Top Ten Gifts that are NOT an Ipad, Surface or Computer

THUNDER BAY – LIVING – The holiday season is upon us, and finding the perfect gift for children can be both exciting and daunting.

While it would be easy to get your child an ipad, a surface, or a computer, often today children are spending a large amount of time online, and having other activities is likely important.

To make your shopping easier, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten Christmas gifts for kids under 12, catering to a variety of interests and budgets.

1. LEGO Sets – Creativity in Every Brick

Why It’s a Hit: LEGO offers endless possibilities for building and imaginative play. Popular themes like Star Wars, Harry Potter, and City Adventures ensure there’s something for every child.
Age Range: 4–12
Pro Tip: Opt for sets with guided instructions for younger kids and more complex builds for older children.

2. Smartwatches for Kids

Why It’s a Hit: Devices like the VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch allow kids to play games, take photos, and learn about time management in a kid-friendly format.
Age Range: 6–12
Pro Tip: Choose models with built-in parental controls for peace of mind.

3. Art & Craft Kits – Nurture Creativity

Why It’s a Hit: From jewelry-making sets to paint-by-number kits, these gifts foster creativity and keep kids engaged for hours.
Age Range: 5–12
Pro Tip: Look for kits with eco-friendly materials for environmentally-conscious parents.

4. STEM Toys – Learning Meets Fun

Why It’s a Hit: Kits like Snap Circuits or Osmo interactive games encourage problem-solving, coding, and engineering skills in a playful way.
Age Range: 7–12
Pro Tip: Choose beginner-friendly kits for first-time users to prevent frustration.

5. Books That Inspire and Entertain

Why It’s a Hit: Series like “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” or graphic novels like “Dog Man” continue to captivate young readers. Personalized books are also growing in popularity.
Age Range: 6–12
Pro Tip: Find books that align with the child’s specific interests to ignite a love for reading.

6. Outdoor Adventure Toys

Why It’s a Hit: Items like scooters, beginner drones, or sports equipment help kids stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
Age Range: 4–12
Pro Tip: Helmets and safety gear make great add-ons.

7. Plush Toys – A Timeless Comfort

Why It’s a Hit: From classic teddy bears to Squishmallows, these soft companions are a hit with younger children.
Age Range: 3–10
Pro Tip: Look for characters from popular shows to create instant excitement.

8. Interactive Learning Robots

Why It’s a Hit: Toys like Cozmo or Miko 3 combine fun with educational content, teaching kids coding, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence.
Age Range: 6–12
Pro Tip: Ensure compatibility with your device for a smooth experience.

9. Board Games for Family Fun

Why It’s a Hit: Games like “Catan Junior” or “Guess Who?” are perfect for family bonding and screen-free entertainment.
Age Range: 6–12
Pro Tip: Choose age-appropriate games with easy-to-understand rules.

10. DIY Science Kits

Why It’s a Hit: Hands-on kits like volcano-building sets or slime-making kits turn learning into a fun experiment.
Age Range: 6–12
Pro Tip: Look for kits with detailed instructions and minimal mess.