Saint Nicholas Eve is all about the surprise: the rustle of paper, a name on the tag, and then that look on their face when the gift is opened. A Sinterklaas gift for kids doesn't have to consist only of toys and chocolate. A nicely chosen piece of clothing or accessory is something they'll still be wearing days and weeks later.
In this article you'll find ideas by age, small gifts for in the shoe and tips on choosing the right size. That way, Sinterklaas arrives with a gift that fits, in every way.
A Sinterklaas gift with more than a bag of pepernoten
Sweets are gone within an hour, while a warm hat or a lovely scarf will last the whole winter. That's why clothing is a popular gift on Saint Nicholas Eve, especially now that it's getting colder outside. It also feels like a gift someone really picked out for the child.
You can keep the element of surprise by wrapping the gift in a larger box, or by adding a little rhyme that refers to the garment without giving it away. A sparkling bow could become, for example, "something that already glitters tonight".
Gifts by age: from baby to teen
For a baby, choose something soft and neutral. A hat in white or light beige from Martin Aranda suits both boys and girls, and a three-piece set from Tommy Hilfiger with a cable-knit sweater, trousers and hat creates a complete gift look in one go. You'll find more ideas in the Christmas gift inspiration for baby.
A toddler is often happy with a toy to drag around, and with a hat that has a recognisable detail such as a logo or bow. For a young child, an accessory they can put on themselves works well: a scarf, a hat or a bag. For older children and teens, personal taste plays a bigger role. A classic like the beige scarf from Burberry, with the iconic Burberry Check pattern and fringed ends, is then a safe and stylish choice.
A few hats we're highlighting for you:
FirstFirst Baby Meisjes Muts In Off White
Ralph LaurenRalph Lauren Baby Jongens Muts In Navy
Martin ArandaMartin Aranda Baby Unisex Muts In Wit
IcebergIceberg Baby Jongens Muts In Zwart Looking for something specific for a boy or girl? Check the gift inspiration for boys and the gift inspiration for girls.
Small gifts for the shoe
Not every gift has to be big. Hats, scarves and socks fit perfectly in a shoe or bag, and they still feel special when you choose a great brand.
- A hat: the light pink knitted hat from MC2 Saint Barth has a turned-up brim and a logo detail on the front.
- A baby hat with sparkle: the First hat has a bow of rhinestones, a subtle festive detail.
- A scarf: rectangular and with fringes, easy to combine with any coat.
- A toy: in the toy collection you'll find a soft friend that suits any style.
MC2 Saint BarthMC2 Saint Barth Kinder Meisjes Muts In Licht Roze
FirstFirst Baby Meisjes Muts In Licht Roze
BurberryBurberry Cash Kinder Unisex Sjaals In Beige A poem and an outfit: gifts with a personal touch
A poem turns an ordinary gift into a Sinterklaas gift. You don't need to be a poet: four lines about something the child experienced this year are enough. Then refer subtly to the gift, for example to "a bow that catches the light" or "a hat for cold ears".
For girls, you can choose a sparkling detail, such as the rhinestone bow from First. For boys, a bold color like black or navy works well, for example the baby hats from Iceberg. The navy hat from Ralph Lauren with embroidered Pony logo is also a timeless option.
How to choose the right size and avoid exchanges
With a surprise, you can't simply try the size on. So look at what the child is wearing now and compare it with a garment that fits well. Brands fit differently, so if in doubt, check the size information on the product page.
In winter a slightly roomier size is often practical, as there's room for a thick sweater or a layer underneath, and the garment lasts longer. For accessories like hats and scarves, size is usually less critical.
Still unsure? A gift card is an alternative, and with the gift service your order is beautifully presented.
Wrapped and ready for Saint Nicholas Eve
A beautifully wrapped gift builds the anticipation even more. Leave the wrapping to the gift service, or add a handwritten rhyme yourself.
Want to browse further? Check our Christmas gift shop for more ideas for babies, girls and boys, and find the gift that makes Saint Nicholas Eve extra special.
