If you're like us, your kids have more toys than they know what to do with. To make matters worse, we just simply don't have the space for much more stuff. Here's some ideas for gifts that don't take up much space but are sure to be loved. My kids are two and four but most of this list could easily apply for older kids as well.
1.Stationery, envelopes and stamps (with other crafting supplies like stickers, markers, etc.)
If your kid loves crafting, or you have family members that live far away, this is a great way for them to do some crafting and stay in touch. My little guy loves to make things for people so I know this would be a hit with him! Having a convenient book of stamps so his letters are ready to send out will really make mama happy too. 😉
2. New bedding
New sheets are always fun, especially in a new print that appeals to your child’s interest. And if the buyer really wants to splurge, Beddy’s are AMAZING. We love ours.
3. Small suitcase or travel supplies
For the overnight sleepovers at the grandparents and any weekend trips your family may take. A small toiletry bag with a travel toothbrush and kid wash would pair well! If you go camping a lot or they sleep on the floor at the grandparents, a sleeping bag would be a great gift as well.
4. Membership or passes to your local zoo/aquarium
Bonus points if you make plans to go with them once or twice!
5. Books or magazine subscriptions
There’s some really great subscription services out there now days. Most send a book of the month. Brave Books is one I’ve been seeing lately that looks great. Magazine subscriptions like Highlights are fun too!
6. Age-appropriate board or card games
We love the Peaceable Kingdom games as well as Educational Insights. Now the littles have something to play too when somebody breaks out the monopoly.
7. Photo book or photo album
Kids love pictures, especially pictures of themselves and their family. Put together an album or have a photo book printed of the previous year with them.
8. Things for their room
Some specific ideas are neat lamps, a rug, new curtains, wall decor, a new chair or bean bag. Our kids were gifted the pottery barn anywhere chairs and they have really enjoyed them. Help them personalize their space.
9. “Grown-Up” items
Things like a wallet or a purse or even a watch. Perhaps a small toolbox with real tools or gardening supplies. Even a kid-size umbrella!
10. Kid-safe kitchen utensils
My kids LOVE helping in the kitchen. My son is learning to chop stuff— which is very exciting for him and very nerve-wracking for me. These days, they make kid safe knives and utensils that would be great for such activities. These are not play knives; they are real knives that are a safer option. A personalized apron would go great with this!
11. Musical instruments
Real ones, not toys. The fisher price, light up guitar that plays music when you push its buttons is not what I’m talking about here. Think ukulele or small guitar. Or for older kids you may even consider a horn or a keyboard. I’m also going to add within this category, my kids got a microphone stand, and a couple mics with a speaker, they love it. Great for playing church. 😄
12. A fun bath towel or bathrobe
We reuse towels more than once around here. Having their own towel they can hang up when they're done really helps mama with the laundry.
13. Books
I say it every single birthday and Christmas but we will always take books! My kids love them. They easily go on a bookshelf. We especially love books that rhyme. Since neither of my kids can read on their own yet, we prefer entertaining read aloud ones but if your kid is learning to read, books on their reading level would be great!
14. Storytime Companion
Speaking of books, there’s two read aloud speakers I know of. The Toniebox and Yotoplayer. The Tonie uses little figures that are the character of the story and the Yoto uses cards. It’s definitely not the cheapest gift but I do think these are really neat and additional cards or figurines could be purchased for years to come.
15. For their head
Hair bows, hair clips, a new brush for the girls. A new hat for the boys— for the younger ones there’s some really neat personalized ones you can order these days.
16. Learning supplies
A small world globe, a microscope, a telescope, a magnifying glass, binoculars, educational books, balance scale, safety goggles, stethoscope, stopwatch. Whether you homeschool or just want to encourage curiosity and education beyond their regular schoolwork these would make great gifts.
