As parents, all too often, one day blurs right into the next. There are the endless to-dos, the steadfast routines, the mindless scrolling—and somehow, without noticing, joy just falls by the wayside. But we refuse to let that happen.
Instead, we’re doubling down on the bright spots in your day: the silly smiles, ridiculous poses, and awestruck expressions of your favorite littles, which make it all worthwhile. Whether you’re revisiting those super-early days in calendar view, adding fun filters and stickers to your favorite memories, or kicking back and letting auto recaps and smart curation do the organizing for you, our private photo-sharing app allows you to re-live the magic. Helping parents capture and safely share those “blink-and-you’ll-miss-them” moments with friends and family near and far is the best job in the world, and it just so happens to be ours.
That’s why we’ve changed the vibe around here to better match the joy we deliver. Whether you’re uploading memories on the Tinybeans app or checking out the latest advice in our newsletters, you’ll experience a beautiful new Tinybeans (with more exciting changes to come!). While our look is a little more playful, we’re more dedicated than ever to the things we believe in:
More love, not likes
In our digital world, authentic connections matter more than ever. Our families should not be social currency; their experiences are not performances. Our kids are the reason we get out of bed (so, so early) in the morning, and the special memories we create together should be shared with the people who really know and love them.
Families being unapologetically themselves
The truth is, every family is just a little bit weird. Lean into it, we say! It’s the quirky traditions, random nicknames, and inside jokes that make your crew who they are. Life is way less fun when you’re trying to fit the mold.
Privacy as a top priority
It’s almost instinctual to post, post, post for all the world to see. We’re rewarded with attention and dopamine bursts for our efforts. But who ends up accessing and owning our images and videos? That murkiness keeps us up at night, and it’s why we believe every parent should be able to protect their family’s privacy from the start.
Giving you time back and extra reasons to smile
The less time you spend hunting down dinner recipes, parenting hacks, and holiday gifts, the more you can actually be present in the moment. That’s why we’re going to do the legwork for you, delivering expert advice on how to fast-forward through tantrums, easy meal ideas for when you’re feeling burned out, and activities and vacation destinations that won’t earn you an eye roll. We’re even gonna throw in some awesome alone-time recommendations (because parents are people, too!).
The bottom line? If there’s a way for us to make your day better and brighter, we’re going to make it happen.
From the must-have Paw Patrol air carrier to cool book bundles, your busy kids will love these holiday gift ideas.
Parents of preschoolers know this stage is all about curiosity, exploration, and boundless energy. If you’re on the hunt for the just-right gifts that balance and encourage this playful combo—start with this list. From books that spark imagination to a scavenger hunt game that gets them outside, these innovative holiday gifts for 4-5-year-olds hit the mark. Need something for a different age? Check out our guides to the best gifts for 6-9 year-olds, tweens, and even stocking stuffers!
With a flash of light, these whimsical fairies come to life! Kids can control their movements with their hands and they can be released again and again.
Arrange and connect in just about any way, over anything! Can kids make the foam balls move from tube to tube? Can they use enough force to make them spin?
The ultimate holiday toy for a preschooler who loves to whip up a good meal. Whether they feel like making steak, pizza, corn, or veggie burgers, this pretend-play outdoor kitchen has what they need.
Tots with a need for speed will adore this speedy 4-in-1 Zig-Zag Raceway™ and electronic SmartPoint stunt car. They can rev up imaginative play and lessons around first words, fun tunes, phrases about feelings, and cool sound effects by cruising over three SmartPoint areas.
A must-have toy for preschoolers in 2023, they’ll love the dual vehicle launchers and Chase figure that comes with this aircraft carrier from Paw Patrol: The Might Movie.
Make screen time smarter with a kid-safe, ad-free app for ages 2-7. The Noggin Learning app is so easy, and it's the gift that keeps on giving. Build math, reading, wellness, social & emotional skills with 1000+ educational games, videos, and books starring your little one's favorite characters.
This dress is one that they'll want to wear over and over again. And, with JACADI's heirloom-quality pieces, they'll be able to. We also love the ultra-festive bold hues that are perfect for any holiday party.
An outdoor swing, but with a little sailing style thrown in for good measure. Perfect for two kiddos, it comes with adjustable, durable nylon ropes and O-rings for easy installation.
