[Note: This post was written by KFDC Contributor Emily Moise, a local writer and mom of two young children. She always has excellent recommendations for kids’ items as well as local explorations with little ones. See more of them here, here, here, here, and here.]
There’s something about digging a little arm down a knitted stocking of unknown. As a kid, celebrating Christmas at my grandparents’ house, mine typically contained scratch off lottery tickets and pretzels — and I loved it. Which is to say, it’s not so much about what’s in the stocking, but the traditions you create.
However, if you’re trying to get more creative than salty treats and gambling games for your little ones, these stocking stuffer picks are for you. A mix of fun and whimsy with practical and developmental. I hope these inspire new traditions of your own! (PS: Some of these may be the perfect little gift for under the tree, too.)
Pop Toy Key Chains
Trendy toy slash backpack adornment. Even if you’re iffy on pop toys, you can’t deny how adorable these ones are.
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Mini Building Blocks
These are perfect for the kid that loves to put things together and take them apart, over and over again.
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Mini Puzzle Tins
My daughter has a long-standing love of these. They are great for travel, and small storage spaces too.
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Clay Snowman Kit
Do you want to build a snowman? You can share this pack with the whole family, or save a few for friends.
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Wiki Stix
Family-friendly restaurants often distribute these. Kids and adults alike enjoy the simplistic creating that ensues.
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Mini Makeup Palette
My four-year-old requested makeup from Santa 🤦🏻♀️. This simple set is innocent enough!
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Bath Bombs
Natural ingredients, cutest hidden treasures. I also appreciate how this brand, Two Sisters, was created in the USA by a group of moms.
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Playing Cards
Go Fish is the best foray into family gaming. This holiday-themed version is sure to be a winner.
Mini Flashlights
The perfect fort and nighttime walk accessory. This 4-pack may give you a few for the grown-up stockings too.
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Farting Snowman
Chances are you have a child who will appreciate this. There is a nice rabbit hole of similar items to browse through as well.
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Mini Figurines
Find a set of your kids’ favorite TV characters, then divide. This 2-pack is perfect for a pair of Bluey fans.
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Toothbrushes
The ultimate practical pick. The inadvertent festive colors and suction stands make these a little extra special.
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Holiday Note Cards
The cutest cards kids can use to make and send thank you notes for relatives and friends. Santa and your Elf may get one too.
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Silly Scents Markers
Refresh your marker supply with this fun set — especially if your child needs some drawing and coloring encouragement.
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Pop Ups Lollipops
For kids who like to have their lollipop, and show it off too. These also teach kids that they can always save things for later.
What are your favorite stocking stuffers? Tell us in the comments below!