If we could bottle the look on our kids’ faces at a great birthday party, we probably would. An art party comes pretty close though. It turns your table into a mini studio, lets kids get messy in a good way, and gives everyone something real to take home.

An art themed birthday party DOES NOT need to be a party where the main focus is making things. It’s a theme that sets a mood – and does not need to be overthought. Think paint, color, simple projects, and a few active games to balance out the sitting.

It works beautifully for mixed ages and for both boys and girls. We planned ours for an 8-year-old boy and his whole class, and it was a huge hit even though it was far from “Pinterest perfect”.

I already shared detailed posts with our favorite art birthday party activities and separate art party decoration ideas. In this guide, we want to zoom out a bit, walk you through the whole party, and show how the decorations, activities, food, and favors all fit together into one doable plan. It does not need to look magazine ready to be the best day ever for your child.

How to Plan an Art Party Without Getting Overwhelmed

Before we talk about paint and balloons, it helps to make a simple plan. A few choices up front can save a lot of stress later.

We like to think about three things first: color, head count, and where the mess will actually happen. Once those are set, the rest of the art party ideas fall into place much more easily.

Choose a color palette and style for your art party theme

Art parties tend to drift into “all the colors” territory. That can be fun, but it can also make shopping and setup feel chaotic.

For our son’s art party, we started with primary color tableware, then we fell in love with some paint palette plates. The look did not match perfectly and that is totally okay, but it did remind us how much smoother things go when we pick a color palette first.

A few easy options:

• Classic rainbow
• Primary colors (red, yellow, blue)
• A more on-trend and intentional color scheme like teal, lime, and fuchsia

Once we pick a direction, we try to match tablecloths, cups, banners, and even favors to those same colors. It does not have to be exact. Keeping things in the same “family” is enough to make the room feel pulled together without any fancy styling skills.

Decide on party size, timing, and help

Here is the honest part. We invited our 8-year-old’s entire class of boys to an in-home art party with paint, outdoor games, and more. The kids had a blast. We were wiped out. I regretted some of my life choices.

Messy supplies plus a big group need more hands. If you are planning a large guest list, I highly recommend asking another adult, a grandparent, or a teen helper to be on paint duty with you. Even one extra pair of hands to refill water cups and watch the drying table makes a huge difference.

For timing, two to two and a half hours is usually plenty. Parties can be 1.5 hours long too. A simple flow might be:

• 20–30 minutes for arrival and a “settling in” first activity
• 15-20 minutes for the main art project with boys. For girls it’s more like 25-30 mintues
• 30 minutes for outdoor or movement game with boys.
• 20–30 minutes for food and cake or fruit
• 10–15 minutes for a quick game and goodbyes

We also like to allow a little time at the end of activities for projects to dry and to help kids pack them safely. As our kids have gotten older, we sometimes trade big class parties for a special day out (yes, a school day!) so it is also fine to decide that smaller is better for your family this year.

Easy Decorating Ideas That Turn Your Home INto an Art Party vibes!

Decor for an art party does not have to be complex. Color does most of the work for us. Many of our favorite decorations also double as games or activity stations, which saves time and money.

If you want every step and supply list, we laid it all out in our full art party decoration ideas post. Here, we will keep it short and practical.

DIY paint splatter decorations on walls, floors, and tables

One of the quickest art party ideas is to cut big paint splats from colored paper, poster board, or removable vinyl. We scattered some on the floor right inside the door. The kids honestly thought there was wet paint on the floor for a second.

More ideas that you can try with pain splats include

• Big paint splats on the walls.
• Add a line of splats along the wall behind the food table
• Tape a few to tabletops under clear plastic tablecloths

If you cut them from poster board in your party colors, they can also become part of games. For our “floor is lava” style game, we used huge poster board splats as the safe zones, so they were both decor and play space.

Spilled paint centerpiece and colorful table setup

Our favorite centerpiece looked dramatic but took just a few minutes. We used a small garbage pail (reuse this after for its intended purpose), stuffed it with bright plastic tablecloths, and let them spill over the edge to look like flowing paint in primary colors. An empty paint can works too if we want a more “artist” look. Bonus points if you have one to repurpose!

We set that in the center of the table, then added:

• Solid primary color cups, plates, and flatware
• Fun paint palette plates for an extra touch

Because the centerpiece spreads out over the table, it fills a lot of empty space. In our case we skipped balloons totally since J was a baby and they’re a choking hazard… and the table still looked lively and party ready.

And so, instead, we bought a simple party kit from Amazon that again, did NOT match the colors (whoops) and filled in with that.

Game posters and giant number balloons that double as decor

We like decorations that actually get used. Our “pin the paint splat on the palette” poster hung on the wall as a main focal point the whole time.

To make it, we cut a big palette shape from white poster board, glued it to black foam board, then arranged colored paper splats around it and traced outlines. The kids used matching splats with their names for the game.

We also have a little tradition of getting a 40-inch number balloon for each birthday. We photograph the birthday child next to it every year. It fills up visual space, gives us instant milestone photos, and works well even if the rest of the decor is simple.

Fun and Doable Art Party Activity Ideas for Kids

Activities are the heart of most art party ideas, but they do not have to be complicated. We like projects that kids can mostly handle on their own once we give simple directions.

We shared all the details and extra options in our full art birthday party activities post, but here are the ones that worked especially well.

Tape resist canvas painting on mini easels

For our main project, each child got a mini easel, a small canvas, a paint palette, and a selection of washable paints. We set out different widths of masking tape and washi tape.

The basic process:

1. Kids tape out their initial or a simple design.
2. They paint over the whole canvas, tape and all.
3. Once they are done painting, they peel off the tape to reveal crisp white lines.

We made a couple of sample canvases ahead of time, and honestly, that was enough instruction. Kids understood what to do from the examples and jumped right in.

Outdoor chalk paint and big movement games

To balance all that sitting, we sent the kids outside for DIY chalk paint and a high-energy game.

We poured it into deli containers, handed out big paintbrushes, and let the kids paint the driveway and patio. They did splash it on each other, but it washed off easily. We told parents to send kids in junk clothes regardless.

For movement, we played “the floor is lava” in the living room using huge poster board paint splats as the safe spots. We turned up the music, shut the lights for a bit, and let them hop and run from color to color. It broke up the party and helped everyone reset between projects.

Pin the paint splat on the palette party game

This one is a quick classic with an art twist. Each child gets a paper paint splat with their name on it. We blindfold one child, spin them very gently, and have them try to stick their splat on the correct color spot on the big palette poster.

Our one big tip is to test the blindfold before the party so it actually fits and blocks vision. This game is perfect near the end, when some kids still want to play but we are done with wet paint.

Colorful Art Party Food Ideas Kids Will Actually Eat

Food for an art party can be simple and still feel special. We kept ours bright and light instead of baking an elaborate cake. We didn’t do much themed food and stuck to basic party food, with a couple of themed items.

Build a bright fruit “paint palette” platter

We put together a big fruit spread that looked like a painter’s palette. We used green and purple grapes, blueberries, mango, and watermelon, each in its own little section of a deep section tray. Y loves fruit so it really did feel special to him.

Fruit works well when we are feeding a big group with different allergies, and helps break up the candy consumption. If you want to lean into the theme, you can serve the fruit around a plate shaped like a palette or add a simple label card that says “fruit paints”.

Cupcake toppers that look like paint splatters

Instead of a cake, we bought bakery cupcakes. We kept them very simple and dressed them up with toppers. We cut paint splats from colorful cardstock on our Cricut, glued them onto toothpicks, and popped them into bakery cupcakes. It took much less time than decorating an on-theme cake. You can also get premade paint themed cupcake toppers.

On some, we glued two uneven paint splatters back to back for a really cool look.

Simple Art Party Favor Ideas That Do Not Create Clutter

We are not big fans of bags stuffed with random little toys that end up in the trash. For this party, we chose one main favor that kids could actually use again.

Watercolor paint palettes as budget friendly take home gifts

Our favor was a simple watercolor paint palette for each child. They fit the theme, were inexpensive, and encouraged more art time at home. We tossed in some watercolor paper cards as well.

To finish them off, you can tie on a tiny tag with a line like “Thanks for making my party colorful!” It feels personal without adding more clutter to anyone’s home.

Optional add ons: colorful fidgets, art themed favors

If you want to bump things up a bit, there are easy options that still stay practical. Kids can take home (depending on the age)

• Skittles or similar colorful candy
• Tiny canvases
• Fun stacking crayons
• Crayons and mini coloring books
• Art themed party favors – opt for those that are more useful – like bubbles and fidgets rather than toss-aways
• Anything rainbow – like a fidget – can also be an on-theme part favor

Try to remind yourself that one thoughtful art-themed item is enough. Quality takes priority over quantity. When we threw our video game party we also stuck to one better quality favor too and it was really a hit.

Of course, the canvases that they painted also double as a party favor!

Bringing Your Art Party Ideas Together

With so many fun art party ideas, it is easy to feel like you have to do everything. You really do not. A simple formula works very well: one or two main activities – one of them an art project, one movement game, a “just-in-case” filler activity or two, a few bold but easy decorations, colorful fruit and simple treats, and a single creative favor like a watercolor set.

Mix and match what fits your space, your budget, and your energy level.

Most of all, remember that kids care far more about feeling celebrated than about perfect decor. A slightly messy, homemade party filled with color, laughter, and paint splats will stick in their memories in the best way.

If you want more party ideas, check out our other hit parties, like this spy themed birthday party, the LEGO themed party that we did twice, and a really insanely cool science birthday party.

Got any other art party ideas to add to the list? Comment below!

The post Art Party Ideas That Busy Parents Can Actually Pull Off appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

Looking for the best gifts for a toddler boy? These ideas are both practical and fun all at once! When you’re done, check out these gift ideas for the 5 year old girl who has everything! This post contains affiliate links and gifted product.

Toddlers are so much fun to buy gifts for and today I’m going to share with you some of my favorite picks for toddler boys – tested by my very own prince charming!

The toddler stage is a bit ambiguous but primarily addresses ages 1.5/18 months through age three. It depends heavily on the child but I figured I’d share ideas for the full range.

First, as usual, I’m going to share some general gift giving tips for this age group. As a fourth time toddler mom (and a third time toddler boy mom) here are some of my best practices.

How to find the best gifts for a toddler boy

You really can’t go wrong with this age group. Anything they can unwrap – and even the wrapping paper itself – is a great gift!

My goal here is to share some ideas for when you’re stuck – some practical ideas as well as some fun ideas. At this age, a gift for the kid is still a gift for the parent, so this list includes some really fun finds that Mom & Dad will love too.

Some category tips for finding the best gifts for a toddler boy:

• This is the age where non-toy gifts are a win! Anything cozy or colorful that’s also practical will be something kid and parents love. Think of essentials – but take them up a notch and get a higher end version.
• At this age, many kids have favorite characters. They absolutely love seeing those characters in gifts – whether it’s on clothing, toys, or accessories.
• Lifestyle – it’s really helpful to know what the family’s lifestyle is like. Do they travel a lot? Is the toddler in childcare at all? Do they have a large or small house? Do they have occasions to dress up?
• Personality – again, knowing personality will always help with gift giving. Is the little guy an active one? Does he prefer tabletop play? Is he a snuggler?

I hope these tips and specific ideas help you in finding the best gifts for a toddler boy!

Disclaimer: Some of these toys are labeled 3+/choking hazard toys! Please read the instructions and use discretion when purchasing for kids under three. I include some of these toys in this guide because I personally like purchasing ahead – if I’m getting for a 2.5 year old, I’m thinking of what he’ll play at age three and beyond. I also personally allow my child to play with such toys before three since he does not tend to mouthe them – but only with close supervision.

12 Best Gifts for a Toddler Boy

The Best non-toy Gifts for a Toddler Boy

If you’re a fan of non-toy gifts, this is the age to gift it! J loves anything cozy, so that gift with a cozy element? Straight win! Non-toy gifts are almost foolproof at this stage, as they have a practical spin. Here are some favorite picks for the best non toy gifts for a toddler boy.

CozyCo💤™ Blanket with Hand and Foot Pockets

With CozyCo💤™ the snuggles are everything! These blankets have built-in hand and foot pockets to allow for a swaddle-effect. The hand pockets have finger holes so that they can still be used while wearing it.

CozyCo💤™ is the kid version of CozyThrow💤™ (the full-size one that that I’m enjoying – and shared in my list of gift ideas for a wife.) J absolutely loves it – the plush is soft and embracing. As he says, it’s cozy!!

WeeWander Backpack, Stuffy, and Bottle

For the family that likes to travel a lot – whether it’s weekends at grandmas or bigger trips- WeeWander makes fabulous high end travel gear for little ones!

Their backpack is just the right size for a toddler – but with maximum use of the space. It has loads of pockets for activities, devices, snacks, blankets, and more! It has an insulated compartment to keep things fresh and a chest strap for extra support. All the straps are adjustable so they grow with the little one. Individual pockets means that it’ll take more work for J to unload its contents – and it’ll be much more organized.

It’s designed to be perfectly compatible with optional other WeeWander accessories that are really cute when bundled with the backpack.

The water bottle is a very well-made stainless steel straw tumbler. It’s leak proof, and has the most adorable little print on it. I love that it’s slimmer than the typical tumbler, perfect for tiny hands. And it fits right into the side pocket of the backpack!

And the stuffy is a really cute little travel companion that comes with its own tiny backpack! It fits into either of the water bottle pockets (which has special slots for its feet) and can be a special “travel toy” for the kid who’s a bit antsy in the car.

The backpack comes with a mini travel “passport” activity book with stickers too. And of course, there’s a strap for the suitcase handle too – making it great for air or car travel!

Feltman Brothers Heirloom Lattice Knit Set

Classic fine knitwear makes for a fabulous gift that both mom and the little one will enjoy! Feltman Brothers makes heirloom quality, timeless clothing that is a favorite in our house. J loves this lattice knit set that is gorgeous with his red hair.

