It’s that time of year again. Suddenly, every kid you know has a birthday between June and August, and you’re back in the toy aisle, trying to pick something out. Please, not another plastic toy they’ll forget in two weeks!

I always come back to this idea: a plush toy with the birthday kid’s name embroidered or imprinted on it feels special. It’s not just another toy that ends up in a bin. It’s theirs, and they know it.

If the birthday kid loves sharks, Sebastian Shark Buddy is a great choice. He’s 16 inches tall, grey, and has a big, goofy grin with teeth that somehow aren’t scary. You can add a name or birthday message right on his belly. He’s machine washable, so if he ends up on the floor at a party, it’s no big deal.

For younger kids, or anyone who likes something sweet and squeezable, the blue or pink Squishy Octopus Buddy is a fun choice. It has eight soft tentacles, an embroidered smile, and feels great to hold. At 10 inches, it’s the right size for little hands or for a gift they’ll want to take everywhere.

Both of these gifts are perfect for a beach party, pool birthday, under-the-sea theme, or any summer celebration. Since they’re designed for personalization, adding a name is quick and easy.

The main thing is, when you personalize a gift, people remember who gave it. Just pick one, add a name, and you’re set. It’s much better than another gift card that ends up forgotten in a drawer.