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Let’s get this done
It’s December and if you haven’t started thinking about Christmas shopping, now might be a good time to start. It should be easy, right? We live in the golden age of online shopping, with endless choice, millions of customer reviews and everything available at the click of a button. But for some reason, it seems harder than ever this year to find just the right gift for loved ones. Maybe there is too much choice, or maybe we’re all just a bit tired of making decisions at the end of this exhausting and tumultuous year. In which case, maybe we can help.
Here at ParentMap, we regularly consult with toy store owners and share our own favorite kid-tested toys throughout the year. We’ve got ideas for preschoolers, picky teens, energetic tots and bookish kids. We also have a bunch of awesome gift ideas for brand-new parents, well-worn parents and doting grandparents.
Scroll through the arrows above for some clever ideas to get that Christmas list done and dusted. Or skip ahead to your chosen section.
- Best-selling toys from local toy stores
- Gifts for preschoolers
- Gifts for energetic kids
- Gifts for bookworms
- Gifts for teens
- Gifts for the rest of the family
- Gifts that leave a lasting impression
This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase products through links on our site, ParentMap may earn an affiliate commission.
Local toy stores reveal their top-selling toys
Fed up with screens? Local toy stores reveal the best new toys and games that focus on philanthropy, unplugged fun, soothing sensory experiences and neighborhood play.
It may be the giving season, but it doesn’t have to be the spendiest season. We’ve got some ideas for small but thoughtful gifts for $25 or less.
Get the scoop on some popular items for kids of every age from favorite local toy stores Snapdoodle Toys & Games, Magic Mouse, Meeples Games, Blue Highway Games and Clover Toys.
Gifts for preschoolers
Let it be declared that 2020 is the year of the fort! Or at least it feels that way. Take your family fort-building game to a whole new level with these incredibly popular fort kits.
Little kids just want to have fun, but they also like to learn. Try one of these fun learning toys that will help them master some practical life skills.
Being stuck inside is hard on young kids, but these awesome toys will banish cabin fever and keep them busy for a while.
Gifts for energetic kids
Looking to get your kid off the couch? Here are some popular holiday gift ideas to get your kid moving and spark holiday joy over the winter break.
Bring the playground inside with this selection of climbing frames, trampolines, bouncy shoes and more.
While we’re all stuck at home, why not gift your kid with an indoor swing, a fairy door or even their own special reading nook to make their space feel special.
Gifts for kids who love books and games
If your kid loves the classics, why not try one of these lesser-known gems from famous children’s authors and illustrators.
For fantasy lovers, these excellent reads and YA series are just as magical as Harry Potter but way more inclusive.
Share a part of your own childhood with these brilliant middle-grade books from the ‘80s.
For kids who love graphic novels, we’ve got 43 books for you.
Board games can be a gift for the whole family as they bring us closer together. Make this holiday season memorable with one of these awesome family games.
Gifts for teens
Teens are notoriously hard to buy for, and when they do give you a list, it’s typically full of tech items … expensive ones. We’ve rounded up a list of fun, teen-friendly tech gear — each coming in at under $80.
With so many milestones missed, it’s been a tough year for older teens and new grads, but these thoughtful gift ideas should bring some cheer.
Gifts for the rest of the family
Moms, treat yourself or ask your family to get you one of these indulgent gifts that will bring cheer and comfort to your life during these endless pandemic days.
Give a gift that the whole family can enjoy with some new cozy décor to make your home feel like a haven.
Give grandparents a thoughtful gift this year by converting your kids’ art into special gifts such as a beautiful tote bag, table mats, an art book and more.
If you can’t be home with elderly parents or relatives this year try one of these thoughtful gifts to connect across the miles.
New parents, we see you! Give that new dad a snazzy backpack or a set of adorable matching t-shirts for him and the babe. Get that new mom a gift that she’ll actually need and appreciate.
Gifts that keep on giving
For the kid who has everything or for that kid who is just not that into “stuff,” you might need to think outside the box. Crafty and creative kids may not be able to take part in their favorite classes, but you can bring the class to them. Consider gifting them with some DIY take-home art kits, self-guided cooking classes and more from local businesses.
The greatest gifts are those that keep giving long after Christmas is over. Check out this selection of experiences, magazine subscriptions and memberships that kids love.
Give a gift that leaves a lasting impression. Check out our list of the best subscription boxes for kids.
