The Top Gifts on Every Kid and Teen’s Christmas Wish List

Toddlers love to mimic what the adults around them are doing. A lawn mower that makes bubbles, a pretend grill or their own tool bench will make them feel like a big kid without the potential to get hurt. Set up a designated area a safe distance away where they can grill at the same time as you or work on fixing their toys while you're outside tackling DIY projects. If your toddler has endless energy, give them a gift that will get all the wiggles out like an inflatable bounce house or a small sandbox with a shade cover to protect them from the sun.

Young kids love to build things. Take advantage of their love to create with a DIY building kit and tools that are just the right size for their little hands. For the older kids, include a set of paints and a paint brush with the building kit so they can fully customize their creations. Any activity that gets their hands moving strengthens the muscles in their fingers, especially for preschoolers and kindergarteners who are learning to write.

If you want a long-lasting gift, an outdoor playset is something they’ll be able to enjoy for multiple years. Choose one with things they can play on now, like swings and a slide, but that also has obstacles they can grow into like a climbing wall or monkey bars to get the most bang for your buck.

Say hello to the electronics age. Kids at this stage love all things video games and electronics, so give them the gifts they really want this holiday season. Splurge on a classic stand-up arcade game like Frogger or Pac Man. Challenge them to a battle to see who can get the highest score. You’ll be able to get in on the fun and connect with them on another level. They’ll love seeing you interested in the same thing as them.

If you’re trying to get your tween to play outside more, get them a gift that encourages them to get some fresh air. A gel blaster that shoots soft biodegradable pellets and a refill pack is a great way to get them outside. Just make sure you buy enough blaster for siblings (and parents) to get in on the fun. A trampoline or a new bike are also terrific options that will keep them occupied for hours.

Teens are all about honing their personal style and hanging out with their friends. Choose gifts that double as room décor, like a trendy salt lamp or a color changing diffuser and speaker for their room. They’ll be able to listen to their favorite album or audio book without interruptions.

Encourage their love of friend time and give them something to do when they hang out (that’s phone free) like a projector and an inflatable projector screen for movie nights. Up the ante with a popcorn machine for the perfect snack to go along with their movie. Maybe they’ll even invite you to join them.