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6 Min Read December 13, 2022 No Reply

The BEST gifts from all my gift guides

Parenting, Shopping

I’m switching up my gift guide a little this year! After writing and sharing gift guides for kids for over 10 years on this blog, I thought it might be helpful to share some of the BEST gift items that have shown up on my list, often because my own family has it, and indicate which ones really had lasting power.

These featured items go all the way back to 2010, and some are as recent as 2019. I still buy or recommend these items as gifts!

A couple notes: This list doesn’t include books but annually we gift books. Always buy books. Those make great gifts.

I have linked to the original guide so you can find additional inspiration from that year.

Also, I don’t have a lot of specific places to buy each item, and some have changed slightly from when I purchased them. I do mention local Ottawa shop Tag Along Toys often not because of a current sponsorship but because that’s where I have bought many of these items myself over the years!

Here are 8 of the most used, most loved, and longest-lasting gifts I’ve shared in the past so you know they are going to be worth it if you get them this year for someone on your list.

A Tiny Wooden Kitchen and accessories

Gift Guide it was Featured in: 2010

Recently, we updated the basement and did a massive reduction of toys from when the kids were babies and toddlers. Because, let’s be honest, we don’t need them anymore. But I couldn’t get rid of everything. I did keep the kitchen and all of the accessories like our little coffee maker and felt food. They will be at my parent’s house for a bit for all the kids to play with when they visit.

The kitchen and pretend play items were used a lot by the kids and guests over the years.

Find the Hape/Educo kitchen (or one like it because this seems hard to find!) online.

Ikea’s is a nice one!

this is the exact kitchen I have, it’s very small which was great for our space.

Cardboard Blocks

Gift Guide they were Featured in: 2010

When people ask me for ideas, especially toddlers, this is the first one I recommend. You have to have some room to stack and store them when they are assembled, but after over 15 years of having these in our house (they are still here, I don’t know what to do with them yet), I can say they are one of the most used toys ever. They were a gift to our then one-year old at Christmas.

Get more info about the Jumbo Blocks from Melissa and Doug here

RECOMMENDATION: Take the time to set them up the night before Christmas morning to create more of a ‘wow’ effect. We created a tower!

blurry photo!

Chemistry lab set

Gift Guide it was Featured in: 2012

Another thing that got used over and over again. The box is ripped and falling apart it’s so well loved. The kids loved mixing water (with food colouring) and using the beakers and dropper to play pretend. One year, my eldest asked for a lab coat which made for a perfect addition to the set too. It STILL gets used in this house.

I purchased mine locally at Tag Along Toys. Here’s the set you are looking for from Learning Resources.

Spot it!

Gift Guide it was Featured in: 2014

You’ll notice quite a few games on the list but for good reason. Who doesnt’ love board games? Spot It! Is perfect because it fits in your purse for travelling or when you are waiting somewhere. It’s also a quick game when time is tight.

Find it at Tag Along Toys or where most games are sold!

Family Charades

Gift Guide it was Featured in: 2015

We purchased this as a family Christmas gift and loved it. There is a pack with pictures only for pre-readers, and different series of packages for different levels of difficulty.

I bought mine at Tag Along Toys but you should be able to find it at board game shops. The new version seems to not have the picture set!

Squishmallow

Gift Guide it was Featured in: 2019

Sure, Squishmallow stuffed toys are super popular right now, but I have been getting them as gifts for kids in my life for years! And with good reason – they are amazing. Soft, cuddly and just so cute. Honestly, they are great for kids of all ages (yes, including teens!)

Buy them almost anywhere stuffed animals are sold. You can find them in almost any creature or animal too!

Left Centre Right

Gift Guide it was Featured in: 2019

Another game that can tuck into your bag or car for travel or when visiting friends and family is Left Centre Right. This game is great because it can involve all ages and is a game of luck rather than skill. Just be prepared for a loud time with cheers (or is that just my family?)

Also, this is an all-ages gift – you can easily gift this to adults too!

This game is at most places where games are sold and at $10 it makes a really well priced gift.

Exploding Kittens

Gift Guide it was Featured in: 2018

A game that is great as kids get older is Exploding Kittens. This is a family favourite, small enough to travel with (notice a pattern for us?) and it just funny. It requires some skill and strategy but there are plenty of laughs to be had during it.

Buy it where board games are sold (local shops, Chapters etc!)

8 Min Read November 26, 2020 No Reply

2020 Holiday Gift Guide for Kids (from toddlers to teens)

Shopping

Here we go! It’s time for my annual Holiday Gift Guide for kids to help you find the most unique, fun, and special gifts for the kids in your life this year.

