Gift Your Kids Any of These Presents This Christmas Season

Perfect for boys and girls of all ages.

BY: Jennifer Belanger
Update: February 3, 2026

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We all want the best for our kids, but sometimes pleasing them can be…less than pleasing. When it comes to Christmas gifts, we racked our brain to try and think of something different, find something that’s not over-the-top, keep it fun and sneak in something practical. It’s no easy feat. So let’s tackle this together and make this the best holiday season ever!

GIFTS THAT INSPIRE CREATIVITY & IMAGINATION

This year, we wanted to focus on a gift guide here at Brostrick that’s as diverse and exciting as the kids who will be unwrapping these surprises. When hand-selecting these gifts, we made sure to focus on options that entertain and inspire, because what’s better than a gift that gets kids thinking, creating, and exploring?

We looked for gifts that ignite their imaginations, get them moving, and help them learn something new without even realizing it. Sneaky, right?

Some of these gifts were chosen because they bring a sense of nostalgia; classic favorites that remind us of our own childhood (because if we’re going to have to play these things over and over again we might as well enjoy ourselves too), like retro board games, vintage candy machines, and iconic toys that we all remember loving. Others made the cut because they offer something new and unique, like toy-hidden bath bombs that turn bath time into a bubbly rainbow extravaganza or instant cameras that let them capture all their best memories, right there in the moment. And, yes, you’ll be finding those little instant pics everywhere.

ACTIVE PLAY & FAMILY FUN

We also focused on finding gifts that encourage active play and creativity, because let’s face it, kids have energy to burn, and nothing beats a gift that helps them learn and grow while they’re having the time of their lives. From colorful art sets that let them channel their inner Picasso to balance bikes that help them master the art of riding with a big smile on their faces, our choices this year are all about fun with a purpose.

And let’s not forget the family favorites – games that bring everyone together around the table, whether it’s for a friendly competition or a hilarious round of guessing and endless laughter (until the tears start, at least).

SOMETHING FOR EVERY KID

And of course every kid is different and you can’t can’t fit each kid into the same box (trust us, we tried…kidding) which is why our we truly tried to come up with something that will appeal to just about every type of kid; from the budding artist to the adventurous explorer, from the puzzle lover to the future scientist.

So, no matter what you’re searching for whether it’s a birthday present, a Christmas gift, or a “just because” gift we think we found something special for every kind of kid.

We’re sure you’ll find the perfect surprise that will make your little one’s eyes light up and make you the coolest gift-giver ever! Take a scroll through our favorite Christmas gift ideas for kids (boys and girls) in 2026 they’re sure to love.

GIFT IDEAS FOR ALL TYPES OF KIDS

Spin to Survive Adventure Book

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As a kid, choose your own adventure books were always a win!

This book is where story time meets adventure time! Imagine a world where your kids get to be the heroes, making choices that lead them through wild challenges like battling pesky pirates, surviving on a deserted island, or exploring mysterious jungles. And the best part? They get to spin a wheel to decide their fate! It’s not just reading—it’s an interactive, action-packed experience that keeps kids excited, curious, and totally engaged….and away from their screens.

Each spin brings a new twist to the story, keeping everyone on their toes (including you). It’s perfect for turning an ordinary story time into a full-blown adventure that the whole family can enjoy. Whether your kiddos are dreaming up clever escapes or finding buried treasure, this book fuels their imagination and makes reading feel like an epic game.

The book isn’t just fun—it’s sneaky-smart too! Kids practice decision-making, think critically, and build problem-solving skills as they navigate different scenarios. Plus, it’s especially great for those kids who aren’t typically bookworms; adding a spinner to the mix turns reading into an exciting, hands-on activity.

Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

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If you need to send a gift across the miles, Levain cookies are a great option. Available in gifts of four, eight or 12 cookies, you can choose from a variety of flavors, including seasonal favorites. They come wrapped in cellophane bags, tied with ribbon. Easy, right?

