Cyber Monday Gift Guide : Six and Up
Inflatable AirFort: My sister bought this for Alex last year, and although I initially thought she got influenced into buying something that would end up in the storage room, it was a total hit! It’s been great for imaginary play, and also for cuddling up and reading books. If you’re giving this don’t forget to purchase a box fan like my sis did (if needed) to avoid disappointment!
Piggy Bank with Pass Code: On Alex’s wish list! One of his older buddies has this and A has always been fascinated by it. If you had a diary with a lock and key as a child, this is the modern-day equivalent!
Super Gross Chemistry Set: On my radar for next year. A great gift for any kid fascinated by science and all things yucky! National Geographic STEM kits never disappoint.
Hand-Operated Drone: The manufacturer recommends it for kids eight and up, but Jeff’s aunt and uncle got one for Alex when he was four, and with adult supervision, it was a hit! We actually just bought a new one as our original finally bit the dust. If you can get over the annoying “whirring” of the propeller, this makes for hours of cardio-inducing, belly-laughing fun!
Light Up Stomp Rocket: Another all-time favorite! We had the regular stomp rockets in the past, but these light-up ones gifted to Alex last year add a whole other element of fun! A “blast” for the whole family that encourages physical exercise, fine motor skill development, and STEM knowledge.
Hover Soccer Ball: We played with one of these at a friend's house, and just bought our own in time for the snowy weekend! This is a great indoor activity to get the wiggles out and can be used in a bunch of creative ways. After our soccer competition, we lined up plastic cups and did some “bowling” with it! Just remember it needs a smooth, flat surface (it did much better on our wood floors than on our uneven tile floors).
Fuse Bead Set: Another item on the list for next year. I have heard from fellow parents that these are so much fun and can keep their kids’ attention for hours…sign me up! Don’t forget that you’ll need an iron to set your design.
Monopoly Junior: A house favorite! Alex likes the regular version too, but we prefer this one as there is actually an end in sight - ha! But seriously, there’s something so nostalgic about sitting by the fire, sipping hot chocolate, and playing a board game as a family. Good old-fashioned fun!
Beats Pro Headphones: Definitely a splurge, but a great option for a “big” gift for slightly older, music-loving kids. Alex has a pair of my old wired Beats and they are great for airplanes combined with his Fire Tablet (also on sale!). Someday we’ll upgrade to wireless, but these things last forever, so I’m not in a rush!
Karaoke Machine: Another item on my list for next year! We visited friends recently who had one of these, and Alex was captivated but is still at the age where making loud noises is more fun than singing. I see years of use from this during play dates, holidays, birthdays, and weekday dance parties!