What to get for...

[Racecardriver]

A girls fifth birthday? I don't know the child well so no idea what she likes. Would a set of Beatrix Potter books be too babyish?

Lego is always a safe bet!

@formerbabe are you sure? I hated lego as a child (before it came in pink). Should I get a girly set or would that look sexist?

There's not going to one thing that every child likes, I wouldn't buy lego unless I know the child likes it, it's not cheap for a worthwhile set.

Can you ask the Mum for ideas?

Yes

I'd get art stuff, mum might hate it but but a small art chest or something would suit a 5 yr old.

Can't go wrong with books. Most bookshops have them arranged by age for children.

I think 5 is possibly a bit young for Lego

Could you just get a gift card from Smyths and she can pick herself something
Or I used to buy soft play vouchers for kids around that age too

Depends on the type of parents I guess!! To be fair, my dd loves the girly Lego sets!

You could get a colouring book and nice pencils, fluffy notebook and pencil case and pencils, craft set, handbag from somewhere like Claire's accessories with a hair bow or sparkly bobble set, if those are things she might like. I wouldn't get Beatrix potter, IMO the stories are a bit young for some five year olds whilst the language is still a bit tricky for reading themselves.

@titsalinabumsquash why didn't I think of that. If nothing else at least it can be used up and thrown away. Thanks everyone for the suggestions.