Collective for Good

If you’ve ever embarked on the quest for the perfect gift to keep the little rascals in your life entertained, you know the joyful chaos of toy store expeditions and online treasure hunts.

Maybe you even find yourselves stuck between a plastic rock and a hard place. 😉 So this year, let’s say goodbye to one-trick ponies and hello to timeless, open-ended play that keeps those curious kiddos entertained year-round.

I’ve combed through our entire home, thinking through which toys have gotten the most amount of play from the largest age range, and these are it. (Side note- my parenting and teaching experience estimates this gifts are best for ages 3-8, give or take a bit!)

So, grab a cup of cocoa, settle into your coziest chair, and let’s check a few gifts off that to-do list!

Sensory Swing– For all you raising a neuro-spicy kiddo, this swing comes highly recommended to me from others. We have a similar one (I wish I had gotten this one instead, after having been in it myself), and it’s fun, calming, and beneficial for the entire family. Also a hit with visiting friends. 😉

Go Fish Card Game– This game is such a classic, and anyone age 3 and up can enjoy it! This woman-owned brand has super high quality games, puzzles, and more and the products are made in a sustainable way. They’re even sold at Target, if that makes it easier to support them. 😉

LCD Drawing Tablet– It’s like the old-school etch-a-sketch, but it’s LCD and erases [clearly] with the simple push of a button. We love this as a screen-free alternative in the car!

Ice Cream Counter– We bought this last year for my then 2-year old, and I have been amazed at the age range of kids who love it! From babies to 8 year old boys, this one has been a huge hit! I see many more years out of it in our family.

Yoto Player– This is essentially a modern day boom-box! You can purchase cards or create your own that kids then put into the player. Because we aren’t a big screen time family, this is a great alternative for giving kids control of the music and books they listen to.

Picasso Tiles– If you already have the starter kit of Picasso Tiles, this marble track is an incredible add-on. It’s one of my husband and I’s favorite toys to play with the kids, and another one that a wide range of ages love! We also love the Picasso Tiles Race Car Track.

3-in-1 Lego Sets– Of course I have to include Lego! I appreciate the versatility and ability to make multiple builds out of one set. If you’re struggling with an organization system for this, check out my friend Austyn’s Instagram account where she shares tips and tricks!

Wooden Espresso Machine Set– I like this brand for both their aesthetically pleasing pretend kitchen play items and the quality. We have the cake stand and may add this to our kid’s kitchen this year!

Wooden Plates/Cups/Spoon Set– Another wooden set that I personally enjoy the colors and look of, and the kids love to “fill and serve” from their kitchen. We’ve had this several years and it’s held up great!

Toys can take over a home so fast, even though we try to be mindful about what we choose to bring into ours. (Easier said than done, for sure!!) So while this guide is short, I really wanted to offer just the most tried and true toys that we’ve had in our home.

Xoxo,

Kimberly

Looking for other Gift Guides? You may find these posts helpful:

Gifts for Women

25 Ways to Spark Joy: An Ethical Gift Guide for Women

Stylish & Sustainable: 14 Ethically Made Gifts for Men