How much do children really like their Christmas presents, poll reveals

Grandparents and aunties tend to buy the gifts grandchildren like the least, according to the poll

Some parents struggle to know what to buy their children for Christmas (Getty Images)

More than half of children have been ‘disappointed’ with a Christmas present – with grandparents and aunties buying the most mismatched gifts, according to a poll.

The poll of 2,000 parents of 3–13-year-olds found the average child’s Christmas list contains 16 suggestions worth £294.58.

But 41 per cent of youngsters have even been left unimpressed even with a present which was on their wish-list.

And while 33 per cent of parents admitted they bought their child something they were indifferent about, 24 per cent claim the gift was from a friend and 23 per cent a neighbour.

It also emerged two in five parents have struggled to know what to buy their offspring for Christmas in the past, while many have found it difficult to suggest ideas to relatives and friends.

The survey, marking the launch of Love at First Play – a campaign by Hasbro aimed at increasing toy-to-child compatibility this Christmas – found TV adverts, items in shops and what their friends already have are the top influences for children’s Christmas lists.

But parents make their buying decisions based on the price of the toy, good reviews and whether it’s on offer or not.

Although 31 per cent also admitted ‘pester power’ from their child also has an influence.

Child Psychologist Dr Laverne Antrobus, who spoke about the poll on behalf of Hasbro, said: “Science has shown us that a child’s play personality has a huge impact on the types of toys they will enjoy playing with and also the way they learn and develop.

“While for most adults, ‘work’ and ‘play’ are separate pursuits, for children play is their work – instead of being just a fun break, it is in fact how they learn, both about the world and themselves.

“By identifying a child’s most dominant play personalities, parents and gift givers may be more likely to choose a compatible present for their child this Christmas.”

The poll went on to find a quarter of parents are expecting their child to be disappointed with a gift this upcoming Christmas.

Carried out via OnePoll, it was also revealed 39 per cent would like to know more about how to choose suitable toys for their child rather than simply buying them what they ask for – something 59 per cent admit to doing.

Whereas 53 per cent research to find out what toys best suit their child’s personality.

In fact, 38 per cent would even consider buying a gift that they also want to have a play with.

And for 27 per cent, they are influenced by how educational a toy is before putting in their child’s stocking, while a quarter rely on word-of-mouth from other parents.

SWNS