Ultimate List of Educational Gifts for Kids
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I really do love Christmas shopping. I love giving gifts and trying to find just the right gift for someone.
And it’s such a blessing to be able to see my kids get excited over their gifts! But what I don’t love is spending so much money these days on plastic toys that have little educational value that my kids might love, but, the novelty will wear off in a couple of weeks (or the toy will get broken, the pieces will get lost, and I end up regretting wasting my money).
I much prefer spending my money on toys and gifts that have long-term value, and big bonus if there’s an educational aspect to them where my kids are learning something and gaining skills as they play.
So, that’s exactly what I’m sharing with you today — my pick of the best educational gifts to get for your kids!
I’m going to be breaking down this list for you by age and theme, giving you a few different options in each category.
Toys are an obvious, fun way to learn. The ones I’m including go beyond mere entertainment, but provide interactive experiences that help grow problem-solving skills, inspire creativity, and get kids thinking critically.
Age-Appropriate Educational Toys
If you want some quick ideas for gift giving, let’s start with some simple suggestions for kids from early childhood preschool games to elementary school.
Early Childhood (Ages 1-3)
- Interactive Alphabet and Number Toys. This one was an absolute favorite for my littles!
- Shape Sorters and Stacking Toys. I just purchased this Montessori option for my nephew. Here’s another great option that focus on shape and color recognition.
- Soft Building Blocks. Here are the ones my kids loved!
- Musical Instruments
- Picture Books with Large, Bright Images
Preschool (Ages 3-5)
- Educational Puzzles. Melissa and Doug always have great options!
- Building Blocks and Construction Sets. My son loved this one!
- STEM-Focused Toys like the mTiny from Makeblock
- Play Dough and Modeling Clay
- Pretend Play Sets (e.g., kitchen, doctor, or construction sets)
- Memory Games
- Simple Board Games (with large pieces)
Elementary School (Ages 6-12)
- Educational Board Games. Check out some great board games for 6-7 year olds!
- Math and Science Kits. A subscription box like Generation Genius makes a great gift that keeps on giving!
- Language and Literacy Tools (Books, Word Board Games)
- Art Supplies and Craft Kits. We love Annie’s Kit Club!
- Interactive Globe for Geography Learning
- Basic Coding and Programming Games and Coding Robots
- Construction Kits (e.g., Lego sets for more advanced building)
Themed Educational Gifts
You can find educational gifts across all subjects! This list is going to help you find that perfect educational gift no matter what your kids are interested in, from tech to creative arts and music.
Technology-Based Educational Gifts
Educational Apps and Games
While an app might not be the first thing that comes to mind as a gift, a subscription can be a great option for kids who love tech! Here are some good options:
- ABCmouse
- Adventure Academy (all my kids have loved this!)
- Homer (my son’s current favorite!)
- BrainPop
Interactive E-books and Audiobooks
Coding and Robotics Kits
- Osmo Coding Kit
- LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox
- Botley 2.0 Coding Robot
- Cubetto – Montessori Programming Robot
- Sphero SPRK+
- Makeblock mBot Neo Robot Kit
Learning Tablets or Laptops
STEM-focused DIY Kits
When selecting technology-based educational gifts, it’s essential to consider age appropriateness, parental controls, and the educational content provided by the device or app. Always ensure that the technology aligns with the child’s developmental stage and educational goals.
Outdoor and Physical Education Gifts
Outdoor toys make excellent educational gifts as they encourage children to engage in active and imaginative play, which helps not only their physical but also cognitive development.
Additionally, outdoor play enhances our kids’ appreciation for nature, stimulates their creativity, and helps develop essential social skills, making these gifts a valuable investment in their overall educational and developmental journey.
Here are some great options!
Sports Equipment
- Soccer Ball
- Basketball
- Tennis Racket and Balls
- Baseball Glove and Ball
- Volleyball and Net
- Badminton Set
- Golf Club Set for Kids
Active Play Toys
- Jump Rope
- Hula Hoop
- Kickball
- Frisbee
- Roller Skates
- Scooter
- Pogo Stick
Bicycle or Balance Bike
- Age-appropriate Bicycle with Training Wheels
- Balance Bike for Younger Children
Outdoor Science Exploration Kits
Gardening Kits for Kids
- Child-Sized Gardening Tools
- Seed Starter Kit for kids
- Educational Books on Gardening
Outdoor Adventure Gear
- Binoculars
- Compass
- Telescope for Stargazing
Campfire and Cooking Set
- Pretend Play Campfire Set
- Cooking Set for Outdoor Pretend Play
Outdoor Science Experiment Kits
Fitness Trackers for Kids
Outdoor Art Supplies
- Sidewalk Chalk
- Outdoor Easel
- Paints and Brushes for Outdoor Art
These gifts encourage physical activity, exploration, and a connection with nature. Remember to consider the child’s interests, age, and safety when selecting outdoor and physical education gifts.
Creative Arts and Music
Whether it’s a set of art supplies, a musical instrument, or interactive creative tools, these gifts contribute to the development of fine motor skills, cognitive abilities, and emotional intelligence.
Engaging in artistic and musical activities enhances a child’s ability to think critically, problem-solve, and express themselves, promoting a well-rounded educational experience that goes beyond traditional academic learning. Any of these would make great gifts for your art and music-loving kids!
Drawing and Painting Materials
- Crayons
- Colored Pencils
- Washable Markers
- Watercolor Paints
- Sketchbooks or Drawing Pads
- Easel with Paper Roll
DIY Craft Kits for Educational Creativity
- Jewelry Making Kits
- DIY Craft Supplies (my girls love this kit)
- Origami Kits
- Sewing Kits for Kids
- Model Magic or Clay Modeling Kits
Sculpting and Molding Materials
- Play-Doh or Modeling Clay
- Sculpture Kits
- Pottery Wheel for Kids
- Air-Dry Clay
- DIY Soap or Candle Making Kits
Beginner Musical Instruments
Dance and Movement Games
- Dance Mats with Built-in Music
- Hula Hoops for Dance and Exercise
- Interactive Dance Video Games
These creative arts and music gifts encourage self-expression, imagination, and skill development in the arts. Tailor your choices based on the child’s interests and age.
Educational Toys Make Great Gifts
Whether you’re shopping for that perfect Christmas or birthday gift, or just looking for something fun to encourage learning through play, I hope this list has inspired you!
Let me know in the comments: what has been YOUR child’s favorite educational gift? I can’t wait to hear!
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