As always, here’s a little bit about my gifts guides (I’ve been writing them since 2010!)

This is a list of ideas that I’m sharing, from one parent to another, for those of your who need an idea for someone in your family, a friend’s child, a niece or nephew that is hard to buy for and so on.

There is no way to get on the gift guide unless I think the item is super neat/would be fun/I want to give to someone myself. That means it’s unsponsored. Some items are from my partners or have been given to me, but if they are here it’s because I think they deserve to be. I will also mention that.

The gift guide has grown with my kids and often feature items that I love for them, or have gotten them, but it covers gifts for toddlers, school aged kids, and teens. I shop for all ages every year!

I have also focused heavily on local shops, local makers, and Canadian options.

You can also browse my previous gift guides too because there are some pretty stellar recommendations on there. So many of those items are ones I still turn to as gifts, and ones that are still played with by my kids or the kids in our lives.

Please enjoy the guide, and as always, if you need some extra help, I am happy to be a little elf helper and provide you with even more suggestions – just drop me a comment, a message on social media or an email!

2020 Holiday Gift Guide for Kids

Bath bombs

Kids love feeling pampered just like we do, and a bath bomb is the perfect way to have some fun in the tub. Check out this sweet holiday themed set found at Terra20 (they offer curbside and local delivery), or order from Ontario company Whitby Soap Company (their designs look amazing!)

The Clay Date Kit

My daughter has had kits with clay that make little designs and dries before and she loves them. So I was thrilled to see a local version (The Clay Date Kit by Sprout Works Connection) show up at my favourite toy store Tag Along Toys (a blog advertiser, but also our family’s go-to toy store). Kids of all ages will love being able to mold and create with this kit – it comes with 24 colours and shaping tools! (I already got one for my daughter before sharing here 😉

Playfoam

I find Playfoam to be the weirdest stuff, but I have to admit it’s pretty cool. I attended a virtual toy fair a few weeks ago and this was a hot toy. We’ve had it show up in stockings in the past, and this kit with a case from Tag Along Toys is pretty neat. It doesn’t dry out, and I don’t find it as messy as Playdoh (although that’s also a big hit usually!)

Trailblazers: The Black Pioneers Who Have Shaped Canada

I was a part of the Kickstarter for this book and it has arrived! It’s filled with Black Canadians who have been a part of our history, and present. It’s the perfect addition to our bookshelf for all of us to enjoy. You can get your copy at Chapters.

Girl Gang Strong Subscription Box (or one-time box)

I ordered a Girl Gang Strong box for my daughter at the beginning of the school year and she beyond loved it. I have another one coming as a Christmas gift. You can order it as a subscription, or purchase a one-time box or set. The boxes are filled with products and books to encourage self-love, find inspiration, and have some fun. It’s the perfect tween or teen gift.

Kokom Scrunchies

I ordered this beautiful scrunchie a few months ago and love it. They make for perfect stocking stuffers too! They are locally made by a very talented 9 year old!

Waytoplay Expressway

Playing cars brings me back to when my kids were little and we played so many games with villages and roadways and pretend things! And I wish I had a set like this expressway. There are various package sizes, but wouldn’t it be fun to create your own roadway anywhere in the house? Find them at Hintonburg Kids.

Emmy’s Earrings

Locally made earrings for sensitive ears (they use plastic posts), Emmy’s Earrings make perfect stocking stuffers or special gifts. They also have a clip on option for those without their ears pierced but still want to accessorize!

Pop Culture Shirt

So, turns out, teens are pretty easy to shop for when you have a shared interest in pop culture. My son and I are currently binging The Office, so this sweater (from PEI) hits the right notes.

Want more reference? Etsy is an amazing source for whatever show your kid is into. But I also created a custom button for him with a Parks and Recreation button from local shop Ifs, Ands, or Buttons.

This The Office puzzle is also happening for him (from local shop Hintonburg Kids)

B. Toys music set

My kids had a variety of B. Toys items, their cousin had this music set, we had the doctor kit (which is still used for pretend play by dd and cousins) and I love gifting their items. This music set is fun and can be found at Fab Baby Gear.

LEGO Tray

I love the look of these personalized LEGO trays from ETSY. Your child can carry their set up or creation from room to room, and you are less likely to step on all the pieces (not guaranteed though ha). The inserts are available in a variety of colours too.

