If you’re shopping for a 2 to 5-year-old, you’ve come to the right place. As the mom of four kids (ranging in age from newborn to age 10), I have pulled together a list of non-messy and marvelous gift ideas. As with my kid gift picks, these ideas focus on products related to reading, nature, art, and imagination.
Adeline Mary Janes by See Kai Run
If you’ve followed my blog for any length of time, you’ve probably noted my love for the See Kai Run brand of shoes for kids. Available for newborns up to about age 8, the shoes are crafted with high-quality materials to ensure optimal flexibility and comfort. The Adeline dress shoes (pictured above) in gleaming red are both pretty and practical. She can wear them on the playground for a rousing game of tag or to a prim & proper Christmas tea in ruffles and lace. “Versatile” is the name of these darling mary janes.
Alphabet Go Fish
Play a game with your preschooler that has a double purpose. This updated version of a classic game is comprised of sturdy game cards that are designed to introduce young players to letters and letter sounds. Recommended for ages 4+.
An Artist’s Alphabet
Every home should have at least a couple alphabet books. Start (or add to) your preschooler’s library with “An Artist’s Alphabet” by Norman Messenger. Each page features one letter of the alphabet and a corresponding drawing. The illustrations are elegant enough to captivate all audiences.
Chunkies Paint Sticks by International Arrivals
Does your tot ask to paint – but do you dread the mess? These washable paint sticks are thick enough for small hands to grasp and offer a way for your tot to get crafty without splatters. Be sure to wear a smock just in case though!
- Buy Chunkies Paint Sticks.
- Like International Arrivals on Facebook.
- Follow International Arrivals on Twitter.
Easy Ride ‘Um Brown Horse by Mary Meyer
Giddy-up your way to a great Christmas gift! Your little wrangler will love riding around the house on this lightweight stick pony. Press the left ear for a delightful and realistic neighing sound.
French Terry Ruffle Drop Waist Dress by Zutano
This easy wear drop waist dress will keep your little girl warm this winter. Also – it has pockets! We especially love it in apple green. Pair with Edelweiss Skinny Leggings for a sensible and sweet look. Available in sizes 6M-4T.
- Buy the French Terry Ruffle Drop Waist Dress and/or Edelweiss Skinny Leggings.
- Like Zutano on Facebook.
- Follow Zutano on Twitter.
I Spy picture book series
Beautifully illustrated picture books are always a winning gift pick in our house. The “I Spy” series by Edward Gibbs is an especially good choice for preschoolers due to the “spy hole” and interactive text. Young children will love using texture, color, and design clues to guess what is behind the next page.
- Buy I Spy picture books by Edward Gibbs.
- Like Candlewick Press on Facebook.
- Follow Candlewick Press on Twitter.
Once Upon A Craft
I have yet to meet a preschooler who doesn’t love crafts. Too often, however, moms are running in so many different directions that it’s hard to have the energy to pre-plan fun activities. Enter – Once Upon a Craft. Each fairy-tale themed kit includes two mess-free crafts and an accompanying storybook. Choose Rapunzel, Princess and the Pea, Jack and the Beanstalk, and more. $12.99/kit.
- Buy Once Upon a Craft kits.
- Like Educational Insights on Facebook.
- Follow Educational Insights on Twitter.
Playfoam
This non-toxic molding dough is similar to play-doh…except that it doesn’t dry out. Your preschooler can sculpt people, animals, faces, trees, structures, anything they can dream up – while you can enjoy a super quick clean-up.
Shapes Beanbags
I’m always on-the-lookout for toys that double as educational opportunities. These colorful (and machine-washable!) felt beanbags fit the bill. Each of the eight beanbags is embroidered with the name of the corresponding shape.
The Berenstain Bears’ Christmas Coloring & Activity Book
We’re big fans of the bear family (who live in a cozy treehouse down a sunny dirt lane). You too? Then, your preschooler will be BEARY excited about this chunky coloring book. Lots of pictures and activities for hours of book-inspired fun!
- Buy The Berenstain Bears’ Christmas Coloring & Activity Book.
- Like Dover Publications on Facebook.
- Follow Dover Publications on Twitter.
Whimsy Doodle Stuffed Toys by Mary Meyer
Brand new from Mary Meyer! Your preschooler will instantly want to snuggle with a Whimsy Doodle pal. Super soft with wise & whimsical messages on their tummies, the stuffed animals are a sweet gift pick for 2016.
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What are YOU getting for your preschoolers this Christmas?
BROWSE the complete 2016 Christmas Gift Guide to get ideas for everyone on your list!
