There are those of us who adore stockings — and shopping for the small, quirky, gifts that fill them — and those who find the whole stocking thing puzzling. Even if your family doesn't do stockings, you may find a clever mini-gift here.
Babies and toddlers
Alice in Wonderland: A Babylit Colors Primer Book, $7: Babies reading Lewis Carroll's classic? Sure. This cute board book with bright colors, and is part of the BabyLit collection.
Plan Toys Mushroom Kaleidoscope, $10: Kids never tire of kaleidoscopes and these, durably made of eco-friendly rubberwood by Plan Toys, are something special.
Baby Teether Ball, $6: A teether is a surefire mini-gift for a baby and this one doubles as a squeaky toy. It is lightly vanilla scented.
Family Finger Puppets, $2.98: Now on sale, this family (mom, dad, grandparents, kids) of finger puppets helps kids learn about family, and get creative.
Green Sprouts: Stacking cups, $12. What toddler doesn't love to stack for hours? This set of eight nested stacking cups, which are BPA and phtalate free will keep .him busy until, oh, the preschool years.
Ages 3-7
Bathtime Fun Star Crayon, $7: Toddlers love art and bath time! Mix the two together- with these bright star-shaped bath tub crayons.
SunPrint Paper Kit, $15: What kid won't be excited for this cool solar art project, which involves making a beautiful picture by exposing the sun.
Magic Milk Straws, $6: Most kids love flavored milk, so this is a sure way to please.
LED Fingerlights, $8: Turn off the lights and let these super-bright finger lights lead the way. Perfect for kids. Even adults will find these entertaining!
Plan Toy Nuts and Bolts, $16: Unscrew, twist, re-screw and repeat. Made from all natural recycled rubber wood, this simple toys is a fantastic toy for little hands.
Highlights Magazine, $35: : Surprise them with a gift that lasts all year: Highlights, a magazine filled with stories, games, puzzles, 
science experience and more.
Ages 8-14
ThinkFun Gordians Knot, $12: This toy is deceptive to the eye — looks easy enough but it is oh so tricky — with six colorful interlocking puzzle pieces.
Spot it, $12. This award-winning game is the size of a deck of cards (hint: great travel game), very entertaining, and will help develop powers of observation in the bargain.
Green Frog Piggy Bank, $12: Who knew something so small and simple, could be so educational? Teach your kids all about saving money via this sweet frog.
Just Between Us Journal, $15: We all know teen girls can be a challenge at times. Get some help with this brilliant journal created for mother and daughters, by mother and daughter. Bond while you find a new way to communicate and eliminate stress.
Ages 15-18
Would You Rather, $8: This fun social game will have your kids laughing hilariously. Perfect to pack for a silly game any time.
Nite Ize SlapLit LED Bracelet, $10: Breathe a little better knowing your teen is wearing this bright red LED bracelet while they are running, walking or even hanging out at a concert.
Slim Sonic, $15: The toothbrush is a staple for many stockings. Mix it up with this lightweight toothbrush that comes in stylish colors and 
themes, from zebras to confetti and more.
Solid Milk Chocolate Game Controller, $16: Chances are you have a gamer in your home: This unique controller will put a smile on their face. Just like a real controller but solid milk chocolate!
Neon Nail Art Pen Kit, $10: Skip the normal nail polish this holiday season by giving this new, hip nail art pen. Teens will love the easy-to-use pens, allowing them to create unique designs. No more fear of drips or spilling in their purse.
Vapur Element Water Bottle, $11: This BPA-free polyethylene and nylon water bottle is the ultimate in convenience. It's reusable and can 
be folded, flattened and rolled.
Adults
Kikkerland Glow in the Dark Graffiti Silicone Drink Markers, $6: Sure to keep your guests entertained, these silicone drink markers come in six different shapes and colors.
4 Seasons Popcorn Sample Pack, $6: Perfect for the popcorn lover. Aren't we all? Toss this sample into their stocking with a couple packets of popcorn and you're ready to go.
Table Topic Cards, $25: The romantic in you wants to get these to create closeness but they are fun, too! Use them at dinner time, on the road and more. Check out others for family, dinner parties and more.
6-Piece Grill Charm Set, $14: Is your chef always mixing up the meats? Too much pepper, garlic, spice? Throw a set of these grill charms in their stocking to set them straight.
About the author: Christina is a writer who lives in Arlington with her husband and two children. She enjoys books, all things vintage and coffee.