Raven Reads

This is another subscription (so it could be a good idea to give to grandparents looking for special gifts!) but I came across Raven Reads and thought it looks amazing. There’s an adult version too, but the younger box is for children aged 9 and under and includes Indigenous books and gifts that you and your child can read together. This is a great way to build your library if you have young kids too!

123 Petits Pas Starter Kit

For wee ones who are learning French as a second language, local business 123 Petits Pas has put together an interactive starter kit with fun learning activities! There is a limited supply though.

Paint your own Wood Craft Kits

I think crafts should always be a part of a gift giving year. Locally burned wood outlines with paint pots for your child to paint their own bedroom decor are a fun activity! I ordered a small set in the Spring from Canoes and Creativity and loved it. I also ordered a set for my nieces!

Magnetic Book Marks

I love the cutesy nature of these book marks from a Vancouver company Craftedvan that I saw on Instagram. Both my kids would think these are great and they probably should make an appearance under our tree. They also have enamel pins (pictured here). Also, check out their googly eyed mystery packs!!

8 Min Read December 12, 2019 No Reply

2019 Gift Guide for Kids

Shopping

All the gifts to know about to look like a holiday hero this season

It’s that time of year again! If you are just starting your holiday shopping, or if you are almost done, I’ve rounded up a list of fun, interesting, cool items for kids of all ages.

As always, here’s a bit more about this year’s gift guide:

Simple. This is a list of ideas that I’m sharing, from one parent to another, for those of your who need an idea for someone in your family, a friend’s child, a niece or nephew that is hard to buy for and so on.

There is no way to get on the gift guide unless I think the item is super neat/would be fun/I want to give to someone myself. That means it’s unsponsored. Some items are from my partners or have been given to me, but if they are here it’s because I think they deserve to be.

As always, the gift guide has grown with my own kids so I’m shopping for a 9 and 13 year old this year BUT I have nieces and nephews and kids in my life who are between the ages of 2 years old and 20 years old, so I get it. All ideas are needed.

As I mentioned, you can browse my previous gift guides too because there are some pretty stellar recommendations on there.

Please enjoy the guide, and as always, if you need some extra help, I am happy to be a little elf helper and provide you with even more suggestions – just drop me a comment, a message on social media or an email!

ps: some of your Chapters purchases may be affiliate links – at no cost to you, I may end up with some extra coffee money! Thanks!

MyFUNvelope

(note: This was gifted to me to check out but you know I always include crafts on my list!)

STEM activities and hands-on crafts delivered right to your door for the special child in your life? Sounds pretty amazing!

MyFUNvelope offers a one-time craft kit purchase or a STEM/craft project monthly subscription service. The packages comes with new crafts each month to create, and the very first order includes a decorate-your-own pencil case with markers and scissors! They’ll love having their own mail arrive! Instructions are available in English and French.

To purchase: My Funvelope, beginning at about $19.99

https://www.instagram.com/p/BrA0G6zAe3P/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Luggage

When my youngest was 5, my parents got both the kids small luggage for our upcoming Disney trip. It was the perfect gift. We are still using them, although I think the kids will need a bit of a bigger sized carry on in the near future.

A few tips when looking for kids luggage: I like hard shells, and ones that are for sure carry on. If you go too small, you’ll find they simply don’t hold enough so make sure it’s practical. And the wheels matter. Get a kind with great wheels so they can pull it through the airport! This makes a great gift for preteens and teens too!

Where to buy: Various location, but look at Heys – I really like their stuff!

Squishmallow stuffies!

I keep buying these as gifts because my daughter loves hers so much. They are soft and cuddly and the kids love them.

Where to buy them: I’ve gotten them at Winners, but you may find them at your local shop or Chapters too.

Grimm’s Wooden Toys

Every time Hintonburg kids posts a photo of Grimm’s wooden toys (especially the rainbow), I think that it would have for sure been under my children’s tree when younger. I love wooden toys, and the open ended opportunities these present are wonderful.

Visit Hintonburg Kids for details!

Star Wars Books for Kids

If you haven’t read through Jeffrey Brown’s sweetly created Star Wars books you are missing out. These are family favourites and make the perfect gift no matter your child’s age!

Where to buy: Chapters

Baby Gowns

Both of my kids wore baby nightgowns when they were first born and I loved them. It made for easy nighttime diaper changes, and since they were swaddled or wrapped, they stayed cozy. New versions have a tie off bottom keeping little legs warm. If you know someone who is expected or who just had a baby, introduce them to the world of gowns.

I love the look of this sweet and cozy set – and the slippers can easily be added to the gift list. My sister asked for these Padraigs with every baby she had!

