I didn’t get this guide out as early as I’d hoped, but perhaps this timing works better for some — that little nudge needed to get the holiday gift shopping done. There’s already a DC-inspired gift guide with lots of local ideas for everyone in the fam, and this one has more suggestions for presents by age. Some of them are based on things our family has and likes, some are things on the kids’ lists, and others are just things that I think would make great gifts. Hope you think so, too. Happy gifting!
GIFTS FOR KIDS
Bike Lights
Pajamas – As cute as they are comfy for kiddos. Plus, they have holiday sets, including PJ’s for Christmas and Hanukkah.
Activity Kit – So many cools ones, from coloring sets to magic tricks to jewelry making to snap circuits to science labs.
Mad Libs – Easy stocking stuffers that are always a hoot for kids.
Jelly Blox – This supposedly is the new hot toy for little kids.
LEGO Set – You can’t go wrong with the classic for older kids.
Play Kitchen – Get little ones pretend cooking in one of these. Our kids loved theirs… it kept them busy for long stretches of time. More options here.
Board Game – This group game for ages 5 and up was recommended on Wirecutter.
Good Book – Trevor Noah’s children’s book has gotten great reviews, not surprising since his first book (for adults), Born a Crime, was excellent. See more “Best Children’s Books of 2024” by age.
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GIFTS FOR TEENS
Birkenstock Clogs – Birks for colder weather, though the classic Arizonas with socks are in, too.
Uggs – I know at least one teen who has a new pair of ultra minis on her list, and I think this new style is cute, too.
Smart Watch – Great for teens who like to track fitness (and who tend to misplace their phones). There are some good deals on them right now.
Ear Buds – If they need a pair, these Beats are a good deal. And these JBL if they prefer over-the-ear headphones.
Belt Bag – Just big enough to hold the essentials — phone, change purse, lip gloss.
Flannel Hoodie – On the list for at least one teen guy I know.
Water Bottle – Owala is the new, cool, colorful brand.
Cologne & Perfume – Both of my kids are into their scents these days. I especially like this one that Sasha recently got.
Skin Care Set – The Ordinary is a good, very reasonably priced brand (I have and like some products). Here are more sets from other brands.
Shower Speaker – For kids (like mine) who enjoy music in the shower.
Dyson Air Wrap – This super splurgy hair styling tool would be the ultimate gift for many teens (and adults, for that matter). I’ve read that this less expensive brand is one of the best dupes. And Sasha has this curling brush that does a decent job, especially considering the budget cost.
Good Book – This one has shown up on a lots of lists. See more recommended teen and YA books from the past year.
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GIFTS FOR ADULTS
Cashmere Sweater – Soft, warm, and luxurious… always makes a great gift. J.Crew’s brushed cashmere sweaters are so nice, too. They also have lots of options for men.
Outdoor Pizza Oven – How fun (and yummy) would it be to have this?
Ugg Slippers – So plush and comfy. Lots of women’s styles, too.
Nice Backpack – A sleek design and plenty of features that make it good for work and travel. Plus, it comes in a bunch of nice colors.
Light Therapy Mask – All the rage in skin care lately… these masks supposedly have great anti-aging benefits for skin. If you don’t want to go full mask, try a smaller wand instead.
Oura Ring – These rings that track health data are so neat, and something most probably wouldn’t think to buy for themselves. Lots of other smart rings at lower cost, too.
Cozy Throw – A super plush, comfy blanket they can snuggle under all winter. More colors here.
Host Gifts – Something like this bottle opener or this wine stopper are fun. For something a little nicer, a pretty decanter. Or a game is always a good pick.
Fun Mug – One can never have too many, especially if they’re big coffee or tea drinkers. A few for non-pickleballers: One just for dads, something for bird enthusiasts, monogrammed with a bistro tile design, and a previously recommended mug that is just the best.
Good Book – So many critics put James among their tops of the year. Or this one, for non-fiction readers. And Ina’s recent memoir will delight her fans.
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