Stuff for (Kids) Stockings

Christmas is such an exciting time for children. While everyone (kids and adults alike), of course, enjoys their main presents, sometimes those little gifts and toys that are tucked away in a child’s stocking can inspire hours of enjoyment and just as many fond memories.

Whether you’re trying to find ways to keep then entertained when traveling or out of mischief on a rainy day, how about an old favorite with a new twist? The Melissa & Doug Rainbow Stamp Pad will provide hours of creative experimentation.


Relax…they’re not going to paint the dining room wall with the Melissa & Doug Jumbo Paint Brushes Set. Intended for younger kids, the brightly colored handles are easy to grip and easy to clean. (But just in case they do get inspired to add their own mark to your walls, make sure their paints are non-toxic, washable ones).


For the infants and toddlers on your Christmas list, introduce them to the challenging fun of a puzzle with the Infantino Colors and Shapes Puzzle. Especially when they are first starting out, puzzles are a great way to develop hand-eye coordination; it also helps young ones to recognize shapes and colors in the process of deciding where each piece fits.

Kitchen sets and activity sets like the Edushape Kiddy Connects Set allow toddlers (for 2-year olds and up) to use their imaginations. The modular and colorful snap-ball blocks lets them build anything they can think of.


- E.L.