Where to buy: Most baby clothing shops have nightgowns, but check out this set and the slippers at Hintonburg Kids.

Funny Mat

(note: This was gifted to me too but I love anything that encourages creativity! The travel set will be perfect on a plane too)

You know how you keep finding scraps of paper with drawings, writing, random colouring all over it? What if you had a way to reduce the paper use, but still encourage all of the fun creativity? That opportunity exists thanks to the Funny Mat. These large mats can be coloured or painted, then washed, over and over again with washable products making them perfect for the eco-conscious parent (or the parent who wants less mess!) Many sets come with washable markers too.

My daughter even took the travel kit with us to Montebello and was colouring in the car. I love that I can set the mat out on the table and she just colours away right before supper or when there’s a bit of quiet time.

Where to find them: Various locations, including Tag Along Toys on Bank Street and Fab Baby Gear, or on their website.

Portable Train Set

The kids always loved having a train set around, but this one from Melissa and Doug brings it to the next level because it’s portable! With all of our holiday and summer travel over the years, I’ve discovered that toys that are easy to pack up are my favourite, so this set looks like it would be a great way to grab it before a hotel stay, or visiting the grandparents.

Where to find it: Various, Tag Along Toys in Ottawa

Adopt an Animal

If you have a child who has been expressing their interest in animals, taking care of them, or worrying about animal habitats (this is a topic that comes up with my own kids from time to time), then consider adopting an animal. With a World Wildlife Fund adoption, they get a certificate and information about their animal, and some packages offer stuffed replicas. This is a great way to encourage their involvement and give a meaningful gift.

Left Right Centre

Most years, I like to include a game that our family has been enjoying (like Exploding Kittens which we still all love) but one that is the perfect game and gift all in one is called Left Right Centre. It’s an easy dice game that is great for kids and adults to play together. But be warned – it gets loud while you are having fun!

Where to buy it: Various places, look for it locally at Mrs. Tiggy Winkles

My final tip is this: I have found some amazing gifts over the years at local community craft shows, or bigger artisan, made-in-ottawa events. They are always worth checking out and supporting!

Happy shopping – and if you are still in need of a few more ideas, message me on social media!

8 Min Read November 21, 2018 5 Replies

The 2018 Holiday Gift Guide for Kids

Shopping
best gifts for kids 2018

Here it is! The 2018 Gift Guide for Kids by A Little Bit of Momsense!

I can’t believe I have been sharing these since 2009! You can find all of my previous gift guides at this link – and they are worth browsing because many of those ideas are still ones I recommend!

These are the gifts that will stand out this year – the 2018 Holiday Gift Guide for kids by @bitofmomsense

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So what’s up with this gift guide?

Simple. This is a list of ideas that I’m sharing, from one parent to another, for those of your who need an idea for someone in your family, a friend’s child, a niece or nephew that is hard to buy for and so on.

There is no way to get on the gift guide unless I think the item is super neat/would be fun/I want to give to someone myself. That means it’s unsponsored. Some items are from my partners or have been given to me, but if they are here it’s because I think they deserve to be.

As always, the gift guide has grown with my own kids so I’m shopping for a 9 and 12 year old this year BUT I have nieces and nephews and kids in my life who are between the ages of 2 years old and 20 years old, so I get it. All ideas are needed.

As I mentioned, you can browse my previous gift guides too because there are some pretty stellar recommendations on there (in fact, I’m going to do a round up of the top 10 gifts that really had staying power in this house!)

Please enjoy the guide, and as always, if you need some extra help, I am happy to be a little elf helper and provide you with even more suggestions – just drop me a comment, a message on social media or an email!

2018 Gift Guide for Kids

Unicorn head band game

unicorn head band game

Someone in our extended family is getting this for Christmas, and the joke is that we are waiting to see how long before the adults get involved. Not only is this a game smaller kiddos can play, but it’s one the entire family can try. We anticipate a lot of laughs!

Where to buy it: Chapters, Tag Along Toys (in Ottawa)

Milk and Sass

Both my kids are pre-teens, and I’m often asked about this age group. One thing I really like that I think is the perfect stocking stuffer for pre-teens and teens is the Milk and Sass hairbrush and compact mirror. Handy to keep in their lockers or bookbags for before-pictures at school, or when the older kids want to skip over hat hair in the morning. I love the look and colours of the design. It detangles and is great for travel.

Where to buy: https://www.milkandsass.com/shop/

World Changing Kids

I love the local work that World Changing Kids is doing, but now anyone across the country can encourage family members to get involved in their own neighbourhoods with this guide to kindness. There is a years worth of kind activities for your family to do.

