Right off you need to think about whether the basket you are considering buying or making is for one kid or a group of children, with all the ramifications of how much of what to put into the basket if it is to be shared.
Second, the gender of the child or children concerned.
Sex role stereotypes aside, boys and girls really do have different interests and you must not ignore this when making or buying your gift hamper.
Lastly the age of the child.
What was a great comic book series last year might be just too uncool if the child's has moved on.
Think about the individual interests of the child.
Some kids really love themed gift baskets and if you have a little girl who loves horses or just can't stop ballet dancing around the house or a boy who despite his tender years, is a golf fiend or a patient fisherman, you can not go wrong when you take a thematic approach.
It is all about what the child likes over what you would like them to have.
Giving a nutritious & healthful gift hamper could be great fun for a 40 year old friend, but a kid needs to be young and have some real wow factor in the gifts they receive.
There is time enough for sensible adult gifts years down the track.
Now is the time for fun and exciting little treats to be unwrapped with abandonment and excitement.
Putting a little thought into a child's gift will bring great rewards.