hug
  • There’s a House Inside My Mummy
  • Walkie-Talkies
Life Skills
To Wear
  • Fun Sunglasses
  • Personalised Backpacks & Lunchboxes
  • Sunhats
 
A Different Kind of Gift
When a gift is a donation
For one NIMBA family, the twins’ first birthday was an opportunity to do something a little different.
Living in a small unit at the time, space was limited, and the idea of receiving more toys and items to store felt overwhelming. Instead of traditional presents, they asked guests to consider making a donation to NIMBA in place of a gift.
The Request
The birthday invitation gently suggested the option of donating rather than bringing gifts. On the day, a donation box was set up to collect any cash contributions, and bank details were displayed for those preferring online transfers.
Over $400 was raised to support NIMBA’s volunteer-run programs!
Returning the Favour
Of course, the children were still showered with love and gifts from close family — and at just one year old, they weren’t really focused on presents anyway. Given how much support this family had received from NIMBA throughout pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond, it felt meaningful to give back to the community that had helped them so much.
Every donation makes a difference. NIMBA is a 100% volunteer-run organisation, and all funds go directly toward running our programs.
Donations are tax deductible. DONATE NOW
Contact info@nimba.amba.org.au to find out more.
 
This article was first published in NIMBA member newsletter Issue 317 | November 2024