Where to buy: World Changing Kids, Tag Along Toys

‘Who Was’ Books

There are always books that I can recommend for kids, and like previous years when the Weird, but True books were a huge hit, the Who Was series is a massive go-to for my eldest who loves non-fiction reads. These kid-friendly historic explanations and biographies are really interesting.

Where to buy them: Chapters

Exploding Kittens

This was one of our family board games from Christmas last year and it has proven to be a huge hit. We travel with it too so that we can play at the cottage in PEI. Again, it’s another game that’s perfect for the kids but is a lot of fun for parents too.

Where to buy it: Chapters, Mrs. Tiggy Winkles

Kids Made Modern Craft Set

My daughter received this craft set for her birthday a couple of years ago and it’s amazing. There seem to be two different styles available, but the basic principle is the same: It includes a variety of pipe cleaners, felt, sewing needles, beads, glue and more. This is THE box she uses when she wants to create and craft and we love it.

Where to buy it: Well.ca, Chapters

Tattly

Again, this feels like one of those things for when the kids get older and want to express themselves but that parents can get behind. These are perfect stocking stuffers too! Artistically designed, these temporary tattoos are gorgeous and they are made of vegetable ink and last about 2-4 days.

Where to buy them: terra20.com 

Bake Shop

This was another birthday present that proved to be so much fun. If you have a child who is obsessed with things that are ‘cute’ this may be just for them. It is great for kiddos that are a bit older (6+, although your 9 year olds will be able to do them independently) and the kids make sweet baked items out of soft clay (that eventually dries).

Where to buy it: Scholastic, Chapters, many places where Klutz products are sold

Slime kit

Sorry parents, don’t tell me how much you hate slime. We all hate slime, it’s not our thing. But I do love how these slime kits come with everything the kids need to make their own slime – bowls, measuring spoons, etc, without having to worry about going through our cupboards. The clean up is pretty easy and I like this better than trying to search for my old contact lense solution.

Where to buy: Most places where slime is sold (Chapters, Toys R Us etc)

Antsy Pants Play Sets

I almost added this to my gift guide last year, but then found out that they weren’t available in Canada yet. However, they are now available at Chapters! Yay! This is such a fun looking set (and I was lucky enough that they sent me one – I will have very happy nieces this Christmas!). There are connectors that make stands and play sets, then additional covers to customize the scene (like a lemonade stand or farmers’ market).

This is one of those things that I know would have been under my tree if my kids were younger. You buy the pole starter set, then you can buy covers to enter into a make believe world!

Where to buy them: Chapters

Cuddly Sloth

If you are buying a gift for a new little one in your life, Santa can give this adorable stuffed sloth and it will be cherished for years to come. Just looking at it makes me smile and I know we still have some of our little stuffies from when the kids were babies.

Where to buy: Chapters

Tornado Tower

You’ll notice my list doesn’t include a lot of plastic toys, but the reality is that every year we end up gifting some because there are some really neat ones (or just trendy ones that the kids want, let’s be honest). But when I saw this STEM focused Little Tikes Tornado Tower a few months ago, I knew I wanted to share it on my list. I love anything that encourages STEM, but starting them young is great too!

Where to buy: Most places Little Tikes is sold like Chapters or Toys R Us.

PIN IT FOR LATER

 

 

2 Min Read December 10, 2017 1 Reply

The Star Wars Fan Gift Guide

Shopping

For him, for her, for the kids, babies and Wookies in your life, I’ve rounded up some amazing Star Wars gifts that you’ll be excited to give and they’ll be excited to get.

Millenium Falcon Pool Floatie

Give someone the gift of the greatest ship in the galaxy for their swimming pool. You can pretend to be Han Solo or maybe even someone new who will fly the ship when The Last Jedi comes out!

Sphero BB-8

This is a WOW gift. It’s one that would make me anyone excited to receive. You get to control BB-8! Everyone needs this little droid rolling around, right?

Jedi Academy Books

For the little fan who wants more stories from a galaxy far far away, the Jedi Academy chapter books may be perfect!

Darth Vader Books

What would Darth Vader be like as a Father? One who raised Luke and Leia? This hilarious cartoon series explores that very thought. It’s funny, cute and a fun read for the entire family.

R2-D2 baby onesie 

I wish I had put my babies in this. How cute would this onesie be on the baby in your life that you want to spoil (and teach the ways of the force to early on!)

 

Star Wars Make up

Yes, you read that right. You can choose your palette: The Dark Side or the Light Side, but also, check out the compact mirrors!