This set manages to be gorgeously dressed-up while still being comfy and fun for an active toddler to wear! It’s 100% cotton and breathable, and yes, of course it’s machine washable!

The fit on the sweater is a bit looser and the pants are a bit slimmer, for a really sweet combination.

Hobibear Barefoot Winter Shoes

Shoes are a really fun gift for toddlers for two reasons: they’re still new at walking and are kind of obsessed with their shoes, and they keep outgrowing them!

Hobibear makes fabulous barefoot and wide toe shoes that allow for more freedom of movement for little ones. Their Spruce winter barefoot shoes come in toddler sizes and Y LOVES them. They have a plush (“cozy” inside and ample support around the ankles. But they’re still unrestrictive and allow those toes plenty of movement – and they’re easy to get on and off.

And the colors are just so fun! Yes, they do have them in black too – but we went with this icy blue.

The Best Interest-based Play Gifts for a Toddler Boy

At the toddler stage, kids start to show very specific interests – some might even say obsessions! J is starting to recognize favorite characters (and tell me how cute they are), and he loves trucks. Find out what they love and go with that! Here are some common toddler favorite themes and gifts to give based on them!

Mighty Wheels 16″ Toy Crane

For the construction obsessed kid, the Mighty Wheels 16″ toy crane is an epic toy! This is a 3+ toy that little boys will just love. It’s a nice size toy with solid construction and realistic sounds that’ll make little boys smile.

And it even comes with traffic cones! The wind up hook provides plenty of pretend play opportunity, and winding it up requires some fine motor musclework.

I love that it’s a bit of a more unique pick than your typical dump truck or excavator (though Mighty Wheels makes those too) while still fitting in with the whole construction fascination. And J loves using it to hook onto and move other toys around.

FAO Schwartz Bluey Vending Machine

J loves Bluey and got so excited when he saw this vending machine from FAO Schwartz. This is a 3+ toy that is actually a win for birthdays, holidays – and yes, potty training!

Everything about this is so charming and giftable – and yes, they make other characters too (such as Marvel and Disney) for kids who like different shows.The front flap of the vending machine has the iconic Bluey letters and Bluey and Bingo sit atop the machine.

No need to insert a coin – just twist the lever and one capsule is released. Inside are small collectible figures. J loves playing with this type of figure with his favorite characters and this is just a really cute way to gift it.

This can be gifted all at once, or use it as smaller gifts to hand out one at a time. Refill the capsules with new prizes when you’re done – they’re reusable! Includes common, rare, and limited edition figures.

Cocomelon BooBoo JJ

In every gift guide, I like to include at least one holdover recommendation – something we’ve featured with our older kids but is still very much loved! This one is a holdover from A but J loves it too!

BooBoo JJ is fabulous for a Cocomelon fan, and brings an element of nurturing to the table. JJ sings the booboo song and has his own medical case with hook and loop bandages. The part of him with a booboo lights up so that little ones can put a bandage on it.

The Best Educational Gifts for a toddler boy

Kids learn through play and exploration and while all play has the potential to be educational, our favorite type is when the kids are encouraged to try things! These picks nurture that exploration and make favorite gifts for a toddler boy.

Mindware Konvertibles Transforming Wooden Cars

With my kids superfans of converting vehicle toys, I was so excited to see Mindware make a toddler-friendly version! This one isn’t a puzzle like the big-kid ones – it simply folds and unfolds. But it provides plenty of problem solving exploration for little ones.

Turn it from a long car to a tall car easily for more play value from a classic toy.

These are made from high quality wood – but still bright, colorful, and kid-friendly (no sad beige), these toys are heirloom quality. The box turns into a play scene as well, and of course, it’s made from safe paints.

Milestones & More Play Kit

If you’re looking for a well-presented bundle gift, Milestones & More has you covered. They curate age-targeted gift baskets filled with an assortment of toys and gear for little ones, as well as educational activity and parenting resources.

These are quality items from real brands. The 24-30 month box featured a pounding block from IKEA, a Munchkin bath temperature duck that says “Hot” if the water is too hot, a bilingual Priddy book, and a little plush bear.

This is a really fun gift for younger toddlers who can benefit from milestone-targeted toys.

Battat Light Box Sensory Set

The Battat Light Box is a multi-functional sensory play set that is fabulous for the toddler stage. It features a wooden base with a light box, and loads of activities to do on it. Our favorite are the translucent geometric shapes. Kids can play with them on their own, but it also comes with transparency sheets for matching those shapes up.

Included pattern cards are a next level way to play with the shapes, and of course, layering them teaches about color in a natural play-based environment.

It comes with a sensory bin topper as well that can be used with the included tools for water or other sensory play. It even comes with some grass bin filler, but of course, it can be used with other sensory fillers too.

This is a great all-around toy for tabletop play, fine motor, and sensory exploration.

The Best Active Play Toys for a Toddler Boy

For little ones that love to be active, these gifts will help get out all that energy! While they don’t quite need help getting moving, these best gifts for a toddler boy help channel that energy – and will be enjoyed at least the next few years! Build those gross motor skills!

Pikler Triangle

Here’s another holdover: this Pikler Triangle is a multifunctional toy that is one we keep out and available all the time! kids love climbing on this toy (we’ve since moved it on top of a foam playmat) but there are other ways to play.

The triangle can turn into a tent with a throw blanket tossed on it. Flip over the arch, add some cushions, and it’s a rocking chair.

The kids switch it from slide, to climbing wall, to bridge, and back to slide again – again and again…

Trampoline

Sometimes the classics are a classic for a reason – and J loves jumping on his trampoline! This is one of those toys that you save from sibling to sibling and is loved for many years. It is great for indoors and out.

Literally just a ball.

If you’re looking for an easy, low budget gift that’ll charm any active toddler, just go with a ball! I recommend the lighter weight plastic balls (rather than rubberized playground balls) – but you can even give them a beach ball.

What are your best gifts for a toddler boy? Got any to add to the list? Comment below!

The post Best Gifts for a Toddler Boy appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

Looking for the best gifts for a 12 year old boy? These top picks for tween boys will make you a gift giving celeb! If you want more ideas, check out these gift ideas for an 11 year old. This post contains affiliate links and gifted product.

As kids get older, getting them gifts really changes. There’s this soft mix at the tween age where very specific types of toys still appeal to them, but they need a bit more hype attached.

On the flip side, they also begin to really appreciate some non-toy gifts. My 12 year old, M, helped me curate this list of 14 best gifts for a 12 year old boy. Some were pitched by brands or discovered at toy shows, some were taken direclty from his wishlist, and all are things he’d love to (or loved to) receive as gifts.

First, I’ll share some general tips for finding the best gifts for a 12 year old boy. And of course, these are great for girls too, I’m just testing them with a boy.

How to find the best gifts for a 12 year old boy

It’s important to really know the kid at this stage -or choose something very safe. Your biggest risk is getting them something that they feel is too childish.

Here are some general directions you can take:

• Gadgets – a safe option. Smaller or larger electronic toys that are age-appropriate have very universal appeal at this stage. More advanced gadgets (such as devices or accessories) are even cooler.
• Games – If you are on a tighter budget and can’t spring for a cool electronic, choose a game over a toy. If you know which gaming device (if any) they own, you can get a new game for it too.
• Hobbies – If you know the child well, choose something that works with their hobby. If they’re into art, opt for more grown-up art supplies than they may have been using. Think STEM, sporting or active hobbies, etc.
• Fanware – These things are rarely featured in my gift guides just because my kids aren’t major fans of anything but if you have a kid who has a favorite team, video game, etc go and get some licensed goods.
• Non-toy gifts – Something so cool that I’m observing as my kids grow up is that some of the things that make nice gifts for adults are starting to be cool for them too!

The ideas below are sorted a bit differently but I think you’ll find the directions above as well as the ideas below super helpful!

14 of the Best Gifts for a 12 year old boy

Gadget Gifts for a 12 year old boy

Gadgets are really a safe zone. At this age it can include toys – specifically standout toys with unique features.

Silverlit Robo Rapidfire

Silverlit makes some super cool remote controls, and while for a 12 year old, remote controls are “been there, done that” THIS one isn’t! It’s part robot target for a dart blaster and part remotely controlled shooter. M was so excited to play with it in both of its modes.

In target blasting mode, the robot serves as the target, moving around on its own. You need to hit the target with the dart blaster.

In RC blasting mode, the robot itself is the dart blaster, and the player controls it. It’s REALLY fun for chasing adorable toddler brothers who are good sports.

It holds ten darts at a time and is overall a high quality RC, something that’s important in this toy category.

Otamatone Deluxe Batman & Kirby

My boys have loved Otamatone for years but these styles are just epic – and did you know they make cases too? Otamatone is a social media viral electronic music player with loads of humor. Music is played with one hand sliding up and down the stem of the musical-note shaped device for pitch variation, and one hand opening and closing the mouth to make a vibrato “wawawa” sound – as if it’s singing.

The deluxe version is a bit more of a legit instrument, with a pitch dial on the back, a 3.5 mm stereo jack to connect it to speakers or headphones, and a longer stem for more pitch variation. For the Batman fan, the Batman model just gives it more bonus points.

The Kirby Otamatone is so fun for kids who are fans of the video game. It’s the original model – a really fun, compact, and silly musical instrument that kids CAN actually play. This is the type of thing that “Kidults” love to, making it a fabulous gift for a 12 year old boy.

You can upgrade the gift with a case (make sure to get the right size for the Otamatone you’re getting).

Carrera Revell Hybrid Highway Challenge

What if you can combine kids’ favorite toys with a gaming-style experience? For kids who are fans of racing – try some incredible, high tech real racing simulation! The Carrera Hybrid line connects to the phone and allows kids to do their video game racing online – and IRL! The minimum age recommendation is 12 years on this, so it really is a next level “play” experience.

For M, the thing that REALLY did it was the AI integration. Kids (and parents when they leave it around) can choose to use AI-guided racing to keep the car on the track.

There are loads of tuning options – set the speed, tire wear, and more. It then simulates it on the model car. As you play you can score earn more features. Up to 16 players can race together.

The Highway Challenge is a fabulous all-in-one set for getting started with Carrera Hybrid racing experiences, which can then be added on to. It comes with 1:50 scale Porsche 911 GT3 “Red Devil” and “Black Devil” racecars with incredible detail. These can be raced on or off track – and the Highway Challenge comes with just about 20 feet of it. Set the parts you have in the app, connect to the cars and go ahead and race!

For kids that enjoy more traditional gaming controllers, you can get the Carrera Hybrid bluetooth controller add-on that includes an optional phone holder.

Electric Hand Warmers

I don’t know what it is about these – but M loves these! You know those packets that you need to activate and then they keep you warm all winter? Well, there’s a gadget version of them! These plug in and have different warmth settings.

I got these for M with a strict warning to proceed with caution and use them carefully – at twelve, I believe he’s responsible enough. The brand that I linked is UL certified and high quality. It comes in fun colors and prints too, and charges via USB. They connect magnetically when not in use

Top Games & Interest-Based Toys for a 12 year old boy

Games are another pretty cool safe bet when looking for the best gifts for a 12 year old boy. They mostly skew affordable, and adults play them too, so there really is no true age cap on it. When looking for toys, look at those that are more interest-focused and fit their hobbies.

Smart Games Cats & Boxes Game

For the kid who loves to play solo, doesn’t always have a playmate, or just loves a good puzzle, Smart Games is always a top choice for us.

M loves these challenges – they work well with his mathematical brain, and allow him to have solid screen-free fun on the go. Cat’s & Boxes is a super cool and unique spin on these puzzle games.

The game comes with 60 challenges, which are starting points for all the pieces on the game board. The challenge is to move the box pieces so that all the cats are in boxes. The cats must stay in place, and you can only move one piece at a time.

It’s a fun, humorous, more tangible take on the classic puzzle-solution game that totally appeals to M’s sense of humor.

LEGO Voyagers

What about when you want your kids SPECIFICALLY NOT to play solo? That’s where LEGO Voyagers comes in! This new and unique LEGO video game requires kids to play together! They can play virtually or IRL – and can even send friends who DIDN’T purchase the game a code to play with them.

LEGO Voyagers is a very laid back adventure-style game. The LEGO brick characters need to move LEGO pieces on the landscape to get around.

In a world of violent, aggressive video games, this one is so refreshing. It’s creative, and uses one of my kids’ favorite toys to build initial interest. It took them a few minutes to really learn it, but once they did, it became an instant favorite.

And I just love the social aspect of it!

Giiker Super Decoder

Giiker takes classic games and geekifies them – or rather turns them into gadgets! I love this approach for gifting a picky tween, especially one who loves to play solo.

The Super Decoder has game play similar to good old Mastermind. You have seven tries to break the four-color code, and it keeps getting harder.

The entire design of this game is so cool – it’s robotic! The two pronged antennae is functional and powers it on, sets single or duo mode, and provides game play cues as well. There’s an easier and more advanced mode, and a mind-boggling 600 levels of play!

Play solo or against a friend, and put it in your pocket when you’re done. It’s a screen free gadget – operated by lights – making it friendly for screen-free environments, like some schools. It’s one of those things that feels like a gadget, but actually builds some critical brain skills.

UFC Collectibles for Fans

If your 12 year old is a UFC fan, collectibles are a win! For slightly larger gifts, go for animated action figures of their favorite fighters. For smaller gifts, we’re in love with the the punching bag action figure capsules. These mini blind bags have different figures and accessories.

M even unboxed an ultra rare golden figure! The speed bags feature an octagon base and a figure in their signature pose. The punching bags feature a figure and a stand, with an accessory, plus a sticker and mini poster. The punching bag figures come with puzzle stands that connect to form an octagon.

The speed bags and punching bags come on a fun clip keychain, making them a fun backpack accessory on their own.

Best non-toy and activity gifts for a 12 Year Old Boy

At an age where kids think they want toys and gadgets that do something, it’s a huge win to find that gift that encourages THEM to do something! These are my best gifts for a 12 year old boy that’ll get them creating, writing, thinking, and building.

