Shopping for the child that doesn't understand toys

I wonder if your experience with shopping for a gifted child is similar to mine.  In a word; challenging.

Often our gifted children approach toys differently then typical children.  In my house, toys were just items in the way and seemed to create some confusion as what they were meant for!  Now, as our child is older, where those items are made and by who has become significant as her concerns over slavery and social justice surface.  When considering a purchase for her, we need to consider many things that may not enter the minds of most shoppers.

Another hurdle in shopping for the 'right gift' is considering how long the item will hold the interest of the child.  Our gifted kids quickly tire of toys that hold the interest of typical children.  They need toys that will challenge them more and hold their interest for longer.

Here's an article that suggests some items that might be worth considering.

http://giftedkids.about.com/od/booksandtoys/tp/top_ten_toys.htm

What would you recommend?