Unique Gifts For Kids: Perfect Presents for Every Little Personality

Nov. 23

Every year, parents make a mad dash to the mall so they can get their hands on the hottest new toy. It’s a tale as old as time. I lived through Beanie Baby mania and the Furby fad. I read all about how folks were clamoring for Cabbage Patch Kids. I’ve also watched the Arnold Schwarzenegger classic, Jingle All The Way.

If you don't turn up empty-handed and emotionally drained, there's another dilemma at stake. What’s popular today could be ancient history by tomorrow. It's like staying in sync with the latest TikTok trend, only with way more plush toys involved. The last thing you want your kid to unwrap is a toy they’ll grow tired of before the holiday break is over (Or god forbid, a toy that makes excessive mess or noise).

This year, let’s ditch the impulse buys and go for gifts that say, "I see you, kiddo, and you're amazing just the way you are!"

I truly believe that finding a gift that celebrates their individuality goes much farther than the flavour of the month. Seeing their eyes light up, and a grin from ear-to-ear is much more rewarding than a good Black Friday score. For kids, personalized gifts aren't just stuff; they're confidence boosters, creativity sparks, and identity builders. It's like giving them a high-five for being their awesome selves.

Whether your little one is an aspiring scientist, an imaginative artist, or an adventurous explorer, I’ve curated a selection of gifts that transcend stereotypes and embrace each precious personality type. Best of all - They’re all from Canadian small businesses!

Disclaimer: My five-year old has also reviewed and approved of everything on this list. To quote him directly: “These are COOL.”
Needless to say, this helped me figure out my own holiday shopping for him.

Kraul light and heavy kit

If you have an inquisitive kiddo who always has a follow-up “Why?” for every wonderous thought, this observational experiment kit will surely be a hit!

Plus-Plus STEM Toy

An innovative building toy for the imaginative little one in your life. These simple plus-sign shaped pieces can be configured into a variety of fun designs.

Zuri & Dre Dolls

For the little one with a big heart! These beautiful and diverse plushies are so snuggle-worthy, and remind us the importance of representation and inclusion.

Fake Cake Craft Kit

Dried macaroni and glitter? We don’t know her. This DIY kit is sure to impress crafty kiddos of all ages!

The Fuzzies

If you’re also raising a future board game geek like I am, this adorable strategy game is likely already at the top of their wish list. The whole family will be in a fit of giggles as you try not to topple over this fuzzy tower together!

Color, Assemble, Play Doll House

Now this is a Dreamhouse! Your artist-in-residence will love making this DIY doll house into a magical space of their own.

Magic Portal Potion Kit

My kiddo had his first LARPing experience recently, and has been obsessed with potion making ever since. This whimsical DIY kit will be a hit with little wizards, faeries, warlocks, and elves (or whatever they’re pretending to be that day)!

CandyLab

If your little one is a fan of anything on four-wheels, these cute wooden cars need to be added to your toy garage ASAP. There are tons of models available and they’re all incredibly well-made.

No Nasties Pretty Play Makeup Set

In my house, we believe makeup and sparkles are for everyone - but mama’s beauty drawer now requires constant supervision! This kid-friendly makeup set by No Nasties is a great way to encourage their artistry…while keeping little hands off your beloved Urban Decay eyeshadow palette.

Science of Cooking: Ice Cream Kit

If your mini chef loves to help you in the kitchen, this DIY kit/chemistry lesson will be an instant fave!

Moulin Roty Monocular

This portable, pocket-friendly monoculour is a must-have for nature walks, bird watching, and any new adventure that awaits them!

Grilled Cheese Magazine Subscription

Bookworms will love getting their own reading material in the mail every 3 months! This bilingual Canadian kids magazine is always full of stories, cut-outs, games, and more!

Wobbel Board

A balance board is the perfect toy for keeping energetic youngsters busy and happy! The Wobbel is incredibly versatile, so you’ll see their imagination run wild as they find fun new ways to play with it!

Glo Pals Light-Up Cubes

Whether your kid loves to soak in the tub, or you need a new bribe for hair wash night, these fun little cubes will be a huge hit! Pair them with a Glo Pal for even more fun!

Poop Bingo

Listen, I get it. Toilet humour is always a knee-slapper with the younger crowd. This silly take on the classic game of bingo is sure to bring on the giggles (while teaching them about wildlife!)

Glow In The Dark Volcano Experiment Kit

The classic science experiment we all know and love just got a super cool upgrade. They’ll love the colourful lava, and you’ll love the educational aspect!

Glow Star Sweatshirt

Your little trendsetter will be the talk of the classroom when they show off this rad glow-in-the-dark sweater. With a print of stars inspired by the ones we all used to stick on our ceilings, you might just want one too (yes, it comes in adult sizes).

299 Cats (and a dog) 300-Piece Puzzle

A new puzzle shape, with a ‘Where’s Waldo’ twist! Kids of all ages will love putting this together, and trying to spot the puppy along the way. More of a dog person? They have one for you, too!

Wooden Moon Phase Calendar

A lunar calendar for your little one! This beautiful wooden toy will teach your celestial sweetheart about each moon phase, and inspire a nightly ritual you can share together.

All-in-One Storybook Torch

Part night light, part projector - this storybook torch is the perfect solution for the bedtime dilemma we all know too well: “Just one more story!”

Don’t see your kiddo represented in this list? This is just a small sampling of what these amazing Canadian businesses have to offer! Be sure to check them out:

Huckle and Berry Kids

Les Petits Sorciers

Peach Boy

Comme des Pirates