And if you’re new to the famous Levain brand, these aren’t your average chocolate chip cookies – nope, Levain has taken things up a notch with a double dose of chocolate magic. Imagine biting into a cookie that’s crispy on the outside, gooey in the center, and loaded with rich, melty chocolate chips. Yeah, these cookies are basically what dreams are made of.

Each bite is like a warm, chocolatey hug, and let’s be honest, what kiddo couldn’t use a little extra sweetness in their life? Maybe they’ll even share it with you? Doubtful. These also make great stocking stuffers when it’s that time of year too.

Shashibo Shape Shifting Box

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This best seller combines the fun of a fidget toy, with the cool factor of shape shifting. Available is 11 different colors and patters, this features 36 rare earth magnets that transform your cube into over 70 shapes. It also comes in a 4 pack if you need to gift a whole slew of kids.

Shashibo is perfect for curious minds of all ages. It’s the kind of thing that’s equally at home on a kid’s play desk or on an adult’s office shelf. The magnets make it super smooth to shift shapes, and the endless possibilities keep your kids coming back for more. It’s part fidget, part brain teaser, and totally mesmerizing.

Picasso Tiles 100-Piece Building Set

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Let the imagination and creativity flow! These magnetic tiles have been a staple for so long, and last for the long haul. Whether it’s castles, flowers, rocket ships and more, limitations be darned!

This set is all about creativity, imagination, and, most importantly, fun. With 100 vibrant magnetic tiles, your kiddos can build everything from towering castles to funky racecars. The magnets snap together easily, making construction a breeze, and the variety of shapes means endless possibilities for what they can create.

These building blocks are great for sparking creative thinking and developing spatial awareness. They’re also perfect for solo play or collaborative family fun. The bright, colorful pieces make every structure look awesome, and their sturdy construction means they can handle plenty of enthusiastic play.

Zingo Bingo Game

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Bingo night has never been so cute! This award winning game is prefect for pre-schoolers, pre-readers and early readers.

This isn’t your typical bingo game! Zingo takes it up a notch with its super fun, fast-paced twist that’s perfect for both pre-readers and early readers. With the iconic Zinger device, kids get to slide, reveal, and shout out their matches as they race to fill their Zingo cards. It’s bingo with a dash of excitement, and trust me, it’s hard not to get caught up in the fun – even as an adult.

It’s really such a fun game for children who are just learning words, helping them build early reading skills while keeping things super entertaining. It’s the kind of game that grows with your child, and it’s engaging enough for adults to enjoy too.

TeeTurtle – The Original Reversible Octopus Plushie

Octopuses (octopi?) are still having a moment. These cuties come in a wide variety of color combos and are reversible! In a great mood? Flip them into their happy face. In a not so good mood? Flip them into their angry face. If only it were that simple for us as humans.

The “Sun and Planets” Puzzle

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Let’s hear it for old school puzzle making! This super cute 60-piece art puzzle is made of high quality chipboard and is fun for kids anywhere between 5-8 years old. They’ll love the sense of accomplishment they’ll feel once it’s completed!

With vibrant colors and a charming design, it’s a great way to learn about our solar system while working those puzzle-solving skills. Each piece fits together perfectly, revealing an adorable image of the sun and its planetary companions, bringing the magic of space exploration right into your living room.

Not only is this puzzle visually stunning, but it’s also a great activity for family bonding or some relaxing solo time. The high-quality pieces make it easy to assemble, and it’s just challenging enough to keep everyone engaged without becoming frustrated.

There are other options available like rainbows, sunsets and more.

“The Super, Incredible Big Sister” Personalized Book

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Because including the new big sister is always a good idea when a new baby comes into the picture! And not to be outdone, there are also personalized big brother books available.

This heartwarming story puts your child front and center, celebrating their new role as a big sister in the most special way. With their name woven into the story, your little one will feel proud and excited to take on their new responsibilities. Plus, the book comes with a shiny medal, making them feel extra celebrated for being an amazing big sister.