Your preschool kid might be a little too young for video games, but they’re never too young to love Super Mario Bros. With this board game, they get to enjoy the characters while having screen-free fun.
No preschool gift guide would be complete without Hot Wheels! This multi-level playset has dual racing tracks, a loop stunt, and pretend play opportunities on the first level of the ‘garage.’
The fire truck, police car, and rescue helicopter combine to create a 20"-long T.Rex ready to save the day! The police car makes sounds and has a driver, too.
They can keep a little magic close to their hearts while at school with this sweet gift perfect for preschoolers. It comes with eight ingredients, a booklet with five potions, and four different necklace styles.
hand2mindNumberblocks Super Secret Step Squad Headquarters
Fans of these mathematical superheroes will love this playset from the popular series. There’s a lookout, a ride-on elevator, and it comes with a Numberblock Three figurine. Get the rest of the Numberblock crew here.
The must-have for Bluey fans, this four-level playset has 45 sounds and phrases from the popular kids’ TV series, nine different play areas, and a real-working lift.
These cuties operate on USB charge, come in several color combos, and allow kids to communicate up to three miles apart. There’s even an option to listen to FM radio.
The perfect way to introduce a preschooler to all the wonderful ways the body works, this fun gift for ages four and up had a 3-D model, activity books, a magic “X-ray” machine, and much more.
With 36 wooden pieces and 60 pattern cards, preschoolers will have plenty of ways to practice their patterns. The bright colors and fun animals add to the fun.
A hot toy for holiday 2023, these magic mixie dolls are offered as a deer, a unicorn, or a mermaid, and all come in a sweet jeweled bottle. Just say the magic words and watch the mysterious potion reveal the treasure inside.
You’ll love reading these food-based stories about self-acceptance to your preschool kid. Choose between The Smart Cookie, The Sour Grape, The Couch Potato, and more!
Covered in the sweetest print, this activity book is perfect for on-the-go creativity. It comes with a set of ButterStix®, is erasable and washable, and is easy for little hands to handle.
Sparky is a special figment agent, and he delivers the FBI (Fantastic Bureau of Imagination)’s mail. One day, disaster strikes when the Cave of Untold Stories is too full, and Sparky must recruit more special agents. With lovely illustrations and fun prompts, this book is charmingly interactive.
Gabby’s Cat Friend Ship is a hot gift for three-year-olds this holiday season
The holidays for three-year-olds are pure magic. For parents, the festive season can also be a whirlwind of commitments and to-dos. So, if you’re looking for help to narrow down your gift list or need some inspiration for presents that encourage the little ones in your life to explore, stretch their imagination, and discover their own way to have fun, keep reading. From indoor forts to Paw Patrol playsets, these gifts for three-year-olds will keep things merry and bright. Wondering what to get the other kiddos in your life? Check out our guides for two-year-olds, preschoolers, and grade school kids!
Barbie Dreamhouse Playset
There's no Mojo Dojo Casa here! The 2023 version of the iconic dollhouse is the perfect mix of iconic and modern.
Kids can watch classic Little Golden Books like The Pokey Little Puppy on this nostalgic projector that’s easy to use, plays music, and can also be used as a night light and white noise machine.
Future veterinarians can put their animal care-taking skills to the test with this barnyard play set from schleich®. Loaded with realistic farm accessories and animal figurines (like a cow, calf, piglet, cat, and dove), toddlers will love feeding the flock and fetching hay with a working winch.
Little ones can chop, dice, and saute with this pretend Dutch oven that makes real cooking noises, and with the help of a little water, steams up their “dinner.”
Speed-loving tots will get thrills behind the wheel of this interactive dashboard that lets them make phone calls, drive around different tracks, listen to traffic reports, and even head to the gas station to count how many gallons are needed to fill up.
Introducing young kids to the world of LEGO is always a good idea, and this new set is filled with pets, kids, grandparents, and lots of accessories for pretend play.
Make screen time smarter with a kid-safe, ad-free app for ages 2-7. The Noggin Learning app is so easy, and it's the gift that keeps on giving. Build math, reading, wellness, social & emotional skills with 1000+ educational games, videos, and books starring your little one's favorite characters.
The newest addition to the Gabby's Dollhouse world is this cute cruise ship that will attach to the original dollhouse. It comes with furniture and two friends!
