Thinking Outside of the Toy Box!

11 Creative, Non-Toy Christmas Gifts for Kids, and 21 Non-Toy Stocking Stuffers

Each and every holiday season the hottest new toys hit the shelves, and there is a mad dash to check off children's Christmas lists.  How many new toys do children really need.  Chances are you go to the dollar store, and your child asks for a toy, and you say "Sure it's only a dollar".  These purchases can add up to overflowing toy boxes with toys that are rarely played with.  If you are one of those parents that are tired of spending hard earned money on toys that are used seldom, and forgotten easily, keep in mind that toys are only the tip of the iceburg when it comes to gift giving during the holidays.  This year try thinking outside of the toy box.  There are so many creative, non-toy gifts that will be sure to shock, and amaze children of all ages this holiday season.  Here are my top eleven:
1. A membership
2. An Experience
3. A Subscription
4. Tickets
5. Lessons
6. A Coupon Book
7. A Homemade Gift Basket
8. A Shopping Spree
9. A Bedroom Makeover
10. A Pet
11. A Gift That Gives Back

Here are some great ideas for non-toy stocking stuffers.  All products may not be age appropriate so please use parental discretion when purchasing!

Card games like UNO or Go Fish
Gift cards, or certificates
Art supplies
Craft Kits
Candy, and gum
Homemade treats
Packets of flavored hot chocolate
A plastic snow globe
Puzzle books (The Dollar Tree has a great assortment of these types of books)
Makeup
Small articles of clothing giftwrapped (Underwear, T-Shirts, socks)
Jewelry (giftwrapped)
Bubble bath
Travel size products (shampoo, etc: Target, The Dollar store, and most grocery stores have these sections, and are very affordable)
Stickers
A new toothbrush
Band Aids featuring a favorite character (for younger children)
Nail polish
CD of childrens songs, or a mixtape CD for older children
Magazine

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