Glowing Bath Time Buddies

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Bath time is lit (literally)! Buddies float, and feature bendable arms and legs. When dry, the light cube goes out. These bright pals are available in 5 colors and sold individually on Uncommon Goods, but I found them as a complete set on Amazon (prices are above).

These fun, colorful cubes light up instantly when they hit the water, adding a whole new level of excitement to the tub. Each cube is like a little splash of magic, with bright, cheerful colors that make bath time fun for even the most reluctant bathers. It’s like having a mini light show right in your own bathroom!

Glo Pals are great for sensory play and are a perfect way to make water play more engaging. The cubes automatically shut off once they’re out of the water, saving battery life, and they’re small enough to fit in little hands. Whether you’re trying to keep bath time interesting or just want to add a little extra glow to a water table, these light-up pals are sure to be a new, bright little friend for your little ones.

The Cutest Eyeglasses Holder

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Maybe they’ll stop tossing them on the floor by the bed. Sure, that’s big maybe – but it’s worth a shot.

This adorable stand is not just practical, it’s downright cute. With its soft plush lining, it cradles their glasses gently, protecting them from scratches and keeping them from getting lost in the chaos of their desk, nightstand, backpack – you name it.

We found that kids actually used these on their nightstand. The fur holder and leather base are connected through magnets. Choose from several different colors and patterns.

Vintage Countertop Snow Cone Maker

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Your kids will enjoy snow cones as often as they like – all year round. Crank these out any old time and for some old-timey fun. Sure, you’ll probably have to do the work – but you’ll be a hero.

This retro-style tabletop shaved ice machine makes whipping up frosty, delicious snow cones easy and fun for everyone. Available in red or blue, it’s simple to use – just add ice, press the button, and watch as fluffy shaved ice fills your cone, ready for your favorite syrup (sold separately).

It comes with two reusable cones and an ice scoop, making it easy to serve up a bit of icy joy. The design is cute, the operation is straightforward, and it’s sure to be a hit with kiddos who will likely be on a sugar-high for hours on end. Good luck!

Casio Casiotone Portable Keyboard

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This is a great option for a beginner who’s looking for a legit keyboard – It’s not a toy, but it is at a great price point – especially if you’re shopping for an older kid who’s exploring their talent! Features 61 key touch sensitive keys, with 400 tones, 100 rhythms and auto power off.

It comes with dance music mode for creating your own beats, a USB port to connect with apps or your computer, and even a built-in learning system to help you practice. It’s intuitive, fun, and incredibly versatile – ideal for family jam sessions or solo practice. Whether you’re learning scales or rocking out, this keyboard has you covered.

The Super Fun Sit-n-Spin

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Kids ages 18 months and up, can spin their way to Fun Town. Wherever that may be. While most of us adults can’t spin like we used to, kids live to spin excessively – for reasons that are unknown. Not to mention, you can’t go wrong with a classic.

This classic spinning toy has been keeping kids entertained for generations, and it’s easy to see why. Kids love hopping on, grabbing the wheel, and spinning themselves around to their heart’s content. It’s simple, timeless, and a fantastic way for little ones to burn off some energy while improving their coordination and balance.

It’s really great for indoor play, especially on those days when getting outside isn’t an option. It’s sturdy, easy to use, and encourages active play that keeps kids smiling and laughing. Whether it’s your child’s first experience with spinning toys or a nostalgic purchase for parents, it’s a perfect gift option for the active little ones on your list.

Kids Bath Bombs With Surprise Toy Inside

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These are perfect if it’s mission impossible getting them into the bath. Each bath bomb contains a hidden surprise toy inside, making every bath an adventure that your little ones will look forward to. The vibrant colors and bubbles are a hit, and parents can relax knowing these bath bombs won’t stain the tub or skin—just pure, fizzy fun.

Not only do these bath bombs add some magic to bath time, but they’re also moisturizing, made with high-quality ingredients that are gentle on kids’ skin. Handmade in the USA, this set of 6 makes for a perfect birthday gift or Christmas gift for your kiddos especially if they’re the type of kid who loves a surprise gift.

