20 Genius Non-Toy Gift Ideas That Will Make Kids Smile This Christmas
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We’ve all been there—stepping on a forgotten toy in the middle of the night and vowing to never buy another one.
But what if this Christmas could be different?
Imagine gifts that keep kids entertained, teach them something new, or even help them grow, all without adding to the toy pile.
These 20 non-toy ideas might just be the game-changer you’ve been searching for.
20 Non Toy Christmas Gifts For Kids
1. Personalized Storybook
A personalized storybook places the child at the center of their own magical adventure. These books are customized with the child’s name, favorite things, and sometimes even the names of their family or friends as supporting characters.
It transforms storytime into a unique and unforgettable experience. The joy of seeing themselves in the story encourages a love for reading and sparks their imagination.
Where to Get It: Available on platforms like Wonderbly or Hooray Heroes.
Price: Starts at $30
2. Kids’ Cooking Set
A kids’ cooking set is a delightful way to introduce young ones to the kitchen. These sets come with child-safe utensils, colorful measuring cups, a mini apron, and easy-to-follow recipe cards tailored for their age.
It’s a great way to teach practical life skills, boost confidence, and inspire a love for cooking. They can have fun baking holiday treats or creating their favorite meals, making it a memorable and interactive gift.
Where to Get It: Purchase from stores like Williams Sonoma or Amazon.
Price: Around $25–$50
3. Art and Craft Subscription Box
An art and craft subscription box provides an ongoing source of creativity and entertainment. Each box includes a variety of high-quality art supplies and fun projects, such as painting, sculpting, or building crafts.
This gift allows kids to express their creativity while also developing fine motor skills and problem-solving abilities. It’s an excellent way to keep them engaged throughout the year and encourages imaginative play without the need for screens.
Where to Get It: Available from services like KiwiCo or Cratejoy.
Price: Starts at $20/month
4. Kids’ Indoor Gardening Kit
An indoor gardening kit is an educational gift that teaches kids about the wonders of nature and how to care for living things. These kits come with small pots, seeds, soil, and easy instructions, allowing children to grow their own herbs, flowers, or small vegetables indoors.
Watching plants grow over time helps develop patience, responsibility, and an appreciation for the environment. It’s a hands-on gift that’s both fun and rewarding, especially for young nature enthusiasts.
Where to Get It: Available at garden centers or online platforms like Uncommon Goods.
Price: Around $25
5. STEM Robot Kit
A STEM robot kit is a fantastic way to introduce kids to technology, programming, and engineering concepts. These kits allow children to build and program their own robot using simple, step-by-step instructions.
As they assemble the robot, kids learn critical thinking, problem-solving, and basic coding skills in a fun, hands-on way. This gift encourages curiosity and prepares them for a tech-driven future while offering hours of engaging play.
Where to Get It: Find it on websites like LEGO Education or Amazon.
Price: Approximately $50–$100
6. Musical Instrument Starter Kit
A musical instrument starter kit is a fantastic way to nurture a child’s interest in music. Whether it’s a small keyboard, a ukulele, or a beginner drum set, these kits are tailored for kids with simplified instructions and easy-to-use features.
Learning an instrument builds discipline, enhances creativity, and improves cognitive skills, making it a gift that has long-lasting benefits.
Where to Get It: Available at music stores or online platforms like Yamaha or Amazon.
Price: Around $30–$70
7. Adventure and Exploration Kit
An adventure kit sparks a love for outdoor exploration and discovery. These kits often include tools like binoculars, a magnifying glass, a compass, and a guidebook for nature activities.
It’s perfect for curious kids who love exploring parks, backyards, or trails. This gift encourages learning about nature, builds observational skills, and promotes active play.
Where to Get It: Available from outdoor and toy stores like REI, National Geographic, or Amazon.
Price: Approximately $25–$40
8. DIY Jewelry-Making Kit
A jewelry-making kit lets kids design their own necklaces, bracelets, and other accessories. These kits come with colorful beads, strings, and charms, allowing children to craft unique pieces for themselves or as gifts for others.
This activity develops hand-eye coordination, creativity, and patience, making it both fun and educational.
Where to Get It: Available at craft stores like Michaels or online platforms like Etsy or Amazon.
Price: Around $15–$30
9. Personalized Puzzle
A personalized puzzle combines fun and learning with a unique touch. The puzzle can feature a photo of the child, a family picture, or their favorite character.
It’s a creative way to engage their problem-solving skills and keep them entertained during the holidays. Once completed, it can even double as a decorative piece.
