This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx.com.
I am basically the worst gift giver out there. I am terrible at ideas, wait till the last minute, and apparently don’t listen and make lists on what people really love in order to get it for them. But people are HARD to shop for, and in the world where you can get anything literally within the same day or next day delivery, it’s hard to get them something they need – or don’t already have!
That’s why I love that my job requires me to really dig in and find the cool new things out there – or remember the classics – that kids would really want – or myself. Or your dog….
So, here’s another fun gift list that was curated by Babbleboxx that I’m pretty excited about – each item here is perfect for someone on your list – promise.
WowWee: Magnaflex
These are a hot pick this year and I’ve seen them on a lot of lists out there. Here’s why: these kits include colorful magnetic strips and connector pieces that take building to a new level. Max was literally fascinated with trying to replicate the projects in the instruction guide, and he sat there diligently figuring out the magnetic toy components. I am a big fan of a toy that is both great for learning and fun, and Magnaflex makes the possibilities of new creations endless (plus, it’s a fantastic road trip toy!).
Where to grab it: Available at lots of places like Amazon, Target and Toys R Us.
Helio: Night Light Projection System
Again, an educationally-fun toy for the wins! The Helio Light Night Projection System is an award-winning, children’s educational night light that not only creates soothing night light features for bedtime, but uses creatively illuminated lesson plans projected on the ceiling. It’s a fun new way to make story time more animated – with the lights off! This has been a great way for us to spend time together cuddling and winding down for sleep, while also sneaking in a learning lesson. Shhhh – don’t tell Max.
Where to grab it: Heliosite.com
Candlewick Press: The Wonderling by Mira Bartok
I am obsessed with books, and there is always one (or a few!) that make my lists! Not only do I love to buy them throughout the year, but gifting them create lifelong readers like myself. This adventure book by New York Times best-selling author Mira Bartok is full of fantasy and friendship – and it’s perfect for teens and pre-teens (or reading aloud at story time as a continuation – which I love to do!). Plus grab
Where to grab it: Buy the book here, plus get a 25% off discount (and free shipping!) using the code “CANDLEWICK”.
PEZ: Christmas Ornament Collection & Holiday Tube
Max is obsessed with PEZ (who isn’t?) – so we were especially excited to see these new exclusive mini PEZ dispensers inside a real Christmas ornament that comes wtih two PEZ candy refills with a loop to hang it up! The hardest part is getting Max to be an angel and leave this angel alone until December 25. Bonus – they also have Christmas tubes full of PEZ candy that will make excellent stocking stuffers!
Where to grab it: See their full Christmas collection here.
Petlanthropy: Donation Gift Cards
Have that friend who really just doesn’t need anything? How about giving the gift of giving? You can donate to a local animal shelter on their behalf with petlanthropy.org. The money you donate goes directly to that shelter, and might just kick off a festival “pay it forward.” Since Maximo’s god mother just adopted two new kittens who we ADORE and met over Thanksgiving, we decided to give to the shelter they came from – Pittsburgh CAT – to give back.
Where to grab it: Petlanthropy.org
Vince Camuto: Shoes
Since Max wears uniforms to school, we really go all out on the shoes now. So these Vince Camuto Boys Gradie High Top Sneaker in Navy were the PERECT fit. The leather really can take a beating on all-day wear and still look great (and hold up!), and it adds a little bit of style and sass to his navy blue gym uniforms. Plus, they clearly look good anywhere – even Christmas shopping and parking lots!
Where to grab them: Get the same shoe here.
Viv + Lou: Duffel bag
It’s no secret that we travel – a lot. And when you travel, luggage and bags become a huge part of travel. But that doesn’t mean you can’t travel in style! These Viv + Lou duffel bags are kids’ travel accessory with plenty of room to fit all those road-trip must-haves. And the best part? You can make it a really personalized gift by added a monogram or name. Who says these color bags are just for kids, right?
Where to grab them: Grab this on the Viv + Lou website and use code “FOOTBALLMOTHER” for 25% off their entire shop!