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10 Best Christmas Gift > December 6, 2016 8 Mins Read

If your parents are rich enough to buy everything and they own almost every essential, luxurious and high end items in their collection, shopping for them becomes too hard. To ease your task of finding the Christmas gift ideas for parents who have everything, here I have come up with the list of things that are wacky and unusual. Every gift given here is sure to impress your parents in its own way. As money is not a major constraint, you can buy anyone or all of them to your parents. These gifts are guaranteed to please anyone.

Christmas Gift Ideas For Parents Who Have Everything

No 1 : Truly Outdoor Wicker Swing Chair

Though this season is not the right time to go out and enjoy the weather, presenting the “Truly outdoor wicker swing chair” will never become a bad choice. This elegant furniture makes a great gift for those who love outdoor and comfy. With this elegant swing chair in courtyard or outdoor terrace, your parents can spend their evenings with their gang of friends over a cup of coffee.

As it is made of genuine wicker and rotten materials, it’s safe to leave out in the shady places during the summer. Apart from being the stylish outdoor furniture, bringing it inside during the rainy days, make a great interior to their living room too.

Chances are your parent may already have own a swing chair. But this one you present will make them feel a bit of sentimental. Because it gives an impression like a baby bird nestling inside the nest.

No 2: Eating Well Magazine Subscription

No matter what possessions your parent own, presenting them a gift that clearly shows your love and affection will always feel special. These kinds of gifts will definitely make them warm and happy inside. You can convey your concern on your parent’s health by subscribing the health magazines like “Eating well”.

Even a year around subscription will not cost a lot. Though it does not take a lead in the luxurious gifts list, nothing can out beat this valuable present. In our list of best Christmas gift ideas for parents this is more of affectionate one.

No 3 : Kindle Paperwhite

As far as i knew, 6/10 lists in the cyberspace that talks about Christmas gift ideas for parents who have everything has this tech gadget. You must have guessed the reason too. Read on

Most of our parents have almost given up their habit of reading books because of the poor eyesight. Now we can rejuvenate it with the help of Amazon kindle Paperwhite. With kindle Paperwhite on hand now even the old age people can read their favorite books without straining their eyes.

Above all it is a simple easy to use tech gadget which is designed with the clean interface without any confusing icons and touch screen. Using which, books can easily be opened with the hit of a large button. The same applies to turning the pages and resizing the texts too. If your parent is comfortable with operating a remote control and microwave surely they will handle this kindle paperwhite too. What are you thinking still? Let this Christmas bring a new shape to their favorite hobby. Hit the button and make a purchase.

Amazon also provides an access to 100 different books per at free of cost. Its an additional plus.

No 4 : Table Tennis Set

You may say they already have a table tennis set in their home. But hold on. This one is slightly different from what they own now. We can call it as a “Dining table ping pong” too which brings the thrill of table tennis to the dining room itself. This table tennis come dining table includes everything from paddles to net and to balls.

Apart from your parents, it makes up a great gift to the people of any age group.

No 5 : Chocolate / Coffee Club Membership

Almost everyone loves chocolates. I hope your parent might not be the exception. Get them the premium indulgent club membership who will send out something new for their subscribers every month. However one constraint is, your parent should not be the patients of diabetics.

Given below are some of the well known chocolate clubs which are best known to serve this purpose.

Is your parent are not a big fan of chocolates? Get them the coffee membership then. Coffee club” Premium Hawaiin coffee” lets your parent taste variety of coffee flavors every month.

No 6 : Crossword Books

How come the gift ideas for parents who have everything list miss out the funky unusual gifts? You can find many websites offering such gifts at affordable prices. According to the recent studies aging brains get sharp when they attempt to learn something new. Benefits offered by the crossword books are twofold. First, it will refresh their brain. Second, it will keep them entertained.

No 7 : Indoor Snowball Fight

Your parent may have lost their cold bearing ability to take up the real fun filled snow ball fights. But it does not mean that they can’t have those lovely experiences ever again. To bring those fun again we have come up with an idea of indoor snow balls. You don’t need to worry about the feel of cold anyway.

This gift will suit people of any age group. When every time we have this fake snow ball fight in our workplace, we feel snow right under the feet. This fake snow ball fight package comes out in a pack of 30 snowballs.