Star Wars Itty Bitty

I think the little Itty Bitty stuffed characters from Hallmark are too cute. Select your favourite character and tuck them into a stocking!

Star Wars Earrings

Star Wars Love Earrings

Local shop Workshop Studio and Boutique has a selection of Star Wars earrings like Darth Vader, Yoda and C3p0 (found online) but based on their Instagram, they may have other options in store! This is a great gift for someone who loves to add some flare to their own personal style and is a big fan.

Gifts for the Star Wars fan in your life via @bitofmomsense

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What Star Wars item would you like to see under your tree? 

 

 

 

5 Min Read November 24, 2017 No Reply

Holiday Gift Guide for Kids: Babies to School aged

Parenting

Fun Gifts They’ll Love

Here it is! This year’s gift guide for kids. These are items that we have in our home and love, that may show up under our tree, or that I think would be fun for kids other kids of varying ages. Each year, I include hand-picked items that I’ve seen over the past few months (or have owned for some time) and want to share with you!

This guide isn’t sponsored (although a few advertisers appear because I shop there too) and doesn’t include the current trends. I suspect most of us know to look for Shopkins, Pokemon or Minecraft gifts already. I tried to find gifts that you might not usually think of or see yourself!

Also, I always think that craft kits and puzzles make for excellent gifts, when in doubt. I didn’t include too many specific ones this year, but keep that in mind.

I highly encourage you to browse the other gift guides from previous years because looking back, we are STILL using so many of those gifts. You can find all of them here. See something from a previous guide and want to know how it’s held up if we own it? Send me a message!

The 2017 Bit of Momsense Gif Guide for Kids is here! Your shopping just got easier via @bitofmomsense

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Here it is, your shopping guide for some fun, unique and special gifts this holiday season for the kiddos in your life.

2017 Gift Guide for Kids

Monopoly Empire

Every year, we get a family board game under our Christmas tree. Last year, Santa brought Monopoly Empire and we didn’t realize how much we would all love it. The premise is that you are a company that is trying to out buy the other brands and get richer. It’s cutthroat at times, and strategic, and a lot of fun. Highly recommend!

Buy it: Toys r Us (often on sale!)

A Camera

Originally, I thought about getting the Fuji camera that goes underwater, has Wifi etc. But in the end, I decided this year to try out the V-Tech video/camera for kids (shhhh it’s a secret). It will be a good introduction for my two to play around with it, and for me to see how serious they are about using it. As they get older a ‘real’ digital camera can be on the list, but for now, I’m excited to see the vacation photos and action photos they take with this one.

Buy it: Chapters

Skip Hop Owl Push Toy

My mom bought this for my niece who just turned one and as soon as I saw it in action I said ‘this is going on my gift guide!’. It’s basically a little push toy like the old poppers, but it’s an owl and the wings move as it goes. And I don’t find it as loud. It’s beyond cute.

Buy it: Chapters

Make Your Own Nail Polish

I love finding gifts for older kids as well as younger ones, and I love that this SunCoat set is the right combination of fun, youthful craft time and creative pre-teen time. The set comes with clear polish and different colours that you can mix and match to create your own. Naming them will be fun too!

Buy it: terra20, Tag Along Toys

Flower Press

Years ago, my daughter was given a flower press as a gift. She still uses it now. I love hands-on activities like this, and the introduction to preserving flowers is a wonderful activity to do.

Buy it: Tag Along Toys, amazon.ca

Over the Door Basketball Net

Every year it seems, there’s something active under our tree. We’ve had hockey nets, sticks, basketballs, tennis balls, and more. I love the idea of having an over the door basketball net. With space being limited in many homes, this is a fun way for kids to spend some quiet time, or for the family to play together. I love the price points on these too.

Buy it: Star Wars themed net – Canadian Tire (other NBA ones or plain ones are available at various locations)

Magic Kit

My son got a couple magic and illusionist style kits years ago and is still using them. Card tricks in particular have been really popular. This will keep the kids busy!

Buy it: Tag Along Toys in-store, Chapters

Weird But True Books

Perhaps one of the most popular books that are in our house right now are the National Geographic Weird but True series. These books are pages and pages of fact snippets that will make you say, wait for it, “weird! But true!”

Most of the books are small in size which make them perfect travel companions. We even take them to restaurants to do quizzing/guessing games! Both my kids have been hugely interested in these books.

Buy it: Chapters, Scholastic

Fisher Price Cash Register

This reminds me of my childhood. That’s it, it’s pure nostalgia, but I suspect little ones will still have fun putting the coins in and watching them roll down.