With 30 mini snacks and activity cards, kids can learn about counting, matching, and other skills with this adorable set that also encourages creative play.
They’re at the age where setting up high tea for their beloved stuffies is always fun. This adorable set has a cake too, and comes daintly arranged on a cheerful tray.
Rubble & Crew Backyard Construction Bark Yard Play Set
Kids will build to their heart’s content with their own version of Rubble’s construction crane tower. It also includes a bulldozer and molding sand to make bricks.
Not only is this game a work of art, but it’s a fun game for young kids. Match up the different trucks including an ice cream truck, a robot supplies truck, and even a school bus.
Portable and lightweight, this doodling board comes with its own stylus, kids can create and erase with the push of a button, and it comes in a wide variety of colors.
Just wait until you see these incredible holiday treats
Nothing says “Happy Holidays” quite like a box full of delicious sweet treats—and they taste even better when they’re delivered straight to your front door. It’s definitely the season where we would all use a little less stress, right? And, with straight-to-your-door delivery being the norm now, having the option to ship our favorite goodies is definitely a win. Afterall, you have enough on your plate (pardon the pun) between parties, gift shopping, and hosting.
We’ve rounded up our favorite companies that make it easy for you to send a loved one the sweetest gifts. There’s just something about food gifts that can feel a little more personal, and they’re perfect options for when you’re shopping for the person who seems to have everything. From flavor-packed mini cupcakes to hot chocolate bombs, and even some gluten-free and vegan options, here are our favorite services that deliver holiday treats guaranteed to put a smile on anyone’s face.
For a Gift They Can Customize: Sugarwish
Sugarwish
Instead of choosing people's treats, why not let them pick for themselves? Sugarwish is an online shop that allows gift-givers to send loved ones a "sugar wish." After choosing from varying-priced packages such as the Mini, the Medium, and the Grand, simply enter the recipient's email address, and he or she will get a sweet surprise in their inbox. After receiving the Sugarwish—which is essentially an e-gift card—recipients get to fill their virtual bag with whatever candy will satisfy their sweet tooth. They also offer customized cocktail boxes! Choose from drinks like rum old-fashioned, smoky margarita, Moscow mule, and more.
With so many festive flavors to treat all season long, these delectable mini cupcakes are the perfect way to share sweets without going overboard. Whether you want 100 for a class party or just a box of six to gift a friend, Baked By Melissa offers several sizes of their assorted holiday cupcakes for Christmas and Hanukkah. Flavors include White Chocolate Hot Cocoa, Vanilla Fluff, Christmas Sugar Cookie, Snowcap, and many more.
The Jinglebread Lil' Dipper Box comes with twelve classic gingerbread cookies and your choice of buttercream or cream cheese frosting. Or, opt for one of the Cookie Gift Boxes of 12 or 24 cookies in a festive box.
Who doesn't want to receive a red velvet cake in the mail? Daisy Cakes will send through Gold Belly to a lucky recipient one of their homemade four-layer cakes like their seasonal special is this Spiced Gingerbread and Eggnog cake, plus their classic, year-round flavors. They even have gluten-free and vegan options. Cakes arrive frozen, so you can store them until you need them before thawing and enjoying them.
For a Taste of Union Square, Anywhere: Breads Bakery Chocolate Babka
Goldbelly
Our Editorial Director raves about Breads Bakery Chocolate Babka, and she's never led us astray. Another delivery courtesy of Goldbelly, the braided loaf-shaped cake known as babka is at its best in New York City—and now your home!—thanks to Union Square’s legendary Breads Bakery. Dark chocolate chips. Nutella. French cultured butter. And in a 3-pack, shipped a few hours after being pulled from Breads Bakery's oven. How could you possibly go wrong?
Being gluten-free doesn't mean you have to forgo the holiday treats. Tate's Bakeshop has a wide variety of gluten-free cookies, dessert bars, and gift baskets, like the Gluten-Free Merry Christmas Gift Basket. They also offer several non-vegan holiday gift options.
Edible cookie dough? Yes, please! This unique dessert company has several flavors of cookie dough (like sugar cookie, nuts for nuts, and cake batter) that come in pints, and you can build your own four or six-pack. Or, spring for a party pack or any of their cookie + dough combo boxes. They have build-your-own cookie cake mixes and already-made cookie boxes too.
