The Raring2go Alternative Gift Guide is aimed at anyone struggling to find that perfect gift. If you're trying to buy for the person who has everything, or looking to avoid plastic toys and unnecessary packaging, take a look at our list of suggestions. Many of the ideas have come from local mums and it would be great to add to the list, so do get in touch with your recommendations. Email the editor on salisbury@raring2go.co.uk
ETHICAL & FAIR TRADE GIFTS
Top of the list is Goodfayre in the Cross Keys Arcade in Salisbury, who describe themselves as an ethical shop selling fair trade and cruelty free products on a mission to help, not harm the planet and all who live on it. Parents will be particularly interested in their wooden Plan Toys. Not only are they educational, durable and great to look at, you can rest assured that the company who makes them follows a path of environmental and social responsibility.
Recommended Fair Trade/Ethical websites:
Babame.com - toys, baby equipment, eco products for home and garden
Babipur.co.uk - ethical shopping for kids, including organic clothing, eco products, toys, gifts etc
Yesbebe.co.uk - organic, eco and fair trade items for babies through to teenagers and adults
Naturedoc.shop - UK and European organic and natural goodies for all ages
EXPERIENCES, MEMBERSHIPS & TICKETS
A popular gift idea, both to give and receive, is a family day out or annual pass to an activity or attraction. 
Click the Places to Go' tab above, then select Indoor Activities or Outdoor Activities or take a look at specific recommendations from local mums below:
New Forest Activities gift voucher
Waitrose Cookery School Vouchers
Marwell Zoo Experiences and gifts
HANDMADE GIFTS
There are lots of crafty people out there producing unique and ingenious products that are both useful and beautiful. Not everyone has talents in this department though, but one great idea we were given, that anyone can do, is to make a story sack filled with toys relating to a children's book. Even the most reluctant reader will enjoy using the toys to act out the story. Click here for instructions if you need them.
Recommended websites:
Handmade Gifts for Little People
SUBSCRIPTIONS
It's always fun receiving something through the post, but a little treat that comes every month is even better. These days you can get all sorts of subscriptions including:
Children's magazines - The Week Junior, Aquila, National Geographic Kids, Whizz Pop Bang!
Notonthehighstreet.com - for books, foodie gifts, socks and more
All Subscription Boxes - a website that rounds up a variety of gift subscriptions
Little Passports - learn about a different country every month. For 3-10 yr olds
CHARITY GIFTS
It always feels great when you find a gift that someone will like AND it helps a charity in the process. Favourite ideas include:
Julia's House lottery - £1 per week. 23 winners each week. Decide how many weeks to sign up for and gift it to someone.
Save the Children Gift Shop
OTHER IDEAS
Sixty Great Gift Ideas for kids that aren't toys
Experience Gifts - the value of memories over stuff
Check our what's on guide for Christmas Fairs