No 8 : Octofishy Silverfish Aquarium

Presenting this luxurious “Bond-villain lair” octofishy tank make a perfect Christmas gift to anyone who is hard to impress. This fish tank stands 3 feet tall with additional features of heater and lighting. Existence of silk plant foliage in each compartment offers a secret meeting spot for the fishes with complete privacy. Add the residents into this silverfish aquarium and present it as a surprise gift on the day of Christmas. Observe how happy your parents are after receiving your thoughtful present.

To purchase this item you have to place an order at octopusstudios’s official website

No 9 : Dual Drive Tandem Bike

The benefits your parent is going to reap via this tandem bike are twofold. Main benefit is, it encourages them to involve in exercising which leads towards a healthy life. Second, Dual drive offers a chance to take up the fun activity together for your mom and dad.

No 10: Automatic Card Shuffler

An automatic card shuffler will be an ideal Christmas gift to anyone that love to play cards. This card shuffler can shuffle up to six decks of cards of standard size in seconds. It works on 4 ‘C’ type batteries and is very easy to use for elderly people.

For around 16 bucks, this automatic card shuffler will make a great gift. This product does not include batteries.

No 11 : FM Clock Radio with Remote Control

This FM radio with docking station and a remote control will make an awesome Christmas gift for elderly parents who loves music. Since it comes with a remote control, your parents can adjust the volume without having to get up all the time, making their life a bit easier.

And it also has a custom alarm clock the help them wake up according to their lifestyle. They can also dock and listen to music on their Apple gadgets while leaving the gadgets fully charged. The player automatically syncs and adjust the time to the docked device.

No 12 : DIY Flyaway Bookmarks

They have everything. Obviously our parents wouldn’t expect us present some luxurious material possessions. So let’s make a very thoughtful present in this Christmas. Actually speaking, it makes a topmost spot onto my list of Christmas gift ideas for parents who have everything.

This gift idea is inspired from the Pinterest.

Required things:

Cute picture of every kid in your entire family

String or Embroidery Floss

Glue stick

Clear contact paper

Scissors

Construction Paper

Instructions to make the flyaway bookmarks

1.Make your kids pose like they are holding a balloon in their hands. Everyone’s pose must be unique and fun.

2.Cut out their shapes from every picture. Cut a small slit between the hands of kids. Later we are going to make the embroidery floss slip through their hands.

3.Balloon we attach on each bookmark should have an identical look both in front and back. So cut 2 identical balloon shapes using the construction paper.

4.Attach one end of embroidery floss at the back of the balloon shape. The other end of string should be send through the slit you made in the step 2.

5.Leave a small piece of dangling so that it will create an impression like your kid holding the balloon.

6.Close the back of balloon using the another balloon shape (cut from the construction paper)

7.Repeat these steps for the picture of each kid. Now comes the important part. Laminate every balloon with the clear contact paper.

8.Use adhesives to stick the balloon shape and the construction paper.

Which one in our list of Christmas gift ideas for parents who have everything impressed you the most? Let me know. I am waiting for your input.

10 (Non-Cheesy) Christian Christmas Gifts for K > November 9, 2016 by Brittany 12 Comments

Christmas is right around the corner! Are you on the hunt for some fantastic Christian Christmas Gifts for Kids yet? c

Every Christmas, it can be so hard to find just the perfect thing for your kids (or grandkids, or nieces and nephews….)t

Of course you want something fun that they’re sure to love and play with a lot.

But chances are you also want something quality, something that will last, and something that will make a real difference in their lives, not just be something cheap and junky that will just find its way into the trash a few weeks later.

Well, you’re in luck! I’ve been scouring the Internet for the past couple of days, and I’ve found for you 10 (non-cheesy) Christian Christmas gift ideas your kids are sure to LOVE. And that you can feel good about giving.

All the links you need are right in this post for your convenience, and they are affiliate links, so if you do end up finding something you love and purchasing it through my links, I may make a small commission to help me buy my kids some awesome Christmas presents too – all at no additional cost to you. Thank you!

So go ahead! Scroll on down and see what you can find! I bet you’re sure to find at least a couple things that really catch your eye…

* Looking for Gifts for the Whole Family? You Can Find My Favorite Christmas Gift Ideas the Whole Family Will Love Here.

