if you are anything like us, you try with all your might to avoid big box stores, junky plastic toys, and giant bags of waste heading to the landfill on christmas morning. it can be tricky with younger children as they begin to learn the power of marketing, but a few thoughtful and carefully selected items can have a lasting impact as they grow. balance and moderation- my motto for this coming holiday season. i also like to simplify by following this basic guideline - 'something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to read.'
one || crochet bear hood - this sweet little hood will delight kids and parents alike. simple, easy to wear, and warm, perfect for playing in fall leaves or throwing snowballs in the yard. or if you have a knitter in the family, perhaps a PDF version of the pattern would make a nice stocking stuffer (and a not so subtle hint)?
two || schyling hohner toy accordion - finn received this accordion a few years ago for his birthday, and ever since it has been a favourite of his and every other child (and a few adults) that come over to play. sounds, looks and feels like the real thing, encouraging your little ones love of music for years to come.
three || twig creative knotical origami nesting boat - a modern take on a classic, traditional origami dates back to the 6th century and was the inspiration for this toy. each boat is carved from a single block of eco-friendly cork, while the removable inner boat is crafted from solid walnut.
four || mix it up by herve tullet - an interactive journey all within the printed page. follow the artist's simple instructions, and suddenly colors appear, mix, splatter, and vanish in a world powered only by the reader's imagination. an extraordinary book for kids of all ages.
five || gifts of experience - these are our favourite gifts to give and receive- think passes to the zoo, aquarium, science centre or other local attractions, a gift certificate for an arts and crafts class (if you are in vancouver, check out collage collage, arts umbrella or 4 cats), tickets to a play, concert or movie, or something fun like swimming, dance, rock climbing or gymnastics lessons. whatever your little one is into, there is most likely a class, lesson or drop-in they can take for it. (thank you to my lovely friend bree for the image of her son at the science centre in this photo)
for more holiday gift ideas, click HERE