Thoughtfully Curated based on 30 Years of Experience by Unlockt’s Program Director, Eva Luther
The holidays are a hectic time of year, and finding the perfect gift for any child can be challenging. This curated gift guide focuses on thoughtful ideas for presents that spark joy, encourage self-expression, and support the emotional well-being to children of all needs and interests. Hopefully, it makes this season a little brighter and provides tools that can aid parents and children with daily routines.
Comfort Items:
Children often benefit from sensory input and calming activities. Consider these comforting gifts:
Weighted Blanket: The gentle pressure of a weighted blanket can provide a sense of security and calmness – Bearaby, Florensi, and Luna
Hug Sleep: Like a swaddle for big kids and adults! Soothing comfort and pressure wraps you up for a fast and great night sleep! hug sleep
Soft Plush Toys: A cuddly companion can offer comfort and emotional support – Warmies and Lakeshore
Weighted Stuffed Animal: A little added pressure to give your kiddo some sensory input and help them chill! Target
Noise-Canceling Headphones: These can help block out distractions and create a more peaceful environment – Puro Sound Labs and 3M Kids
Sound Machine: Studies show white noise can help kids with ADHD focus and sleep better! Little hippo, Hatch, Snooz
Cozy Robes: Soft textures and comfortable clothing can be very soothing – Pottery Barn Teens and L.L. Bean
Essential Oil Diffuser with Calming Scents: Lavender or chamomile essential oils can promote relaxation and sleep – Scentiment and Plant Therapy
Uplifting Gifts:
Boost confidence and encourage exploration and self-expression with these uplifting gifts:
Creative Art Supplies: High-quality art supplies can inspire creativity and provide an outlet for emotions – Magic Sketch
Journaling Set: Encourage self-reflection and emotional processing through journaling – Wonderbly, Feelings Journal and Lifelines FYP Sensory Journal
Building Blocks: Foster creativity, problem-solving, and fine motor skills – Picasso Tiles, Lego,Magna Tiles and Melissa and Doug
Musical Instruments: Learning to play an instrument can be a rewarding experience and boost self-esteem – Montessori Instrument Toys and Loog
Personalized Stationery: Having their own stationery can make writing more enjoyable – Paper Culture and Simply to Impress
Science Kits: Hands-on science experiments can capture their attention and foster a love of learning – Smithsonian and Thames & Kosmos
Board Games: Old Fashioned Fun that helps with Executive Function Skills! Chess, Ticket to Ride, Jenga, Codenames, The Mindfulness Game, Bounce Battle
Subscription Boxes: Monthly subscription boxes cater to various interests and provide a regular dose of excitement – Sensory Box
Active Play & Outdoor Fun
Promote physical activity and exploration with these options:
Bicycle or Scooter: Encourage outdoor adventures and exercise with a new bike or scooter.
Gardening Tools: Get them involved in gardening and connect with nature.
Kite: Flying a kite is a fun and relaxing outdoor activity.
Sports Equipment: Encourage physical activity and teamwork with sports equipment for their favorite activity.
Balance Board: Big kids and little kids LOVE these to regulate their energy! wooden board, indoor surf board, whirly board
Indoor Trampoline: Great for brain breaks and movement breaks! Trampoline
Under $20 - Stocking Stuffers
Slime or Putty: These provide tactile stimulation and can be very calming. A favorite: Thinking Putty
Puzzle Games: Small puzzle games challenge their minds and improve problem-solving skills. Perplexus, Kanoodle, Rubix Cube
Coloring Books and Pens: A relaxing and creative outlet.
Fidget Toys: Fidget toys provide a healthy outlet for excess energy and can improve focus.
This holiday season, choose gifts that spark joy and support the emotional well-being and unique needs of your children. Most of these gifts are easily found at major retailers like Amazon and are just a click away. Remember, the most important gift is your time and attention.
Do you have any gifts that have been a hit? Happy Shopping and Happy Holidays!