Christmas Shopping For Kids

As Thanksgiving approaches this week, Christmas shopping is in full force. My feed is full of ads and shopping hauls. What about you? All the choices can be overwhelming for sure. I like to keep Christmas shopping for my kids easy. The last few years I have started using this approach, and it has helped me get my shopping done faster and with less stress. I hope this post helps you do that too!

Something They Want

I have my kids make their Christmas wish list in early November. They make one for Santa and another for the parents and grandparents. Then I get one item off this list. Usually a larger toy or an item they have really been wanting. Next, I use this list to give the grandparents and other family members some gift ideas for the children.

Something They Need

This is the more practical gift. For example, if they need an extra coat or an extra pair of winter boots. Or maybe another leotard for dance or gymnastics class. For an older child, perhaps an alarm clock or electric toothbrush. Other practical ideas are slippers and cozy pajamas.

Something They Can Wear

This is pretty self explanatory, but I get them one or two new winter outfits and maybe shoes to go with it. This is a good time to clean out your children’s closet and drawers for clothes they have outgrown. That way you make room for the new items that are coming.

Something They Can Read

I love finding them a few books that they will enjoy. This is a great chance to buy them a new series that they can get into in the new year. I like to do a combination of picture books and chapter books. Don’t forget a cute book mark too!

Stocking Stuffers

I like to find a few stocking stuffers for each child. Usually some smaller toys or candy. Younger kids will enjoy Pokémon cards or some fuzzy socks. My daughter usually likes some lip balm or a new necklace in her stocking.

Santa Gifts

Now if your children still believe, you can’t forget gifts from Santa gifts! In our family, Santa usually leaves two to three gifts. Santa will leave a larger gift and a smaller one. Here’s where the Santa list comes in handy. I usually make sure I get at least one or two ideas off this list. Obviously, if your family doesn’t believe in Santa or you have older children, you could just add another gift to the want or need section if that suits your budget.

Cleaning Up and Donating

Lastly, this is a great time of year to get your kids involved in going through their toys, clothes and shoes and encouraging them to donate. For example, I give my kids each a trash bag and before Christmas they have to fill it with items they want to donate. This way we are encouraging them to think of others, make room for new toys or clothes and helps keep the house less cluttered in the process.

I hope this approach inspires you to get your shopping done early, helps you keep it simple and within your budget. Have a lovely Thanksgiving week!