Grandparents are supposed to spoil their grandchildren; at least that is a popular theory. But selecting a gift for your grandchildren can be difficult. Follow these tips for gift giving success:

Parents can give you suggestions for gifts, but even more important, they can steer you away from gifts they don't want their children to re-ceive! Sometimes, if parents are on a tight budget, they might request that you buy clothing or other essentials. Some presents may be too old for children or pose safety concerns. Others, may be inappropriate for a child or contrary to the family's values or beliefs. For example: I never wanted video games in the house, so I told grandparents not to buy that type of equipment for my children.

Gifts that suit your grandchildren’s interests, age and skill levels are important. Your grandchildren probably won’t use a gift that’s too complicated—or too simple—for their age and development.

Try to match the gift to the grandchild’s interests and desires. Some girls like sports, while some boys prefer clothes or books. Think about the child and then choose a gift.

Ý Consider a gift that encourages a hobby or develops a skill. One grandparent bought her granddaughter a china tea set that she could paint herself. Today, that same young woman paints as a hobby.

Ý Dance lessons, a certificate promising to pay for a child's summer camp, a paint-ball excursion, a float trip or a short vacation are also great ideas for gifts.

Ý Gift cards--while it doesn’t seem very personal, older grandchildren love gift cards. The trick is to get one at a business where they like to shop, eat or go to the movies. Ask parents the places that their children frequent. Gift cards can be purchased online or found on racks near the service desk at many discount stores.

Does your grandchild seem to have everything? Is that child now a teenager or young adult with very specific preferences?

If so, a new toy or gift can be the worst idea! Instead, you may want to invest some money in a college fund or other savings method. Such gifts can take pressure off parents as they try to meet financial needs for their children’s education or financial security. Over the years, these gifts can help a grandchild buy a car, pay for college or furnish a first apartment.

Consider starting a tradition when the children are young. Children are excited to see what kind of gift they will receive each year. Make sure the tradition fits each individual child.

Need ideas? My girls received a china doll each year for Christmas. They were always excited to see what kind it was and treasurer them to this day.

One friend gave her granddaughter a music box each year. She now has a beautiful collection ranging from Disney characters, to a basketball player, to beautiful little china box. Each of these were chosen carefully to match her interests that year.

Books are great ideas. Be sure they are age appropriate and check with the parent to make sure the child doesn’t have the book.

If you like arts and crafts, you can make gifts. Possibilities? Doll clothes, a painting, an appliquéd sweatshirt, a quilt or throw or a wooden toy specially suited to each child.

You could also pass on a special family keepsake—handing down a book or toy that belonged to your grandchildren’s parent. Make sure older toys are safe. Some old toys are not.

There is no better gift to give than spending time with your grandchildren. Plan an outing—it can be simple or involved. Take them to the park, the zoo, a sporting event or just out to eat at their favorite restaurant. If you gave them a gift card, go with them to pick out the gift. You might plan a short vacation and take them along! Special time spent with grandchildren can be the most prized of gifts. These are gifts that you benefit from too! You get to know your grandchildren better and they feel special to have you to themselves.