Sometimes you just want a simple and inexpensive gift for your children or you’ve got a child to buy for but a dollar cap to stay under. The Decorate Your Own Art Piggy Bank with Markers gift set is the ideal fun and inexpensive present to give out this holiday season. I think children will enjoy decorating the piggy bank over and over, expressing his/her creativity. Only $4.99 at buybuybaby.com, it’s for ages 8 and up and it comes with everything you need, including 6 markers. If that’s not your thing, there’s a similar decorate your own picture frame for sale on the site as well.

Little boys (and many big boys too) seem to go through a period when they loves trains. Combine that with a desire to save money, and you have the Lionel Railroad Crossing Animated Coin Bank. Standing 4 feet high, just drop a coin into this unique Railroad Crossing and watch the signpost light up as you hear the sound of a train pulling away from the station.

Kids can watch their savings grow, too, as the body of the crossing is made of see-thru clear plastic. Anything that encourages kids to save money, especially in this day and age, should be appreciated. This bank is powered by 3 AAA batteries (not included) or the AC adapter (which is included). You can pre-order this bank at Amazon.com for $24.97, and it will be available to ship on January 18.

My daughters’ pediatricians office has several of these banks, and they never fail to captivate my kids.  It never occurred to me that they were something that I could purchase for our home until I ran across them online while searching for something else entirely.  Each bank is made by hand and is so fun to use that kids will want to put their money in it.  Each time you put a coin in the dinosaur’s mouth, you get to watch it slide down the curving track and into the big belly.

The belly can hold up to 1000 quarters, and is easily opened with a screwdriver.  It is made using non-toxic paints, and will accent your child’s room or playroom. You can purchase one for $49.95 at shop.happymothers.com. This would make a great holiday gift.

If you are looking to create a clean and modern aesthetic for your child’s room or nursery, you might enjoy this smart-looking bank by Bankabank.  This brightly-colored bank with its simple styling will definitely stand out, and it will help you encourage your child to save.  The bank accepts both bills and coins.  A simple squeeze of the bank removes the plug, allowing your child to access his or her savings.

The bank is made of EVA foam and measures 4.5″h x 5.5″w x 1.875″ d.  You can purchase one for $12 at Urban Materials and Accessories Online.