Diamond Art Club Sparkle Pals™ – R2-D2™

When my kids first saw me doing diamond painting, they wanted in on the action. And Diamond Art Club apparently knows that this hobby goes beyond the default demographic because they create kits for everyone! For 12 year old boys, especially the Star Wars fan, the Sparkle Pals R2-D2 is a super cool pick!

This beginner friendly kit comes in a theme that crosses demographics and is perfect for tweens who want to create a little. It comes with everything needed to get started – including the tools. M loves this set, as a Star Wars fan, and it’s a go to pick for me for when I’m looking for a smaller gift for a tween boy or girl. M enjoys displaying finished creations, and R2-D2 comes with a stand, perfect for propping on a desk. We might even glue magnets on the back and put it on his locker.

You can save 20% off your first purchase with Diamond Art Club®. Use the discount code MOMS20!”

Yes & Know Books

When I found out that Yes & Know books are coming back at Toy Fair this past winter, I literally did a happy dance. These invisible ink activity books are a childhood favorite of mine, a pivotal item that was a real treat. In fact, it was a tradition in our family to have these as “sick day” treats – but they make fabulous small gifts too!

Yes & Know books are invisible ink books that are full of puzzles, trivia, and more – appropriate for school age kids through adults (or ages 7-77!) We played tic-tac-toe on these pages as kids, learned new things about life, decoded, and maybe cheated a tiny bit by revealing a teensy drop to peek at the answer before filling it in fully.

The license to remake these was acquired by a small business called Tree Town Toys, and they have only gotten better. They retained their retro feel, but modernized it just the right amount – adding color ink to the mix. Gift these individually as a small gift, or bundle them for a larger gift.

Smartivity Mechanical Hand

If you have a kid who is engineering-obsessed (M is!) the Smartivity Mechanical Hand is a super fun exercise in engineering. Kids build a huge robotic hand that they can then use to pick up various thing, high five or fist bump siblings and friends, and in general have fun with.

This is the kind of kit where the assembly is intensive and the main point and a fun thing to play with is the byproduct. M thrives on this type of thing and was able to assemble it fully independently.

The instructions are clear, visual, and easy to follow and the precision laser cut pieces are easy to pop out of the frame for assembly.

Ohuhu Direct-ink Acrylic Markers – Nahuku

As kids get older, they are ready for grown-up art supplies, and for the kid who loves to draw, Nahuku Direct-ink Acrylic Markers are a win! These super cool opaque brush tip paint markers can be used to draw on paper, color things in, do brush calligraphy, decorate school supplies, and more. Since they are opaque, they work beautifully on both dark and light surfaces

They are fabulous for an aspiring artist (bonus points if you gift it with a sketchbook!) And the Direct Ink technology means that no pumping and priming is required. The 48 color pack that is featured here has three each of white and black – a really helpful feature based on real-life use patterns. It comes in an easy storage case.

Ohuhu’s art supplies are a win for this age group and one that I personally purchase as gifts for young and hobby artists. They are a mid-range art supply brand that leans more affordable than pro-grade brands but delivers consistent quality.

Owala FreeSip Water Bottle

While this isn’t an activity that “does”, it’s a fabulous, practical gift that the kids just love (especially if you’re reading this in 2025). It has a straw but also a siwg spout, so they can drink however they’d like. And it’s leak-proof so it won’t destroy that homework!

We got the Kids version because its 16 oz size is practical for bringing to school, but for 12 year olds you can get the real version too. And it’s insulated, keeping drinks cold for up to 24 hours, which encourages drinking.

Best Books for a 12 Year Old Boy

Books are an absolute win for gifting 12-year-olds – they can never have enough! Find out what type of reading they love and go with that!

Did you Hear what Happened in Salem?

This book is a nonfiction but totally not boring take on the Salem witch trials. It’s written in an engaging and snarky way, from the perspective of a third party observer. And it teaches some valuable lessons about groupthink, assumptions, and the value of a good justice system.

The book features vivid illustrations that bring the story to life, a character guide, and a very strong lesson written explicitly at the end. While it’s graded for ages 8+, as a mother of a 9 and 12 year old, I do prefer it for the 8+ demographic because of the subject matter.

Parent Warnings: It does contain one use of the “b-word” but as a negative reference not conversational, as well as a quick reference to suicide. I personally think this is age appropriate for a 12 year old.

Harry Potter boxed set

M received this set as an aunt and has read it at least twice since! At this age, he is ready to read the full set of the classic series – and it’s definitely an “own-it” type of series.

The Big Fat Middle School STEM Boxed Set

A little school help goes a long way and this boxed set is totally gift-ready! It is a notebook-style, kid-friendly book series that is designed to be better than the best note taker’s notes! It breaks things down into tidbits, with illustrations and fun commentary.

The boxed set comes with three books, math, science, and computer science/coding.

Which other gifts would you choose as the best gifts for a 12 year old boy? Have you tried any of those on this list? Comment below!

The post Best Gifts for a 12 Year Old Boy appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

If you’re looking for gifts for a 5 year old girl who has everything, you’ll love these unique gift ideas for every budget! You can find more carefully curated gift guides here. This post contains affiliate link and gifted products.

If you know a five year old who is having a birthday, or you’re looking for a holiday gift for one, congrats! This is one of the cutest, sweetest, funnest age groups to shop for!

These gifts for a 5 year old girl who has everything were tried and tested by A, my five year old diva who has quite the full playroom already.

Tips for finding gifts for a 5 year old girl who has everything

In addition to specific gifts, I always like to share tips for gifting the specific demographic. Here are my tips for nailing gifts for a 5 year old girl who has everything:

• Consumables: crafts and other things that use up can always be saved for when the current stash finishes
• Decide your budget in advance. It’s easy to get carried away spoiling a little princess so make sure it works with your original spending plan.
• Choose between unique or premium (or both if you can swing it!) Even if you can’t afford to go with premium, finding something truly unique and appealing to that demographic is a win.
• Gifts don’t need to be toys! Think of things that have a special element to them.

16 Gifts for a 5 year old girl who has everything

Extra Special Plush and Doll Gifts for a 5 Year Old Girl who has Everything

Plush and dolls are a win with little girls, but what if she already has a selection? Here are a few super cool upgraded gifts in this category!

Madame Alexander’s Going to Grandma’s Huggums

Madame Alexander creates high quality dolls, designed in New York with over 100 years worth of attention to detail. The Going to Grandma’s Huggums doll is a small baby doll with an i intricately embroidered outfit that is “going to Grandma” quality.

A right away adopted her as the baby sister she has been begging me for (“a fake one – not a real one, I still want a real one”). She is absolutely in love with the delicate lips, hair texture, bright pink three-piece outfit, and soft huggable body.

This is a keepsake quality vintage-style doll, with eyes that open when upright and close while lying down. It’s the type of thing that she’ll one day be able to gift her own little girl.

Madame Alexander 90’s Retro 18-inch Doll

If this particular five year old is a step beyond baby dolls, Madame Alexander makes fabulous 18-inch dolls too. This next-stage doll is 90’s inspired (I guess we’re retro!)

She has a plush pink hat I’d have ben envious of as a child, foam slippers, a cute handbag, jeans, jackets, and a sweet polo shirt.

Her hairs is soft and long – A’s favorite feature, though she’s obsessed with the plush hat too!

Purryfuls – Realistic Purring Pet Cat

For the little girl with big emotions, Purryfuls’ realistic purring pet cat is an amazing calming tool. It’s not just another plush. Every detail on this cat is beautiful and well-made, and it comes in a generous 16 inch size.

The cat has various vibration and “purring” modes to offer a calming feeling. it comes with a journal and pen too for a full calming experience. Most five year olds are just learning to write, making this a fantastic addition. And while A is not quite learning yet, she loves to draw her feelings.

The soft plush, combined with a bit of weight, and the vibration and sound make for a multi-sensory experience that mimics its real life inspiration. Press her paw to activate different modes. It’s perfect for cuddles at night, as a lap buddy, or any time a little calming down is in order!

Woof & Co Fashion Dog Dolls

I first “met” the Woof & Co fashion dog lineup at a toy show this past summer and I was so impressed. If you think there’s nothing in the toy industry that hasn’t been done yet, meet Lily the Shih Tzu!

This toy focuses more on the “unique” angle of gifts for a 5 year old girl who has everything and comes with a super affordable price tag. A loves the soft fur, and I’m totally jealous of her outfit!

She’s a posable doll, and her outfit is removable and swappable with other Woof & Co dolls, and she even has a Paris-ready handbag!

Non Toy Gifts for a 5 Year Old Girl who has Everything

Kids eventually get to an age when a non-toy gift gets a “what? that’s not a gift!” reaction – and then outgrow it eventually. I’m sure you’ve seen it. Five is well within the safe zone of non-toy gifts being a winner, as long as they have a very specific appeal. I’ll outline the appeal for each of the specific suggestions below, but some examples can include: a favorite character or theme featured, COZY – all the cozy stuff, and glitter.

The Comfy Original Junior

Everyone loves a good oversized hoodie and my kids are equally obsessed with a plush throw blanket.

But what if you combine the two? The Comfy Original Junior is a large, oversized hoodie made of Sherpa inside and soft fleece on the outside. I’m not gonna lie: her big brothers are totally jealous and have been begging for Comfies of their own!

It’s large enough to snuggle and tuck legs into – it is supposed to fit more like a blanket – and is perfect for lounging on the couch, especially on chilly days. But kids can still wear it comfortably and walk around in it. It has a generous hood and a large kangaroo pocket for a full snuggle.

One size works for ages 3-10 – although my very thin 12 year old fits in it too – making it something that she’ll be able to enjoy for years.

Diel Friends Kid-Safe Makeup & SPF Puff – 4 Piece Gift Tin

Diel Friends reached out to me a while ago to share specifically their SPF powder puff and I was amazed. Putting sunscreen on kids’ faces is challenging, but their Judy Sun Cushion SPF50 solves that issue with a formula that our little divas can apply on their own.

But let’s turn it into a giftable set!

The Judy Deluxe Beauty Gift Box comes in a storage-friendly tin. It’s a cross between functional makeup and play. It’s all kid-friendly and makes sense for this age, with the SPF I mentioned above, a water-based nail polish, color changing Pearl lipstick, and their heart cheek stamp. It’s a cross between play and function, and a sweet way that kids can play beauty salon with actual results.

All the products are made with EWG green-grade, non-toxic ingredients, and the tin is large enough to store any other play beauty products she might have.

Use code menucha10 for an exclusive discount!

My First Paint by Sticker

I tend to count toys and activities are counted as non-toy because they are so consumable – they don’t just collect and get played with, they get used.

Paint by Sticker is a favorite in our house – kids match up stickers with the correct number to form a picture. And My First Paint by Sticker is perfectly simple for this age group!

The Farm Friends book is spot on for kids who love cuddly farm creatures.

More Cool Toys for a 5 Year Old Girl who has Everything

When looking for toys for a 5 year old who has everything, think about things they might not have yet – classics with a spin, new releases, educational toys, and collectibles.

Emmers Emotion Seekers Game

5 is an age where little ones are navigating big feelings in a big way – and building the skills to resolve them. Emmers creates games and books that are rooted in developmental psychology.

The Emotion Seekers game is a very simple, easy to learn game that feels familiar but has a totally unique spin. It opens up feelings about emotions and how kids (or even adults) might feel in certain situations, having kids decide what that might be, which can help them understand reactions and how to navigate them.

Game play is simple: Flip over a card and read the story (a grown-up should guide the game if kids are non-readers). Kids choose emotion tokens (the instructions suggest starting with only four simple ones- though the game comes with 18) to correspond and move spaces according to the card directions.

The design is modern but still colorful, playful, and kid-friendly. And the moving pieces are sturdy wooden peg dolls.

Large as Life Puzzles with Trivia

Puzzles are a huge developmental tool at the 5-year-old-stage, and while kids might need help, they absolutely love the satisfaction of doing them at this age! Large as Life creates trivia puzzles in the shape of the animals they feature. This Red Panda measures 3 feet across and features a furry creature that my kids fell in love with!

Each piece has a trivia fact on the back, and some of the pieces are special shapes just to make things more fun.

And to simplify things for younger kids, it comes with a diagram that color codes the puzzle into sections so that it can be worked on bit by bit. It’s a fabulous entry level into real puzzles, and is perfect for kids who love animals – and learning random facts about them!

Clixo

Clixo is an all-around favorite toy in our house, and A is just starting to love playing with it! They are flexible (origami-inspired) sturdy plastic pieces that connect together with magents on the rounded ends.

Because f the added element of flexibility, kids can create in new ways. And the connected ends can turn, making a fun and satisfying clicking sounds.

Ty Beanie Bouncers

Ready for a touch of nostalgia? We all grew up with Ty Beanie Babies – but not Beanie Bouncers!

These plush balls bounce surprisingly high and come in… well, everything! There are Beanie characters, with their own birthdays, and there are loads of favorite licenses. Harry Potter, Marvel, Baby Shark, Stitch, Bluey…

Choose their favorite character, decide on your budget, and choose accordingly! Fill a basket as a bundled gift or gift them in singles or doubles. A loves the purple cow (Daisy) and Bluey Beanie Bouncers best.

Clickeez Modular Keyboard Fidgets

I have a troubled relationship with collectibles: on the one hand, I love the idea of small prizes and gifts I can give them, but on the other, I don’t like when the entire play value is collecting. So collectibles with added play value are my favorite!

Clickeez are a brilliant fidget concept. Kids love clacking on keyboards, and these are like the old-school SUPER clackey kind. They are modular and can connect in different ways, and multiple sets can be connected.

Best books for a 5 year old girl

They say you can never have too many books… and while I’m starting to learn that there may be a point where you CAN have too many, that number is very high. These book picks (and book-ish gifts) are super fun gifts for a 5 year old girl who has everything!