10 (Non-Cheesy) Christian Christmas Gifts for Kids

1. Little People A Christmas Story Nativity Set

Do your kids love the Little People play sets as much as mine do? They’re classic, durable, great for imaginative play, slobber-proof and lots of fun! Plus, the Little People Nativity set is a great way for little ones to learn more about Jesus’s birth in a way they can understand (while keeping your grown-up nativity set in good condition!)

This is definitely one of my absolute favorite Christmas Christmas gift ideas for kids — our kids love it!

2. The Shepherd on the Search

How about a fun family activity to help celebrate Advent? Similar to the Elf on the Shelf, but with a more decidedly Christian message, The Shepherd on the Search is a great option. It comes With a cute plush shepherd, a beautiful storybook, a message that’s focused squarely on Jesus, and a lot of fun!

*Already own an Elf on the Shelf? Check out these Christian Elf on the Shelf ideas to make fun memories with your kids while keeping the focus on Jesus.

*Don’t have an Elf on the Shelf and thinking of getting one or something similar? You have a TON of options. Definitely check out these fun Christian Elf on the Shelf alternatives here first!

3. Jonathan Park Audio Adventures

Have a child between the ages of 7-13? If so, you’ll definitely want to check out the Jonathan Park Audio Adventures series.

An exciting audio series designed to help Christian children grow in faith, Jonathan Park not only keeps kids entertained for hours (perfect for a long car ride!), but they also help equip kids with a wealth of knowledge that helps them support and defend the Christian faith.

(click any movie cover to view details and pricing information)

4. Veggie Tales Movies

I’ve been a big fan of Veggie Tales for years – way before I even had kids of my own – but now that I see some of the other alternatives available in kids’ cartoons, I love and appreciate them that much more.

Veggie Tales are perfect for teaching kids Bible stories, important life lessons and morals/values — all while remaining fun and upbeat, not boring or preachy! They’re really funny, and good for little kids and adults alike.

I picked out some of the best Christmas Veggie Tales movies above (click on any of them for more info), or click here to find TONS of different Veggie Tale movies you can choose from!

You seriously can’t go wrong with these fun Christian Christmas gifts for kids.

5. Children’s Bible

Do your children have their own Bible? That’s right at their reading level? If not, Christmas is a good time to get them a good one. Here are the ones my own children have and love:

(click any Bible to view additional details and pricing information)

Or looking for something a bit unique? Did you know that there’s actually a LEGO Bible? I haven’t looked through it myself, but I can definitely see some kids getting really excited about this. You can learn more about the LEGO Bible here.

6. Christian T-shirts for Kids

Most Christian t-shirts are cheesy. These are Christian t-shirts for kids are awesome. Click on any shirt to find size and pricing information.

7. Christian Christmas Children’s Books

Growing up, we had a tradition where we read the Christmas story from the Bible every year before opening presents. I loved it and looked forward to it every year.

I don’t want to save the story until Christmas morning, though. Buy these as Christian Christmas gifts for your kids to enjoy Christmas morning, or buy them early and enjoy them all season long!

(click any book cover to view additional details and pricing information)

The Christmas Story: Good book for telling the real Christmas story. True to the Bible. The Berenstain Bears and the Joy of Giving: Good book for teaching kids about joyful giving, being thankful, and what Christmas is REALLY about – God’s gift to us. Christmas in the Manger: Cute board book perfect for babies and other little ones. It’s Not About You, Mr. Santa Claus: If your family IS doing the whole Santa Claus thing but you want to be careful to do it in a way that doesn’t take too much emphasis away from Jesus, this book will help. God Gave us Christmas: A cute little storybook about a mama bear teaching her baby bear about the real meaning of Christmas and to find God in everything. It is about Christmastime in general, not about the nativity scene specifically, and it is Santa friendly.

8. Christian Magazines for Kids

Want a gift that keeps on giving month after month? Why not choose a good Christian magazine for kids?

Popular choices include:

Clubhouse or Clubhouse Jr. from Focus on the Family – Christian stories, activities, comics and more for kids ages 3-7 and 8-12 The Kids’ Ark – Quarterly Christian magazine full of the truth of God’s love for kids ages 6-12 Pockets – Stories, news, games and Christian history for kids ages 6-12 God’s Big WORLD, WORLDkids or WORLDteen – Relevant world news from a Christian perspective for children and teens of all ages.

