With the holidays right around the corner, finding gifts that are meaningful and memorable for our kids can be a fun challenge. While classic toys are always great, it’s extra special when you can surprise them with something a little unique. Here are some of my favorite gift ideas:

1. DIY Board Game Kit

If your kids love games, a DIY board game kit is a fantastic way to let their imaginations run wild! Include blank game boards, markers, spinner, dice, and cards so they can create their own rules and game concepts. I have this on a short list for one of my daughters this year.

2. Musical Instrument or Lessons

Give the gift of music! Whether it’s a ukulele, keyboard, or a few drum lessons, musical gifts are a wonderful way to inspire creativity and develop new skills. Start with an instrument they can easily pick up and play along with a few lessons, and who knows—they might become the next family musician! We use Hoffman Academy for piano lessons and love it.

3. Personalized Puzzle

Kids love seeing their names and faces in a unique puzzle just for them. Personalized puzzles come in all shapes, sizes, and difficulty levels, and you can choose a photo or artwork that’s meaningful. It’s fun, challenging, and will leave them with a keepsake they’ll treasure.

4. Stuffed Animal Sewing Kit

For the craft-loving kid, a stuffed animal sewing kit provides an excellent mix of creativity and hands-on activity. Many kits come with easy-to-follow patterns, fabric, stuffing, and instructions so kids can make their own plush animal. Plus, they’ll get to enjoy the pride of having made it themselves! We got the kit I linked last year for one of my daughters as well as a niece and both of them enjoyed it.

5. Air Fort

An air fort is like the ultimate upgrade to the classic blanket fort! Made with lightweight materials, air forts are inflated with a simple box fan, creating a magical hideaway kids can set up and take down in seconds. It’s great for indoor play, movie nights, and those chilly winter days when they need a cozy space to hang out.

6. Fabric Markers and Plain White Shirts, Hats, or Pillowcases

Let their creativity flow with fabric markers and a blank canvas—whether it’s a white t-shirt, hat, or pillowcase. Kids love designing their own wearable art, and they’ll have a one-of-a-kind piece to show off. My sis-in-law did this for one of my girls and it was such a hit. It’s a fantastic activity for creative playdates or holiday craft sessions!

7. Warmies

Warmies are cute, cuddly stuffed animals that can be heated in the microwave, perfect for cozy nights or snuggling up on a chilly day. They’re filled with lavender-scented grains, which are soothing and calming, and kids love having their own warming buddy for bedtime.

8. Magic Kit

For budding magicians, a magic kit is hours of entertainment and a boost to their confidence as they learn tricks to perform for family and friends. Many kits come with props and instructions for classic tricks, and you’ll get plenty of “Ta-da!” moments this holiday season!

4. Outdoor Exploration Backpack

An outdoor exploration backpack filled with essentials like binoculars, a magnifying glass, compass, and a little nature journal is perfect for the budding explorer. Add a flashlight or pocket-sized insect guide to complete the set. It’s an exciting way to encourage outdoor adventures and nature observation.

12. Indoor Rock Climbing Kit

A mini indoor rock climbing kit includes attachable holds that you can secure to a wall, creating a safe climbing area indoors. This is perfect for active kids who need a fun outlet for energy during the colder months. Make sure you choose one that’s safe and appropriate for their age and space.

---

These unique gift ideas are perfect for creating memories, building skills, and letting kids explore new interests. From cozy, warm cuddles to crafting and magic, each gift adds a little extra joy to the holidays.