Buy it: Chapters, Toys R Us

That is my list for this year and I hope you found it helpful! Have questions or want to know more about certain products that appear on my list? Ask below!

 

 

 

 

 

 

7 Min Read November 20, 2016 No Reply

2016 Gift Guide for kids

Shopping

It’s that time of year! The time when my kids are anticipating the arrival of our Elf on the Shelf, when they are finalizing lists to Santa, when I’m putting on Christmas music and when Andy is trying to convince me to wait just a little bit longer before decorating.

And, it’s the time of year when I share my gift guide! Each year, I share with you a gift guide of gifts for kids that I have purchased for my own kids, have in my house already or just cool gifts that I think kids would love.

About this Gift Guide

The list is not sponsored (although some of my blog advertisers and previous partners appear here, because they have great stuff!) and the list has grown with my own children. If you have younger kids and want to know some additional ideas, my previous gift guides have fun toys and goodies that are still used in our house (I’ve included links below), or message me and I’ll share some gifts I’ve found for nieces and nephews!

As always, I encourage you to check out your local shops for some items, but I’ve included links to some places where you can find them online as well!

And now, get your pens and paper out to write down you list!

Here it is! The 2016 Gift Guide from @bitofmomsense with fun gift ideas for the kids in your life

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Here’s the 2016 A Little Bit of Momsense Gift Guide!

Kayak Magazine

I wrote about Kayak a few months ago. Once again, my son was gifted a subscription for his birthday and he’s thrilled. I think it would make a great gift for kids, especially if you are gifting it to someone out of town or who you don’t see often.

kayak magazine

Board Games

I couldn’t narrow down just one recommendation. We, like a lot of families, have a lot of board games and every year we add to the collection. Santa likes to bring our family a family board game as a gift.

If your kids are younger, I recommend starting out with Jenga. It’s something that they can play with parents, or just use the blocks to build. I also love the game Zingo which we got years ago (and the kids love it too!).

For older kids, we loved playing Monopoly Empire (and will soon be playing it more after Christmas!) and recently we got Jeopardy! That one is definitely for older kids but my 10 year old is excited to play with us. There’s even a travel edition!

Lastly, if you haven’t played Ticket to Ride, that’s a fantastic game for the family. My youngest joins a team for the time being, but my eldest plays on his own with us. It’s a lot of fun!

ticket-to-ride

Maplelea Girls Dolls and/or accessories

I recently worked on a campaign with Maplelea Girls. My daughter got one last year from a campaign and has been asking for add-ons since. Last Christmas, she received a bird friend and some outfits. This year, it sounds like more outfits are on her Santa list. I like that there are accessories no matter what your child’s interests – hockey, gymnastics, horse back riding etc.

leonie maplelea doll skating

Create your own Craft box

I loved getting craft items as a kid, and now my kids receive something each year. There are many ready-to-go sets that are perfect for gift giving, but if you aren’t sure what someone may like, build your own! Think about supplying canvases, water colour paper (it’s way better than construction paper or printer paper!), Washi tape, googly eyes (there are never enough!) and other items that may not be common in craft kids at home. Add a really great set of markers – my daughter never can get enough!

colouring markers

Bloxels

How about a game where the kids make up their own character or world offline, then upload it and build a game online? That’s why I think my kids are going to love Bloxels. We are a family that loves video games, but being able to take them offline is something that I think is great too! I found ours at Tag Along Toys.

 

A photo posted by Bloxels (@bloxels) on

Invent the Greatest Board Game

Do your kids every try to make their own board game or game up? I love that this kit has pieces that they can create an actual game! Three cheers for creativity! Check out your local toy store to see if they have it (we got one at Tag Along Toys.)

board game

Stikbot Studio Pro

Along with an App, this set uses a green screen to get the characters into whatever scene the kids want. My eldest especially is already into stop motion but now with the green screen he’ll be able to take his creativity to the next level!

stikbot

Ten Thousand Villages Recycling truck

I love the toys at Ten Thousand Villages. They are so creative! This wooden recycling truck caught my eye the last time I was in there. I always have a soft spot for cute wooden toys.

recycling-truck-sorting-toy

Crayola Shopkins stamp maker

I’ve written about the Crayola marker maker before (everyone loved it!), but this year I see there is a stamp set (Shopkins at that!) and I think it would be a hit with many.

shopkins

Goldieblox Ruby Skyhigh Cable Car

Goldieblox has been a really great building set for my daughter who I often call a tinker fairy. She loves to create and build – often from recycling material or anything lying around! We have other Goldieblox sets, but this Skyhigh Cable Car looks pretty fun!

