by Jackie (Toddler Parent)
Holiday madness. It is upon us. Whatever holiday you celebrate, this time of year is a time for giving; giving thanks, giving time and giving gifts! Whether you want to find a gift that is unique, creative or just something that occupies their time while you do what you need to do, I am hoping this list helps and cuts down on stress…or the pain of listlessly roaming a toy store.
Classes! Music, Gym, etc. I find these are awesome gift ideas from relatives. It saves you from getting needless toys or games, plus it is enriching and fun! This can be the subject of a whole separate blog post!
Nesting Dolls: I don’t actually know why, but kids love these things. I guess that is why they have been around forever. Plus, you can find some that act as both a toy, and apiece of art.
Projector flashlights: My older one LOVES to entertain the younger one with this toy. We got it as a gift and its the gift that keeps on giving.
Play tent: Really any tent will do. WE have a $10 one and we have one from land of nod. They both get an insane about of use. I can say that being an adult, I prefer the teepee style as I can actually fit inside đ
Deluxe band set: I love music and so do my kids. It is fun for them to listen and learn about the different sounds each instrument makes. We have a lot of family band time.
Balance Bike: Riding a bike just screams childhood, just be careful what you wish for on these Seattle hills!
Nutcase helmet: Because brains are important… but so is fashion. (Note: Children’s Hospital has events throughout the year giving FREE bike helmets, or check out this list of other low-cost options)
Personalized books: Hello cutest thing EVER. What kid doesn’t love seeing and hearing their own name in a book!
Marble Run: Hours of fun with this toy!
Magnatiles or Magformers: These are so awesome…. and SO expensive! Amazon just ran them as a deal of the day, so if you are thinking of getting them, look out for sales!
Easel: These are awesome for coloring, painting (god save you), working on the alphabet and numbers or starting sight words! It’s fun to watch them explore and also relatively light so you can move it around the house. My siblings chipped in for this one for Henry for his 2nd birthday and both kids use it daily.
Shape Sorter: These are great for shape recognition and fine motor skills, the younger ones will be frustrated but my 3.5 year old is a pro đ
And here are some guides from the professionals from 2015 last year (in no particular order):
Real Simple
New York Times
Stroller Traffic
Red Tricycle
Parent Map