Should You Offer Gifts for Kids (Small VIPs)?

Every guest matters but the smallest ones? They often leave the biggest impact.

Whether it’s a tiny robe, a soft toy, or a welcome pack with crayons and snacks, more and more hotels are finding ways to make children feel just as special as their parents. But should you jump on the trend?

Let’s take a look.

Why some hotels are saying yes:

• It builds loyalty early.
  Children might not be the ones booking the room, but they do influence where families return. When a child has a positive memory tied to a hotel, it becomes part of their story. Years later, when they’re booking their own getaways, or bringing their own kids, they’ll remember the places that made them feel seen.
• It creates moments worth sharing.
  In a world of family travel blogs and Instagram stories, a thoughtful gesture can turn into great word-of-mouth marketing. A photo of a child in a mini robe or unboxing a welcome gift? That’s priceless content, created by your guests.
• It shows attention to detail.
  Families notice when their kids are treated as more than an afterthought. These small touches show that your hotel understands real family needs, not just adult ones.
• It can ease the arrival experience.
  A small distraction like an activity pack or toy can make check-in smoother for parents juggling luggage, keys, and kids. It’s a simple win for guest satisfaction.

 

Why some hotels choose not to:

• It adds to operational costs.
  Even small gifts add up, especially in large properties or peak seasons. From purchasing to replenishing, it’s another line item that needs managing.
• It’s not a fit for every brand.
  If your property caters primarily to business travellers or adults-only experiences, kids' gifts may feel off-brand or unnecessary.
• Sustainability concerns.
  Not all kid-friendly gifts are eco-conscious. Some hotels are moving away from disposable or novelty items that may end up in landfill. Sourcing the right product matters.

 

So what's right for you?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some hotels go all in with child-size robes, plush mascots and branded welcome kits. Others prefer a minimal, on-request approach, or none at all.
What matters most is aligning with your guest story.
If your brand leans into family-friendly experiences, the smallest touches, especially for the youngest guests, can make a world of difference. But if it doesn’t feel authentic to your offering, that’s okay too.
At the end of the day, thoughtful hospitality means making deliberate choices. Gifts for kids might be small, but the decision behind them should be intentional.