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So here we are…just six days away from Christmas and three days from Hanukkah and if you're anything like us, you need to do some major shopping. Eek!
But that's how frantic the holiday season can be. In the midst of school parties, work assignments, friend get-togethers, end-of-the-year assessments/reviews/reports, and other festive events, buying gifts gets lost in the mix.
Never fear.
We have a last-minute gift guide that will definitely aim to please. Fingers crossed the gifts can arrive in time! (That's your cue to order now or get your butt to the nearest store.)
FOR THE KIDS:
Kids Kindle: iPads are great, but it can be tricky to regulate app use and Internet time. Which is why the Kids Kindle is a joy. It's just books! That said, it's just books. Lol. Also, it doesn't compare to reading an illustrated story book as the pictures are in black and white. If you own a Kindle yourself then you'll know exactly what you're getting since it's not that much different from the adult version. Wired.com has a great review on the Kids Kindle and what you get with it.
Boogie Board: We've had several iterations of this Boogie Board but the newest version is super cool. Essentially, it's the modern-day equivalent of an etch-a-sketch where you make your little drawings and instead of shaking the tablet to erase, you simply press a button. Also, there is no crazy turning of knobs but rather a couple of different-shaped pen tools to use.
3Doodler Starter 3D Pen: A 3D pen takes crafting and building to the next level. Using eco-friendly plastic (so they say), the 3D pens spits out whatever kids dream to draw. The kit does come with some stencils and guides on how to make certain items, but our oldest daughter has dreamt up a lot of her own creations. The pen does require heat to “print” out the designs but the temperature is not too hot, making it possible for kids ages 6 and up to handle.
Ordinary People Change the World Series: Our middle daughter was insistent that we buy her a book about scientist Marie Curie from this Ordinary People Change the World series and we could hardly resist her, especially when stories about important historical people come in such adorable packaging like this. You can buy individual books or gift them with a whole big set to work through.
Other items we've purchased for our kids include:
Stilts for kids (Yes, stilts)
FOR HER:
MZ Wallace Crossbody Bags: Most people know MZ Wallace for their puffy quilted totes but they also have a line of bags in nylon fabric. I personally sport the mini-Paige bag as my everyday mom gear but I also own the Gramercy which is ideal for travel because it has three different kinds of straps—leather, chain, and fabric.
The Defined Dish Cookbook: I cook at least three meals a week from The Defined Dish a.k.a. Alex Snodgrass. Most of her recipes are Whole30, but many of them are just gluten-free and all of them are tasty. Even the kids love these meals. (Her EPIC Meatballs is my go-to crowd please for group gatherings too.) Note: this book is on pre-order right now but will be ready to ship on December 31. In the meantime, follow her on Instagram!
Roxanne Assoulin: Every piece of jewelry from Roxanne Assoulin will brighten her day! I am fond of the Tie-One-On Bracelets but she has really sweet earrings and bangles too. She even has items for men! Speaking of men…
FOR HIM:
Vuori Pants: A few years ago, between kids #2 and #3, Daddy Mike determined that particular year was to be the “Year of Living Comfortably”, i.e. in sweatpants when he was not at work. He now continues to live comfortably in Vuori pants. In the company's own words, whether you are climbing, lunging or lounging, they've got you covered.
Raen Sunglasses: If your man is already wearing high-end sweatpants, then get him some high-design sunglasses from Raen. This brand has tons of styles and designs but each pair is rather affordable, typically under $200.
Happy Socks: Giving socks can be totally boring, but Happy Socks are exactly as advertised—fun sock designs guaranteed to make your man happy… about going to work that day. Lol.
FOR THE FAMILY:
The Gift of a Vacation! What's better than any toy, bracelet, sweatpants on this list? A vacation. Research is showing that vacations, explorations, trips, and other adventures are better for kids than toys. Obviously! If you're looking to take the family somewhere cool in 2020, reach out to Trips + Giggles! We'll help you with your planning and we can even book the trip for you. To learn more about our travel agent services, go here.
OTHER STORIES YOU MIGHT LIKE:
Fly Far Far Away: Survival Guide for Long Flights with Toddlers
