Wondering what kids are into these days? Perhaps searching for holiday ideas for a nephew? Spoiler alert! In 2023, you can’t go wrong with Ninjago.
Here’s my son’s “Dear Santa” list, followed by what I think is a good idea as well. For further inspiration, I’ll also list items he already loves that he still hasn’t grown out of.
Ideas From the 3-Year-Old
Spider-Man: Spider-Cycle Chase (set 76004), as found in the Public Library’s recently checked out book, the Lego Marvel Visual Dictionary (already purchased by Lola).
Lord Garmadon, specifically, the one in his pajamas when he “butt dials” his son on his 16th birthday… LEGO Ninjago Movie Minifigures Series 71019 – Volcano Garmadon
LEGO Star Wars Darth Vader Mech (75368) Features an Opening Cockpit, Buildable Lightsaber and 1 Minifigure (bought by aunt and uncle)
- Anything related to Minecraft: clothes, legos, books… and I’m not sure why. But currently, he patiently waits to wear his one green Minecraft shirt each week.
Who knew the Lego obsession started so young?!
Ideas from Mama
Already have a kid and want to declutter? Many families like ours welcome pre-loved, tried and true, hand-me-down gifts!
- You also can’t go wrong with donations to a 529 college fund. Especially when kids are young and compound interest can take effect! It’s easy to set up and to have others contribute. For example, donations can be made to my son’s savings by sharing the Ugift code: S9U-L45!
- For those who like gifting experiences, amazing gifts are a zoo membership, swimming lessons, dancing or gymnastics classes.
- At 3-4 years old, my son is wearing 4T-5T clothes. We welcome anything 5T and larger!
- A balloon or a pack to blow up for playing “keepy uppy.” Because that’s really all a 3-4 year old needs to occupy the day. Yes, you read that right.
- A kid light switch extender for your independent souls.
- A reusable coloring mat for use with dry erase markers. Or a placemat, such as a map of the USA, one used to help count money, this one for fractions, and finally, sports.
- A spill proof to-go mug that looks grown up.
- A robe, like this one where he can be a ninja.
- If you’re looking for a toy gift to wrap, here are a few more ideas:
Picasso Magnetic Tiles to create custom structures where Lego figures can have adventures!
An art easel such as this one that can be used with dry erase markers, chalk, and rolls of paper can be loaded from above would help encourage writing skills!
Our trees have been transformed into a playscape with swings, and now at nearly age four, my son is ready to start climbing. In lieu of low branches, these Ninja Tree Climbing Holds would surely come in handy by spring!
Since the introduction of Star Wars in my kiddo’s life, this book about how guns are tools and not toys is the perfect gift to facilitate gun safety and awareness. It’s on my list to buy A.S.A.P.
Homemade popsicles have been a hit at our house, and these molds that are in the shape of an ice cream cone will surely make a healthy treat feel more like an exotic snack!
What my son picked out for a 4-year-old friend’s birthday and wished he could of had:
LEGO Marvel Playset Based on the Avengers Age of Ultron Movie with a Captain America Bike & 2 Minifigures
Things my son already has and loves:
- Sit-and-Spin is perfect for my son who can’t sit still
- Ninjago and Spiderman underwear are a daily accessory
- Small indoor trampoline doubles as a stage for performances
- Any music and dancing related to Michael Jackson and Thriller
- The Star Wars Advent Calendar has been a huge hit in December as a family activity to look forward to each night
- Monster trucks (specifically this garbage truck monster truck) with a monster truck ramp
- Costumes such as a fireman outfit
- Stomp rockets have been a fun past-time, just don’t do it near a gutter…
- Remote controlled ambulance. Next, my son would love a remote controlled firetruck, or a monster truck that can actually go over grass.
- Board games such as Sorry. Candyland is also next on the list.
- He also loves putting together the oversized floor puzzles at the local library, such as one like this construction scene
- For a gift to a small one who’s recently lost a pet, a book on the cycle of life has been very handy in our household. It’s an interactive flap book titled, Why do Things Die?
Last, but definitely not least, my son and I both love this water bottle with snack storage below. We’ve had to repurchase more than once when parts have become worn or lost, and would welcome another backup any time!
Hopefully after perusing this list, you’re armed with the perfect fit. Happy gift giving!
You may also be interested in:
- Should you give kids an allowance? A review of options…
- Highfield Discovery Children’s Garden: An Enormous Playscape Playground at Glenwood Gardens in Cincinnati
- Five Best Cincinnati Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals
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