9. Precious Moments Prayer Pals

My middle son has one of these he received as a gift when he was a baby and it “sleeps” in his bed every night. They’re super sweet and snuggly, and when you press their bellies, they recite a prayer (“Now I lay me down to sleep”). These are a great choice for little ones.

10. Ideal Bible Trivia Game and Other Christian Kids’ Board Games

The Ideal Bible Trivia Game has great reviews and looks like it’d be a lot of fun – especially if your kids are involved in quizzing or just go to Sunday School a lot and really know their stuff.

In addition to the Ideal Bible Trivia Game, There are actually TONS of Christian board games for kids you might want to check out.

Alright, so there you go! Ten (non-cheesy) Christian Christmas gifts for kids.

Just make sure if you order online, you make your purchases in plenty of time to get here by the holidays!

What are some of your favorite Christian Christmas gifts for kids you’ve given, been given or seen? Anything else that deserves a spot on this list?

Beyond Your Blog

Unique Gifts For Everyone On Your List (Including Bloggers and Writers!)

This year we are introducing our very first gift guide! I feel a little like Oprah picking my favorite items to share with readers, but alas, no one here is getting a car.

To come up with the list I took submissions for consideration from members of my Facebook Group, I scoured the sites of my podcast guests and guest editors, and I pulled in some personal favorites as well as some of my current wish list items.

I’ve always enjoyed selecting gifts for people, so this was great fun to put together!

Beyond Your Blog participates in the Amazon Associates Affiliate program as a means to earn incremental income for the site and support the efforts of the humans required to run it. Some of the links listed are products sold on Amazon. com. If you click on one and subsequently make a purchase of any item within a 24 hour period, we will receive a small commission from Amazon. com at no additional cost to you. Read our disclosure policy for more details.

For Parents

Science of Parenthood: Thoroughly Unscientific Explanations for Utterly Baffling Parenting Situations – I’ll have to check with the authors, but I may have been the very first pre-order back in June and have been awaiting my copy with vigor and enthusiasm! I even eyed an early authors copy and the illustrations were delicious! Available November 17th, this book is a perfect choice for parents, teachers (oh my gosh, isn’t this an awesome teacher gift. ), and anyone who likes to approach parenting with LOTS of humor.

Spending the Holidays with People I Want to Punch in the Throat: Yuletide Yahoos, Ho-Ho-Humblebraggers, and Other Seasonal Scourges – I was lucky enough to get an early preview copy of this book in late September and devoured it in 2 nights. Jen Mann is the master of self-deprecation and relatable parenting humor. I love this pick for gen-x moms because in addition to lots of present day stories of hiding gifts so well you can’t find them and a husband with the worst gift giving habits ever, Jen’s hilarious 1970’s and 80’s Christmas accounts from when she was a kid are may favorite and take me back to my own childhood. This made me smile and laugh out loud and totally put me in the holiday mood!

Martinis & Motherhood: Tales of Wonder, Woe & WTF?! – “Stories that inspire, entertain, and make you laugh ’til you pee. Plus martinis! And not just any-old-martinis—these ones were designed just for moms!” Ummm – how can this be bad? On my list.

For Pet Lovers

JL Watercolor Pet and House Portraits – If you have a pet lover on your list, consider having a custom portrait done. Simply order through this Etsy shop, submitting a photograph for the artist to work from. She also does gorgeous house and botanical drawings. Oh, and if you don’t have the pet or house photo you need, you can order a gift certificate and your recipient can select their own photo!

Spa Robe For Your Pet – I don’t even have pets, but I could hardly stand how cute this pet robe from All Handcrafted Gifts was! I’m also a sucker for terriers, so the model is my kind of pet!

For The Writer/Blogger

Writer’s Necklace – This is SO going on my wish list! Or maybe I’ll just buy it for myself. This necklace from IntuitiveJewellery is the best gift EVER for a woman writer or blogger. I love the little typewriter and you can choose any color bead to match a birthstone or favorite color. I want to get this for all my blogger friends.

Make Money to Write About Your Kids: Get Published in Regional, National & Online Parenting & Family Magazines – This has been a favorite of mine since I interviewed author, Kerrie McLoughlin in February of 2014. If you need a gift for a parenting blogger, this is a great one! It takes the reader step by step through how to start writing for regional parenting magazines with tons of contacts by market.

