With 10 days left for Christmas Eve, the holiday rush definitely has begun. Some may be early shoppers with all the gifts prepared a month in advance, while others leave everything to the last minute. Today we want to help the second category of parents who need a bit of inspiration for non-technological gifts to get for their kids or for kids in the extended family.

1. Books

A child who reads will become an adult who thinks, and no matter what age your child is there is always an age appropriate book for him to enjoy. For less than 1 year olds there are soft books that won’t hurt the gums when bitten, for toddlers there are thick paged options that can’t be easily torn, and for the preschoolers and teens there is a choice that varies between cartoon characters to relatable high school student leads.

2. Educational

These types of toys are fun so children won’t realize that they are learning as they play. Puzzles are a great way to help a visual memory and are ideal for the ages 3 to 5 and up. There are also flashcards and games such as teaching opposites, body functions, household chores and more.

3. Society games

As kids grow older they are able to take turns playing in a group which makes it ideal for society games such as Monopoly, Scrabble, Clue, Snakes and Ladders etc. Parents can also join in and makes a great excuse for bonding with children.

4. Colors

Encourage your children’s artistic talents by giving them coloring sets, color makers, mandala creators, graphic aids, an easel and a canvas, paint brushes and supplies.

5. Dough

Playing with special dough helps kids with their motricity skills and allows them to mould any color to any shape using the accompanying utensils or even anything they might have at hand.

6. Crafts

Girls can make necklaces, handbags, and even knit with the variety of fun crafts options. They will learn a skill while enjoying the process and working meticulously to achieve an end result that is their creation.

7. Science kits

For a budding scientist why not give a chemistry set, a microscope, a globe or anything that has to do with physics, biology and the universe.

8. Building

This will never get old and suits both genders, from building a fort to a castle; kids can put the blocks together and create an imaginary world.

9. Cars

The traditional train set is a nostalgic gift but there are more modern takes with a wide array of circuits, but you can also choose to get single cars or a set of trucks without their race track and kids will definitely fawn over them.

10. Action figures

Whether your child is a fan of superheroes or Barbie, having a miniature duplicate of their favorite book or TV character is a sure way to see a smile on their face.

Maria Najem

photo: officeexpress.co.uk