I need a birthday gift idea for my soon-to-be 5-year-old daughter. She has tons of Barbies, tons of clothes – she is a girly girl and loves all things to do with painting nails, wearing girly stuff. I feel like we have way too many toys and clothes. What else is new and fun for a 5-year-old girl? -Laurinda

I have two basic categories for kids who already have a lot of toys: consumable/craft gifts and games that inspire imagination, and then toys get them outside and active–and can hopefully be stored in the garage.

Oh, make that three categories if you include LEGO and building toys. Because as much as I hate to step on them, I adore LEGO for the creativity it unleashes in my kids. 

For the best gift ideas for 5 year olds, click over to our guide to the coolest birthday gifts for 5 year olds in our Ultimate Birthday Gift Guide, which we update every year. You’ll find so many options!