What started in the East Village in 2008—Christina Tosi’s Milk Bar—has now blossomed into a bakery with a cult following. And good news for those who don’t live near a storefront: they ship nationwide. Check out their holiday gift shop, which features over-the-top delectable goodness like Peppermint Bark Cake and Chocolate Mint Chip Cake Truffles. Or, opt for their popular goodies like Milk Bar Pie or Classic Birthday Cake.
Bake Me a Wish has a ton of variety when it comes to having holiday treats delivered. You can order chocolate cakes, key lime pies, New York cheesecakes, cookies, brownies, and even fruit and nut trays. They also have treat towers and holiday-themed gifts like jumbo holiday cupcakes and candy cane cookies.
For Old-World Goodies Everyone Will Love: European Deli
European Deli
A surefire way to create a merry holiday season is enjoying hard-to-find food items that make your loved ones feel like they've been traveling in Europe. European Deli as the one-stop gourmet destination for delicious specialties from Germany and nearby countries. Fans of Lebkuchen-Schmidt (gingerbread cookies and pastries) are in for a serios treat. European Deli is the exclusive partner in the U.S. and imports the Lebkuchen fresh from Germany. You won’t find it in stores. These goodies are also packaged in the most gorgeous tins and boxes they'll love displaying.
For Utterly Thick, Soft Cookie Perfection: Taylor Chip
Taylor Chip
Soft cookie lovers, this one is all for you. Taylor Chip creates sinfully (but in a good way) thick, soft, chewy, dense cookies that are the size of your palm (we aren't kidding). These are the cookies we think of when we think of Christmas cookies, and with flavors like Mocha Peppermint, Gingersnap, and Toasted Coconut, it's basically a box Santa himself wouldn't be able to turn down. Trust us when we say whoever you gift these to will be talking about them way beyond the holidays.
To Wow with Color: Baked in Color's Holiday Colors Chocolate Chip Cookie Tins
Baked in Color
Freshly-baked and beautifully colored cookies like the ones from Baked in Color are sure to brighten anyone's cold winter day. If you'd rather do something with more of a holiday theme, check out the Christmas Cookie Tin or the Hanukkah Cookie Tin. Naturally, Baked in Color is available via Goldbelly.
Harry & David boasts delicious seasonal fruit, cookies, and pastries, and their well-known Harry & David pears. They have a really impressive selection for everyone. Check out their holiday gifts here.
The holidays are a time for everyone to indulge—not just people without dietary restrictions. Enter Karma Baker, the scrumptious treat delivery service that only bakes up vegan and gluten-free desserts. From gingerbread houses to cupcake jars and cookie dough cakesicles, Karma has anything and everything sweet for your gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan friends. And if you happen to live in or around Los Angeles, local pick-up is available. Treats (for everyone) on demand? Yes, please.
Stand out during the season of cookies, cakes, and cupcakes by sending a gingerbread house. But not just any old gingerbread house—a customized gingerbread house. Whether you want to keep it simple and personalize your gift with the recipient's name or go big with a full-on customized gingerbread house—The Gingerbread Factory has you covered.
For an Underrepresented Dessert: Fairytale Brownie
Fairytale Brownie
Let's face it: Brownies are woefully underrepresented in the dessert world. Change that with an ooey-gooey brownie delivery from Fairytale Brownies (Seriously, when was the last time you saw someone upset about opening a box full of brownies?). All of the brownies are made from scratch, and you can even customize wooden boxes or tins in which to deliver the goods. Recipients will be thrilled to tear into an array of irresistible brownies with flavors such as cream cheese, raspberry swirl, and pecan blondie.
For Not Your Mother's Rice Krispie Treats: Treat House
Treat House
Just when you thought Rice Krispies treats couldn't get any more delicious, Treat House ups the ante. The all-American snack comes in flavors like birthday cake, cookies and cream, and caramel and sea salt. A perfect sweet treat for anyone on the list, they even have a holiday shop. Also, if you have friends or family members with food allergies, Treat House has you covered with nut-, dairy-, and gluten-free options.
