When it comes to children’s toys, I have learned through the years that less truly is more. A room filled with flashy, plastic toys can be overstimulating for a child, discourage imaginative play, and does not encourage your child to focus or engage with a single toy in multiple, creative ways. Not to mention, it can create unnecessary, added stress in the home.
Play time plays a critical role in the developing child’s brain. I truly believe the toys we put in front of our children matter. Do we have to be perfect at it and only allow wooden toys in the home? Not necessarily. But, can we make it our aim to purchase thoughtfully crafted toys that will last and encourage creative play? Absolutely!
So, my hope in putting together this gift guide is to encourage you to be intentional with the gifts you purchase, to inspire you with new ideas, and to hopefully simplify your home. Below are some things my children either already have and love and a few other things I am considering getting this Christmas.
Books
I hope my children never lose their love for book time. It’s a special time to snuggle up with them, connect with them, and share quality time together. Getting new, beautiful books every so often helps them to maintain their love and excitement for reading.
A couple things I look for when buying books… Does it have a good story line? Does it teach meaningful lessons or encourage them to think? Does it allow their eyes to feast on beautiful illustrations? If you aren’t familiar with the word “twaddle” from Charlotte Mason, I encourage you to look it up. I don’t want my shelves lined with “twaddle” books. I want them to appreciate nature through storytelling, make real life connections, and be challenged to think in new, imaginative ways through reading. In a world where screen time is very prevalent, I think it’s important as parents to foster our children’s love for reading. Help them to slow down by digging into good books.
Here are some lovely books to consider adding to your bookshelf.
Jane Brett Books (Annie and the Wild Animals)
James Harriot’s Treasury for Children
Pilgrims Progress Book Collection
Beatrix Potter Storytime Collection
Things for Play and Gadgets:
My son, age 6, LOVES his Yoto player. This has been one of our best investments. You can listen to audio books, music, educational cards, and even record things yourself. Use it with headphones or without, it is great for road trips, quiet times, around the learning table, etc.
Dominos have been a great way for us to practice numbers and colors. An easy way for everyone in the family to enjoy quality time together.
Educational Games: Wildcraft
We are big fans of dressing up over here! Having a pilgrim’s dress and cowboy outfit for my kids to reenact Little House on the Prairie has been essential!
My children play with these every day and come up with all sorts of creative ideas with them!
Wooden Play Kitchen Coffee Set
Stocking Stuffers:
Yoto cards:
Practical Gifts:
Art Supplies:
Unconventional Gift Idea:
My sister recently shared this idea with me and I loved it! Get a photo album, and fill it with pictures through the years. If your kids are like mine, they would love looking back at older photos, filled with memories and experiences they had through the years.
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