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It’s day 3 of Giftmas, and today it’s all about our little loves…
I feel like there are different stages of shopping for children at Christmas, and I have fully arrived at the time where the Argos catalogue is prime reading material, and the adverts between Milkshake in the morning are merely a race between quickly changing the channel or there rapidly being an ‘I’D LIKE THAT!’ afterwards. Gone are the naïve ambitions of a purely wooden collection of elf-crafted imagination play toys and Montessori stackers- but actually, when it comes to putting my present buying hat on, I think I’m more excited than ever. Because even if you’re vehemently against primary-coloured plastic, there are so many wonderful things for those with fizzy and excitable imaginations that sometimes maybe that catalogue holds a little more inspiration than we might realise. Plus, one thing a good friend mentioned to me recently was the present buying strategy of ‘something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to read’- which I think is quite a lovely ethos when trying to keep present buying for little ones (relatively) streamlined. Anyway- I’ve picked out a few things I know would make gorgeous gifts, whether that’s for your own little one or not, and some extras below in-case you’re still a little tight for ideas.
First up, the present they won’t be *that* excited to open, but you will- and that is of course, some excellent knitwear. Even better if it’s handknitted/and or/vintage. I found this Paddington gem after a very kind reader sent it to me on Vinted, and that really is an absolute gold mine of excellent hand knits. Don’t Bother Grandma also do amazing knitwear (which can be personalised too) and my favourites Be Diddy, Les Petits Champignons and new to the block, Gogo’s Vintage– also have brilliant curated vintage picks. And whilst we’re on clothes- can we talk about this lion backpack?! Donsje Amsterdam do the most gorgeous accessories and bags for children, and although they’re definitely a ‘bigger’ item, I love their woodland inspired backpacks for little ones. Next up is the Yoto player; an item both me and little A have become very excited by and such a lovely way of listening to some of his favourite stories, music and songs (as well as activities and radio for children too). It’s incredibly soothing after an afternoon of play, and the pleasure of selecting what he’d like to listen to makes it really interactive (without any screens either)! Plus, the story cards make lovely gifts and it’s perfect for travelling around and for car journeys. Another excellent ‘big’ present idea would be a Lovevery play kit– a box filled with educational (and fun) toys to match the development stage of your child and help stimulate imagination and learning at the same time. I’ve been fortunate enough to try these since Arlo was little, and they’re still some of his most played with toys (the 25-27 month kit remains one of the biggest hits in this house- the sink is GOLDEN). Finally, I included a very sweet gift we received from My 1st Years when little A was a baby, as although not necessarily the most original, still comes up top as one of my first places to go for ideas for tiny people. Whether that’s newborns to toddlers, they always have the most thoughtful gifts and I love that you can personalise them too.
And some more ideas for your tiny tots (and the grown ups too)…
- For mamas and papas: Two things that have wriggled their way to the top of my parent-giving list are my pal Alice Tate’s ‘British Family Escapes’ book (which is perfect for any families planning a getaway from the expert herself) and these two guides, ‘Playgrounds in London’ and ‘Eating Out in London with kids’ by Emmy Watts– two wonderful women who truly know their stuff.
- A treasure: Now, if you’re a parent and looking to treat your partner (or other new parents), the Le Mela fingerprint ring kits feel like a completely special keepsake present. Offering you the chance to create your own bespoke fingerprint ring or signet, I feel like this would be so special to create something completely unique (I know new parents haven’t necessarily got time to be making their own jewellery, but perhaps as a little activity it could be lovely). I love the idea of having my little’s fingerprint on a ring, and this feels like a beautiful way of creating that.
- Art with heart: I’ve included Polly on these guides before, but her initial and name illustrations would make for the most beautiful gifts for a nursery or bedroom. Paired with her beautiful wallpapered frames, they’re truly a bit of magic.
- For little libraries: A series my dad introduced me to several years ago was the inspiring stories of Jackson Superhero, a collection of books about a little boy (Jackson) who turns into a superhero by night. They’re the most heartwarming stories of hope and dreaming big and we love reading them at bedtime. Additionally, the wonderful Emily Coxhead has collaborated with Paper and Wool on fabric (and personalized) editions of her Happy News. Although I think they may have *just* sold out, it’s worth checking back (and Emily’s book Find Your Happy is also a great bedtime read too, as well as Paper and Wool’s beautiful products).
I’ve also added a previous link to my 2021 guide as well as my favourite kids brands too (as well as some extra picks below)!
Come back tomorrow for day 4 of Giftmas, and my favourite little luxuries under £20!
x
The post Giftmas Gift Guides 2023: Day 3, For The Little Ones appeared first on What Olivia Did.