Last minute gifts for kids

When the party is tomorrow, last minute gifts for kids need to do one job well: land instantly and hold attention for more than five minutes. That is why this edit leans on toys a child understands the second the paper comes off — a flying light-up orb, a stretchy jelly balloon ball for the garden, a kids camera that prints, walkie talkies for two siblings who will immediately run to opposite ends of the house. These are quick gift ideas for children that need no assembly and no long explanation.

There is a mix of ages and moods here, so you can match the child rather than settle. Wooden chess and building sets suit quieter afternoons, a bracelet-making kit works for a craft-minded five or six year old, and an LCD drawing tablet travels well in a bag. Water toys and foam blasters cover summer birthdays. Handy when the invitation turns up with a day's notice. Good presents to buy in a hurry for birthdays, name days and school breaks.