Gift Guide 2020
It's the most wonderful time of the year! (Although it's 2020 so the most wonderful time of this year was that sliver of sunshine between January and lockdown). It has been a challenging time. My hope is that the magic of this season collectively lifts our spirits as we find our way through. This year I've put together a gift giving guide featuring a handful of stories I love and toys that pair well with them. Some linked items are affiliate links, however, this year especially, I encourage you to look at your local small businesses for these items before purchasing online.
If you've been following me for a bit you may already know of my love for The Complete Tales of Winnie-the-Pooh. Of course I had to add it to this list! I've paired it with an organic teddy that is made in Germany and stuffed with lambswool. At six years old, my son still has and loves the stuffed bears we received at my baby shower. This gift is one that I think will bring warmth and comfort to its recipient for many years to come! This would be great to give for a baby's first holiday.
Senger Stuffed Teddy Bear
The Complete Tales of Winnie-the-Pooh
Their imaginations will soar while being at home this winter with this wood frame and silk fort kit set from Sarah's Silks. This is another item I think would get many years of play. I've paired it with Home by Carson Ellis.
Sarah's Silks Fort Kit Set
Home
I really love Sarah's Silks products and how they invite open ended play. I am also going to add their play sword paired with a book I absolutely adore: Ruby's Sword.
Sarah's Silks Play Sword
Ruby's Sword
Next up we have a construction combo. This Bruder truck was gifted to my son when he was three and is still, three years later, one of his most played with toys. It's large and sturdy and has really held up with a lot of not-so-gentle use. I'm pairing it with newly released Construction Site Mission: Demolition!
Bruder Scania R-Series Liebherr Crane
Construction Site Mission: Demolition!
Another idea for the child that loves construction is their very own digger. We live near the beach so we have gotten a ton of use out of our ride on excavator! I've paired it with Sam and Dave Dig a Hole.
The Big Dig Sandbox Digger Excavator
Sam & Dave Dig a Hole
Speaking of the talented Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen, next up I paired their hopeful book Extra Yarn with a kid friendly loom.
Melissa and Doug Multi-Craft Weaving Loom
Extra Yarn
I can't make a gift list without cars! This magnetic set is a lot of fun and was well loved over here. And this book really is the ultimate vehicle book. It is super interactive and I highly recommend it.
SmartMax Power Vehicles
The Ultimate Book of Vehicles: From Around the World
Shhhh.... Don't tell but this is one of the gifts for my son this year. He loves to build and design and I know he will be thrilled when he opens it. This kit is made for ages 4-11. I've paired it with not one but two books- of the same series- that we both love so much.
Build-It-Yourself Woodworking Kit
Iggy Peck Architect
Rosie Revere Engineer
Bring home some magical fun for the whole family this holiday season with an artistic unicorn gift. This book is so silly and I love the idea to give a tie-dye kit or some tempura paints along with it. Arts and crafts supplies are something we really go through and the holidays are a great time to stock back up.
Magical Unicorn Tie-Dye Kit
Never Let A Unicorn Scribble!
Rounding out this list is a true story of a young boy from Malawi who harnessed the wind to bring electricity and eventually water to his drought-stricken, starving village. After you read this incredible story of perseverance, try to build your own windmill. This kit looks like one that my son would love. Recommended for ages 8+
Thames & Kosmos Wind Power
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
I hope these ideas are helpful to you! Wishing you health, happiness, and abundance this holiday season and in the year ahead.
What gifts will you be giving your kids this holiday season? Comment below!