As a parent I want my kids to be happy and if they get gift cards I will let them pick what they want. But yes, I do cringe when it's something that is a one-time play thing, low quality toys, a poorly made item or even just (IMHO) lame.
Here are some great items for your young entrepreneurs that we love and think you will too!
Great books:
Kid Start-Up: How YOU Can Become an Entrepreneur by Mark Cuban (et all):
Kidpreneurs: Young Entrepreneurs With Big Ideas! By Adam and Matthew Toren
Kid Millionaire: Over 50 Exciting Business Ideas by Matthew Eliot
Mo's Bows: A Young Person's Guide to Start-Up Success: Measure, Cut, Stitch Your Way to a Great Business by Moziah Bridges, Tramica Morris, et al.
Bee Fearless: Dream Like a Kid by Mikaila Ulmer
You might like some other ideas such as story books for younger children like Jasmine Launches a Startup by Bachar Karroum and Jesus Vazquez Prada; motivating apparel, stickers, stationary, jewelry with phrases like "Kid Boss" or "Boss Girl", maker-type craft kits such as jewelry, buttons, keychains, pet toys, slime, baked goods or items produced by Shark Tank kid participants like Simple Sugars – the all-natural skincare line or Locker Boards (skateboard that fits into your locker).