Getting Creative: Developing Creative Habits that Work – This is all about finding time for creative endeavors with all the other things going on in our lives. With many of my readers struggling with this exact issue, this review says it all: “This book is a handy resource for any artist or writer who is struggling with a 9 to 5 job while pursuing their artistic endeavors. This book is more about endowing yourself with good creative habits than being a magic problem solver book, and the author is upfront about his goal in this book. It’s also incredibly supportive in making sure you don’t overdo the practices, and not to beat yourself up if you falter, but continue to take small steps towards larger gains while maintaining a flexibility in being able to be creative while also living your life.”

Writing Retreat – If you have a bigger budget, don’t question whether a writer or blogger you know would like a writing retreat. I’m here to tell you THEY WOULD. Although I have not been lucky enough to go on one myself, one of my readers suggests Haven Retreats: “Haven Writing Retreats are designed to meet you where you need to be met, whether you are a beginner, or a best-selling author and everything in-between. We are all the same in a circle of people putting >author, Laura Munson-of the New York Times and international best-selling memoirist. Her essays and short stories have been published in the New York Times, the New York Times Magazine, O. Magazine, Time, Newsweek, The Week, Redbook….” Whitefish Montana? Sign me up.

Mission Belt – I have given this to my husband, my father and my father in-law and it was a hit with all of them. This is a cool looking belt that uses ratchet technology to tighten and loosen, so it sort of clicks tighter and looser instead of using holes in the leather. There are ton of color/metal combinations and some funky colors as well. BONUS: every belt goes to fight hunger and poverty worldwide through micro-lending.

For Tea Lovers

Plum Deluxe’s Tea of the Month Club – I admit, I am not a tea drinker. It’s one of those thing I wish I did, but apparently my palate is only sophisticated enough for hot chocolate. BUT, if I did, I’d be all over this gift of delicious limited-edition artisan tea every month. “Each blend is thoughtfully crafted with only the freshest organic ingredients from around the world.”

For Coffee Lovers

Just Want To Drink Coffee & Make Cool Stuff Mug – Sweatpants and Coffee offers this fun mug for all the coffee-drinking creatives out there.

Richard Scarry’s Busytown, Eye Found It – Whether or not you love Huckle and Lowly (I’m not ready to commit just yet), this game is pretty awesome for kids and adults to play together. I have gifted this and we also have it for our own kids. There is a giant game board you put together in 3 big heavy-duty cardboard pieces and you move along individually but all have to reach the end together to try to win as a team. The best part is when you spin a Goldbug and have to search for hidden items on the board together. You’d think it would be a no brainer after a few plays, but these items are tough to spot on the very intricate board and we’ve had a lot of fun playing with our 4 and 5-year-old. Since my husband and I still have trouble finding the hidden objects, I’d say it’s great for older kids too.

Let’s Count to 100! – This book is really cute with lots happening on every page. There are things to look for and activity among the animals including the tiny flatulent mole my kids immediately zeroed in on among 99 other moles.

Luca and Company Art Station, Red – Santa brought this to our art-obsessed daughter last Christmas and a day has not gone by since when her bum hasn’t been sitting at it creating something. As the photo shows, the top is reversible to a chalkboard, and you have the option of having it as a desk or easel. Great quality and perfect for a budding artist!

Faith Gifts

40 Days of Art and Literature: A Prayer Journal – “This devotional is a guided journal full of exercises to encourage creative prayer. Quotes from literature give new ideas to dwell on, poetry provides imagery to ponder and imitate, prayer drawing exercises inspire prayer even when you’re out of words, and scripture passages find new life through the meditative process of Lectio Divina.”

For Anyone

The Best Advice in Six Words: Writers Famous and Obscure on Love, Sex, Money, Friendship, Family, Work, and Much More (Six-Word Memoir) – (Larry Smith) I just did the Amazon. com ‘Look Inside’ to get a taste of the 6 word advice bits and found “Free cheese only comes in traps — Ed Boland”. Sold.

Adult Coloring Book: Stress Relieving Patterns – I got this for a friend’s birthday and she loved it! Coloring these detailed patters is soothing if you are someone like me who likes to relax but needs to be doing something in order to do so (if that makes any sense!). My mom and grandmother both color these as well, and Amazon. com has tons to choose from if you search ‘Adult Coloring Book’. BonBon Break also had a great listing a few months ago.