Booksy

These small little characters contain a surprise inside: a mini book with an actual story inside! A loves her little Frozen Booksy and keeps asking for more!

This is another one of those fun collectible-type gifts that have a real purpose beyond collecting. They have loads of licenses so you can get the one that your little one loves.

3 Minute and 5 Minute Character Stories

A received Daniel Tiger’s 3-Minute Bedtime stories and Disney 5-minute stories as gifts and she has spent so many hours immersed in it! I have no idea if these are from the same publisher or not, but you can definitely look up the recipient’s favorite character – there are many of these.

I’m Sorry You Got Mad

Yes, this book is as passive aggressive as it sounds! It’s about learning how to apologize properly, taking an “I’m sorry you got mad” apology and turning it into a genuine one .The drawings are vivid and the message is clear.

What Kind of Shoes Does a Hippopotamus Choose?

I met Kat Maconie, the author of this book at an event. Her bold shoes are iconic, and this book features loads and loads of them. It’s the kind of book that adults will enjoy as well – as they’ll discover new details in the pictures each time. It’s fun and humorous and my kids love it.

Got any more ideas for gifts for a 5 year old who has everything? Comment below!

The post Gifts for a 5 Year old Girl who has Everything appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

Looking for some top gifts to get a 9 year old boy for his birthday or for the holidays? These gift ideas for nine year olds are fun and fabulous – and definitely a step up from the best birthday gifts for 8 year old boys! This post contains affiliate links and compensated products.

As kids get older, it can get tougher to purchase gifts for them. Today, I’m sharing some of our top gifts to get a 9 year old boy, tried and tested by my very own, M. This post was originally published in 2022, and is being updated in 2025 with toys and gifts that Y tested. Since they have different personalities, I am able to offer even more good ideas.

I also share some insight into what’s a good gift for a 9 year old boy.

Now, I need to address the elephant in the room: the boy bit. As I mom, I believe in giving my children all sorts of experiences. And as the mother of a boy who loves to craft, I can definitely relate to the struggle of having a child who likes things outside of stereotypical norms.

I label my gift guides “for boys” or “for girls” for one very honest reason: it’s how my posts have a shot of ranking on Google. I’m not in the big leagues. I’m just a mom sharing ideas. And when you’re a smaller website, you need to be as specific in your posts as possible.

So since it’s my boy testing it, I’m labeling this gift guide as one for boys.

However, many of these ideas are fabulous for girls as well! It’s based primarily on M and Y’s interests and capabilities. So if you happen to be the parent or grandparent of a girl who would love these, I hope you enjoy the ideas as well.

Finally, these make fabulous birthday gifts and year round ideas for gifts to get a 9 year old boy. I purposely keep things non-seasonal and open for year-round use, to make this a fabulous 9 year old birthday boy gift guide as well.

Enjoy!

What’s a good gift for a 9 year old boy?

When looking for gifts to get a 9 year old boy, you’re at a huge advantage if you know the things he loves. Does he have a favorite character? Is he STEM-inclined? Is he creative or artistic? Is he more the active type?

Note: none of these gifts are sports related because M does not enjoy playing sports. However, for a child who is interested in sports, new equipment can be a fabulous gift.

Gadgets are ALWAYS a win with gifts to get a 9 year old boy. Always. I mean, which 9 year old doesn’t love something that does something? Have you ever given a child a toy and had them ask “but what does it DO?” They don’t necessarily do. They want the TOY to do.

This is the age to go back to exploring non-toy gift options as well. You don’t get adults toys, and as kids get older, they start to appreciate non-toy items as well – as long as it’s within their interest range.

Hobby Gifts for 9 Year Old Boys

Hobbies are a great place to start with gift giving in general – and 9 year old boys are no different!

If you have a 9 year old who loves creating – whether it’s crafting, art, or just putting things together, these top picks will be winning gifts! Y is my creative guy and so many craft kits seem so girl-targeted. We’re always excited when we find something more neutral or that directly suits their interests!

And even if their hobby isn’t creative (think sports) it’s the perfect place to start with gift giving!

3Doodler Start+ Essentials 3D Pen Set for Kids

We are such big fans of 3Doodler and my kids are thrilled about the Start+ pen for kids! How epic is it that kids can use this 3D printing pen safely?

A 3D pen is kind of like a 3D printer but the “hand-drawn” version of it. You’re melting filament to create 3 dimensional objects that can be connected to each other with more filament.

The pen doesn’t get hot at all on the outside and comes with a template sheet. Kids can make all sorts of cool creations, including the dog cord wrap pictured below.

Marvel™ Superheroes Diamond Painting Stickers

Diamond painting is a mesmerizing hobby and when my kids saw this Marvel sticker set, they were hooked! They loved watching me do my diamond painting, but were a bit intimidated by it. These stickers are small and make a functional end project.

The kit comes with everything kids need to make 15 superhero stickers – including the rhinestones, the applicator tools, putty, a gem sorting tray…

And there’s even enough to share with a sibling. My kids are making these to decorate their binders and folders for school. You can save 20% off your first purchase with Diamond Art Club® – use the discount code MOMS20.

Stomp Rocket Stomp N Pitch Baseball Pitching Machine for Kids 

For the kid whose hobby is sports, this super cool low tech baseball pitching machine is the baseball equivalent to shooting hoops in the driveway! It comes with plastic balls and bat – keeping it totally safe- and a stomp and pitch device. Just stomp on the button and it winds up, giving your kid a moment or two to get ready and then pops up a ball.

Y has been loving the ability to practice his hitting without having to wait on someone to help him with it. It’s been getting him outdoors, and has been a winner for us.

Geomag Mechanics Challenge Strike

For the kid whose hobby is STEM and making things that work, Geomag is a win! It’s the type of toy that you can constantly expand on! M loves building their “machines”.

These low tech cause-and-effect builds are made from plastic interlocking components, magnetic connectors, and metal (not magnetic) balls.

In the smaller Mechanics Challenge Goal set, you build a magnetic cannon and a goal. It’s not just about building it – it’s fun to play with when you’re done too!

This game is a fabulous way to teach about the forces that you don’t see – but you see the affects of: magnetism and gravity. But, again, the kids don’t need to know you’re teaching!

Game Gifts for a 9 Year Old Boy

Games are the perfect gifts to get a 9 year old boy. They are at an age where social skills are already quite strong but can still use some help, and the cooperation needed for game play is a great way to develop them. And even single player puzzle games help build patience, math, and computing skills.

Qwirkle Board Game

Quirkle feels like a mashup of dominoes and Rummikub and is a really easy to learn game. Each player starts with some tiles on their display. Players place tiles in the center to connect to the existing rows/setup.

The more matches in a row you get, the more points you score.

Points are tallied on a 1-100 score board, with each player’s game piece moving up a number as they score. The first to reach 100 wins.

Quirkle follows easy and familiar concepts, with logical rules that kids can pick up easily. While not super fast, the game play is quick enough to retain their attention and it’s a game that feels like a classic but is totally fresh!

Dōteki – Tabletop Battles

If you’re looking for a game that is truly innovative and unique – and not a typical board game – TOMY has your back with their new game Dōteki. This battle system feels like it’s part pinball, part table hockey, with a video-game inspired twist, and lots of fun.

The goal is to hit the target behind your opponents flippers. When you hit it, the health key moves over a notch and the player loses a life. When all lives are lost, the health key ejects and releases the band and that player’s Dōteki character falls.

We got to try out the Dōteki Battle Training Pack and Multiplayer Battle Pack and it has everything a 9 year old loves in a toy! It’s got trading cards, a little healthy (but doable) competition, and even some simple setup that’s right up Y’s alley – and part of the fun!

The system is modular. All the battle systems are compatible and expand to fit more players, making it super fun for Y who is very social! It features suction cups (play on a good, smooth surface) and a controller with flippers for each player that you use to hit the ion balls at your opponent’s target. The game play is familiar but fresh, and features lots of active fun.

The Trainer packs make great add-ons, definitely start with a multiplayer pack at least – and expand your set with the trainer packs, or add them later as additional gifts.

Disco Island Escape Board Game

Hootenanny games tend to be quirky with fun themes – and totally unique, and Disco Island Escape is no different. Lemurs need to boogie to safety to escape the volcano on Disco Island. My boys love to boogie and this game got them going!

Each player has four lemurs, and needs to move them from the center of the board to the corner, using the lava streams. Moves are played by matching the symbols on one of the players cards to the symbols on the lava streams.

But of course, it’s not just about matching – you’re color mixing too! Secondary colors can be played by combining the colors that make that one (for example, yellow and blue play green). But there are twists! Boogie to safety if you score that card – meaning, your lemur gets to exit the stream. Displace another lemur to send them right back to Disco Ball Mountain. Then flip it over to the “groovy” color side, and they can now move through two consecutive streams with a single card.

The game play rules are that you need to get three of your lemurs to safety – but you can modify! Make game play faster or do practice rounds with one or two lemurs. Add to the challenge by requiring all lemurs to escape.

This is such a fun game for 9 year old boys who love anything disco or dance themed, and is really easy to learn and play. And it’s a fabulous game for those who already have a big stash of games and need something totally unique!

Hootenanny Early Bird

For kids that like really quick, rapid games that include a little physical activity, Early Bird is a new release from Hootenanny that includes it all! It comes with a squishy worm and a deck of cards.

The goal is to be the first to empty your hand of “bird food” cards to win that round. Numbers are placed sequentially on a pile, or match the card to reverse the play direction.

To play a challenge card, you need to shout the name and then race to complete the action: flap wings to move playing positions, make a bird house by leaning two cards against each other, etc. The best challenge card is the worm card. When played, the player throws it across the room and other players need to race to find it.

The rounds go really fast and while the official game is five rounds, once again, you can play fewer or more to increase or decrease game length.

Early Bird is a fabulous game for kids with a shorter attention span or who need to move a little, or for larger groups (up to six players).

Smart Games IQ Stixx and IQ Six Pro

Two brothers close in age does not mean that they coordinate their game play! That’s why we love Smart Games solo puzzle games. Not only do they work the brain, but no collaboration is required. And yes, while we love when they get along, they do sometimes need personal space!

They’re travel-friendly and fun through adulthood.

Smart Games IQ Stixx features sticks with grooves in very specific locations. The booklet features 120 different starting layouts and you need to figure out how to place the rest of the sticks so that they fit.

IQ Six Pro follows the same pattern, with 2D and 3D challenges. You need to either place all the pieces to fill the slots, or build a pyramid.

Gadget Gifts for a 9 Year Old Boy

Which little guy doesn’t love a good gadget? My experience with gifts for 9 year old boys is… “what does it do?” Yes, that is a typical question they ask. They expect their toys to DO stuff. If you’re going for that angle, here are some favorite electronic toys and gadgets that are fabulous for this age group.

Silverlit ROBO DASH D Interactive Robotic Puppy

Y still loves RCs at 9, but we’re getting past the point of a plain old remote control car really nailing it. But this robotic dog is insanely cute, elicits lots of laughs, and is totally innovative!

Forget that slinky-inspired body – that on its own won Y over. But the coolest part of this toy is the sensor. If you toss the ball past it, it’ll actually follow it! And yes, the ball is the remote too – very ergonomic and easy to use.

But ROBO DASH D goes beyond remote control – it’s got gesture controls too! It wags and chases its tail, fetches, walks, avoids obstacles, and more!

Since the dog will follow the ball, you can simply walk and the dog will follow – no need to use the remote for every movement.

Tamagotchi R2D2

Welcome back to your childhood – but an epic version of it! If you’re faced with a gadget-loving Star Wars fan, the R2-D2 Tamagotchi is the perfect under 20 gift choice! It’s pretty much the “keep your pet alive” toy we grew up on, only you need to keep R2-D2 clean and charged, of course. He’s a robot, he doesn’t eat!

It features 19 skills to learn and seven mini games to play. The key chain goes right on your kid’s back pack and it’s the perfect little travel toy for your 9 year old.

Thames & Kosmos Code + Control Robo Dozr

If you’re looking for gifts to get a 9 year old who loves to take things apart – and build new things, Thames & Kosmos makes the best STEM robotic kits! We have loved them for years, and M is a master at assembling them.

He enjoyed the Code + Control Robo Dozr – it’s one of his favorites to date. Assembly was very straightforward. He was able to do it on his own, only asking me to hold things a couple of times when he needed an extra set of hands. This is a very involved building kit, and the assembly is a major part of the play value.

The manual is kid-friendly and easy for M to follow along in We also love the additional education

However, it doesn’t end there. When you’re done building, you’re left with a really cool programmable RC car! And it’s all on the control – no device needed for this one.

You can either use it as you would a traditional RC, or code it with sequences. The Robo Dozr features, lights, sounds, and everything your nine year old loves in a new toy!

Osmo Coding Starter Kit

If you’re not yet an Osmo family, you’ll want to put that emphasis on the yet.

Kids will want their screen time – it’s one of the inevitable facts of life. But there are so many opportunities for learning with devices. One of my favorites is the Osmo system. You get a tablet stand and reflective piece that positions your device and angles your camera just so that it can read what’s on the table in front of the device. The app interacts with and “understands” the pieces it reads through the camera.

That way your child doesn’t need to have their nose in their tablet the whole time. They can do, manipulate, and interact in a more authentic manner. And the kids think it’s the coolest thing!

Each kit’s pieces comes neatly packed in its own storage case.

The Osmo Coding Starter Kit (starter because it comes with the basic stand/camera reflector) features coding tiles that your child can use to give cues within the game. Three compatible apps (which don’t cost extra) are at three different levels, extending the play.

It’s fabulous for the child who hasn’t started with coding yet and wants to know how his – or her -gadgets work! This is one of my favorite gifts to get a 9 year old boy!

Nickelodeon Kart Racers 3: Slime Speedway

If you’ve got a 9 year old who has everything, why not get something to go with one of his favorite gadgets?

One of the hot games this holiday season, Nickelodeon Kart Racers 3 allows your child to race their favorite characters in an action packed game. It features Nickelodeon shows such as SpongeBob SquarePants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Avatar: The Last Airbender and more. Play with up to four players locally or twelve online.

