Gift ideas desperately needed! (Please)

[DaisysStew]

I've been pretty organised this year and have my Christmas shopping list all ready to go, but there's a couple of people I'm really struggling with and I was hoping that you lovely bunch could help me out with ideas.

My mums neighbours always get me and my son a really nice gift so I always get them something in return. I've got the 2 girls and mum something but can't think of anything for dad and son.

SON: he'll be nearly 8 at Christmas. Last year he was really into Marvel stuff - is that still big this year? My mums already got him a Nerf Gun so nothing too similar.

DAD - Don't really know him at all (I know his face but don't think we've ever spoken). He's Muslim and doesn't drink so can't give a bottle of booze and a lot of the posh chocolates that are suitable for gifts aren't halal. He's early 30s if that's any help.

I want something that they're really going to like/is useful as opposed to being opened then put to one side and forgotten about. Budget is under £20. So... any ideas??

Sorry no actual ideas to give you, but in future years could you not just give a gift for the whole family to share? I know we don't give to receive, but they're buying 2 gifts and you're having to reciprocate with 5? That's a lot of thought (and expense) you're having to put into neighbours of your mum. Personally I'd give a hamper or something in return.

The hampers a good idea actually, I've already bought the girls gifts but was going to get mums and the others next week so I might do a joint gift for parents.

Normally for people I don't really know it's a cheap gift, but MrsNDN really spoiled my son last year - the gift bag was bigger than him! So I feel like I need to spend a bit more than I normally would just to save embarrassment.

But as she's buying for one child, and you're buying for 3, maybe she feels yours should be bigger to compensate. Don't feel you should buy extravagent ones for all 5 in return. I would definitely get a joint present for the parents. The children could share a board game next year.

I know you have the girls gifts this year but in future years a family cinema ticket might be an idea. My dsis and bil do this every year for their friend who is a single parent with 4 dc. That way they could have a great day/evening out in the new year.

We give our next door neighbours a nice hamper most years. There's just the two of them but they are generous to our 3dc.

Emma bridge water mugs for parents with posh coffee and. Iscuits? There's still 15% off I think and if you used a referral you'd get a free mug