As a mom of three, I know firsthand how exciting (and tricky) it can be to find the perfect gifts for kids. From doing my own research to talking to other parents, I’ve spent years discovering what truly keeps kids engaged and happy. Nowadays, my tween daughters like to tell me what the cool gifts for kids are!
For me, it’s all about striking a balance between the fun and the practical. I love finding unique kids gifts that spark their creativity and curiosity, bring them joy, and get played with for longer than a few weeks.
I believe that the best gifts are the ones that inspire kids to learn, imagine, and explore. That’s why my home is filled with everything from LEGO pieces scattered across the floor, to stacks of well-loved books, to all kinds of art supplies and craft kits. Whether your little one loves creating, gaming, outdoor adventures, or diving into a good story, I’ve rounded up some gift ideas for kids that cater to a wide range of interests and passions.
This list includes tried-and-true favorites from my own family, as well as new picks that my kids have been eyeing this year. My goal is to help you find great gifts for kids that aren’t just fun for the moment, but are also things your kids will go back to time and time again. Whether you’re shopping for a holiday, birthday, or just looking to surprise your little ones, I hope these ideas make gift-giving a little easier and a whole lot more fun!
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Shopping Tips for Kids’ Gifts
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Make sure it’s right for them. When looking up gift ideas for kids, be sure to check the recommended ages while keeping your kids’ abilities and interests in mind. You can also look at how the toy works and read reviews to get a better sense of whether it’s something your kid will use and enjoy.
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Ask the kid (or the caregivers). There are so many unique kids toys out there! The easiest way to know what your kid would like is to ask them. Or you can show them a toy catalog and have them pick five favorites. If you’re not a parent or main caregiver, you can also ask them for gift ideas.
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Create a wishlist. Set up a wishlist (either online or using your notes app) so all of your gift ideas for kids are in one place. I use this throughout the year to save ideas for each kid — and watch for deals so I can grab them on sale! You can also add items to this wishlist when your kid asks you for things while shopping.
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Focus on quality over quantity. Seeing a bunch of presents under the tree or at a party is super exciting for kids, but how long will that excitement last? The fewer toys that are out, the more likely kids are to play with them for longer and in more imaginative ways. Typically I opt for a few high-quality toys that I know will last over a bunch of smaller, cheaper toys that will break easily or just add to the toy clutter.
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Balance the fun and trendy with the practical and meaningful. While there’s nothing wrong with buying trendy and cool gifts for kids, keep in mind that the classics will always keep their interest. I usually get one popular item for my girls and then stick to gifts they need (like new clothes) and gifts that will benefit them physically and mentally, like books, games, and craft kits.
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Watch for sales — and shop early. A lot of kids’ toys, clothes, and more go on sale between October and November. This is especially helpful when trying to find unique Christmas gifts for kids. While the discounts continue through December, it’s usually better to shop earlier so you can find what you want. Popular gifts, especially, might sell out the closer you get to Christmas.
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Do a shared gift for siblings. As our kids have gotten older, we do more shared gifts. This makes it feel more fair and it allows them to focus on fewer gifts that they can enjoy together. Plus it helps you stick to a single budget, and it reduces your mental load, too!
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Think outside the box (or the toy aisle). Gift-giving doesn’t have to be all about toys! If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all of the stuff your kids have, I highly recommend gifting your kids an activity they already love or a new experience. Experience gifts are so fun — and a great way to create special memories for your entire family.
Gift Ideas for Kids
Between the ages of six and eight, kids are still very into open-ended, creative play, but they’re also becoming more interested in rule-based games. This list includes a variety of unique kids gifts to cover both types of play and support their ongoing development.
While these gift ideas are primarily for kids between the ages of six and eight, you’ll also see gifts here that range between three and 12. If you need more specific ideas for kids of certain ages, check out my toddler gift ideas, gifts for preschoolers, and gifts for tweens.
Cool Gifts for Kids
Cool can be hard to define — and it’s unique to the kid! These gift ideas are fun and exciting for kids to play with. Plus, they help build a lot of different skills.
Walkie Talkies: Perfect for chatting from different rooms, secret missions, and outdoor adventures! They’re also easy to use and rechargeable (no batteries is always a win). Ages 3+
Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone: A fun gift for kids who love to sing — and for karaoke nights at home with your family. Ages 4+
Razor Scooter: Unfold and go! These scooters are built to last and the handlebar is easy to adjust. Plus it helps build key motor development and cognitive skills. Ages 5+
Skip Ball: This gift is a great way to keep kids active and entertained while also working on skills like balance and coordination. Ages 5+
Glow-in-the-Dark Soccer Ball: Perfect for extending outdoor play into the evening. This soccer ball lights up with a bounce or kick and automatically shuts off when not in use. 7+
Books
If you’re following the “5 gift rule,” here are some ideas for the “something to read” option. Books are such a valuable gift that can encourage kids’ imaginations, foster a love of learning, and help them navigate new emotions and real-life situations.