Non-toy Gifts to get a 9 year old boy

At this stage, non-toy gifts can actually be pretty darn cool. You just need to know what the kid likes. Here are some non toy gifts to get a 9 year old boy that are totally cool.

Timex Camo Watch

Which little guy doesn’t feel incredibly smart with a timepiece on their wrist? We love Timex watches for a good, budget-friendly but decent quality watch for kids.

A poster or bedroom wall art

Let them personalize their bedrooms to their interests! Some thought starters: favorite games, movies, athletes… or just opt for something motivational or artsy!

Books

As kids get older, we tend to lean into gifting books as gifts more. I started picking up copies of Calvin & Hobbes for friends’ birthdays and requesting Garfield from grandparents who ask what to buy. Kids can read these again and again, they FEEL like a toy-type gift, and they’re not very clutter-creating.

Some ideas:

• Newer graphic novels, such as Dav Pilkey’s Dog Man series, Investigators, Hi-lo
• Older comics such as Calvin & Hobbes and Garfield
• Interest-based books, such as Minecraft or Pokemon guides, STEM activities, animal fact books.
• Classic boxed gift sets of whole series, such as Harry Potter.

What are your favorite gifts to get a 9 year old boy? Comment below!

The post Top Gifts to get a 9 Year Old Boy appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

This list of preschool must-haves include some favorite picks for teachers and parents from a four-time mother! When you’re done, check out my favorite travel activities for toddlers too. This post contains affiliate links and gifted product.

There’s something magical about preschool, from both the parents’ and teacher’s perspectives. For teachers, they are guiding the youngest students, and watching them go from toddlers to first graders.

And parents are sending off their little babies for new learning experiences.

This year, A is starting her first year in a big school’s preschool. While she was in a preschool program last year for Pre-K, she is repeating in the large school we plan to send her to. And Baby Jay – yes, my tiny baby – is starting in a nursery program for 2-year-olds. It’s not quite preschool, but it’s more structured than day care.

To celebrate this unique milestone, I decided to create this list of preschool must-haves for both teachers and parents, to share with you some fun ways to make the school year go smoother! Most of the teacher ideas are great for parents too – I just decided to group those together as specifically for teachers, to make the skim easier for teachers looking too!

Preschool Must-Haves for Teachers

If you’re a parent and looking for a great gift for teachers, these ideas are fabulous. They are also great finds for your own home for the new school year.

If you’re a teacher, these must-haves will help the transition to the new school year go smoother.

The Self-Regulation Workbook for 3- to 5-year-olds

When it comes to big emotions, preschoolers are masters at… not quite mastering them! The Self-Regulation Workbook for 3- to 5-year-olds is unique in that it combines information and actionable activities for kids. It addresses both teachers and parents – and anyone in a child’s “village”.

I’ve found loads of activities to try with A to help with those meltdowns and challenging moments. Especially when big changes come around, these big emotions can get hard to handle without the right tools. It’s a win, and a must-have for preschool teachers and parents!

Craftzilla Colored Masking Tape

Colored masking tape is a power tool in a preschool classroom for a few reasons! First of all, I personally like using it as a craft supply with my kids for building fine motor skills. The kids love playing with tape, and they can create all sorts of fun collages and crafts with it.

Craftzilla’s 11-pack of colored masking tape is also a super cool organization tool – perfect for color coding! Assign kids a certain color, use them to label days of the week, or subjects. It’s got all the functionality of masking tape, plus color!

You can grab a stack of tapes on its own, or check out their craft supply kit, that comes with preschool-friendly spring scissors, as well as a stack of colored paper.

Surebonder Mini Cordless Hot Glue Gun

A hot glue gun can be a preschool classroom power tool, but I love Surebonder’s mini cordless version. You can plug it in far away from kids, take to the spot it’s needed (for example, your bulletin board), put back out of reach of the kids between uses.

It comes with a stand with a built-in drip pad and has a fine nozzle that’s fabulous for detail work.

Chunkies Paint Sticks

If you haven’t yet heard of paint sticks, I am more than pleased to make the introduction! These solidified tempera pain “glue sticks” are spot-on for everyday applications and any time you need to color. I like to use them for quick-drying party crafting but they’re perfect for keeping things neater in the classroom too!

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They have thick, solid coverage (like paint) and work on materials like canvas, wood, posterboard, and more. And yes, brand matters! While off-brands are okay for some materials, with paint sticks, the wrong brand can be too soft or degrade with time (and I’ve even had some mold). Chunkies has stood the test of time – a pack lasts me (at home) for years.

Elmer’s Color ‘n Glitz Glue Sticks

Elmer’s took the “disappearing purple” glue stick concept to the next level with their Color ‘n Glitz glue sticks – that dry clear!

Preschool Must-Haves for Parents & Kids

Here are a few favorite picks for those preschool must-haves that are on your list!

Stonz Cruisers

When you have a little one with chubby feat, it can be hard to find the right shoes (we’ve gone through so many with J.) Stonz Cruisers are so easy to get on and off. It’s got a hook and loop strap that opens wide to reveal a tongue that peels far back, so that chunky feet can get right in! They are breathable, vegan, and non-toxic, making them perfect for those little feet.

The strap style means that they can be closed looser or tighter, depending on how narrow the foot is. And many preschoolers will even be able to take them on and off on their own!

It’s roomy and flexible, perfect for those kids who are still mastering the correct gait, as many preschoolers still are. We found them to be easy for kids to play and move around in – a must for preschoolers!

DIY Marky

When it comes to preschool, labeling EVERYTHING is a must. Kids often forget which things are theirs (especially early in the year when it’s all new) and preschoolers just don’t have the executive functioning skills to keep track of it all.

After wasting a fortune on custom name labels for camp, we discovered DIY Marky – the preschool must-have labeling solution! With four kids in the family, this is the perfect labeling solution for everyone, not just the preschoolers. In the package, you get a self-inking stamper (yes, the ink pad is replaceable) that is blank. It has three sets of ridges for applying the included rubber character inserts.

Simply arrange the first and/or last name, and even phone number on the rows and stamp! Replace the top line with the first name for each sibling.

The stamper works on multiple materials and yes, you can stamp directly onto lighter fabrics and loads of school supplies! The kit comes with dishwasher safe labels for those lunchboxes and water bottles, as well as iron-on ribbon to stamp for darker fabric labels. This is truly an all-in-one affordable solution that is so easy to use for labeling everything!

Reading Eggs

When it came to grade placement for A, we faced a huge dilemma. Her birthday is close to the deadline, and she’s a smart and sassy little girl, who is TOTALLY ready to learn how to read. So do we keep her back in pre-K (which is more in line with the school deadline) or move her up to Kindergarten?

We decided to hold her back for social emotional purposes – but figured, why not let her learn how to read too? Reading eggs provides the perfect structure for that, with games, sight words and more. It takes kids through learning from A to Z literally!

After completing each letter in the app, you get access to printable worksheets to expand their knowledge, and allow them to practice the letter structure in a more real-life environment.

They also have fun workbooks that are perfect for at-home support for kids who need more, or who want supplemental learning to what they’re doing in school. These can be done with the app but are also so helpful on their own!

Preschool Must-Haves for Packing Lunches

Lunches are truly a challenge for me and so if I encounter a solution I’m going to share it! This year I’ll be packing a grand total of FOUR lunches daily, and two of them are for preschoolers. Here are my top preschool must-haves for packing those lunch boxes!

GoodCook EveryWare Meal Prep Containers

Designed with lunches in mind, these meal prep containers are lightweight and can be reused multiple times – perfect for toddler lunches! The set comes with two each of: larger Bento-style boxes with pretty deep compartment, AND an insert that goes over one side for additional munchies, sandwich containers, two-section snack containers and dip/condiment containers.

They stack and store well – both full, in the fridge, and empty in the cabinet.

I find these types of containers to be perfect for preschoolers, as they are lighter weight than your typical bento box. Giving young kids options allows them to choose and hopefully eat something nutritious at some point during the day!

I love pairing a sandwich container with the two-section snack containers for younger preschoolers. I give them a sandwich, some cut fruit or berries, and a vegetable. These containers allow me to match the container to the meal plan, with loads of options.

Comotomo Toddler Tumbler

Our younger preschoolers are basically still toddlers – and having an easy drink is a must! The Comotomo toddler tumbler transitions from sippy spout to straw for a smooth switch. It’s like a double-wall vacuum insulated Mommy tumbler but in mini!

The bottle seals so that the handles are correctly positioned, it has an easy-to-open button that’s perfect for young preschoolers, and an easy carry ring.

The 8 oz capacity is ideal for a day at preschool: we don’t want them drinking so much that they don’t eat, or lugging heavy bottles, and preschool teachers tend to refill bottles as needed.

SunButter & SunButter Jammies

Most schools are nut free, and forgive me for saying this, but it’s a good thing! I have one child who is seriously allergic to nuts, and the anxiety we feel for our kids’ safety – especially in preschool when they can’t advocate for themselves yet – is unimaginable.

But what about those kids who NEED their PB&J for lunch? SunButter makes the fix: totally nut and top 9 allergen-free sunflower seed butter that’s rich in protein and made in an allergy-safe environment!

Our favorite is the creamy version and my kids ask for it daily for lunch!

They now have a pre-made crust-free sunflower seed and jelly sandwich that gets stored in the freezer and makes lunch-packing so much easier! The sandwich is the perfect size for little kids and packs 7 grams of protein per serving. They come in both strawberry and grape flavor and yes, they’re even Kosher!

Arctic Zone Lunch Box Cooler

Keeping my kids’ food fresh all day is important, and since we love sending healthy snacks along with lunch, insulation is important! Arctic Zone are pros at making coolers, and so their new kid-friendly cooler lunch boxes are a win! They come with a bonus sandwich box and an ice pack, and have loads of space for lunch, snacks, and an extra drink.

They have a few styles, but this bucket-style is perfect for preschool. They tend to not have much else in their backpack at this age, so it can fit, and it allows them to have all their food consolidated in one spot. Parents can separate things into two sections for lunch (in the zippered top, for example), and snacks so that little ones know what to eat when!

Got any preschool must-haves to add to the list? Comment below!

The post Preschool Must-Haves for Kids, Parents, and Teachers! appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

This Gladly Family wagon review will share you all you need to know about the Anthem 2 and Anthem 4 stroller wagon series. When you’re done, check out my best baby sprinkle gift ideas too! This post contains affiliate links.

Every time I walk through the streets using our Gladly stroller wagon, people always ask me about it. “Is it really good? Can you wheel it on beach sand? Is it easy to push?”

I decided it’s about time I write up an in-depth Gladly Family wagon review, featuring the Anthem 2. Most of what I’ll write applies to the Anthem 4 as well.

Just so you know: I’ve been using this already for close to two years, so I’ve got a good, thorough take on all the pros, cons, and using it with a newborn, 1 year old, 2 year old, 3 year old, AND 4 year old (between two kids).

I’ll over the good, the not-so-good, who it’s best for, what you need to know BEFORE buying, and more

Please note: I did receive a sample for inclusion in a post almost two years ago, so while I did not purchase this myself, I am well past my relationship working with this company, and creating this review of my own accord. I am going to be 100% honest here.

I AM an affiliate and yes, I earn a commission if you purchase through my link. If you find this review helpful and DO decide to purchase this, I ask that you please do so by clicking through my link – it’s how I am able to create honest reviews without requiring compensation from the brand and turning it into a straight up ad.

Gladly Family Wagon Review – Overview

In a nutshell

The Gladly Family stroller wagon is a feature-rich, all-terrain stroller wagon. It’s a convertible pull or push wagon, with options for 2 seater or 4 seater styles.

Gladly Family includes some accessories and comes in many different colors.

Technical Details

• Dimensions open:  41″ L x 25.5″ W x 21.5″ H
• Dimensions closed: 41″ L x 25″ W x 16″ H
• Handle Height: 42.5″ 
• Price point (note – this is a range, prices constantly change): $450-600
• Weight: 34 lbs
• Passenger seat weight limit: 50lb each
• Wagon weight limit: 150 lb (including cargo)

General features

• 5 point harness
• Double canopies
• Includes a nap mat
• Includes a removable basket
• Includes a parent cupholder and storage bin
• 2 or 4 passenger versions
• Push or pull without switching handle direction – just release it with a button.
• Add-on Accessories available: infant adapter

Answering your questions

Since I said that people always stop me with questions, I figured I’d include a section in this Gladly Family wagon review answering specifically the questions we get when out and about with it.

Is the Anthem stroller wagon easy to push?

This is always the first question we get, due to its size and bulk. And the answer is yes/no. The push is very different from regular strollers. It is insanely smooth – much better than any double stroller I’ve pushed. It takes very sharp turns because the swivel of the wheels is in back, you can do a sharp 90 degree.

HOWEVER and this is a big HOWEVER – because it navigates so differently from other strollers, there is a big learning curve. And while you’re learning, you might get a bit stuck a couple of times. Not STUCK-STUCK, just enough that you’ll be like “oops, shouldn’t have done it like that” and maneuver a bit.

But once I learned the tricks – such as when you need to turn, it’s a bit deeper into the corner than on regular strollers – it was so much easier, because it took those sharp turns better than a double stroller would.

That’s why you’ll see some people saying “it’s impossible” and some saying “it’s the best”.

Can you use the Gladly Family wagon on the beach?

This is where I need to highlight the difference between pushing and pulling with such a wagon. A large part of your advantage with a stroller wagon over a double stroller isn’t just the all-terrain feature, it’s the pull feature.

So it can go over loose sand, rocks, etc – as long as you switch to pulling! It took a bit to figure this out (and if you don’t realize that you just need to pull it it can be frustrating) but once you do – game changer!

The same goes for bumpy spaces that don’t have good paths. We took it through Lancaster farms, zoos, rocky paths, etc. And again – game changer to be able to have a stroller go through this, especially on trips that are hard for older toddlers and preschoolers to walk.

