You may have already been supplied with a wish list for Santa or Hanukah Harry, but if you’re still wondering what to get for your son, daughter, family friend or tough to shop for teenage niece, here’s my roundup of fun picks for kids. I’m personally not one for the toys that make the “hot” list for the year. Rather, I’m drawn to items that are whimsical or nostalgic. I know my own kids will be receiving a few of these gifts, but shhh, don’t tell!
(starting from upper left and moving clockwise)
1. PBS Kids Eggplant Ukelele, $21.99, wholefoodsmarket.com
For mini music makers: You know I’m all about getting kids to eat their veggies in fun new ways, and this eggplant ukulele is no exception. Made from FSC-certified beech, birch and pine wood and painted with water-based paint, this fun instrument makes a great gift for budding musicians age 3 and over. PBS Kids will also plant a tree for every toy purchased, making this a gift that truly keeps on giving. Exclusive to Whole Foods Market.
2. Pottery Barn Cheeky Reindeer Figural Mug, $9.50, PotteryBarn.com
For cocoa aficionados: There’s just something about this smiling little reindeer that I love. Kids will enjoy sipping hot chocolate from this sweet, 12-ounce, earthenware mug. Or fill it with candy canes for a special treat under the tree. Pottery Barn will donate 50 percent of the proceeds from this item to Give a Little Hope campaign, which supports organizations that provide temporary and long-term housing for youth and families. Microwave and dishwasher safe.
3. aden + anais Poppies Pajamas, $25, adenandanais.com
For Santa watchers: I’ve used their swaddles and other amazing baby products for years and I’m so thrilled that aden + anais now offers adorable sleepwear for kids ages 12 months to 4 years. This festive poppy print is perfect for the holidays. The 2-piece set is made from super soft 100% cotton. Cuffs on the top and pants keep the jammies from moving around while little ones sleep.
4. Modern Twist Mama Llama Bucket Bib, $20, modern-twist.com
For the littlest foodie: Mealtime for little ones is messy, but you can keep it fun with this soft silicone bib. The front of the bib covers a lot of real estate and the bucket catches all the spoonfuls and bites that don’t make it into her mouth. The bib is made from food-grade, germ-free silicone that’s free from phthalates, BPA, latex and lead. I love the llama motif, but the bib is also available with a cute otter or sloth design. Top-rack dishwasher safe.
5. Miyoni by Aurora Andean Flamingo, $15.99, wholefoodsmarket.com
For budding wildlife experts: This lifelike, 10-inch flamingo is happy to go on safari with your little one. It’s incredibly soft and cuddly for a wetland bird. Comes with a tag that explains how the feathers change from white to pink as the flamingo matures.
6. Wilton Build-it-Yourself Gingerbread Camper Decorating Kit, $10.95, Amazon.com
For crafty kids: Even kids who have never seen an Airstream trailer will appreciate the retro charm of this gingerbread kit. Once assembled, kids can decorate the camper with the white, green and black frosting that’s included and add details with the multi-colored candies.
7. Olly Girl Multi, $13.99, olly.com
For the tough to shop for teen: Changing hormones can lead to breakouts and an oily scalp in teens. This gummy multivitamin helps keep their skin and hair looking shiny and healthy with 15 essential vitamins and minerals, plus vitamins A, C & E, and B vitamins. With a delicious, all-natural berry and watermelon flavor, it just might be the one thing you can both agree on. Formulated for girls 12-17. Don’t forget that FLR VIPs get a 20% off discount on all Olly products!