Christmas Gift Ideas for Kids (By Age & Interests)

Watching your loved ones’ faces light up when they open their presents on Christmas day is part of the magic of the festive season. However, choosing Christmas gifts for kids can sometimes be challenging. You have to balance your budget, their interests, and whether the gift is age appropriate. Not to mention what you buy for the child who already has everything.

In this post, I’ve compiled some great gift ideas for kids based on their ages and interests to give you some festive inspiration.

Preschoolers (Ages 3-5)

• Building blocks: Sets of colorful building blocks, like bristle blocks or magnetic blocks, are great for developing preschooler’s imagination and fine motor skills.
• Art supplies: Little ones love messy play and being able to express themselves creatively. If they already have plenty of coloring kits, washable markers or outside chalk make great gifts, too.
• Educational toys: The options are plentiful when it comes to educational toys. You could gift more traditional options like alphabet or number puzzles. Alternatively, interactive devices and learning toys can help aid a preschooler’s educational development. Just be mindful of how digital devices contribute to screen time (and what the recommended screen time limits are based on a child’s age).

Early Elementary (Ages 6-8)

• Board games: Age-appropriate board games can be great for developing problem-solving and team-building skills and being good old-fashioned family fun.
• Building toys: There are many options for more complex building block toys for children aged 6-8. Depending on the brand or variety, you can also find themed sets to really capture their imagination.
• Sports equipment: Whether they’re already into a specific sport or you want to help them find something they’ll enjoy, sports equipment like soccer balls, basketballs, dance gear, or jump ropes can make great gifts for kids.
• Musical instruments: If your child is interested in music, there are many options available for beginner’s guitar, keyboards, or other musical instruments.

Late Elementary (Ages 9-12)

• Art and craft kits: For kids aged 9 and over, working on an arts and crafts project is a great way to build skills and further explore their creativity. DIY jewelry-making, painting, or model-building kits are all fantastic options.
• Science kits: If you’re looking for a gift for a child who’s interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), a chemistry set or space-themed kit is a great shout.
• Puzzles and strategy games: As children approach the tween and preteen years, they become more critical thinkers. Gifts of strategy games or challenging puzzles are great for nurturing that curious spirit.
• Music lessons: Whether your child wants to improve their existing musical skills or learn something new, music lessons make a thoughtful and personal gift.

Teens (Ages 13 and up)

• Tech gadgets: The teen in your life is likely into their tech. Gadgets like headphones, portable speakers, or smart watches are probably at the top of their Christmas lists.
• Video games: If your kid is into gaming, there’s a whole host of popular video games and accessories that can be purchased as gifts.
• Clothing: Teenagers are always into a new brand or clothing trend. You can give them specific items or turn the gift into an experience by giving them vouchers or coupons for a mini shopping spree.
• Movie night package: Create a unique experience for your teen by gifting them something they’ll love, like a movie night or pamper session. Put together a package or bundle of all the bits they’ll need to enjoy the experience. A movie night could include their choice of (age-appropriate) movie, popcorn, cozy blankets, and any other treats you think they’ll love.