Dylan’s Candy Bar has several impressive gift basket towers, including one for chocolate lovers, a gummy sweet treat tower, a Best of Dylan’s Candy Bar Bucket, and even a Movie Night bucket! If you want something specific for the holidays, opt for the classic Christmas Tackle Box or the Snow Many Sweets Paint Can.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
With a little planning—and forgiveness—surviving the holidays without losing your temper is possible
It’s the holiday season—you’re supposed to be happy, jolly, merry… right? RIGHT? Maybe not entirely. If you’re like most parents, the holidays come with equal parts Christmas cheer and seasonal stress. On one hand, we want to spoil our kids and feel their joy as they tear off the wrappings of their brand-new bikes or coveted toys—on the other, on the other, we can’t help but see red (the bad kind) as a result of all the ways they act out leading up to the big day.
And it’s no wonder: Between the added expenses, event overload, family drama, and travel plans, there can be more than merriment lurking behind those “perfect” holiday moments. In fact, according to a C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital report, one in six parents reports being more stressed during the holidays (with moms reporting twice as much stress as dads). As for what causes most yuletide woes, parents ranked holiday shopping, keeping kids healthy, household finances, party planning, meal-making, and criticism from family members as the biggest offenders
The holidays usually mean increased spending, a change of schedule, interaction with extended family, and of course, less sunlight, says Los Angeles-based psychologist Tara Klein. “We need to be extra careful about self-care during this time to have the emotional resilience for all the ups and downs that go along with the holidays.”
What that means is with planning—and forgiveness (of you and your kids!)—surviving the holidays without completely losing it on your little sugarplums is possible. Here’s how to make it happen:
Find Ways to Alleviate Financial Stress
If you’re worried about how to afford all those gifts—you’re not alone. A poll conducted by debt resolution company Beyond Finance found that more than two-thirds of people said holiday spending ups their stress levels—82 percent worried they won’t be able to pay for all the gifts they want to buy. Here are some tips for surviving the holidays when it comes to finances:
Make a budget—and stick to it. Be realistic about what you can spend and map out your gift-giving list on paper. Then, be sure to stick to your plans! Need some help? Microsoft offers this free budget-making template
Get creative with gifts. You don’t have to buy all your gifts; there are plenty of crafts and “I Owe You” items that your family and friends would be just as happy to receive. Offer your scrubbing skills to a relative in need of a car wash. Spend the evening babysitting for a friend overwhelmed with her littles (Best. Gift. Ever.). And, DIYers: From fresh-baked cookies to homemade photo gifts, this is your chance to shine!
Take advantage of free shipping. While there is an anxiety-ridden rite of passage to braving the mobbed post office during the days before Christmas—it’s unnecessary. Save money on shipping by taking advantage of stores that offer free shipping for purchases.
Be honest with family members. It’s OK to simmer down the expectations. Tell your extended family members that your budget is tight this year and that they’ll receive “creative” gifts (or just cards) instead of pricey gifts. Most people will welcome your honesty—it may even take the load off them, too—and you’ll feel better knowing everyone knows what to expect.
Learn How to Handle the Constant “I WANTs” from Your Kids
Is your child summoning her inner Veruca Salt whenever you take her to Target? Deep breaths! It’s hard to handle the barrage of “I wants” that can possess our kids during the holidays, but it’s not entirely their fault. After all, every ad and conversation they have about Christmas likely has to do with gift-giving. So the wanting is normal, but it’s the demands you need to curb. Here’s how to manage:
Make a Wish Board to help kids feel heard. Parent coach Abigail Wald—author of a Parenting Survival Deck that includes tips for handling tricky kid behaviors (click here to get the “Want Wanter” card for free!)—recommends that families make a Wish Board to help kids organize their holiday wants.
“Let them put every single thing that they want on there. Then, throughout the next month or two, you can help them physicalize it by cutting out little pictures and moving things up and down the list of where they want them. It can become a fun little connective art project that the two of you have together, which takes down some of the wanting,” says Wald.
She also suggests checking back in with the list: Every time your child thinks they would have played with that one thing, put a checkmark by it; whichever has the most checkmarks by the end might be what they want the most.
Talk about giving. We all know what the holidays are supposed to be about, but to the typical kid, it’s all about getting presents. Help your kids see it in a different light by talking about what your family will give the grandparents or other extended family members; have them make small gifts to pass out to friends, neighbors, and teachers; take part in a neighborhood toy drive or an “Adopt a Family” campaign. The more they experience the joy of giving, the less they may want.
Take pictures. When your child begs for a particular toy at a store, pull out your phone and take a picture of the item to add to their special Wish List. Often, acknowledging what the child wants by photographing it is enough to quiet the wanting.