However, since you can’t tilt it up like you would a stroller, it’s not well-suited to city curbs.

How does the Gladly Family Anthem fit in the car?

We have a minivan, and while it can fold down enough to fit in the trunk, it’ll take the whole trunk. That makes it impractical for everyday use (considering we fill the car up for carpools).

We usually put down a seat or two from the back row when taking it on trips.

Does it replace a double stroller?

It depends! For a four year old it will, because in most quick scenarios they’ll walk, and for “bigger trips” we’re happy to make the extra effort to take the wagon.

I actually keep a stroller with a sit/stand bench in the car for quick shopping trips. For neighborhood walks, at first I used an umbrella double when I just wanted something quick and in the winter. Now, we use the Gladly Family stroller wagon exclusively as our double stroller that we keep in the house.

Keep in mind that for infants, you do need an infant seat adapter, so it’s bulkier. Once the kid outgrows that and can sit, it’s definitely similar in size to more full-sized double strollers.

My personal Gladly Family wagon review

We’ve been using this wagon for a few years now, and we find it to be a game-changer in some situations, and not so practical in others. The kids absolutely love it.

We use it mainly on walks to the local park, walking-intensive family outings (think: amusement parks, zoos, etc), and now that our preschooler is a little bigger, we use it when she needs a double stroller, such as longer family walks. On trips, we can almost live out of it, making it so convenient to have.

I’ve used it on exercise walks as well, as I found it easier to push than my double strollers. While it’s a bit bulky to be a real stand-in for a double stroller, and would definitely supplement that, it’s definitely enough to allow you to get a cheaper travel-friendly double stroller.

We use it mainly seasonally, storing it away for the winter, and leaving it in a corner of our living room, quite annoyingly, throughout Spring, Summer, and fall.

The wagon has a weird feature. When pushing, you have the back wheels swiveling instead of the front wheels. I do think that this helps the pull feature be really good, however, this does make for some wide turns on city streets.

I didn’t know if I should put this into the “pros” section or the “cons” because sometimes I love this feature and sometimes it’s a bit of a pain, but now on to my pros/cons breakdown.

Pros: What I love about it

There are so many situations where I can’t imagine being without the Anthem2 stroller wagon.

For example, last year, Baby J was a year old, not walking, and we liked to spend our Saturday afternoons at the local park. But he’d get antsy sitting in the stroller. We’d open the nap mat in the wagon and let him play in there. It worked amazingly.

He’s also a redhead, and sun-sensitive, so the huge canopies are a major deal.

And then let’s take the beach. You can actually wheel it there! And kids who need a break from the sun and play can really break in it.

I love that the kids love being in it.

I love the ample storage.

I find it so much easier to lug and access piles of water bottles on summer trips, snacks, and more. I hang things from the handle and it doesn’t tip (but it does impact pulling).

It’s SO easy and seamless to switch from push to pull, and I get through tight corners once I learned how to navigate the 90 degree turns. It is quite easy to fold. It comes with the basic accessories, making it an all-in-one for a fair price, much cheaper than a comparable quality double stroller would be.

Their infant seat adaptor is also really easy to use, and it’s universal, fitting many brands with one easy piece. I purchased this part myself and it was a game-changer, allowing me to use it with Baby J from the newborn stage.

Cons: What I don’t love

It’s huge. I really wish it would fit more easily in the car – and that I can handle it myself – and fold smaller. While it’s smooth enough to bump down my front steps (without kids inside), I wish I could just carry it down.

I’m not really sure if I should include that weird wheel setup as a con, as I found that it makes it easier to wheel around tight city corners, but I know that for some buyers it can be a downside. It does prevent you from really being able to “tilt it up” a curb, however, you can flip around and pull it up.

Overview and Summary of my Gladly Family Wagon Review

My outtakes

While the Gladly Family wagon didn’t fully replace a double stroller at the infant/toddler stage, it was much better than one in some circumstances. It also DID replace our double stroller at the toddler/preschool stage.

I have been using it regularly for multiple years, storing it open in the corner of my living room throughout the warmer weather. My kids love it, I enjoy using it mainly for outings, longer exercise walks but not quick “run to the neighbors” or shopping trips with kids. It’s a “lug everything” while out and about and a game-changer for family trips.

In addition to the Gladly Family wagon, I used a travel umbrella double stroller only for the quick run to the neighbor type walks, and used (and still do) an inexpensive regular stroller with a toddler sit/stand bench built in for shopping.

It IS the ideal solution for us for family outings where we do lots of walking, and for longer walks, such as day camp pickups all over the neighborhood.

I learned how to navigate with it after a walk or two, and when I need to switch to pulling from pushing, mainly in bumpier/rougher ground. Usually it’s easy, but when city sidewalks are very cracked, I sometimes need to manipulate a bit.

Who it’s best for

The most important part of this Gladly Family wagon review: is this really the right choice for you.

I think that for families who need a real double stroller solution for very short term or in very specific circumstances like larger family trips, it’s perfect. It’s perfect for amusement parks, the zoo, beaches, longer/larger park trips, corn mazes, apple picking… I mean, it made the whole trip more pleasant for the family. So if you do a lot of this, you’ll swear by it.

If you have a larger family that might need it too – specifically multiple kids at the preschool and toddler stage, it’s fabulous, especially if you need a four seater (which, by the way, will be slightly larger and heavier than the two seater that I’m reviewing).

If you just want it instead of a double stroller, it’s probably not for you.

If you have an attached garage that you can just wheel it out of, it will actually be a much better choice for you (I need to carry it up and down steps each time).

In a nutshell: the Gladly Family anthem wagons are fabulous, more affordable than some competitors, and really durable. They are a great solution for an on-the-go lifestyle but won’t fully replace a double stroller for the infant stage, especially for city families.

Did you find this Gladly Family wagon review helpful? Got any questions to add or feedback of your own? Comment below!

The post Gladly Family Wagon Review – Anthem Stroller Wagon appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

If you’re looking for the best birthday gifts for four year olds, I have you covered! You can also check out our guide for best birthday gifts for a 3 year old girl for more ideas that’ll work too. This post contains affiliate links and gifted product.

We are here with the best birthday gifts for four year olds – a magical age that is full of charm. It’s an age where kids have already started to value what their birthday means to them. Four year olds can be strong-minded and know what they like, but that just makes it an even more exciting age to purchase for. Their faces light up when they see their favorite character, something cozy, or that toy they had their eyes on…

I have shared in the past specifically gifts for four year old boys, and you can find loads of more ideas for girls and boys there. This post is focused on A, my princess-in-training, who is a total diva, and likes sparkles and unicorns. Lots of these gifts are universal, unisex gifts, (as are the ones in the “boy” guide, so definitely look through both to find something cool!) In fact, you might want to check out all of my gift guides – they are full of unique but practical ideas for gifting!

Tips for Finding the Best Birthday Gifts for Four Year Olds

In addition to actual ideas, I always like to share my tips for finding fabulous gifts on your own – whether it’s figuring out which items form the list are best for your loved one, or choosing from scratch.

Today, I’m sharing ideas for how to find the best birthday gifts for four year olds:

1. What are their favorite shows and movie characters? One of A’s favorite fourth birthday gifts was a t-shirt with Daniel Tiger on it. They don’t need much if it features their favorite show!
2. Themes can hold the same weight! Whether they’re obsessed with monster trucks or unicorns, zoom in on that to find your gifts.
3. At four, kids can already develop hobbies. A can sit at the table for hours and craft. She is also a sensory seeker. Is the kid a reader? A builder? A climber?

16+ of the Best Birthday Gifts for Four Year Olds

Non-Toy Gifts

At four, kids can still love non-toy gifts, but you’ll want to have a “hook”. That is, you’ll want some point of appeal to make it giftable – does it have a favorite character? Is it super cozy? Does it have lights and music?

Bellabu Bear Bamboo Pajamas

If you haven’t yet hopped onto the bamboo pajamas wagon, you need to. I have never seen A as excited to get into pajamas as she was when she first tried Bellabu Bear’s bamboo PJ’s!

This one has two points of appeal for our four year old princess: it’s incredibly cozy. And it has on it Unicorn!

Bellabu Bear has loads more designs, so you’ll probably find something that your little one will love. And it’s cozy but cool and breathable, perfect for all-season wear. It has loads of stretch and I find that these soft, bamboo pajamas last for much more growth-mileage because of that.

Jack N’ Jill Kids Buzzy Brush Electric Musical Toothbrush

A is just transitioning to brushing her own teeth, and Jack N’ Jill makes the perfect brush for that! The Buzzy Brush not only has lights and sounds to make brushing super fun, but it also talks out instructions and times your kid’s brushing! It’s super soft, and cleans the teeth well thanks to a soft spinning head.

It tells your child when to move to the correct “zone”. With a bit of parental supervision, we’re finding that this is a super cool way to train her. And the inclusion of stickers that she got to stick on herself just makes it that much more giftable.

OOLY Cat Parade Watercolor Gel Crayons

No, I do NOT consider art supplies to be toys – they are too important! These Cat Parade gel crayons from OOLY are perfect for four year olds for a few reasons: They are super smooth and blendable. They blend even more if you add some water, working as a neater watercolor (and A is obsessed with watercolors!)

And our favorite part is the little cat cover!

These are really easy for preschoolers to use and have all that preschool appeal. They are the perfect stage for the four year old who is ready to take their art to the next level.

Untamed Post – Curated Crates

Untamed Post is a gift basket (or crate) curation small business that does an absolutely incredible job customizing boxes for your kids’ style! While you can build your own crate too, a must for those who are choosier, the curated crates are spot on.

Let’s take a look at what A received. My request was “a 4 year old girl, favorite colors: dark purple and bright pink, special interests: arts & crafts, jewelry and bling, dress-up. Inside: a pink sparkly headband, furry fidget friends with dark purple, magnetic stick figure fidget (with pink), nail polish with stickers (including bright pink), a bracelet-making kit (with pink and purple), Highlights My First Hidden Pictures (with dark purple), and socks with bight pink and dark purple. It is 100% spot-on in capturing her personality and interests.

Each box covers a few categories, most of them non-toy, with a few toy categories thrown in. It’s creative, cool, and feels totally custom. The assembly of the crate itself is professional and came out of the shipping box fully intact and ready to gift.

And yes, they curate the absolute cutest stockings too!

The Kids’ Book of Craft Love

The Kids Book of Craft Love is not really a book. It’s an all-in-one paper craft kit, that includes both instructions and LOADS of crafts (in fact, the book advertises 75+ projects in total).

These are paper crafts that use minimal other materials, and include pull-out pages to craft them. For example, the Kaleidoscope craft has reflective pages and colorful pages, as well as color-in mandalas. There are puppets, calendars, mini zines, origami and more.

This book is graded slightly over age four, so it’s better as a holiday gift for an older four, or a birthday gift if you’d like it to grow with the recipient. I’m a big fan of gifts kids can grow into, which is why I love this so much as a gift for four year olds.

Tinted Lip Balms

A loves watching me put on makeup – and if your four year old is the same, why not give her her own? A loves this tinted Hello Kitty lip balm that she is convinced is real makeup. Bonus: it helps keep her lips hydrated.

Pop it rainbow handbag

A received this handbag as a birthday gift from her aunt and she is obsessed. Not only is it a pop-it, but it’s also a handbag (and the rainbow design slays.)

She feels just like mom with a handbag, and the fidget angle makes it playable too (but still not a toy – wink wink).

Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet

At four, A was ready to stop borrowing her big siblings’ devices and have her own for her screen time allowances. We like the Fire Kids tablets because they are affordable and come with protective cases, protective features, and there are loads of free and educational apps to start.

Hers has a soft foam case and built-in stand. We loaded it with educational games before giving it to her, and of course, she just watches Daniel Tiger every time she’s on it. The same episode. Again and again.

Win!

Fun Toys for Learning Through Play

Every time I share non-toy gifts, I feel like I risk making it sound like toy is a bad thing. In fact, the opposite is true. Toys are an incredible tool, especially at the preschool stage, for learning and development. Kids learn best through play, and these toys are a win for that!

But it’s not just about knowledge. At this age, they are very much developing prewriting skills, gross motor skills, coordination, and more. It might not be “yay, first step” type of milestones, but it’s still important.

Blueberry & Third The Rainbow Activity Board

Blueberry & Third’s The Rainbow Activity board is a table-top toy and activity that teaches kids so much! If you’re a Montessori-minded family, this is for you. The wholesome nature of wood toys, combined with the tactile and sensory element make this a win.

Kids learn color recognition by placing colored wooden balls onto the rainbow. They can use the included tweezers or their fingers – each one has its benefits. They can place the colors “correctly” or get creative with it.

This is the type of toy that can be passed down as a timeless keepsake-quality toy. It always surprises me how long A can sit at the table and do activities like this, and this one was no exception. She was totally immersed. And she doesn’t tire of it either.

What’s Next? Special Needs Set

If you can handle a little silly (okay, rude silly) What’s Next? is the perfect game for preschoolers! It’s a life sized board-style game that’s made of connected tiles. A has big brothers and they had fun playing this game with her. Game play teaches preschoolers cooperation and how to follow instructions, as well as building social skills.

What’s Next? Special Needs edition is not just for kids with special needs. It has tiles that can be exchanged in case you need to based on your kids needs – but anyone can play. The jumbo die gets tossed and kids learn what they need to do next based on which tile they progress to. The Social Skills expansion pack that was added to the Special Needs set have prompts specific to gross motor, speech, and social skills-building needs.

This does have “fart” humor – so you need to be okay with that for it to make sense for your family.

Connetix Creative Roads

Where are my magnetic tile fans at? Connetix’s new Creative Roads set is a win that has revitalized the magnet tile play in our house!

First of all, if you don’t already own a set of Connetix, you totally need to. It’s one of those rare toys that anyone will play with at any time. I pull it out any time we have guests of different age groups because I know it’ll be a win for everyone. My own kids spend hours with it!

