We received many requests for a Christmas gift roundup for kids, so here are some of our favorite finds. Most items are under $25, several are under $12, and none exceed $49. These picks are practical, playful, and great for young imaginations.
1. Clara loves painting and bright colors, so a watercolor print makes a sweet gift. A small watercolor print from Etsy is around $25. Another idea is to bundle colorful paints and sturdy cardstock for shared painting time and creative bonding.
2. Simple, hands-on toys are a hit with Clara. A racer ramp (about $25) is perfect for little racers and keeps kids entertained for long stretches — ideal for waiting rooms and playdates.
3. Pretend play is one of Clara’s favorite activities. She enjoys cooking at her play kitchen, arranging dollhouse furniture, and caring for dolls. A wooden doctor kit is a wonderful choice; at $38 it’s a bit pricier, but it encourages nurturing play and imaginative role play.
4. People-shaped crayons from Etsy are eco-friendly, cute, and budget-wise (under $9). They make great stocking stuffers and encourage colorful, creative drawing.
5. Simple toy cars can be more beloved than elaborate sets. Clara has a small pink car she plays with constantly. Affordable little cars are easy to toss in a stocking or include in a gift bundle.
6. Handmade puzzles with attractive shapes and colors catch the eye. Some designs may be above a toddler’s current skill level, but they’re a lovely option for next year and they make beautiful, long-lasting toys.
7. A handmade bowling set — about $29 — is eco-friendly and adorable, often with playful themes like penguins. New experiences, such as learning to bowl, make memorable gifts and help develop motor skills.
8. For fans of classic characters, a themed Pez dispenser is a small, fun stocking stuffer. They’re inexpensive and often available at checkout displays for just a few dollars.
9. Magnetic fishing sets are a favorite for many young children. A $29 set with magnetic fish and a fishing pole encourages hand-eye coordination and imaginative play, and is great for shared playtime.
10. Silly, surprising toys that make kids and adults laugh are always winners. Toys that trigger giggles create immediate delight and memorable moments during unwrapping.
11. We own a balancing wooden cactus from Plan Toys that Clara has loved for years. Durable, well-made toys like this can provide many seasons of play and are worth the investment — ours has been enjoyed since 2010 and still gets heavy use.
12. Books that interact — like ones with sound effects or cues for barking dogs — are excellent for kids who love stories and animals. They make reading time more engaging and encourage early literacy.
That covers our top picks. Do any of these stand out to you? What will the kids in your life find under the tree this year? John and I are excited to start on a special homemade gift for Clara (from Santa, of course). We’ll share more details — and probably a million pictures — soon!
Update: You can also find a collection of favorite holiday decor items, many under $15, in our holiday finds roundup.
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