I personally like these twist up colored pencils from Crayola:

For Yourself

QVC Beauty Christmas Advent Calendar 24pc Collection – If you have followed me for a while, you may have heard me mention (sheepishly) my QVC obsession. Well, I had to have at least one thing on this list from QVC. I received this last year from my mom and luxuriated in opening up my little beauty surprise every day of December. This year they have a new version out and it looks awesome if you want to treat yourself and prolong the opening over 24 days!

Which item would you love to receive off of this list?

The BEST Christmas Gift > This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. Read my full disclosure policy Here. November 16, 2016 By Linda McGurk

I love the festivities, the family gatherings and the togetherness that usually accompany Christmas. But I’ll never embrace the pressure – whether perceived or real – to shop until you drop. Senseless consumption is environmentally unsustainable and flies in the face of everything I stand for. And I really don’t want my two girls to think that Christmas is just about the number or value of their gifts. This doesn’t mean my kids are deprived of holiday gifts. Between their parents, grandparents and other extended family they get what they need and then some. Since I know I won’t get out of holiday shopping completely, I might as well make the best of it. To keep things organized I always make gift lists ahead of time, and the past few years I’ve shared my Christmas gift ideas for kids who like the outdoors with you as well. (Make sure to check out last year’s Holiday Gift Ideas for the Outdoorsy Kid and 2014’s 25 Great Holiday Gift Ideas for Outdoor Kids as well.) Naturally, you can use the gift ideas for inspiration whether you celebrate Christmas or not!

A few years ago, I adopted a system of buying Only four gifts for each of my girls: Something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to Read. I’ve also added Something to do As a family, which is really my favorite part. And let me tell you – this system has revolutionized the way I think about holiday shopping. It keeps me from buying things randomly and impulsively, it’s a natural way of capping the number of gifts, and it makes it much easier to keep the gift giving fair. (My kids will hold me to it!) It also seriously cuts down on holiday-induced stress. This year I was done with my Christmas shopping for the girls by the start of November – a new record! (If you’re feeling the holiday stress creeping up on you, check out 5 Fool-Proof Ways to Beat Holiday Stress and Truly Enjoy the Season.)

I’ve organized my Christmas gift ideas according to the “want, need, wear and read” system as well, and I’m hoping that it will help you find some useful ideas for your kids this holiday season. Although my girls are now 5 and 8, I’ve included Christmas gift ideas for preschoolers as well. Should you decide to buy something after clicking on the Amazon links, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work to get kids back outside!

Pssst. In celebration of the holidays I’m also giving away a copy of I Love Dirt! 52 Activities to Help You and Your Kids to Discover the Wonders of Nature by Jennifer Ward – make sure to read on to the end to find out how to enter.

Christmas Gift > Amanico Kids Walkie Talkies,

Walkie Talkies are a fun gift for kids who are ready for a little more independence in the outdoors (and for the hovering parent who would love to grant them a little more freedom and still have a way to communicate with them!) These have a range of up to 3 km (2 miles) and can be used by children as young as 4 years old. ($29.99 on Amazon)

If your kid like hammocks, they’ll love this swing seat! It’s perfect for reading, listening to music or just kicking back and enjoying some downtime outside. A perfect addition to any backyard or camping trip – just clip it onto a tree branch and you’re good to go. ($38.89 on Amazon)

I know, I know, this classic outdoor toy is something that you could feasibly make at home with some sticks, rubber bands and some serious MacGyver skills, but the girls and I have tried in the past and failed. Although I haven’t personally tried this one out, I love that each of these wooden slingshots is one-of-a-kind and made by an artisan in the US. ($34 on Amazon)

We used this kit to raise butterflies a few years ago and had a ton of fun with it! Even though my oldest daughter had learned about the butterfly life cycle at school, it was something else altogether to see the metamorphosis live. This kit includes a collapsible habitat, feeding pipette and a mail-in voucher for five live caterpillars, to be redeemed when the weather is warm enough for butterflies to be released. ($12.39 + $7.95 fee for processing caterpillars, on Amazon)

Something they need

I’ve tried a lot of sleeping pads and this is the first one that has not left me with a back pain the next day. It’s lightweight, comfy and has a built-in pump, making it perfect for backpacking. It’s a little pricier than many other options, but to me getting a good night’s sleep is worth it. And since my kids won’t stop fighting me over my Exped Synmat sleeping pad, they’re getting their own this year. ($102.95 on Amazon)

