Dr. Lauren Loquasto, chief academic officer of Goddard, has provided her recommendations for some innovative and developmentally appropriate options for children of all ages. “Gift giving is a wonderful time to nurture your child’s curiosity about the world around them and create playful opportunities to reinforce key skills,” Loquasto added. "Giving children gifts that encourage inquiry-based play and foster development through curiosity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills will help them not only have fun but also build a strong foundation for lifelong learning!"
From creative toys and games that inspire imagination to cozy finds for the grown-ups, these picks are sure to make everyone feel merry and bright. Happy gifting!
Gifts for Children
Orzbow Sensory Teething Rattle (0 – 12 months). This is a multisensory way to keep baby entertained with unique colors, textures and elements to grasp.
Lalo The Play Box (16 – 18 months old). This play box includes everything your little one needs to stay entertained for hours! There’s a sorting and counting toy, shape puzzle, racetrack, fruits and veggies and a guide of suggestions for creating meaningful play moments with your baby. Lalo offers play boxes for children ages 0 – 24 months that can be purchased individually or as part of a subscription.
Tiny Land Tunnel (0 – 24 months). Encourage baby and toddler to move while also engaging object permanence (objects continue to exist even when they can't be seen, heard or touched), as baby learns to crawl through and hide inside this tunnel. Toddlers will enjoy practicing balance and newfound mobility as they roll in the tunnel. For extra fun, add soft, textured balls inside.
PipSquigz (0 – 24 months). You can’t go wrong with this infant/toddler version of the preschool hit toy, Squigz. Easy to grip, a nice way to teach cause and effect and suction cup feature make it a very versatile toy.
Squigz (2 – 5 years). This is a fun spin on a construction block that will lead to various new creations. With unique shapes and a unique suction feature, children will delight in their masterpieces.
AtMini Sand Painting Light Box Light Table (2.5 – 6 years). This toy combines STEAM, writing and art! Your young scientist will love finger painting, sand drawing, shaving cream writing and exploring light through this child-sized light table. The possibilities are endless!
Adjustable-Height Folding Light-Up Steam Scooter (3+ years, up to 110 pounds). Scooters are an amazing way to foster balance and encourage active play. This one adds an extra element with lights and a steam feature.
Zingo (3+ years). A fun interactive game for children and adults, this is a visual game of Bingo designed for young learners. Each token pairs a picture with the word for subtle early literacy practice.
Symphony in B (3+ years). Awaken the maestro in your child as they explore the various sounds symphony instruments make with realistic replicas. As your child adds or removes instruments, await the delight as they hear the music change.
Slumberkins Visual Schedule + Routines with Sloth Set (3+ years). Help your little ones build confidence and independence in their daily routines with assistance from this adorable sloth! This kit includes a routines visual schedule with 18 Velcro tiles, Sloth’s Daily Plan and Sloth Starts to Slumber board books and the sloth kin (plush toy). Slumberkins has a range of products and adorable “kins” designed to help children develop social-emotional skills like self-esteem, confidence, creativity and more! Use code HOLIDAY24 for 20% your order.
Gifts for Grown-Ups
On-The-Go Gift Set by Parker Baby Co. This set is great for expecting families or those with little ones who are always on the go! It includes trendy, durable diaper backpack with insulated pockets; a water-resistant, machine-washable changing pad; and a waterproof wet dry bag to help keep soiled items separate.
Hatch Rest+ 2nd gen. Help families with little ones drift off to dreamland with the Hatch Rest+. There are soothing sleep sounds, a smart night light, time-for-bed and time-to-rise cues all controlled within an easy-to-use app.
BabyQuip. Do you know a family that travels a lot? Instead of lugging around big, bulky items, give them the gift of BabyQuip! They can rent any baby gear from car seats to strollers and cribs, and have those items delivered! Everything is clean, safe and insured. Use code GODDARD20 for $20 off any order of $100 or more.
Little Spoon. Make mealtime less stressful with meals and snacks from Little Spoon. They have delicious options for babies just starting solids all the way to big kid build-it-yourself lunches! Use code GODDARD for 50% off (up to $30) on your first order of Little Spoon.
OmieBox. Pack lunches with ease in the OmieBox! It features a bento-style compartment layout with a removable, vacuum-insulated thermos compartment that keep foods warm for hours. Whether your little one loves sandwiches or soup (okay, mac and cheese), they can have both with this lunch box!
Goddard Goods. Show off your Goddard pride in style with items from Goddard Goods! There’s something great for everyone on your list, but here are some of our faves:
- Women’s Signature Goddard Crewneck
- 40 oz Stainless Steel Tumbler
- Plush Blanket
- Classic Goddard Adult Cap
- Toddler Extraordinary T-Shirt
- Men’s Sweater Fleece Pullover
We hope this guide has helps you find some great gifts for your loved ones!