Whether it’s the thrill of a hidden toy or the delightful fizz and bubbles, these bath bombs turn bath time into a splashy celebration.

Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

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With this JBL Clip 3 speaker, your kids can enjoy their music wherever they go – even in the bathroom! This little bluetooth speaker comes in several colors, is wireless, waterproof and has up to 10 hours of play time That’s just for starters!

Whether it’s for a pool party, beach day, or just chilling in the yard, this compact speaker delivers big sound in a small, portable package. The waterproof design means you don’t need to worry about splashes or even a little rain. It’s made for adventure, and the battery lasts up to 10 hours, so the music keeps going as long as you do.

The JBL speaker connects easily to any Bluetooth device, and the sound quality is fantastic—clear highs, deep bass, and a surprising punch for its size. Plus, the speaker’s rugged design and handy strap make it easy to take it anywhere, and it’s available in a bunch of fun colors to match your style. It’s perfect for any music lover who wants to bring the beats wherever life takes them – like school, on a bike-ride, to the playground and more. The perfect little tech gift for your perfect little tech obsessed kiddo.

3D Shark Night Light

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This little 3D night light features a remote control that allows the light to cycle through 16 colors. They look so cool and it’s easy to find options that suit every interest – from animals to sports.

This bedside companion is perfect for setting the right vibe, whether it’s for winding down before bed or creating an underwater adventure during playtime. The included remote control makes it easy to switch colors, adjust brightness, or even change between different lighting modes like flash and fade.

The 3D illusion effect adds a unique visual element, making this night light a standout piece in any kid’s bedroom. It’s not just fun, it’s also practical, helping kids feel comfortable at night while adding an exciting touch to their space. With a variety of shark designs, it’s an excellent gift for any aspiring marine biologist or shark enthusiast!

18 Piece Pretend Campfire

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The cutest campfire set for kids who love to use their imagination and make believe. The play set includes a variety of soft, kid-friendly pieces, such as pretend marshmallows on roasting sticks, an axe, and even felt graham crackers to make the perfect pretend s’more. It’s great for sparking imaginative play and helping kids develop social skills while playing together. Whether it’s an indoor camping adventure on a rainy day or a way to add some fun to storytime, this campfire set is total fire.

Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty

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Thinking Putty comes in different colors, illusions, glow-in-the-dark, heat-sensitive, (remember Hyper-Color shirts?!) and more. Stretch it, roll it, and bounce it. Sure, it’s sort of a toy, but the satisfying addictiveness and stress relief is a total win.

This unique putty changes colors with the warmth of your hands, making it endlessly entertaining for kids. Squish it, stretch it, and watch as it shifts through vibrant shades. It’s like having your very own color-changing stress reliever. Whether you’re fidgeting, focusing, or just having fun it’s putty FTW!

The Hypercolor putty comes in a compact tin, making it easy to take on the go—perfect for road trips, waiting rooms, or just keeping little hands busy at home. It’s non-toxic and never dries out, so it can be used over and over again. Whether for sensory play, stress relief, or as a cool science-inspired toy, Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty brings a colorful twist to playtime.

CLUE (Retro 1986) Board Game

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Back to the 80’s! Simpler times. Old school family fun for everyone with this retro, 1986 version of the famous CLUE board game. Let’s hear it for Professor Plum, in the Billiard Room, with the wrench!

This classic board game takes you back in time with its vintage design, capturing all the fun and intrigue of the original CLUE you remember. Gather your friends and family to solve the ultimate whodunit—was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the candlestick, or perhaps Miss Scarlet in the conservatory with the knife?

The classic gameplay of figuring out who, what, and where keeps everyone engaged, and the retro artwork makes it feel like a true blast from the past.

With classic characters, old-school weapon pieces, and the same twists and turns that made the original CLUE a hit, it’s sure to be a favorite for your kids too, especially when you’re all playing together.