Connetix’s tiles specifically have a unique beveled face that not only makes for gorgeous sun-catching creations, but they are also much more fun to use due to the unique texture. They are a durable, safe, long-lasting option.

The Creative Roads set can be used on its own or with other tiles. It includes soft black tiles that feature ramps, turns, intersections, and more unique pieces for making roads. But because, unlike other “road” tiles, there are no road markings, you can also simply use them as regular tiles too. My kids have used them to make ramps in their castle creations.

If you already have a large collection of Connetix, you can simply add the road-only pieces, but I do recommend the super cool Connetix Roads Creative Pack for a more cohesive (read: gorgeous) road.

Wooden Car Ramp

We love “cause and effect” toys for four year olds, and this flippy car ramp is so cool for that! Place the car at the top of the ramp, and watch it slide to the next tier.

Keva Structures Planks

Don’t you just love it when going super simple works out so wonderfully?

Keva blocks are wooden planks that are proportional and make for the most beautiful creative builds. At four, kids are perfectly slated for this kind of open-ended play, but my big boys love playing with it too.

The pine planks are precision cut and the sides are proportional (meaning, three of one side will exactly equal the other, five width-wise will exactly make up the length) so that you can really engineer builds in a way that make sense.

The instructions start with basic skills from building with Keva planks, and from there, 200 pieces allow you to go wild! For four year olds, the goal is to building an understanding of balance and proportion, as well as fine motor skills and working carefully.

The Keva Structures package focuses on just that, and while we’re still beginners at Keva building, we look forward to building those skills.

Favorite Characters & Themes

As I mentioned, with preschoolers, all you need is a familiar or favorite character and they’re in love with whatever you buy them!

Here are some favorite gifts that build on themes and faces that kids already love – but make good gifts in their own right too!

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Sensory Bin

I’m not sure who’s a bigger fan of The Very Hungry Caterpillar, but this sensory bin is a very big win. FYI I’m very picky with sensory bins – I test rigorously to make sure that the sands don’t stain or mold, and this one made the cut.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar sensory bin gives kids the familiarity of the favorite character with all the benefits of sensory bin. It comes with a container for storage and play, as well as repositionable stickers to decorate it with.

Inside, you have a caterpillar stamper and toy, a scooper, and foam cutouts printed with your favorite The Very Hungry Caterpillar graphics. It’s fun and highly engaging, better known as “babysitter in a box.”

Paw Patrol™ My First Instant Camera

Canal Toys wins with this instant print camera. A has been begging me for a camera for ages (her older brothers have their own…) Did you know that it costs pennies to print on thermal paper?

This Paw Patrol instant print camera is perfect for your little fan. It has two cameras – a front and rare facing one – and takes video too. And no, there are no games, and trust me when I say that is a good thing.

Kids can add Paw Patrol filters to their photos and have fun printing them. It includes markers for coloring the photos or making scrapbook pages with them.

Gabby’s Dollhouse ™ Dough House

If Gabby’s Dollhouse is your little one’s dream, how about Gabby’s Dough House? Here’s the cool thing about this one: it really encourages creativity because it’s full of Easter eggs – figuratively, not literally. There are little molds that allow you to make different shapes from the three colors of included dough throughout the dollhouse.

Use the sticks to make heart balloons, frost a cupcake, or craft alls orts of different shapes using the included tools. It even has an extruder built into the side! This is another one that featured hours of creative table play for A. And of course, she loves a good sensory activity.

And here’s another compound that I’m picky with: play dough, because again it needs to have a decent texture to make the cut. This one features one that is comparable to the major brands, so we’re all in.

L.U.V. Premium Fashion Dolls

L.U.V. are bringing the fashion back to fashion dolls – and I’m not gonna lie, I’m a bit jealous of Harper and Brooke’s outfits! A had fun unboxing these, and right away chose Harper.

Here’s the thing: kids love dolls that resemble them. They see themselves in their play. And L.U.V.’s dolls feature multiple skin tones and hair textures, and for A, having a doll that looked more like her was a win.

I was floored by the details. These are the dolls of all my childhood dreams. From the jewelry to the accessories, to the zipper on Rocker Chic Brooke’s blazer (I seriously want one just like that) – and even the manicures they all sport – the details are epic. They are fully articulated at the joints, and we had lots of fun dressing them and posing them. Each one has an additional outfit specific to that character that you can purchase (and of course, you can mix and match.

Move2Play Kidz Bop Karaoke Microphone

Kids love playing the superstar and if you have one that loves Kidz Bop music (or any music, really) this karaoke microphone is next level cool!

You can connect via Bluetooth to send music to the mic, or insert a micro SD card with pre-loaded songs. Future superstars can then sing along. The sound is fabulous – not quite like a kids’ toy, and there are all sorts of fun sound effects.

It essentially works like a Bluetooth speaker and music player, with the added microphone feature. It’s a solid device, and has some weight. It’s the type of toy that can grow with kids past the preschool stage.

And it doesn’t need batteries! It’s rechargeable, making it a win for those of us who are tired of running through those AA and AAAs like water.

What are your picks for best birthday gifts for four year olds? Comment below!

The post Best Birthday Gifts for Four Year Olds appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

If you’re trying to figure out some good birthday gifts for an eleven year old, I’m here to help! These ideas are mom & kid tried and tested… and if you want more ideas, check out my best gifts for a ten year old boy too. This post contains affiliate links and gifted product.

If you’re looking for good birthday gifts for an eleven year old, you might be hitting a bit of a block with ideas. They have had many years of play, and the most flashy thing in the store no longer necessarily works….

I’m here to help!

I put together this list of options in a few categories so that you can figure it out more easily.

What makes Good Birthday Gifts for an Eleven Year Old?

There are a few winning strategies for nailing that 11 year old (or any tween age) gift.

My favorite is to first figure out what their interests are. This works for any age, but at eleven, kids are starting to evolve in a serious way, gaining new identities, and if you’re aware of it, they’ll feel that pride in being acknowledged.

Since kids can do more at this age, you can start leaning into not kid-specific items, especially when it comes to hobbies like music and art.

They are also more tuned into real life, making non-toy gifts a more appealing gift. Apparel or accessories from favorite designers, gear for their bedroom and personal space, and more real-life items and gadgets make their way into their lives.

And finally, while with younger kids we tend to explore more of the toy aisle, with older kids I find myself in the game aisle. I mean, think about it: games ARE the toys that grown-ups play with! We also look more at books, music, and of course, gadgets.

If you’re looking for gifts for more loved ones, you’ll definitely want to read through our other carefully curated gift guides that we’ve developed over the years! They are super helpful!

18+ Good Birthday Gifts for an Eleven Year Old

Non-toy gifts

Just like with younger kids, at this age, I start once again looking at non-toy gifts in addition to toys. While you probably don’t want to get them things like socks just yet for their birthday (although usually if it’s specialty socks, it can work as a holiday gift among others), there are many exciting gifts that aren’t just toys.

SAKURA Gelly Roll Gift Set

At 11 is when M started taking notes in class and appreciating different writing tools that much more. Gelly Roll is my go-to brand for grown-up quality coloring. This set includes 74 pens from five different color sets – including glitters and metallics, and the really cool gold and silver shadow lines that write in gold/silver with a colored outline.

They are great for the aspiring artist or illustrator, the colorful note-taker, or anyone who enjoys a good pen!

Sakura Gelly Roll Retractable Gift Set

For more of a school-focused set, you can also try the new retractable gelly roll pens. This set features a good collection of 24 pens, with a case too. They appear to have caps and look similar to the original Gelly Roll but the cap is fixed in place and it’s a clicky pen!

This is also great for coloring and art-making, of course.

Scentco Smillows Scented Pillows

At eleven, kids are starting to really feel like their bedroom is their safe space, with the bed being the center of it.

M loves specialty pillows, and Smillows take these to the next level by making scented pillows. They have so many cute designs – such as this friendly strawberry.

It’s the perfect tween bedroom gift for when you’re looking for something non-toy and functional.

Slime!! If you dare – Themed Kits or DIY

Okay, does this count as a toy – or not really? I’m counting it more as a craft and popping it in here. Regardless, we were always a no-slime home, but now that my kids are getting older, I’m caving (but with guidelines) and so far have no regrets.

These super fun slimes come both in DIY (assemble your own) sets and in food themed sets (our favorite is the pizza slime). My main advice is to set the rules. Ours are that it gets done at a clean table or counter, and may not be put on anything (don’t ask…)

Gadgets & Gizmos

I don’t know if there’s anything that M likes more than a new gadget. But it doesn’t all have to be fully receptive. While sometimes video game type products make good gifts for 11 year olds, you can mix it up with more creative gadgets & gizmos too. I hope you love these ideas as much as we do!

Canal Toys Photo Creator Instant Print Camera

If you’re not quite ready to give your eleven year old their own device (spoiler: we’re not giving him one until he graduates middle school!) a camera is a big win. They are ready to start making their own memories and the Canal Toys Photo Creator Instant Print Camera is a fabulous choice.

First of all, it is designed with a tween vibe, and doesn’t look overly cartoonish. It also features a built-in thermal printer, allowing kids to print it to scrapbook right away. And it has a selfie camera too – a must for your tween!

Kids can use different filters on the photos, giving them loads of fun along with allowing them to build their budding photography skills.

You can, of course, print the photos externally in full color as well (thermal printers are dirt cheap to run, but also are limited in quality) and it comes wtih stickers and markers for immediate crafting fun.

Thames & Kosmos Hero: Sounds Sensing Robot

If there is one thing that M will never tire of, it’s building Thames & Kosmos’ robot sets.

Hero is a robot that hears sounds and turns towards it. It lights up and crawls toward the source of the noise. There are four modes for different play methods. For example, in one mode, Hero heads the other way, and you need to get it to follow the direction of the included clacker. In another mode, it dances to noise it hears.

This set is a build-heavy set meaning, it’s not just typical toy assembly. It’s a building set. It’s important to know this – you’re purchasing it for the building value too. Kids actually install the motherboard into the robot’s body, assemble every little screw and limb from scratch. It’s a fabulous STEM experience. (I say this because I often see negative reviews on kits like this because of how much “assembly is required” – of course, that’s the point!!)

M was able to build it completely independently and loves watching it follow his sounds!

Meta Quest VR

If your kid is ready to upgrade their gameplay, the Meta Quest is epic! Kids find themselves in totally immersive experiences that go beyond just gaming, such as 3D field diagrams while watching MLB. You can see yourself in different settings. For M this was an epic pick.

And even with games – the experience is so unique. You literally feel like you’re in a different world, with every single direction around you the playing field. I had to try it myself to write this up, and I was floored.

Video Games

If your kid already has a device, why not refresh it with a new game? Here are some favorite picks:

For PC, Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox S/S, Xbox One: Hot Wheels Monster Trucks: Stunt Mayhem 

Perfect for monster truck and/or Hot Wheels fans, this is a monster truck spin on racing that’s perfect for your 11 year old! You’ve got beautiful arenas, incredible stunts, and endless hours of play.

For PC, Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox S/S, Xbox One: Looney Tunes: Wacky World of Sports

Kids can play 4 different sports… all featuring their favorite Looney Tunes characters! This one made my boys laugh out loud with it’s fun animations.

For VR – SteamVR, Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest Pro, Meta Quest 2: Mudrunner VR

As the VR version of the popular Mudrunner game, this one is quite impressive. Look around you – for real – to see the scenery surrounding you. The game play is slower than a racing game – you receive different missions and need to complete them using some pretty… vintage… vehicles. The terrain varies with mud, water, and more. It’s more about strategy than speed, including the cool experience of being behind the wheel – making it perfect for eleven year olds.

It’s so realistic, you need to remind yourself you’re not in a car.

Sports & Games

For athletic kids, sports or sports training equipment is a fabulous pick. For more sedentary kids, a game is a win! Both sports and games boost social skills – mostly – and the ones that don’t involve lots of brainwork. They feel like toys without being overly childish.

Halo Portable Floating Basketball Hoop

I’m always trying to get M to be more active, but with a smallish backyard, it can be challenging to balance the needs of the younger set (swings, climbing/riding toys) with the older set (sports and bikes).

Halo ball not only works in smaller spaces to set up a temporary 360 degree court, but it can be brought along to parks and other trips! The entire set fits into a backpack and takes minutes to hang up or take down. Hang it from the included slackline between two trees, use the ratchet to make it tight and to size. We don’t have trees, so we rigged it between our swing set and the bars on our windows and it worked fabulously!

It presents quite a challenge as it has no backboard (which is how you can play from any angle) and my boys have been using it to improve their shooting skills. They are slam-dunking nonstop!

It’s a good gift for an eleven year old who enjoys some active play – whether it’s real games with friends, casual shooting, or even just an alternate activity for family days at the park. And yes – it does grow with your kid. Since it can be installed at various heights, it can be used by adults too.

GiiKER Tic-Tac-Toe Bolt

It’s the perfect combination of IRL gaming and digital! GiiKER’s Tic Tac Toe Bolt has both a physical game play aspect and a digital – and both of them play off the classic Tic Tac Toe but add a spin.

The digital component has a few modes – regular Tic Tac Toe played against a computer OR a friend, but every few moves the first one disappears! That simple twist adds so much intrigue to the game play that it really held M’s attention. You also have a memory mode. Different spots light up in sequence and you need to repeat it. It works like a touchscreen, making it feel familiar and high end, perfect for the discerning 11 year old.

Open the top and you have a physical Tic Tac Toe board that takes seconds to assemble and fits right inside it! But this game play also has a spin. Larger pieces can overtake smaller pieces, and you can even move a piece.

We loved the mix of digital and physical, the familiarity but lack of boring-ness, and the sibling play on a digital game!

SmartGames Smart Dog

We love Smart Games’ single player challenge games and it amazes me how they keep switching them up! Smart Dog is one of the cutest ones I’ve seen. The goal is to get the dog to the trainer. Both of those present as small figures on a square piece. The rest of the pieces are various dog trick courses.

