It’s that time of year again, when kids start compiling their Christmas lists and parents start doing mental math. For Mom and Dad, Christmas shopping isn’t just about spending the money, it’s about finding gifts that our kids won’t lose interest in before New Year’s Eve rolls around. Sometimes finding a toy that will last and keep a child amused feels like a Christmas miracle all of its own! Here are some new, and some tried and true gift ideas that your little ones should be thrilled to find under the tree this year:
Board Games
Board games are a perennial favorite because they bring families together. Siblings who may rarely enjoy the same types of activities enjoy playing board games together, and it’s a wonderful opportunities for older kids to help the younger ones. Classics like Candyland and Chutes and Ladders are perfect for younger children, but if yours are old enough open up apps on your phone or tablet, they’ll probably like the Angry Birds: Knock on Wood Game from Mattel. Based on the popular video game, the Angry Birds board game lets kids enjoy all the “search and destroy” features on electronic version while interacting with other players instead of staring at a screen.
Dolls
Dolls never go out of style, but one of this year’s popular trends is collectable dolls like the Monster Doll line. The concept of Monster dolls might be described as “Barbie goes goth” and is no doubt inspired by some of the ultra-successful vampire- and werewolf-focused YA books and movies. Girls will keep their interest in Monster Dolls even after the trend cools because there are lots of accessories and extras to collect, trade and play with.
Outdoor Equipment
They may not fit under the tree, but items like a swing set, backyard jungle gym or a trampoline will keep kids entertained for hours and provide them with plenty of fun exercise and fresh air. What kid doesn’t enjoy soaring on a swing or bouncing on a trampoline? Gifts like these are durable and can “grow” with your children. For example, enclosed trampolines are safest for smaller children, but as their skills and size increase, you can remove the enclosure for a more age-appropriate toy.
Electronics
Electronic toys are one of the safest bets when it comes to choosing an item that will provide many hours of fun. The ability to buy new game cartridges and play online with friends makes handheld gaming devices appealing, but younger children who are already interested in electronics can get into the action with toys from LeapFrog. The company makes educational electronic toys for children from 2 to 9 years old. Their LeapPad series is popular with kids and parents and is the perfect gift for little ones who don’t want to leave your phone alone!
Finding quality toys that are within your budget and are things your children really want to play with does take some effort. Shopping early and checking online outlets is the best way to get an overview of what’s available this holiday season. Even though your kids may beg for a certain item they saw on television you know better than they do what kinds of toys actually keep them entertained. And if there is that one special thing they just must have, well that’s what the guy in the red suit is for!
About The Author
Holly is an Indianapolis native who loves writing and social media. In her spare time, she enjoys blogging on behalf of Sears and other brands she loves.
