It's only October, but if you're the kind of parent who likes to feel organised (or the kind who panics on December 20th), an early gift guide is a lovely thing to have on hand. Every year we hear the same wish from families: "I'd love gifts that get played with long after the wrapping paper is gone." So here is our gentle guide to screen-free gifts for toddlers and preschoolers, with something for every budget.
What makes a gift worth keeping?
The toys children return to again and again tend to share a few things in common. They're open-ended, which means there's no single right way to play. They grow with your child, so a gift that suits a two-year-old can still be loved at five. And they invite you in, because the best play often happens side by side. Keep these in mind and you can't go far wrong.
1. For the small budget: magnet sets ($25 to $32)
Magnet sets are a favourite stocking filler because they're thin, durable and easy to wrap. The Alphabet Magnet Set ($25) is lovely for little ones starting to notice letters, while the Dino Discovery Magnet Set ($25) suits storytellers who love a good roar. For a gift that encourages talking about feelings, the Emotions Magnet Set ($32) is a thoughtful choice. They work on the fridge, a magnetic whiteboard or the Playwall, and you can mix and match across sets.
2. For quiet moments: felt busy books ($75)
If you're after something for car trips, café visits and the long Christmas Day afternoon, a Lola Felt Busy Book or Little Role Players Felt Busy Book is a gorgeous option. Soft felt pieces and interactive pages encourage sorting, storytelling and independent play. Buying for two children, or want a few to rotate? The 2 Pack Felt Busy Book Bundle (from $135) saves a little. Please supervise younger children, as the pieces are small.
3. For early learners: sorting and counting play
Little ones love to sort, match and count, and the Magnetic Colour Sorting Jars ($29) turn all of that into a hands-on game. Pair them with the Magnetic Number Set ($25) and you have a simple, screen-free way to explore colours and numbers together, no batteries required.
4. For the big gift: the Magnetic Playwall™ (from $89)
If you'd like one special gift that becomes a dedicated play space, the Magnetic Playwall™ is our flagship for a reason. It's removable and renter-friendly, installs in minutes without drilling, and invites open-ended play with magnets, magnetic tiles and chalk. Because it's a space rather than a single toy, it keeps finding new uses as your child grows. If you'd like to get started with everything in one box, take a look at the Magnetic PlayWall Starter Kit Bundle.
5. For grandparents and faraway family: a gift card
Not sure what a little one already has? The SmartyPals Gift Card (from $10) lets family choose together, and it's a lovely option for relatives who'd like to contribute to a bigger gift. (If that's you, our grandparent's guide to screen-free gifts has more ideas.)
A few gentle gift-giving tips
Choose one or two meaningful gifts rather than a mountain, as children often play more deeply when they're not overwhelmed. Consider how the gift will be played with, and where it will live in your home. And if you're ordering for Christmas, popping your order in early takes the pressure off. Please check our shipping information for delivery timeframes before the busy period.
Gifts that make room for play
The best Christmas gifts aren't the loudest or the flashiest. They're the ones that spark imagination and give you a reason to sit on the floor together for a little while. However you celebrate, you're doing a great job. For more inspiration, you might enjoy our post on screen-free gifts under $50. Less Screens, More Play™.