Start with a challenge in the form of positioning of some of the pieces. And figure out how to set up the challenge course so that the dog can get to the trainer – it has to make sense.

Levels get progressively harder. There is so much interest and inspiration within the game pieces themselves.

The How I Survived Game

If you’re looking for a family-type game, The How I Survived Game is perfect for get-togethers of four or more. It has the kind of silly and judge-style game play that Apples to Apples has (so it’s great for fans of that type of game) but it’s totally different. It produced endless laughs from us, making for valuable memories.

The judge flips over a survival scenario card, and players need to scramble to find what they need to survive within the pile of object tiles in the center. Players explain their survival techniques to the judge. The judge then assigns tokens based on how good the response is.

So if spiders are falling from the sky, who would win? The one with a slingshot, bandage, and tent or the one with an umbrella, disguise, and fire extinguisher?

The age range is 8+ on this but I can see it being played by slightly younger kids and working as a family-friendly game for grown-up get togethers too!

SmartGames IQ Gears

Back to Smart Games, we have one that is more compact and follows the more typical format of Smart Games challenges: IQ gears. The IQ games are travel-friendly, compact single player puzzle games that follow the same format: progressively more difficult initial setups, with the challenge to place the remaining pieces.

In IQ Gears there is an additional challenge: the gears need to work! The puzzle is solved when you can turn the gears on the side and the machine works.

M is a very STEM-y kid and the added component really appealed to that side of him. This set is perfect as an extension of the other Smart Games IQ games, but with added interest.

Ubongo 3D

I’ve shared about Ubongo before, and this 3D version just takes it to the next level. You need to use allotted pieces to fill the space on your card – no more and no less. There are different levels, time challenges, and 3D reward “diamonds. We actually also enjoy this as a single-player puzzle. It’s quite challenging, and perfect for the Mr. Smarty Pants who’s totally up for the challenge.

It has an incredible amount of challenges, so you are unlikely to have a scenario where the game owner has already played them all and will definitely win. And the pieces are made out of high quality wood, making this a hopefully forever game for the home!

Book Gifts for 11 Year Olds

Books make good gifts for 11 year olds because at this age they are really getting into the reading zone! That is, reading “real” books. But we don’t stop at reading books. We love activity books too, and they can really get the brain working with “fun” stuff.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Book 1)

I confess: I’ve never read Harry Potter. Whaaatt?! Okay, I started and put it down.

We picked up the first book for M a while ago, bust he just recently started to get really into it. So if you’re looking for a good, classic book for this age range, Harry Potter is a win.

Cluedle: The Case of the Dumpleton Diamond

This book takes kids through the mystery of a dognapping… and gives kids all sorts of puzzles to take them through solving the mystery! It’s a combo mystery novel and puzzle book that is intriguing and entertaining.

This is fabulous for kids to collaborate on, and is both brain-building and literacy building at the same time!

Bananagrams for Kids

Modeled after the popular game by the same name, this book is full of word puzzles! Not only is this fabulous for kids who can use some (fun) support in spelling, it also is great for kids who need something more visual when it comes to word puzzles!

Bonus: you can gift it with the game itself, so that kids who enjoy tactile support can use the game tiles to work out the answer before writing it in.

Good Birthday Gifts for 11 year old fans!

One of the easiest way to find good birthday gifts for 11 year olds: ask the parent – what is that child into? That can be things like sports (which team do they adore), shows or movies, book series, video games… There are so many licenses out there!

Some are toys that extend the show’s value, there are collectibles, useful items that just happen to feature a favorite.

Wizarding World Harry Potter Talking Sorting Hat

In our house, ten was the year that Harry Potter finally took hold, so for his eleventh birthday, M loved anything Harry Potter.

The Talking Sorting Hat is perfect for the kid who still likes to sit and play with toys, but needs it to have big kid appeal. I mean, there are some grown kids who would love this…

It looks just like the “real” thing, interacts, and will sort you into Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff or Slytherin. It is soft and animated, with expressive feature.

LEGO Star Wars Darth Vader Keychain Light

For something that’s a smaller gift – whether it’s a reward for behavior, a token, or a stocking stuffer – that’s still functional, this LEGO Star Wars Darth Vader keychain is (can I say it to my 11 year old?) so, so cute!

Press the tummy and it’s a flashlight. Frankly, M loves anything with a flashlight on it. And the fact that it’s LEGO Star Wars makes it an automatic win.

Transformers 2-in-1 Converting Roleplay Mask Action Figure

My boys have been Transformers fans since preschool and still love it. M is old enough to watch the movies and not just be a fan of the toys (Y is a bit sensitive with action movies) and it renewed his Transformers energy.

These Optimus Prime and Bumblebee action figures turn into masks! They are not very wearable for long periods of time (they aren’t very comfortable) but they switch up the Transformers play and make for cool faces of their favorite characters regardless.

Marvel Trick Playing Cards

When we attended a toy trade show this fall, M was fascinated by the magic tricks that the team at Fantasma Magic showed him! They surprised us with this set of trick cards, and while M is not quite ready for Marvel Venom yet, they do have other fabulous Marvel licenses that are better for that age group.

It is a standard, high quality card set, with a protective holder, and a booklet that shares tricks that can be done. And the artwork is incredible.

Got any good gifts for an eleven year old to add to the list? Comment below!

The post Good Birthday Gifts for an Eleven Year Old appeared first on Moms and Crafters.

These awesome gifts for 1 year olds are perfect for first birthday boys (and girls), for Christmas, Hanukkah, or any occasion! When you’re done, check out this adorable DIY felt first birthday crown template. This post contains affiliate links and gifted products.

1 year olds are a magical age to gift for. They are learning and exploring so much, and love just about anything you hand them! They love to play and manipulate objects – they don’t need much to make them happy.

They adore stacking and banging, they like pushing buttons and if it’s cozy it’s a win!

When finding awesome gifts for 1 year olds, I like to mix things up with both toy and non toy gifts. On the one hand, this is the perfect time to start building a playroom with things that they will truly appreciate and learn from!

On the other, they don’t require toys, so you can gift the most useful items – and it’ll make both them and their parents smile.

Join me and baby Jay as we share some of the most awesome gifts for 1 year olds – whether it’s for the holidays or their first birthday.

But there’s more! Because I have both a one and a newly-minted four year old, I got to test these with the full range of the 1-3 age range – and can share with you insights on how well these awesome gifts for 1 year olds last through toddlerhood – or don’t.

You can also check out the rest of my gift guides for more gifting inspiration!

Clothing Gift Ideas for 1 Year Olds

Clothing is the ultimate consumable – something kids can always enjoy more of (or their parents). To find beautiful, giftable clothing is the challenge! Look for items that are upscale, unique, and versatile. This way parents can really enjoy something that they may not splurge on themselves in a way that they need it.

Kyte Baby Ribbed Henley Set

Your one year old might have graduated from the “wear pajamas all day” stage – or they haven’t! Kyte Baby makes the coziest bamboo pajamas that are all buttery softness and charm.

This ribbed set works both as pajamas and clothing! A ribbed texture adds some style, and it has the same super soft fabric as the smooth styles. The two-piece set with Henley buttons can go loungewear/outfit and be worn all day, or used as pajamas for a breathable night’s sleep.

The stretch factor and clinginess of bamboo means that we get so much more wear out of it. We start it at a size up, and it lasts for at least two sizes. And doesn’t the sage color look incredible with Baby Jay’s copper hair?

Buckle Me Car Seat Coats

This one is for the safety-minded parents! Did you know that puffer coats (or anything overly bulky) are considered an unsafe obstruction to the car seat buckle? They can compress in an accident, rendering the five point harness useless. This creates major winter issues for parents once babies have transitioned to convertible car seats from the infant carrier stage – often around the age of one.

Buckle Me has the solution: an easy-to-use coat that has a quick fix solution for strapping toddlers in safely! The back is made much thinner, so that it doesn’t add bulk. And the whole front can be moved out of the way so that the harness is directly on Baby Jay. It has a convenient opening with easy-access shoulder strap slots. If the car is still chilly, you can then just zip/hook-and-loop it right over the buckle, keeping tots snug as a bug!

Especially since he’s not yet walking, it makes going out with Baby Jay much easier – instead of having to take on or off his coat, I just carry him out with it, and open it to fasten him in. And yes, it can be used as a primary winter coat too.

They have different coat weights too, and run true to size. They have enough flexibility in fit to be used for two winter seasons by the same child.

Keababies PomPom Beanies

My toddlers always love cozy stuff, and these pom pom beanies from KeaBabies are just full of coziness! The two pack is so affordable – you can purchase and split as separate gifts, or gift as a set.

And it has so much stretch, that both Baby Jay, age one, and A, a petite age 4 can wear the same hat!

Feltman Brothers Argyle Knit Set

I love it when high end dressy outfits have a cozy factor to them, especially for babies. Feltman Brother’s argyle knit set is made of 100% cotton (no sweats in this one!) It’s comfortable enough for baby to wear, but dressy enough for holidays, winter parties, and visits to Grandma.

The sweater has a sweet, classic argyle print – keeping it giftable – and comes with matching knit pants that are fitted – but not quite tight. You can dress it up even further by pairing with dress pants – but I stick to the knit pants! They allow Baby Jay to move around freely and comfortably, while still looking snazzy.

Zutano Booties

We’ve been using Zutano booties since Y was a baby, but I especially love them for this stage. One year olds who aren’t quite walking yet need something warm and cozy for the winter months. But they also need something with grip, and that’s thin enough to feel the floor in, so that they can build those new skills.

Zutano booties open nice and wide so that it’s easy to slide squirmy feet into them. They are a soft, comfy fleece that’ll keep toes warm and toasty. And they have an adjustable snap closure, so that they stay on those little feet but won’t be too tight either!

Other Non-toy Gifts

Toddlers REALLY don’t need toys to make them smile (although they do learn so much from them). However, there is this crossover between practical and toy that is just full of gifting opportunities!

BlueBerry & Third The Bookshelf

Look how excited Baby Jay is to have uninhibited access to his favorite books!

Around their first birthday, as they graduate from babies to toddlers, kids start to discover books – and what a magical world that is! This Montessori-friendly bookshelf from Blueberry & Third is perfect for little ones:

• It holds only a small selection of books – so they’ll only unload a few at a time (and also not get overwhelmed by the options…)
• It’s solid wood and looks great in just about any home – ours lives in our living room – where we hang out and therefore Baby Jay does too.
• It’s 1-year-old-friendly – sits at the height that he sits, has smoothed edges and curves, and he can’t pull it down on himself
• It’s a forward facing bookcase so he can see the books without pulling them out.

Jack N’ Jill Tickle Toothbrush Gift Set

Baby Jay is currently busy growing his entire top row of teeth (yawn!) which means it’s time to start caring for them! Jack & Jill creates tooth care products designed for little ones who are just growing them in.

Their Tickle Tooth sonic toothbrush is perfect for those first teeth, and even comes with the next size head. It gently vibrates, and lights up, and believe it or not Baby Jay ACTUALLY lets me brush his teeth with it!

Get it bundled with their natural Fluoride-free toothpaste as an awesome gift idea for 1 year olds.

Indestructible Books

Remember that bookcase that we were giving our baby free and easy access too? We need to fill it with books!

Of course, board books are always a win, but we’re big fans of Indestructibles for a more space-saving option! These books are made from “magical” pages that don’t tear, can be chewed, and are even washable.

Top Toys

Yes, toys are important at this age! Kids use them to learn and explore, develop fine and gross motor skills, and keep busy. Parents use it to keep them busy so that they can actually get stuff done!

Peg Perego John Deere Ride On Tractor

Ride-on toys are so perfect for one-year-olds, and powered ones are just seriously epic! This 6 volt mini John Deere tractor from Peg Perego is easy to use with perfectly placed pedals for those little feet. And it’ll carry through toddler hood – A loves giving it a spin too!

There are sounds and lights, a perfectly-sized steering wheel, and a “just like the grown-ups” experience with the John Deere brand. It can be used both indoors and outdoors, making it a year-round toy. And you can even upgrade it by adding a trailer to the back (available separately, not pictured.)

Oh So Fun! Take-Along Piano Toy for Toddlers

There are times when I feel like I shouldn’t even write about the toy – and just let you look at the kids’ faces in the photos and decide… but here we are!

This take-along piano from Mindware (Oriental Trading’s toy division) is both aesthetic and kid-friendly, with a wood top and legs, mint colored body, and soft splashes of color. Younger kids can just play music (and animal sounds) and older kids can insert music cards to learn how to play specific songs.

The keys feature bright colors, allowing kids to follow with the music cards. My kids all (yes, all 1-11 year olds) enjoyed playing with this but Baby Jay simply couldn’t stop thumping out (literally) some serious tunes.

And moms – yes, it does have a volume control.

Fisher Price Link Squad Jam & Count Panda

Link Squad is a brand from Fisher price with a few different musical toys that interact when you’re playing them together. While we only own and tried this one, I have tested them in the store as a set and they definitely sing up a chorus!

Each one has a unique theme, and we love the jam & count panda. It is definitely NOT a toy piano like above (although it takes a similar form) – it’s more of a number-learning toy. It teaches shapes and colors too, and has lots of different ways for kids to make noise music. There is a spinning ball, a lever, a slider, and more!

Fisher Price Wooden Activity Triangle

Fisher Price has a new classic wooden toy line, and I’m all in! This mini activity triangle is perfect for those who might want to give a wooden activity center a try, but can’t afford the space that a large one might take up.

Three sides feature three different levels of activity, requiring different fine motor movements. And it’s small enough for them to carry around on their own – which is always a win!

Panda Crate

Note: contents vary!

We are big fans of KiwiCo’s craft series, but their play boxes for babies and toddlers are spot on too! We’ve tried quite a few of them and the toys we’ve received have consistently been among our favorites.

You can gift a single toy, a recurring subscription, or a gift subscription.

Got any awesome gifts for 1 year olds to add to the list? Comment below!

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