Christmas Gift Ideas that Nurture Academic Growth
Christmas is a time to spend with family and friends to create wonderful memories and to exchange thoughtful gifts. Finding the right gift for children can be a challenge every festive season. On one hand we want to check items off their Christmas list but on the other hand, we want to give them something educational. For those wandering the crowded malls, looking for a toy that is fun and also nurtures their academic growth, here is a list of educational gifts that children will just love!
Gifts for Babies and Toddlers
For babies and toddlers, it is important to have colorful lights and sounds to stimulate brain development. Good toys for this age group need to match their stages of development and emerging abilities. Each child develops at an individual pace, so make sure to observe how your child responds to the toys they have now and advance them accordingly.
Fisher-Price 2-Sided Steady Speed Panda Walker, interactive baby walking toy with activities and learning songs
Price: $33.59
Munchkin MozartMagic Cube Music Toy for Baby and Toddler – Includes 5 Instrument Sounds, 8 Mozart Songs and Lights
Price: $28.99
CreateOn Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: Daniel’s Many Feeling’s Magna-Tiles Structure Set, Magnetic Kids Building Toys, Educational Stem Toys for Ages 3+, 18 Pieces
Price: $44.95
Gifts for Preschoolers
Preschoolers love interactive and social toys to develop their cognitive abilities.They are more social than babies and toddlers, and typically like to talk and ask a lot of questions. So toys that allow them to experiment, build, and practice socializing are a perfect choice.
Constructive Playthings CP-U303 Wood Unit Block Sets- Beginner Set 32 Blocks
Price: $72.66
Folkmanis Monarch Life Cycle Reversible Hand Puppet Plush, 8″, Red-Orange/Purple/Black
Price: $54.99
Kids Wooden Art Easel Double-Sided Whiteboard and Chalkboard Adjustable Standing Easel with Paper Roll Holder,Letters and Numbers Magnets and Other Accessories Gift for Kids Toddlers Boys and Girls
Price: $61.88
Gifts for Elementary and Middle Schoolers
Elementary and middle school aged children need stimulating experiences and experimental toys/games to further their academic growth and provide a path to make connections between school and their day to day lives. Finding that perfect educational gift that supplements your child’s learning can be hard, but this is the perfect age to start incorporating more games, interactive books, experiments or STEM kits to help them learn from hands-on experiences.
KiwiCo Monthly STEM Subscription Box. For ages 3-16+
Price: Starting at $23.95 per month
Light-Up Terrarium Kit for Kids – STEM Activities Science Kits – Gifts for Kids – Educational Kids Christmas Toys for Boys & Girls
Price:$24.99
Gifts for High Schoolers
High schoolers need more advanced stimulation and thoughtful work spaces to increase their learning capacity. Pick a gift that will challenge them and encourage them to practice using strategy. They typically spend longer hours at the computer or doing homework, so picking a gift that encourages a fun study environment is always a good choice as well.
VIVO 32 inch Desk Converter, Height Adjustable Riser, Sit to Stand Dual Monitor and Laptop Workstation with Wide Keyboard Tray
Price: $129.99
Software Engineer Custom Notebook – Thoughtful Gift for Coder. Learning Journal, Coding Practice, Project Documentation. Made by Developer
Price: Starting at $28.50
Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners – Travel Telescope with Carry Bag, Phone Adapter and Wireless Remote
Price: $95.93
Looking for more educational options? Or quick gifts that will arrive before the holidays? Etsy, Amazon, Uncommongoods, KiwiCo and MindWare are some of our favorite places to shop without leaving the house.
While Christmas is the time for giving and receiving gifts, these presents can come in the form of experiences as well. Having our children home from school is a beautiful treat that gives us time to enjoy the outdoors, attend holiday plays, drive around to see Christmas lights, and go to concerts. Additionally, you can give your children the gift of a tutor who can give fun and engaging lessons tailored to your children’s interests, bringing Christmas all year round. Tutors can even incorporate the gifts from the list above when planning lessons. If you’re interested in this, then book a free consultation with us today!