Where to Get It: Order from customization platforms like Shutterfly or Zazzle.
Price: Starts at $20
10. Science Experiment Kit
A science experiment kit offers hours of educational fun by allowing kids to perform exciting experiments at home.
Kits often include safe chemicals, test tubes, and instructions to create volcanoes, slime, or simple chemical reactions. It’s an excellent gift for fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and an early interest in STEM subjects.
Where to Get It: Available from brands like National Geographic, Thames & Kosmos, or Amazon.
Price: Around $20–$50
11. Customized Name Blanket
A cozy, customized name blanket is a heartwarming gift that combines comfort and personalization. Featuring the child’s name, favorite colors, or fun designs like animals or stars, these blankets are perfect for snuggling during winter. It also becomes a cherished keepsake as they grow.
Where to Get It: Available from personalization stores like Pottery Barn Kids or Etsy.
Price: Around $30–$60
12. Beginner Photography Camera
A kid-friendly digital camera can inspire a budding photographer. These cameras are durable and easy to use, allowing kids to capture their world through their own lens. Many models include fun filters or effects, making it even more exciting to explore photography. It’s a creative gift that develops observation and storytelling skills.
Where to Get It: Available from brands like VTech, Nikon Coolpix, or Amazon.
Price: Around $40–$70
13. Yoga and Mindfulness Kit
A yoga and mindfulness kit for kids is a thoughtful gift that encourages relaxation and focus. These kits typically include a yoga mat, flashcards with poses, and a guided mindfulness journal. It’s perfect for promoting physical activity and teaching children the importance of mental well-being in a fun way.
Where to Get It: Purchase from yoga retailers like Gaiam or online marketplaces like Amazon.
Price: Around $25–$50
14. Family Board Game
A family board game is an ideal gift that brings everyone together during the holidays. Choose a game designed for kids, such as Candy Land, Guess Who?, or a junior edition of popular games like Monopoly. Playing board games encourages social interaction, strategic thinking, and loads of laughter.
Where to Get It: Available at toy stores, Target, or Amazon.
Price: Around $15–$30
15. DIY Terrarium Kit
A DIY terrarium kit is a unique gift that combines creativity and science. Kids can design their own mini garden using provided materials like soil, plants, and decorative elements such as pebbles or figurines. It’s a great way to teach about ecosystems and responsibility while creating a fun and decorative item for their room.
Where to Get It: Available at craft stores, garden centers, or online platforms like Etsy.
Price: Around $20–$40
16. Educational Globe with Interactive Features
An educational globe with interactive features helps kids explore the world in a fun and engaging way. Many modern globes come with touch-sensitive technology or companion apps that teach geography, cultures, and even historical facts. It’s a fantastic gift for curious young minds.
Where to Get It: Available at educational stores or online platforms like LeapFrog, National Geographic, or Amazon.
Price: Around $50–$100
17. Build-Your-Own Birdhouse Kit
A build-your-own birdhouse kit is a wonderful way to encourage hands-on creativity and a love for nature. These kits include wooden panels, paint, and brushes for decorating.
Once built, kids can hang their creation outside and observe birds using it. It’s a gift that combines crafting, learning, and outdoor fun.
Where to Get It: Available at craft stores like Michaels or online platforms like Etsy or Amazon.
Price: Around $20–$30
18. Kids’ Fitness Tracker
A kids’ fitness tracker is a fun and functional gift that encourages healthy habits. These wearable devices track steps, sleep, and activity levels, often with challenges and rewards to motivate kids to stay active. It’s a great way to introduce fitness in a playful, tech-savvy way.
Where to Get It: Purchase from brands like Fitbit Ace or Garmin or find options on Amazon.
Price: Around $50–$80
19. Personalized Backpack or Tote Bag
A personalized backpack or tote bag is both practical and stylish. Featuring the child’s name, favorite color, or designs like animals or cartoon themes, it’s perfect for school, outings, or trips. This gift is as functional as it is personal, making it a thoughtful choice.
Where to Get It: Available from customization stores like Lands’ End, Pottery Barn Kids, or Etsy.
Price: Around $30–$50
20. Coding Game or Toy
A coding game or toy introduces kids to the basics of programming through fun and interactive activities.
Options like coding robots, card games, or screen-free coding kits are designed to teach logic, sequencing, and problem-solving skills. It’s an exciting way to prepare kids for a tech-forward world.
Where to Get It: Purchase from educational brands like Osmo, Sphero, or Amazon.
Price: Around $40–$100
