I’ve had so much fun working on this gift guide, finding that perfect present for the kids and teens in your life. For my ideas, I’ve pulled from my son’s personal Christmas list that he’s already mailed out to Santa, and I’ve also added items that will encourage your child to spend time in a good book. From creative crafts to whimsical adventures, this guide covers unique, thoughtful options that I’m confident they will love! Plus, a few I think you’ll want to gift to yourself.
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1. Yoto Player + Headphones
Alas, I was lacking space on my graphic for this item, but it’s number ONE on this gift guide! I’ve written before about the benefits of the Yoto Player, but it bears repeating—this device is a game changer. It makes audio content engaging and screen-free for kids, perfect for road trips or quiet afternoons. You can even purchase the Yoto player as a bundle Pair it with a pair of headphones, and you’ll have a complete setup that keeps little listeners entertained with stories and music. My son loves using his Yoto Player during car rides, and the headphones make it a peaceful experience for everyone else in the car!
For more details on how we use this screen-free device in our home, check out my past post about the benefits of the Yoto Player.
2. Ceramic Shrew Bookmark
This adorable ceramic shrew bookmark from Etsy will make any young reader’s heart melt. It adds a playful touch to their favorite novels and stays securely in place with its cotton-thread cord and little tail. My kids love quirky looking through our jar of bookmarks to find one for their book, and I’m confident this one will become a quick favorite. Plus, I love how things like this make great conversation starters for friends who spot them!
3. Magical Adventure Game
Perfect for budding storytellers, this Magical Adventure Game encourages imaginative play and creative storytelling. With 10 stand-up scenes and 30 characters, kids can build their own fairy tales and invent thrilling adventures. It’s a game that keeps their minds active and storytelling skills sharp, making reading and writing even more fun.
4. Weighted Blanket
For kids and teens who love a good cuddle session while reading, a weighted blanket is a thoughtful gift. It provides a sense of security and helps calm restless minds, making reading time even more enjoyable. This is also a great way to support kids who have excessive amounts of energy and struggle to sit still for extended periods of time to read.
5. Hammock Chair Swing
Create the ultimate reading nook with this boho-inspired hammock chair swing. It’s a great place to cozy up with a good book and get lost in another world. The gentle swinging motion adds a calming effect, making it great for unwinding after a long day. I think it would be enjoyable in your child’s bedroom or even outdoors where everyone can enjoy it.
6. Rollerblades
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of gliding down the street on a pair of rollerblades. They encourage active play, help build balance, and get kids excited to be outdoors. Plus, rollerblading makes for a great family activity! I remember the laughter-filled days learning to rollerblade with my nextdoor neighbor when I was young. Such great memories!
7. Jane Austen & Puffin in Bloom Book Set
For teens who love timeless tales of love and wit, this beautiful boxed set includes Pride and Prejudice, Emma, and Sense and Sensibility. The Rifle Paper Co. designs make these books a stunning addition to any bookshelf, and the stories are classics that continue to inspire. If you have a young romantic or a literature enthusiast in the house, this set is sure to charm them.
8. IlluStory – Create Your Own Book Kit
Inspire the next generation of authors with IlluStory, a book-making kit that lets kids write, illustrate, and publish their own hardcover book. It even includes a guide to writing and illustrating, making the process simple and fun. There’s something magical about holding a book you’ve created yourself, and it’s a keepsake parents and kids will cherish forever. I’ve witnessed the pure joy on my students’ faces when their story was mailed back to them! It’s so sweet to see their pride because of all their hard work.
9. Three Little Pigs Puppets + Book
Make storytime unforgettable with a set of Three Little Pigs puppets, perfect for acting out this classic tale and adding a hands-on learning experience. Pair the puppets with one (or more!) of these delightful PaperPie versions for an even more engaging adventure:
- Three Little Pigs Board Book: A budget-friendly option that has been well-loved in our family. It’s a sturdy, colorful retelling perfect for little hands and ideal for introducing the story to younger readers.
- Goldilocks and the Three Little Pigs: Part of the hilarious Wrong Fairy Tales series, this fractured fairy tale combines two beloved stories. It’s full of humor and unexpected twists, making it a family favorite that gets everyone giggling!
- The Three Little Pigs: Listen & Read: This push-button book reads the story aloud, page by page. It’s been a game changer for independent reading sessions and even proved useful during potty training days. Kids can enjoy the story even when they’re flipping through books on their own.
- A Pop-Up Shadow Story: The Three Little Pigs: This inventive pop-up book takes the fun to a new level. As you lift the flaps, shine a flashlight on each scene to reveal hidden shadows, adding a delightful interactive element. It’s an enchanting way to bring the beloved tale to life!
These retellings and puppets will have your kids immersed in the story, whether they’re reading along, laughing at a new twist, or making shadow magic with a flashlight!
10. Frigidaire Retro Mini Fridge
This retro mini fridge is a must-have for any teen’s room, and it’s perfect for keeping drinks or snacks cool while they’re reading. There’s something luxurious about reaching for a chilled beverage during a late-night book binge, and the stylish, vintage design adds a fun vibe to their space. Plus, it’s lightweight and portable, so they can take it on sleepovers or road trips.
11. Mini Cruiser Skateboard
Perfect for quick rides around town, the Retrospec Quip Mini Cruiser comes fully assembled and ready to roll. Its compact size fits easily in a backpack, making it ideal for teens on the go or young kids learning to skateboard for the first time. The durable, lightweight design is built for smooth rides and tight turns. Your kids will love seeing this under the tree on Christmas day!
12. The Fabled Stables Series
by Jonathan Auxier
This whimsical three-book series, The Fabled Stables, captivates young readers with Auggie’s magical adventures and one-of-a-kind creatures. These books are fantastic read-alouds or perfect for independent readers who love a touch of fantasy. My son couldn’t put down Willa the Wisp and was spellbound by the vivid, humorous illustrations. It’s a series that invites kids to dive into an imaginative world over and over. (This has also been our most-gifted book this year!)
13. Book-Shaped Crayons Crayons + Stained Glass Coloring Book
Art and stories collide with these book-shaped crayons, perfect for little hands, and a Stained Glass Coloring Book that brings out their creative side. Kids can learn about different styles of stained glass art and color their own masterpieces. Once complete, they can hang their designs in the window to catch the sunlight. It’s a fantastic way to inspire art-loving kids while providing a colorful backdrop to their reading nook.
I hope this gift guide makes your holiday shopping a breeze! Whether it’s for a budding artist, a young adventurer, or a teen finding their style, these gifts are sure to bring joy and creativity into their world. Happy gifting, and may your holiday season be filled with the magic of stories and play!