An Anthology of Aquatic Life: This is a beautiful encyclopedia all about the ocean. My kids love flipping through it to learn facts, stories, and myths about their favorite sea creatures. Ages 6+
An Anthology of Intriguing Animals: If your kids love animals, this is the book for them! They’ll learn all kinds of interesting facts and stories from this book, like how giraffes reach water or which animal looks like it’s always smiling. Ages 6+
Heidi Heckelbeck Has a Secret: All of my girls have loved this series! If you’ve been wanting to introduce chapter books, this is a great one to start with. Ages 6+
The Bad Guys Box Set: A cute and funny series! These books are based on four “bad guys” who decide they want to be heroes and do good deeds instead. Ages 6+
Roald Dahl Box Set: This set includes all of the classics for your kids to enjoy reading over and over again. Ages 6+
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Focused on friendships, family, and trying to fit in, this is a super funny and entertaining book about common middle school experiences. Ages 7+
Games
Games and puzzles make great gifts for kids! Not only are they fun and entertaining, but they also help build important skills, like critical thinking, problem-solving, and cooperation.
Spot It: See who’s the fastest to spot matching symbols! This is a fun game of observation and quick reflexes. Ages 6+
Basecamp Kids: These cards inspire meaningful conversation and connection for the whole family. I love bringing them on road trips and vacations, out to dinner, or whenever we need a little time to reset and reconnect. Ages 6+
Sleeping Queens: Wake up all five queens or score the most points to win! This is a cute and simple game that was created by a six-year-old based on a dream she had. Ages 6+
Mantis: Will you score or steal? This game combines a little bit of luck and strategy with a whole lot of fun. Ages 6+
Kanoodle: This is a great brain teaser game that provides endless fun with 200 puzzle challenges. Ages 7+
Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza: Silly, fast-paced, and easy to learn! This is one of my kids’ favorite games. Ages 7+
UNO: I love that you can find classic games featuring characters from your favorite stories. For my family, that’s Harry Potter and Star Wars! Ages 7+
Rush Hour Traffic Jam: This is a great gift for kids who are showing more interest in logic, rule-based games. Plus it’s small enough to take along with you. Ages 6+
RACK-O: It’s funny how classic games from the ‘50s can now feel like unique kids gifts! This retro version of Rack-O is a fun way to teach kids about fundamental math skills. Ages 8+
Pindaloo Original Skill Game Toy: This loop-the-ball game is incredibly addictive and tougher than it looks! Plus it helps kids improve their focus, hand-eye coordination, and a variety of other skills. Ages 8+
Creative Gifts for Kids
My daughters love anything crafty, and I love seeing their creativity, imagination, and confidence soar. While some of these unique gifts for kids do have a shelf life, the value they provide — and the skills they teach — last so much longer.
Color-Changing Markers: This is a fun way to make a regular activity, like drawing, feel a little more magical. Ages 3+
Watercolor Painting Book: Each page has its own watercolors, making it easy (and less messy) for kids to paint at home or away from home. Ages 3+
Invisible Ink Pens: Kids will love writing secret messages and revealing them with the UV light at the end of the pen. Ages 4+
My Sticker Dress-Up Swifties: The best gift for younger Swifties! Kids can create their own outfits and scenes with 500+ reusable stickers. Ages 5+
Paint By Sticker: My youngest daughter learned her numbers with these books! This is a great activity for at home or on the go. Ages 5+
Hey Clay Animals: This kit includes 15 cans of clay and two sculpting tools to help kids create a variety of animals. Safe for ages 3+, but best for 6+.
Paper Airplane Kit: Endless fun for the whole family! This kit includes 100 designs, step-by-step instructions, and stickers to decorate your planes. Ages 6+
Rock Painting Kit: Rock painting is an easy way for anyone to get creative — plus it’s a very calming activity. This kit includes rocks, weather-resistant paint, 3D glow paint, and design ideas. Ages 6+
Tattoo Pens: This idea is one of those cool gifts for kids that also encourages self-expression. These gel pens come with fun stencil designs, plus the ink is non-toxic and washable. Ages 6+
Elmer’s Squishies: My kids love any kind of craft — and the mystery element makes it even more fun! This kit includes everything you need to make two squishy toys. Ages 6+
Blingle Bands: My girls love making their own bracelets, and this gift makes it very easy! This kit includes five bands for siblings to share or to create friendship bracelets. Ages 7+
Rainbow Looms: This is a great creative outlet for kids that allows them to create unique bracelets, necklaces, rings, and more. Out of all the crafts we have, my kids use this one the most. Ages 7+
Glow-in-the-Dark Marble Run: If you’re looking for unique kids toys, this marble run is it! Kids can configure pieces in any way they want, so the possibilities are endless. Ages 8+
Earth Science Kit: Erupt a volcano, create a tornado, grow a crystal, and more. This is a great gift for curious kids who love hands-on activities and doing experiments. Ages 8+
Unique Kids Toys
Similar to cool gifts for kids, unique kids toys can be hard to define! For me, a unique toy goes beyond short-lived entertainment and offers something a little extra special. This could be a gift that reflects your kids’ interests, helps them discover something, or feels meaningful.
