We rounded up the best gift ideas for your kiddos — from tot to teen — according to their interests. There are creative presents for artsy children, cool kits for your tech-savvy tween, accessories for your budding fashionista, baby must-haves and so much more.
Arts
When shopping for kids, you can’t go wrong with art. These gifts are great for keeping kids entertained while exercising their creative muscles.
Oregon Children’s Theatre performance. Expand your child’s sense of creativity and make believe with a fun, kid-approved show, or class, produced by Oregon Children’s Theatre (OCT). OCT offers gift certificates — perfect for taking in a show as a family (tickets start $12) or attending an Acting Academy class.
Music in Montreal puzzle. Feel the spirit of the holidays with this festive, wintery, 1,000-piece puzzle. $24.
Michelle with Peonies paint by number kit. Local artist Rachel Austin makes it easy to create an inspirational piece of art. Recommended for ages 13 and up. $38.
Shrinkies ultimate collection. Do you all remember the joy that was Shrinky Dinks? Bring that delight to your favorite kiddos with this fun assortment of color-in Shrinkies. Ages 5 and up. $12.99.
The Reverse Coloring Book. For the kid who has gone through all the coloring books. In this book, the colors are already there — they just need to draw in the lines. $14.95.
Dress Up and Pretend Play
The sky’s the limit with these imaginative gifts.
Pretend & Play cash register. Sort money, give change, and even swipe a credit card. This toy, which has won 23 awards, is the perfect addition to any pretend store. Ages 3-6. $44.99.
Hair chalk. From toddler to teen, sometimes kids just want to mix things up. Get a temporary new look with an assortment of 12 hair chalks. Ages 3 and up. $27.99.
Glow Battle, ninja style. Unleash your child’s inner warrior with this set of four glowing katanas and four dojo markers. The game also includes ideas for more expanded group play. Ages 8 and up. $39.99.
Bird’s Nest Café. Your kid can run their own café with this complete coffee shop set up. Make tea or cappuccinos, serve sandwiches or pastries, or make a panini for their most discerning customers. Ages 3 and up. $140.
STEM
With all the cool kits and experiments out there, your kids won’t even realize that they’re learning while playing.
Catapults & Crossbows experiments kit. Your kid will learn physics while perfecting the art of medieval weaponry. This kit makes 10 different models. Ages 8 and up. $25.
Brew It Yourself Caveman Cola. If your kiddo is constantly asking to help in the kitchen, they’ll love making home-brewed soda, while also learning chemistry. Uses all-natural ingredients, and a little brain power. Ages 8 and up. $20.
Forensic Science Lab. Follow the clues to figure out whodunit. In this kit, mini investigators have all the tools to dust for prints, match DNA, test fiber samples and more. Best for ages 8 and up. $39.99.
Azul. This multiple award-winning tile placement and strategy game is many games in one. Ages 8 and up. $40.
Robotikits: Solar Wild Boar. What do kids love better than building a robot? Building a solar-powered one that looks like a wild boar, of course! Ages 8 and up. $15.99.
Trendy
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Playmobil Waterpark with Slides. Bring the joy of summer fun to your child any time of the year. This Playmobil waterpark can be filled with water, includes a usable diving board and slide, and lots of other fun features. Ages 4-10. $70.99.
Virtual Reality Dinosaurs. With this kit, your kiddo can safely view dinosaurs that look so real they can almost touch them. The kit includes VR googles, a dig-out fossil and an informative, colorful book on dinos. Best for ages 8 and up. $49.99.
Like Herding Cats. Nothing says family bonding like looking utterly ridiculous together. In this miming, cooperative game, your family will be sure to giggle their way to hilarious family memories. Best for ages 10 and up. $19.99.
Gifts for Baby (But are Really for You!)
OMSI membership. The science playground is a great place to hang out with other caregivers while your littlest one explores. $115 for annual family membership.
On-the-go changing mat. Be prepared anywhere with this attractive changing mat. $35.
Magnetic PJs. Why do snaps when you can do magnets? It’s brilliant! And adorable! $59.99.
5 Stocking Stuffer Ideas
Cat Donuts Color Changing Bath Book. The title kind of says it all. $10.
Tenzi Dice Game. The fastest player to get all ten dice on the same number wins! $16.
Dark Arts Magic black light. Your kid can make their glow-in-the-dark products glow longer. Available at Collage. $7.
Soap for Cat People. The perfect gift for the cat lover in your life. $11.
Galaxy Nightlight. Your little can tame the monsters with this stellar nightlight. Also available at New Seasons. $7.
If you’re looking for even more gift ideas, click here!
Want to buy these gifts at local shops? Check out our list of toy stores in the Portland-area.
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