They probably won't see the 25th of December as different to any other day – it'll be the usual whirl of feeds, nappies and naps – indeed they might even sleep through the opening of presents or Christmas dinner, but a baby's first Christmas is still special - especially for you, the parents.

And even though they won't understand what all the fuss is about, it would be decidedly bah humbug not to get them a pressie or two, wouldn't it? Even if they will, inevitably, be more interested in the wrapping paper.

What to consider:

If you're buying for someone else's baby rather than your own, don't be shy about asking the parents what they might want or need – far better than them ending up with yet another mobile/ teddy/ baby gym when their little one has nine of each already.

Shopping for presents for a baby whose age is still counted in weeks not months? They won't need many toys at this stage so, instead, either choose something for later on, or stick with a practical gift.

Cute and cuddly teddy bears are a temptingly easy option if you're buying for someone else's baby but there's only so many a child needs and most already have loads – steer clear if possible!

Tiddly ones get through more clothes than the average A-list celeb, so most parents appreciate little outfits as a present. Other than for festive or wintry wear, size up from their age in case they've already got a well-stocked wardrobe for now and be mindful of the season they might wear a particular item in.

If you do prefer to buy a toy for a younger baby, those with bold, contrasting colours, flashing lights and musical tunes should be well-received.

After their first few months, as little ones learn to roll, reach out and grab things, they will start to enjoy a slightly wider range of toys. Look for feature-packed items with big buttons to press, interesting textures to explore and baby-safe mirrors to discover their own reflection in.

Around the end of the first year, many will be working towards taking their first steps, so a
push or pull along toy will bring lots of 'play value' in the coming months.

Whether you're a generous grandparent, a doting aunt or uncle, or the proud parents, here's our guide to gifts for the under ones...

10 of the best gifts for babies under 12 months

  • <p> If you're looking to splash out on a big gift which is built to last, you'll be unlikely to regret investing in this lovely wooden TP Acorn Quadpod Swing Frame, &pound;149.99, from <a href="http://www.toysrus.co.uk/index.jsf" target="_blank">Toys R Us. </a>With four different seat and two height modes, it starts off as a secure, low baby swing, and ends up higher, with a bench-style seat for older children.</p>
  • <p> It might not look the height of chic draped around parental shoulders but this clever&nbsp; Playwrap, &pound;28, from <a href="http://www.bondiebird.com/" target="_blank">Bondie Bird</a> is packed full of features to keep babies occupied when they're stuck on a grown-up's knee for long periods &ndash; think flights, restaurant meals and the like. It can also be attached to a cot or playpen, or worn by a baby around their waist, making this a really versatile bit of baby kit. It's machine washable and packs down small - great for travel.</p>
  • <p> Babies tend to be fascinated with grown-up's mobile phones but letting them play with a real one risks all sorts of calamities, from it being dunked in a nearby drink to flung on the floor. This dinky little Brio Mobile Phone, &pound;7.99, from <a href="http://www.vupbaby.co.uk/" target="_blank">VUP Baby</a> might not have the functionality of your average smart phone, but it's designed to keep phone-obsessed small people happily engaged, so they don't grab mum or dad's instead. They'll enjoy pressing the buttons to elicit noises, looking in the baby-safe mirror or simply flipping it open and shut again...and again...and again. Age 10 months+.</p>
  • <p style="margin-left:18.0pt;"> This Janod iWood Push Along Cart, &pound;55, from <a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/" target="_blank">John Lewis </a>is sure to be a favourite right through to the preschool years. Older babies can sit playing with the blocks, building whatever their imagination comes up with...before knocking them down (part of the fun at this age!) and starting all over again. And when it's time to learn to walk, the trolley provides all-important support to help them tootle around the house.</p>
  • <p> A festive outfit which won't look 'so last Christmas' by Boxing Day, this adorable Polar Bear Sleepsuit, &pound;16, from <a href="http://www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk/" target="_blank">Jo Jo Maman Bebe </a>can be worn at night by older ones or for daytime snugness and comfort by newborns. Sizes from birth to 18 months.</p>
  • <p> These Leka Circus Building Blocks, &pound;4.99, from <a href="http://www.ikea.com/" target="_blank">Ikea</a> are the perfect stocking filler. The colourful soft fabric building blocks will look pretty in babies' bedrooms.</p>
  • <p> Excitedly checking out the contents of your Christmas stocking is surely central to the fun of the big day for children. This appliqu&eacute; Santa Christmas Stocking, &pound;5, from <a href="http://www.next.co.uk/" target="_blank">Next </a>is very reasonably-priced and, at 46cm by 24cm, is big enough to stash a load of fillers, including the obligatory chocolate orange and pair of socks. A larger, co-ordinating present sack costs &pound;10.</p>
  • <p> Yes, yes we know babies who aren't walking yet don't need shoes but these Camper Van Soft Shoes, &pound;15.99, from <a href="http://www.preshoes.co.uk/" target="_blank">Pre Shoes</a> are just too cool to resist. In super-soft leather they won't hamper foot growth and come in sizes 0-6 months, 6-12 months, 12-18 months and 18-24 months and in a blue or lavender colour. Delivery is free to UK addresses.</p>
  • <p> This Very Hungry Caterpillar Money Box, &pound;25, from <a href="http://www.portmeirion.co.uk/" target="_blank">Portmeirion</a> is a present which will be put to good use for years to come. It's inspired by Eric Carle's wonderful book for toddlers, 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar'. Why not team it with the <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Very-Hungry-Caterpillar-Board-Book/dp/0241003008" target="_blank">board book</a> for an extra special gift?</p>
  • <p> It might be practical but this TumTum Dining Set, &pound;14, from <a href="http://www.tumtumtots.com/" target="_blank">Tum Tum Tots</a> still packs in tons of appeal for little diners, thanks to bright colours and sweet animal pictures. The dishes are also well-designed too, with 'scooping corners' to make self-feeding easier and non-slip bases to aid grip on the table or highchair tray.</p>


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