VTech KidiZoom Creator Cam: Kids can use this camera to take their own photos and videos. Plus it comes with creative tools, like special effects, animated backgrounds, and more. It's one of my kids all time favorite gift. Ages 5+
Bitzee Digital Pet: This interactive toy includes 15 different pets in one little pod, plus they react to your touch! Kids can feed them, play with them, and rock them to sleep to help them grow. Ages 5+
RC Stunt Car: RC cars are just plain fun, and this one is more exciting than most. Unlike other RC cars, it’s double-sided and can do cool tricks, jumps, and flips. Ages 6+
Hair Gems: This gift is perfect for kids who love adding a little sparkle to their style — or want their hair to look fancy for a certain occasion. Ages 6+
LED Letter Lights: As kids get older, they love to personalize their rooms and express their identity. Choose from 26 letters, then let them control the colors and patterns. Ages 6+
Bath & Beauty
As my girls have gotten older, they’ve become more interested in bath and beauty products. These ideas are a mix of practical and fun gifts, plus they make great stocking stuffers for kids, too.
Hair Detangler: My kids use this nightly! If you’ve ever struggled with combing your kid’s hair, I highly recommend this detangler. Ages 3+
Bath Bombs: Most kids love bath time, and these bath bombs make it even more fun. If you’re looking for unique Christmas gifts for kids, this brand offers a holiday version. Ages 3+
Folding Mirror Hair Brushes: My girls all have one of these in their backpacks. Even younger kids will enjoy flipping it open to see themselves, and they can practice combing their own hair. Ages 3+
Mini Press-on Nails: These press-on nails are the perfect size for little hands. The adhesive backing makes them easy to stick on and remove without damaging nails. Ages 4+
Lip Smacker Lip Balms: Super cute and super moisturizing! Plus they’re non-toxic and cruelty-free. Choose from Disney Princess, Avengers, Frozen, and more. Ages 6+
Kids' Stocking Stuffer Ideas
If you’re using my list to find unique Christmas gifts for kids, here are some other ideas that might help the season feel even more magical. Putting together stocking stuffers for kids is such a fun way to add extra excitement to Christmas morning. And honestly, I love doing it!
Kids between the ages of 6-8, love small surprises that feel like hidden treasures. l. I like to include a mix of playful and practical items that kids can actually use — think cozy socks, colorful pens, and cute toothbrushes alongside small toys, games, or craft supplies that spark creativity. It’s the perfect chance to sneak in a few essentials for kids without sacrificing the fun!
Shop Kids Stocking Stuffer Ideas 👆
I also love that stocking stuffers can be tailored to each child’s personality and interests. Whether your little one is into building, crafting, reading, or playing games, you can easily find a few small gifts to match. From puzzles and joke books to scented markers and hair accessories, these tiny treats are sure to bring big smiles and keep kids entertained long after the wrapping paper is gone. It’s the little things that often make the biggest memories, and stocking stuffers are a great way to spread some extra holiday cheer.
It’s the little things that often make the biggest memories, and stocking stuffers are a great way to spread some extra holiday cheer.
Q&A: Kids Gift Ideas
What ages are these kids gifts good for?
This list of gift ideas is mainly for kids between the ages of 6-8, but there are also many options for kids as young as 3 and as old as 12. Keep in mind that you know your kids’ interests and abilities best. For example, your 6-year-old might be able to play games where the suggested age is 8 (with some support). Alternatively, older kids can still show interest in toys meant for younger kids.
How do you choose gifts for kids?
When researching gift ideas for kids, I always make sure they are age-appropriate or match up with my kids’ abilities and interests. I also check with my daughters to find out what the cool gifts for kids are nowadays. Lastly, I try to balance the fun and the practical. This means I look for gifts that encourage some type of development — whether it’s motor skills, communication, critical thinking, creativity, or other life skills. Anything that inspires family bonding is a bonus!
What do you try to avoid when getting gifts for kids?
I try to avoid toys that are going to get played with for a few weeks and then forgotten about. If this happens, you can try to store it away and then rotate it back in to see if your kid is excited about it again. Obviously certain gifts have a shelf life (like anything crafty), which I’m ok with because they help build a lot of valuable skills. I also avoid a lot of small, inexpensive toys that will just add to the clutter or won’t last long.
How do you balance gifts between siblings?
While you could stick to a specific budget per kid, younger kids typically don’t know how much something costs and might notice the amount of gifts per kid instead. Another idea is to follow a rule, like every kid gets something they want, something they need, something to wear, something to read, and something to do or experience. You could also get a gift for siblings to share, especially if they are closer in age.
What else should I keep in mind when getting gifts for kids between 6-8?
Kids this age still love to play pretend and use their imaginations, but they’re also becoming more interested in logic and rule-based games. Some kids may even prefer to express their creativity and imaginative thinking through more inward activities instead, like drawing or writing. You’ll also see more interest in social play and group play with siblings or friends.