goldieblox

Playmobil Carry Case

The kids have a variety of Playmobil, although not the giant sets. But they’ve been well loved and well played with for years. If you aren’t sure where to start, I love the Playmobil Carry Case options. They have just a few pieces and come in a handy case to travel with. It makes for a great starter set (plus the price point is fantastic).

carrycase-playmobil

Puzzles

What I love about puzzles is that there are different styles for different ages. They make for an excellent activity to do together, or for quiet time. Look for pretty or eye-catching scenes that the kids will be interested in. Giant floor puzzles are excellent for younger kids, and puzzles with 100 pieces or more for school aged kids are more challenging and my daughter loves them. (I love the Cobble Hill puppy one from Tag Along Toys!)

puzzles

Still looking for more gift ideas?

Check out my previous gift guides!

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2016-holiday-gift-guide-for-kids

5 Min Read November 23, 2015 2 Replies

Holiday Gift Guide: Great Gifts for Kids 2015

Parenting, Shopping

Holiday Gift Guide

It’s time for my Holiday Gift Guide! What items will be under my tree, have been under the tree and we love, that just look really fun etc. I try to find items that aren’t maybe as common as you’d find by browsing through the flyers that are delivered to your door. And yes, Shopkins are making an appearance in our house but I didn’t add them to the list. Also not on the list but is always found under the tree are books! Hopefully this will help you find a few new, fun, useful items for your kids or the kids in your life!

Click here for last year’s list (because many of those items are still being played with around here) and the lists of previous years. You’ll notice my list tends to grow with my kids, but I try to include a variety of ages!

Need help finding something? Let me know on Facebook. I’m happy to help give more ideas!

Here we go!

2015 Holiday Gift Guide

1- Waldorf Curvy board

From a local craftsman, this curvy board would have been perfect for my kids when they were younger. I love toys that have open-ended play. Is it a bridge? A ramp? A surfboard? The kids can decide!

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image: Tom of All Trades

Where to find it: Tom of All Trades, Facebook

2- Goldieblox

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image: Toys r Us

I love this toy. Mostly, because since receiving it, I’ve seen my daughter tinker and create and it’s wonderful to see. This year, she’s receiving the big pack of items where she can make her own creations, but if you aren’t sure where to start, grab the Zipline. It’s been SO much fun.

Where to find it: Tag Along Toys, Chapters, Toys r Us

3- Minecraft Stop Motion

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image: Chapters

Combining my son’s love of Minecraft, with his love of stop motion (using an app on the phone or iPad), my mom found this Minecraft Stop Motion kit. I have no doubt some mini-movies will be made!

Where to find it: Chapters

4- Star Wars Perplexus

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Image: Chapters

For harder to buy for kids, and older kids, how cool is the new Star Wars Death Star Perplexus? Challenge your kiddo with this very cool maze. Plus STAR WARS!

Where to find it: Various Toy Retails that carry Perplexus, Chapters.

5- Craft Supplies

I feel it’s impossible to narrow this down, but craft supplies and kits are some of my favourite gifts to give and for the kids to get.  I love encouraging their creative side, but also non-toy gifts are always appreciated. Plus, we never have enough crafts for craft time!

Not sure where to start? Last year I bought this kit for the kids and it’s been such a fantastic find. It’s filled with everything we need to get creative, with instructions to follow, or we can just create anything we want!

craft supplies
image: Toys r Us

Where to find it: Toys r Us

6- Scratch Book

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Image: Mrs. Tiggy Winkles

My daughter received this for a gift last year and it was very popular. It’s a really neat way to be creative!

Where to find them: Various locations, Mrs. Tiggy Winkles

7- Charades

image1378729582522dbe6eb5da1
image: Tag Along Toys

Every year, Santa brings a family game to play. Last year was Charades and I really recommend it. This pack has cards for everyone in the family, including picture-only cards for the non-readers, and kid-friendly actions for the younger crowd. There are plenty of cards to challenge adults as well, making it a game all of us can play.

Where to find it: Tag Along Toys

8- Super Mario Maker

image: EB Games

Okay, I don’t usually add video games to these lists, but come on. You know my obsession with Mario games right? Super Mario Maker is so much fun, I think because we can create our own levels which means I create something cool for the kids to try, and they then try to create a level to stump me, which hasn’t happened yet. Ha! If you aren’t sure about this game, it’s a huge thumbs up in this house.

Where to find it: Most game retailers should have it in stock. EB Games

Have fun!

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