Teach them how to properly accept gifts (even the ones they don’t like). It might not be easy to watch, but it’s normal for kids to complain when they open a sweater instead of a Switch. Your kid is not “spoiled “or “ungrateful;” they’re just a developing human that hasn’t refined their filter. Yet.
To help, try this: Wrap an assortment of random items—a rock from the driveway, a toddler fork, a stick—and put them wherever you open holiday gifts. Then, take turns opening gifts and showing an exaggerated level of gratitude over each thing (OMG, “I’ve always wanted a fork like this!” “Thank you so much! This rock will look perfect on my dresser!” or “Wow, this stick is PERFECT!”). You’ll get enough giggles to get the point across, and hopefully, your kids will transfer the game to real life when they receive their next sweater.
Try to Keep (at least some of) Your Kids’ Routines
For kids, veering from the everyday routine can be a recipe for disaster. And even though the holidays can mean no school, travel, and a candy-lined upheaval of the norm, you can still keep at least some of your regular rituals, including finding time for naptime and following traditional bedtime routines.
As Harvard Health Publishing Senior Faculty Editor Claire McCarthy, MD, states, “As tempting as it may be to let kids stay up late and sleep late throughout the holidays, try to stay within an hour of usual times, except for special occasions (like New Year’s Eve). Same goes for mealtimes (be sure your kids get three healthy meals a day, preferably with you and not in front of the television).”
Keep Kids Busy—Especially During Family Gatherings.
If your kid has something to do, they are less likely to be tugging on your arm demanding attention or melting down on the living room floor over a broken candy cane. Bring toys or games to keep your toddlers busy during family gatherings, and let older children help by passing out hors d’oeuvres or taking guests’ coats.
Make a List of All the Events—and Decide Which Ones to Skip
School concerts! Holiday office parties! Family gatherings! Santa! There is so much going on over the holidays that it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But YOU DON’T HAVE TO DO IT ALL. Write a list of all the events happening over the month and decide which ones you can do and which ones you can cut. Then, put all those things on a family calendar that everyone can see. This way, you don’t overextend yourself (and your kids know what to expect). The more relaxed you feel, surviving the holidays without losing it on your kids won’t feel so unattainable.
Keep a Designated Friend on Speed Dial
If you’re worried about surviving the holidays without losing it, Wald advises finding a “listening partner” for when times get tough. “I love to have a speed dial buddy—a friend I can text or call when I need to check in. You can feel alone even amid a lot of people, so it’s nice to have someone who knows your life, who knows your kids, who’s got your back, who you can text or call from the bathroom, from the car, or while you’re going for a walk. Just someone who can help you regroup and get grounded again,” she says.
Surviving the Holidays Means Remembering It Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect
Melissa Heckscher
The entire holiday season is a little like my 2019 holiday card. It took so long to get my three kids to sit still with corresponding “Happy. New. Year” signs that we attracted a small crowd of onlookers who chuckled at my Sisyphean efforts to corral the trio into a picture with at least three open pairs of eyelids (because after a while, that was my bare minimum). The moments leading up to the photo were filled with arguing, frustration, and the promise of candy, but all I see now is that perfect picture and those sweet smiles.
Wald offers sage advice about surviving the holidays, “It’s the things that happen year after year that they will remember most, so if a particular holiday time winds up pear-shaped, don’t worry. It doesn’t need to be perfect; it’s the fact that it’s happening at all that matters.” So be gentle with yourself and allow yourself—and your kids—some grace.
It used to be one of my favorite things about Christmas. Every year, I would sit down with a pencil and paper and make my list. When I was three years old, I asked my grandparents for “an alligator with leg irons.” No one knew what I meant (myself included), so they got me a toy alligator accordion. Close enough, I guess?
One year I asked for a Dream Dancer doll—a mechanical ballerina doll that twirled and spun on a platform that looked like a shimmering stage. (Shout-out to any other ’80s babies out there—if you know, you know.) When I got older, I asked for sketchbooks and colored pencils, books by my favorite authors, or the clothes I had been pining for at Nordstrom’s. It wasn’t hard to come up with things I wanted—and I had the great privilege of having two sets of grandparents who were happy to buy me things like art supplies, books, and new clothes.
