"Every year, before the first snow hits, I start brainstorming gifts for kids on my holiday gifting list and, sometimes, it’s daunting to find something memorable yet useful that little ones get excited about. Do you go for big-ticket items for toddlers that will be played with for years to come? Books are always a sure bet for toddlers and little kids, but what else? I love educational items for older kids—but would they find them fun, too? In an effort to help with gift planning (so you don’t have to!), we’re sharing the gifts our editors are buying their kids this year, with ages ranging from toddlers up to tweens. For creative, practical, and unique gift ideas, check out our list below!
My third grader is notoriously hard to shop for. But he’s showing more interest in tech lately, and looking for ways to feel more independent. I’m gifting him this smart watch that’s designed for kids. He’ll be able to call and text family and friends and the GPS tracking adds another level of security for us. Plus, he’ll love choosing his own fun watch band. — Robi, Editor-in-Chief
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After doing a ton of research on the best bikes for kids, I ordered my 4-year-old son a Guardian Bike. Guardian Bikes are made specifically with kid proportions in mind, resulting in an easier ride and ensuring the bike can grow with my child. It also ships 99% assembled, so putting it together literally takes five minutes (which my husband appreciates greatly). I can’t wait to see my son’s face light up on Christmas morning when he sees this gift! — Ally, Chief of Sales
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As a first-time mom, my mind is constantly racing with all the things I have to remember before I leave the house. More times than not, my little one is not-so-patiently waiting while I load up the stroller, grab the diaper bag, and dream about the days I might be able to travel light again. It wasn’t until I saw the Shyft DualRide Infant Car Seat and Stroller Combo that I realized I actually could travel with less after all. Sure, you can say I’m technically buying this all-in-one for me, but my 6-month-old will be ecstatic when they realize we can get in and out of the house and run our errands in record time. — Hailey, Associate Editor
Lately, my little guy is having a really hard time getting to sleep. I want to get him excited about cozying up in bed and this Dozi sound machine is the perfect way. He loves stories and keeps asking me to read more and more books. With Dozi’s interchangeable characters he’ll have access to 13 bedtime stories, 20 lullabies, and 10 calming classical songs. Perfect for him and me! — Robi, Editor-in-Chief
I’m always on the lookout for gifts that provide limitless imaginative and/or active play. When considering a few options, I decided to go with a play couch and pretend play panels (like this one and this one) because my kids have a wide age gap (1 and 5!). With this play couch, I can envision years of use in different play stages. — Megan, Senior Sales Manager
My 12-year old decided instead of a new bike, she really wanted an upgrade to her scooter that she could ride to school, sports practices, and more. She used her three-wheeled Maxi Micro Kickboard scooter for eight years, so we know an investment in a scooter that will last is well worth it. — Kathy, Senior Editor
At 8 years old, my son has finally gotten into video games. He’s been playing Roblox and Minecraft on his iPad for a few months now and I’m giving him a video game system upgrade for the holidays. I think I might be almost just as excited to add this to the Santa list as he is—it reminds me of playing Super Nintendo as a kid in the ‘90s! — Robi, Editor-in-Chief
My 9-year-old’s Christmas list is essentially the definition of a Sephora tween. She wants a rose gold Stanley cup, Sol de Janiero perfume sprays, and a Kendra Scott necklace. This year’s on-trend platform UGGs are also on her list. And while I tried to talk her into the budget-friendly beauty of dupes, she’s willing to sacrifice other Christmas gifts for the gift she really wants. Plus, I was going to buy her cozy boots for winter anyway, so this gift essentially checks two items off my list. — Kathy, Senior Editor
My niece received this hoverboard a couple of years ago and I knew my boys (ages 5 and 6) would love it once they were the right age. I have no doubt Christmas morning is going to be full of laughter watching them zoom around the house on these. — Alaina, CEO
My boys are 4 and 6 and one of their favorite activities is playing with magnetic tiles and building forts. These magnetic panels combine their love for hours of creative fun. From forts to boats, the possibilities are endless. I can’t wait for another way for them to get creative inside all winter. — Ally, Chief of Sales
Why You Can Count on Us
The Everygirl Media Group has brought valuable content to our readers for 12+ years. In 2018, The Everymom set out to ensure that all moms know they’re not alone. If you find yourself seeking advice on how to style the latest fashion trend or searching for the best kid-friendly coffee table, we have the answers. And if you’re wondering what’s actually worth it from a sale or looking for a review of the hottest new kids’ product, we’ve got that covered too. From our annual Registry Awards and beloved holiday gift guides to the shopping round-ups you find on our site every day, The Everymom commerce team is well-versed in sifting through thousands of products to curate a digestible list for you. We combine our own experience with in-depth research to bring you a selection that meets our high standards for both fashion and function.
Julia Poulter, Senior Managing Editor
With more than 10 years of editorial experience, Julia is passionate about bringing motherhood stories to life and providing moms with interesting and informative parenting content. Prior to joining The Everygirl Media Group in 2019, she served as Executive Editor at Closer Weekly. As The Everymom’s Senior Managing Editor, Julia helps manage the brand’s editorial calendar and content strategy.
This post contains a sponsored inclusion of Gabb Wireless, Guardian Bikes, Evenflo, and Move2Play but all of the opinions within are those of The Everymom editorial board.