Finding the perfect stocking stuffers for toddlers can be a challenge. Stockings are one of my favorite parts of Christmas morning, but I’m also wary of bringing additional junk or clutter into the house. And we’re one of those families that saves opening stockings for last, which definitely raises the bar a bit. Some years it feels like I’m on a never-ending quest to discover little items that are worthy of appearing under the tree, but also small enough to nestle nicely inside a toddler sized stocking. (Please tell me I’m not alone!)By focusing on stocking stuffers for toddlers that encourage creative play and development I think we’ve finally cracked the stocking code. Best news? They’re all available through Amazon, which means one less trip to the store this holiday season and more time playing with your kids.
Stocking Stuffers for Toddlers
- Shakin Eggs | 2. Play-Doh | 3. Play Silks | 4. Little People | 5. Beeswax Crayons | 6. Money Box | 7. Board Books | 8. Bath Toys
1. Toy Instruments
We included these Haba Shakin Eggs in last year’s stockings and they’ve been a big hit with our kids and their friends. Each multi-colored wooden egg makes a fun and different sound when shaken. You can use them for music, counting, color recognition, creative play, and more. Haba makes safe, high quality toys that hold up to extensive use.
2. Playdough
I plan to break up this set and include a few containers in each child’s stocking. Playdough is fun for all ages and encourages the imagination as kids develop fine motor skills through pressing, smooshing, rolling, shaping, squishing and squeezing. And it’s an item we use up and replace fairly regularly, making it a great stocking stuffer that will actually get used.
3. Play Silks
I’ve come to believe you can never have too many play silks. We love the ones made by Sarah’s Silks. While they’re a little pricey, they hold up really well and are incredibly soft and beautiful. We started with the rainbow silk and our little ones use it for everything from peak-a-boo, to playing dress-up, to creating a blanket for their dolls. We’ll be adding the Fire and Sea silks to their stockings this year.
4. Little People
Beloved by children everywhere, Fisher-Price Little People are high on my list of stocking stuffers for toddlers. Kids gravitate to these things and our little ones play with them on a daily basis. Not only are perfect for acting out stories, but Fisher-Price Little People are the right size for helping toddlers with fine motor skills as they develop finger and hand dexterity. This Christmas we’ll be adding Eddie & his Dog to our collection.
5. Honeysticks Crayons
Yes, these are expensive for crayons. But as a foster family we try to make sure everything in our home is super safe, since it takes time before you know how quickly a new little one will learn not to put everything in their mouths. Honeysticks are made from 100% pure beeswax and use food grade pigments for color. There are no nasty fillers included, so I worry a lot less when these find their way into little mouths. As a bonus, the chubby shape is great for small hands, these crayons smell absolutely amazing and they last for ages.
6. Moonjar Money Box
This little Moonjar Money Box is a great alternative to a traditional piggy bank because it connects to financial values. Toddlers are curious about money and introducing the concepts of saving, spending and sharing young will serve them well. Many kids never learn financial literacy skills and I hope to make sure our kids are raised in a home where money isn’t a taboo topic.
7. Board Books
Board books go everywhere with us. All our little ones have bookshelves in their rooms, but we also keep a few books in each play space and stash them in the car, stroller, and diaper bag. You never know when you’ll need to keep a child busy for a few moments. Board books are so good for encouraging early literacy skills and the holidays are the perfect time to add a few new ones into the mix. We’ll be adding If Animals Kissed Good Night to our bedtime rotation.
8. Tub Toys
Bath toys are one of those things that just get gross with use, so I like to change ours out at least once a year. Come December the 3 Bees & Me Magnetic Boat Set will be making an appearance under our tree. They’re BPA free, incredibly cute, and a fun way to learn about colors and numbers.
Do you have other items that make great stocking stuffers for toddlers? I’m always looking for new ideas! And are you an open the stockings first, or open the stockings last family?
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