15 Gift ideas for children and families
We have all had enough screens this year! Virtual school. Virtual extracurriculars. Virtual meetings. Virtual conferences. It is time to help our kids and families have opportunities to get grounded, connected, creative and active as we head into 2020.
With the holidays just around the corner, I thought it would be good to gather a few of my favorite things that make great gifts and inspire lasting fun. I divided my suggestions into 4 categories: Things to help Calm and Relax, Active Gifts, Hobby builders and Family Connectors. This list is by no means exhaustive but includes some things I’m sure you will love, in addition to addressing some important needs for our kids and families. Happy Shopping!
Gifts For Calm and Relaxation
Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty - Popular with all ages, this putty is a great way to relieve stress, keep the mind engaged and ….OK, I’ll just say it…..keep you occupied during a virtual class or Zoom meeting. Not to mention, it is great for building hand strength and building fine motor skills. With so many options to choose from, you might try these: See-through putty, heat-changing putty , magnetic putty, or the variety pack pictured to the right.
Jigsaw Puzzles - Jigsaw puzzles have so many benefits - they help build visual skills, fine motor skills and focused attention. It is a great way to engage the whole family. Set it up and work on it when a break is needed. Family puzzles, such as the one pictured, are great if you have varied ages and abilities since they have varying size pieces. Here are a few of my favorites: Animal Kingdom puzzle (100 piece double-sided), United States puzzle (varying size pieces), Songbirds puzzle (500 piece), or for the more advanced, The Family Campsite puzzle (1000 pieces).
Coloring Books and Gel Pens - Whether your child is a budding artist or simply like to color, these fun coloring books are a great way to relax and de-stress from a day of online learning. And who doesn’t love a new package of fun pens?!
Gifts That Encourage Activity, Movement
With most extracurriculars cancelled, virtual schooling and quarantining, we all need a little encourage to get moving and get outside.
Goodminton - This has paddle game has been a huge hit at our house. It can be played indoors or out. Need a quick break? Grab the paddles and play a quick game. For more family involvement, play a tournament and trade in a new player every time someone misses a shot. Don’t forget the extra birdies!
Pogo Stick - If you are looking for something fun, challenging and beneficial for your child, you you grab a pogo stick It might take a few trys to get the hang of it but once they start hopping, there is no stopping them! There is a version for all age groups
Fake Snowballs - If you are lucky enough to live somewhere that you can have snowball fights with the real thing, go for it! But these fake snowballs provide round-the- year fun for all ages. Believe me, I know! We have had more snowball fights in my living room than I can count (and it wasn’t just the kids!)
Scratch Off Bucket List For Kids - I LOVE this! It is such a fun way for kids to get active and try new things that they might not normally do. While some of them involve watching a movie, most of them are active and some are challenging. Will your child get them all done?
Gifts that Inspire Hobby Exploration for Kids
Having a hobby is a wonderful thing. It is an activity that you can go to when you need space to get lost and forget about the stresses of life. Making something gives you confidence and an outlet for creativity. It is an outlet for boredom, as well as an opportunity to learn new skills. Here are a few hobbies to let your child explore:
Beginner Whittling - This book and whittling set are all you need to get started whittling and wood carving. A perfect opportunity to work together with your child on a project. Older children may be able to do it on their own with a safety lesson. Use at your discretion.
Weaving Loom - Weaving is a great way to express creativity and use those fine motor skills. In my experience it is loved by both boys and girls. A great boredom buster and something that can be built upon and used for years to come.
Beginning Knitting - Knitting is a hobby that can be used for years to come. I am so glad I learned to knit as a child! I am also a big fan of Klutz books/ and kits. This Klutz Knitting Kit has all you need to get started. If you can’t help your child get started, find a friend who can work with your child. Most knitters love to pass on their love of knitting.
Woodworking Catapult Kit - Using tools is not only a great skill to have but a fabulous confidence builder for kids. Once kids master this kit they can go on to try some open-ended projects outdoors. Not only is this kit a practical way to learn some skills, kid end up with a super fun catapult to play with. It’s a win-win!
Gifts that Connect Families
If there is anything we learned in 2020 it is that we need connection.
Scavenger Hunts For Families - Everyone loves a scavenger hunt! This book is filled with pre-made scavenger hunts that get you and your kids outside. It’s a perfect opportunity to get a taste of nature, get moving AND spend some time together.
Vertellis - Want to get some good conversation going? Tired of hearing your child give one word answers when you ask them a question?
This unique Q&A card game is fun for the whole family! With interesting questions and playful assignments, parents and children engage in honest, meaningful conversations. Play around the dinner table or while gathered around the fire.
Pickleball - This paddle game can be easily set up in your driveway. It’s simple to learn and gets you moving. Our family picked it up during the pandemic. If I can play, anybody can play! You just need paddles and balls and a portable net. See you on the court!
Big Book of Family Games - We have gotten hours of entertainment out of this book. It is filled with fun and different games - most of which just require pencil and paper. Get those minds turning and those laughter muscles working. We especially love Backwards People and Wordiculous! Games for all ages 6 and up.
I hope you love the gift ideas and most of all, I hope you have a wonderful holiday restoring your spirit and renewing connections. Spend time celebrating how far you have come and looking forward to a fresh start in 2021!
Disclosure: (Sounds official, doesn't it?) Here's the deal...I want to be completely honest with you and I want you to be able to trust me. I only recommend things that I have tried or believe are worthwhile. That being said, I DO use affiliate links that allow me to earn a commission from things you buy with the links I share. It doesn't cost you more, but I DO want you to know that. It helps me keep my business going. Enough said.)