The Christmas season is here again, and if you’re like me, you want to buy the kids things that they’ll actually use. So, I thought it might be helpful if I compile a list of some of our family’s favorite things–maybe they’ll become your favorites, too!
The Cat in the Hat, I Can Do That! Game
My mother-in-law bought this game for our oldest six years ago, and we still play it. It’s especially perfect for preschoolers. The game cards tell you all kinds of crazy things to try to do, like tiptoe around the trick-a-ma-stick with the toy man under your right arm. The kids love it when they master the task and you shower them with applause. This toy has won all kinds of awards. I don’t know if it makes your kids smarter, but it sure makes them smile a lot!
Discovery Kids 1,000 Facts You Just Won’t Believe
This book is filled with crazy things that will have your elementary aged kids in awe. For instance, did you know that that there are seven chickens for every human on the planet? Or that in 1882, two frozen frogs were found inside hailstones in Iowa? Learn useless facts like these and 998 more. Guaranteed to keep the kids busy on the car ride to Grandma’s house!
Last year Sawyer wanted a big playhouse for Christmas. Well, that wasn’t really in the budget, so when we found this, it was the perfect solution. We set it up when they want to play with it (it’s huge), and then we take it down and put it in its carrying case when they’re not playing with it. Once you put it together the first time, it’s a breeze to put up and take down, and they love its enormous size. Plus, it’s a really adorable toy that encourages all kinds of imagining. If you want to wow a kid on Christmas morning for not a lot of money, this toy is the way to go!
I think I bring this nativity up every single year, but I love it that much. Look at how sweet this scene is! When you press the angel on top, the star lights up and “Away in a Manger” plays. My kids loved acting out the Christmas story with this set. Of course, it’s Little People, so it’s practically indestructible. This makes such a cute and meaningful gift!
So, I know this isn’t some great secret item that you’ve never seen before, but maybe you’ve never thought of ordering it for your kids. Chad bought this a couple of years ago, and all of my kids, even the three year old, know every single word to every single song. There’s just something special about hearing your kids belting out “How do you solve a problem like Maria?” Plus, it’s such a beautiful movie that teaches great lessons about faith in God and doing what’s right in His sight, even when it’s hard.
Because boys secretly want a diary, too! This one is as manly as a diary gets. Sawyer loves the lock and key, and it gives him prompts for things to draw or write about. It’s such a simple concept, but this thing is a huge hit with the boy in our house!
If you have a teen or preteen girl to buy for, this will be put to good use. Adelade spent days making all kinds of cute crafts and decorations for her room with a set of washi tape. It inspires creativity and really does make for a pretty finished product.
I hope some of these items will be helpful for you as you do your Christmas shopping. I know in our house each of these gifts has given our kids lots of enjoyment and playtime. Happy gifting!
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Thanks! I’ve got a dude who would love one of these items (and it’s not the washi tape)!
🙂 Great, Laura!