Whether they’re in a tent or in their beds, my kids always like to keep the light on when they go to sleep. This camping lantern has a fun Pokemon ball design and is waterproof and kid-friendly. I like that it’s rechargeable and that the USB cable turns into a hanger loop, which makes it easier to place in the tent. One charge lasts for up to 14 hours, according to the manufacturer. ($14.99 on Amazon)

This is the knife of choice for many Swedish Scout troops, so when my oldest daughter was ready for her first knife this was a natural choice for us. If you think your child too is ready to start with some basic whittling, it is an excellent beginner’s knife as it has a blunted top and double finger protection. Make no mistake, though – the 3.3-inch stainless steel blade is sharp. ($28.50 on Amazon)

Stearns Puddle Jumper



We discovered this life jacket when my youngest daughter was little and it made our time at the pool and lake a lot more enjoyable. The design of the Puddle Jumper makes it easy for kids to stay upright in the water, while giving them the freedom to move around and practicing their swimming skills. It is Coast Guard approved and come in a range of fun colors and designs. ($18-$25 on Amazon)

Something to wear

I purchased these for my 8-year-old daughter a while back and whereas she loves the color (they come in purple as well) I mostly appreciate how light-weight yet sturdy they are. Great waterproof, all around hiking boot with ample ankle support and good traction. (Starting at $35 on Amazon)

If your kids play outside every day regardless of the weather, chances are they will at some point need waterproof mittens. My girls have used hand-me-down Abeko mittens for years, and some of those mittens are still holding up after being used by three kids. They are truly waterproof (believe me, my kids have put them through the test!) and extremely durable. On colder days, I will sometimes layer with a pair of knitted gloves underneath for extra warmth. ($19.95 on Amazon)

I bought a two-piece set of Polarn o Pyret’s long underwear for both of my girls last year and love them. They can be used as a base layer while outside in the winter, or just for lounging around the house. Forget the itchy wool long johns of the past – these merino wool pants and shirts are comfy and feels good on your skin. My kids even use them as jammies sometimes. ($42.50 on Amazon)

I have to admit that we were pretty late to the party with Oakiwear, even though I’d heard fellow bloggers rave about the brand for years. My 8-year-old has both the jacket and pants in this style and so far she’s loving it. Waterproof and warm, this is the perfect set not just for skiing but other outdoor winter activities as well. Sizes 3T-12. (On sale for $37.99 from Oakiwear)

Something to read

I’ve always had great admiration for chimpanzee scientist Jane Goodall, and this picture book biography does a wonderful job of sharing her compelling life story on a child’s level. What I love the most about Brad Meltzer’s book is its uplifting message that ordinary people can rise up to do extraordinary things. The future will need more people like Goodall, and hopefully reading this story to our kids will inspire their budding conservationist spirits. ($8.98 on Amazon)

In this timeless classic by Elsa Beskow we get to know a family of gnomes who live in the roots of a pine tree in the forest. Published in 1910, the book is delightfully slow-paced and mainly follows the four children as they help their parents with seasonal chores and encounter various forest critters. The book is as much artwork as it is fairy tale, as it is beautifully illustrated by Beskow’s water color paintings on every page. ($8.46 on Amazon)

This excellent non-fiction book from National Geographic explores all of the seven continents, and delves into the geography, climate, wildlife, culture and people of each one. If your kids enjoy National Geographic Kids Magazine (my kids have been enthusiastic subscribers for years) they’ll likely love this book as well. And the facts aren’t just for kids – as I read it I found that I learned some new things as well. ($10.40 on Amazon)

We love following Curious George and his mishaps. In this Curious George book by Margret and H. A. Rey, the spunky little monkey and his friend the man with the yellow hat go camping. Curious George is trying to help, but as usual things don’t exactly turn out the way he expects them to. ($3.48 for paperback on Amazon)

Stocking Stuffers:

Do you have the ambition to get outside with the kids every day but sometimes fall short because you lack the motivation or inspiration? Then a copy of I Love Dirt! 52 Activities to Help You and Your Kids to Discover the Wonders of Nature by Jennifer Ward is exactly what you need! Just comment on this blog post and tell me if you saw anything in the gift guide that you consider buying for your kids.

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