Somewhere along the line, though, all that changed. Sure, I would sometimes drop a hint to my mom or my sister about something I could really use (thanks for the warm gloves and the Zappos gift card!). But once I became a mom, the locus of Christmas became solidly fixed on our only child, the youngest grandchild on both sides of the family.
The only list now was hers—what did she want for Christmas? It was almost as fun, really, to add items to this new list: toys she would like to play with, cute new PJs, a nice winter coat, or a sled. And it was easy, if someone asked, to say, “Oh, I don’t need anything this year” and look forward to unwrapping a new bathrobe or whatever, while the rest of the family enjoyed their gifts.
Putting my kid first was one of the ways I was initiated into being a mom. In much the same way that I often convinced myself that, no, I didn’t really need to pee while I was nursing my daughter or waiting for her to finally fall asleep, I had convinced myself that I really didn’t need… well, anything. That last piece of bread? Go ahead and have it. Are you cold? You can wear my coat; I’ll be fine. It became automatic, until after a while, it got hard to know where my needs ended and hers began—or if I even had any needs left.
But you know what? My daughter doesn’t need any new LEGOs; she wants them. And maybe, just maybe, there are things that I want, too. So this year, I’m breaking the tradition of being the mom who says that all she wants is “just a nice Christmas with my family.” I mean, yes, I absolutely do want that. But you know what else I want? A new pair of joggers. Nice ones. Ones I can actually wear in public and look kind of cute in, that aren’t stained or stretched out or secondhand.
And you know what else? I want a cute hanging planter for my sad houseplant that’s been living less than its best life in an old Mason jar behind the kitchen sink. I want to put my cute little houseplant in a cute little planter and I want to hang it in my home office so that everyone can see it in my Zoom background, because while my room will never rate anywhere close to a 10 out of 10, I am not above striving to do better.
And while we’re at it, I would absolutely love some AirPods. Why do I need AirPods when I have perfectly good corded headphones and literally never leave my desk? Guess what, I don’t need them. I just want them. Other people have them, and they come in a cute little case, and yes, I will almost certainly lose them and/or put them through the laundry, but you know what? I still want them.
It feels a bit daring, a bit risky, a bit selfish to even express these wants to myself—to just have desires that are only for me. It was even scarier to say them out loud to my family. But it also felt kind of amazing. And I’m not mad that my daughter will grow up knowing that moms have wants, and needs, and aren’t afraid to express them. Well, maybe a little bit afraid—but at least I’m trying.
These deals are so good, we don’t even mind that the long weekend is over and all the leftovers are gone. Looking for an insider’s guide to Cyber Week deals and early access sales? You’ve come to the right place.
Everything from stocking stuffers, housewares, and apparel to tech, cooking, subscription services, and more is deeply discounted this week, and we’re giving you insider access to the best steals so you can plan your shopping accordingly. And if you’re looking for gift ideas for everyone on your list? Well, we’ve got those too.
So get your game faces on, your gift list open, and your microwave ready for leftovers. It’s the most wonderful time of the year and all the Cyber Week deals are right here. Keep an eye on this post! We’re updating frequently!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
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Handsome holiday looks are easy with these boys’ Christmas sweaters and holiday outfits
The holiday season is fast-approaching and we’re trying to get ahead of the game (hey, 2023 is a good year to start, right?). We’ve rounded up some of our favorite boys’ Christmas sweaters and holiday outfits, including pants, vests, and blazers, so you can mix and match and get creative, or buy a set and match head-to-toe. And of course, these aren’t only boys holiday outfits; any kiddo is sure to look dapper in these duds. Our picks of boys’ sweaters, holiday blazers, and cozy sweats are below. (Looking for holiday dresses? We’ve got you covered with this post!)
Wool Argyle Sweater
JACADI
This modern take on classic argyle makes this sweater a great choice. Plus, it's heirloom-quality, so hand-me-downs have never looked so good.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
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From the LEGO Duplo Dream Town Playground to the Gobbler 3-Wheel Scooter, these holiday gifts for 2-year-olds are perfect for busy little ones
Toddlers, specifically 2-year-olds, are developing at a rapid pace and they’re known to bounce from one activity to the next at warp speed. Finding gifts that keep them engaged, nurture their curiosity, and spark excitement is like striking holiday gold. To help you out, we’ve curated a list of unique gifts for 2-year-olds that are up for the task. From games that get kids counting to toys that teach how to communicate emotions to a racetrack that offers hours of fun—here are the best gifts for 2-year-olds this season. Got kids of other ages? Check out our top picks for gifts for 18-24 month-olds, teens and tweens, and babies!