"The Giving Tree" Hardcover Book

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Shel Silverstein’s The Giving Tree is a beautiful and bittersweet tale about love, generosity, and the passage of time. This classic story follows the lifelong relationship between a boy and a tree, showing how the tree gives selflessly to the boy at every stage of his life.

The simple yet profound narrative, paired with amazing illustrations, makes this book a touching and thought-provoking read for both children and adults.

The story’s message of unconditional love and giving resonates deeply, leaving readers with a mix of emotions that make it perfect for sparking meaningful conversations. It truly one that all kids should read at least once, but will end up reading over and over again.

Crayola 140 Count Art Set

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Truth be told it’s probably time to replace the broken crayons, uncapped markers, and used-within-an-inch-of-its-life scrap paper. This storage case includes crayons, washable markers, short colored pencils, and paper.

This all-in-one art set is packed with everything young artists need to bring their imagination to life, featuring 140 pieces, including crayons, colored pencils, and markers—all neatly organized in a durable carrying case. With a rainbow of vibrant colors, kids can draw, color, and create to until they run out of ideas…which is never.

The organized compartments make it easy to find the perfect color while also encouraging kids to keep their supplies nice and organize. Well, at least try to stay nice and organized.

Whether it’s for a rainy day, a road trip, or just for everyday fun, this art case is perfect for any budding artist. Let the creativity flow!

The Anti-Bullying ‘Choose Kindness’ T-Shirt

Spread positivity and have your kids stand up for what’s right with this “Choose Kindness” t-shirt!

Made from soft, breathable fabric, this shirt is as comfortable as it is meaningful, ideal for school, community events, or just whenever. It’s a cool way to help kids express their commitment to being kind, making it more than just a shirt – it’s a statement of values.

It’s great for the little ones, but even a great gift idea for the teens in your home! Check out the variety of color options as well.

Strider Balance Bike

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Perfect for kiddos up to 5 years old, get them rolling with confidence on the Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike! This lightweight balance bike is the perfect way to teach young kids how to balance and steer before moving on to a traditional pedal bike.

Designed for children ages 18 months to 5 years, it helps build coordination and independence in a fun and safe way, letting kids learn at their own pace.

The bike features an adjustable seat and handlebars, allowing it to grow with your child. It’s easy for little ones to handle, with a low step-through frame and durable tires that never need inflating. The no-pedal design lets kids focus on balancing first, which means they’ll be ready for a pedal bike sooner – and with way more confidence, which makes learning a pedal bike less of a nightmare.

Fujifilm Instax Mini Instant Camera

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What’s better than taking pictures you ask? Getting them developed immediately! This fun and easy-to-use camera is perfect for older kids who love the charm of instant photos (those pics are usually all over their school locker).

With its automatic exposure feature, the Mini 11 takes the guesswork out of lighting, giving you great photos every time. The built-in selfie mode and close-up lens make it easy to snap the perfect selfie, which you know your kiddos have already artfully mastered.

It’s lightweight, portable, abd instantly prints out credit card sized photos that are perfect for decorating their room, locker or just sharing with their friends. It comes in a bunch of cool colors too.

Carousel Classic Jr. Gum Ball Machine Bank

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Fill ‘er up with candy, gum balls, nuts. Features a real glass globe and a cast metal base, lid and coin mechanism. Accepts quarters, nickels, pennies or dimes – or you can set it to free spin mode to work without coins. Although if there’s gum and candy in there, maybe they don’t need to know that? Kidding. Sort of.

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Jennifer Belanger

Senior Shopping & Gifting Editor Jennifer is the Senior Shopping & Gifting editor at Brostrick.com. For over a decade, she’s mastered the art of professional retail therapy; scouting the internet for the coolest, most unique products so you don’t have to. When she isn't uncovering Brostrick’s next viral find, her expert gift curation and lifestyle writing can be found on Giftsicle.com and The Wine Down Report. Read full bio.

Tagged: christmas gift ideas, kids, valentines day ideas 2026

Gift Your Kids Any of These Presents This Christmas Season

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