Still needing some last-minute Christmas ideas for your kids, nieces, nephews, grandchildren (or that one child who “already has everything”)? Have no fear—December is basically the Super Bowl of kid gift wishlists, and I’ve gathered kid-approved, popular-right-now picks that are fun, useful, and easy to wrap.
Let’s get you from panicking to present-ready.
Quick Tips for Last-Minute Shopping Success
- Filter by age first (it saves you from buying a “toddler toy” for a tween… ask me how I know).
- Look for “arrives before Christmas” or pickup options when possible.
- If shipping is tight: gift bags + tissue paper are your best friends. No shame here.
Big-Win Gifts by Age
Toddlers & Preschoolers (Ages 2–5)
These are the gifts that get played with immediately—like, before the wrapping hits the trash.
- Magnetic tiles (starter sets) – endless building, minimal screen time, maximum excitement. Magnetic Tiles Mini Travel Toddler Set
- Play kitchen accessories or pretend food sets – great for imagination and independent play. Play Kitchen for Toddlers
- Chunky puzzles & matching games – fun + sneaky learning. Melissa & Doug Wooden Chunky Puzzle
- Water wow / mess-free coloring books – perfect for travel, restaurants, and quiet time. Melissa & Doug Scented Water Wow! Mess Free Coloring Book, Reusable Water-Reveal Activity Pad
- Bubble machines – instant joy. Every time. Bubble Machine Automatic Bubble Blower
Big Kids (Ages 6–9)
They’re curious, busy, and love gifts that feel “grown up” but still playful.
- LEGO sets (theme-based) – pick what they’re into: animals, cars, space, friends, you name it. LEGO Disney Lucky & Penny 101 Dalmatians Puppies LEGO Creator 3 in 1 Flatbed Truck with Helicopter
- STEM kits (crystals, volcanoes, coding, beginner robotics) – hands-on and impressive. STEM Robotics Kit NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Science Magic Kit National Geographic Amazing Chemistry Set
- Board games that don’t drag – think quick rounds and lots of laughs. Hedbanz 2023 Edition with New Cards, The Game of Life Card Games for Kids – Go Fish, Crazy 8’s, Old Maid, Slap Jack, Garbage Monster, War –
- Art kits (markers, drawing tablets, craft boxes) – especially great for kids who love creating. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Kids Window Art Kit National Geographic Mega Arts and Crafts Kit for Kids
- Scooters or sports gear upgrades – helmets, cones, mini goals, basketballs, etc. Aero Scooter for Kids
Tweens (Ages 10–12)
Tweens want “cool,” not “cute.” These are safe bets that still feel exciting.
- LED light strips for bedrooms – they LOVE the glow-up vibe. KSIPZE Led Strip Lights
- Bluetooth headphones or earbuds (kid-friendly options) – practical and appreciated. Belkin SoundForm Nano 2 Bluetooth Earbuds Belkin SoundForm Mini – Wireless Bluetooth Kids Headphones
- Journals, sticker sets, and creative planners – especially for artsy or organized kids. Bullet Dotted Journal Kit, 140gsm Hardcover A5 Dotted Journal with 188 Numbered Pages and 3 Index, 12 Brush Pens Dual Tip, 10 Stencils and 14 Washi Tape
- Mini instant cameras / photo printers – memory-making magic. Kids Instant Digital Cameras
- Gaming gift cards or accessories – controller grips, charging docks, headset stands. $10 Xbox Gift Card [Digital Code] Roblox Digital Gift Card – 2,500 Robux [Digital Code] $20 Nintendo eShop Gift Card [Digital Code]
Teens (Ages 13+)
Teens can be tricky… but these usually land well.
- Cozy essentials – fuzzy blankets, oversized hoodies, slippers, lounge sets. THREE POODLE Wearable Blanket Hoodie Women Fuzzy Warm Fleece Pajamas Sets Womens Fuzzy Open-toe Slippers
- Skincare starter sets (gentle + simple) – bonus points if you add a cute headband. e.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration! The Ordinary The Bright Set, 3-Step
- Portable phone chargers – the gift they don’t know they desperately need. iWALK USB-C Portable Charger for iPhone iWALK Qi2 Certified 15W Magnetic Wireless Power Bank
- Stanley-style tumblers / water bottles – hydration, but make it aesthetic. Stanley IceFlow Flip Straw Tumbler with Handle YETI Rambler 25 oz Tumbler with Handle and Straw Lid
- Room décor upgrades – posters, photo clip string lights, bedside lamps, throw pillows. Dopheuor Photo Clip String Lights LED
Stocking Stuffers That Actually Get Used
These are perfect for filling in gaps (and they don’t take forever to choose).
- Fidget toys or sensory items
- Lip balm sets
- Cute socks
- Mini building kits
- Card games
- Bath bombs (for older kids)
- Hair accessories / scrunchies
- Hot cocoa bombs or candy favorites
“I’m Out of Time” Gifts That Still Feel Thoughtful
If you’re down to the wire, these are lifesavers:
- Experience gifts: movie night, trampoline park, skating, zoo membership
- Gift cards—made cute: put it in a small box with candy or a pair of socks
- “Yes Day” coupon book: one-on-one time, pick dinner, choose a game, stay up late pass
Affiliate Disclosure:
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Prices and availability can change at any time.
Small Town Girl 