LeapFrog Number Lovin' Oven
LeapFrog
This oven does it all. Counting and cooking, serving and sharing; this is preschool prep for little chefs. Complete with 16 fun ingredients and easy take-and-go play—everything fits right inside.
VTech® Go! Go! Smart Wheels® Spiral Construction Tower™
VTech
Get ready for some construction fun with this giant construction tower set. Over 4’ wide and over 2’ tall, this set has a giant spiral ramp, a bridge, a crane, a conveyer belt, elevator, and more! Cruise over each Smartoint® on the playset to hear revved up responses that drive learning!
How chic is this play kitchen? A play phone, chalkboard, and towel rack add to the realism (but we do have to warn you—please don't try to put it together the night before).
Create colorful roads anywhere—tables, cardboard boxes, floors, and more. (This is one of those things that definitely requires parental help to set up.)
Your 2 year old can practice sorting and color recognition by organizing each car into their own garage and opening and closing them with their coordinating colored key.
KiwiCo's Sensory Play Lightbox is museum-inspired to light up each shape to let them mix and match, see how each shape fits together, and shows them how different colors blend to create new hues.
A classic baby doll with realistic features, soft-to-the-touch materials, and easy-care cleaning. This one is definitely a doll they'll love for years.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
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Your holiday search is over—here are our top picks for developmental toys for toddlers.
It’s never too early to get your holiday shopping list going. And speaking of going…VTech® Go! Go! Smart Wheels® suite of toys brings action, adventure, and learning. These exciting electronic track sets help toddlers develop motor and early language skills, while sparking independence. Designed just for toddlers and preschoolers, Go! Go! Smart Wheels® is a great first experience with car and track play.
Interactive SmartPoint Technology is seamlessly built into each set, helping to promote role play and hand-eye coordination. Engaging SmartPoints® audio content is triggered along the tracks, giving the playtime experience an extra special boost. Every time content is “unlocked,” tots’ curiosity and imagination grows.
Build your child’s collection with VTech®’s unique sets that are the best developmental toys for toddlers!
What do toddlers love just as much as avoiding naps? Saving the day! This fun firehouse is equipped with all the essentials for a speedy rescue. Kiddos will have a blast zooming the electronic SmartPoint fire truck out of the garage, zipping down the two-story spiral ramp, riding up and down in the lift, spraying the hose, and pumping the hydrant to put out pretend flames. Plus, there’s a cute Dalmatian that can come along for the ride! Fidget features and SmartPoints launch lively responses, songs, and sound effects throughout this multi-level playset.
The Heroes collection of cars “steers” fun on any Smart Wheels track set. The Revved-Up Race Car, Helpful Police Car, and Tow Truck offer endless options for creative play. Kids can open and close the hoods, press the windshields to hear music, sounds, and phrases, and watch the cars’ faces light up. Excited responses drive learning and the development of important motor skills.
Ramp up the adventure with this speedy 4-in-1 Zig-Zag Raceway™ and electronic SmartPoint stunt car. Your resident racecar driver can cruise over three SmartPoint spots to hear music, first words, phrases about feelings, and sound effects. Grab another favorite Smart Wheels car and send them down the Battle Raceway to victory. This set is sure to ignite your tot’s budding imagination.
There’s something about construction sites and vehicles that can make any child totally obsessed with building. Now you can bring the ultimate work site to your playroom–no hard hat required! The Go! Go! Smart Wheels Spiral Construction Tower helps little ones build first words and motor skills as they roll through seven interactive SmartPoint areas. (Parents will especially appreciate the fun phrase about cleaning up!) Five play pieces and eleven movable parts will keep kids busy and entertained as they haul the boulder, transfer materials, lower the drawbridge, spin the cement mixer, swing the crane, and so much more. “Loads” of learning await!
Explore the entire collection of Go! Go! Smart Wheels® talking cars and playsets to find the right gift for any little one in your life this holiday season.
If you’re also searching for toys for school-aged kids that deliver education and fun, check out this gift guide here for our top recommendations!
