Christmas shopping for kids can feel joyful and overwhelming at once. Parents want gifts that spark imagination, last beyond a single afternoon, and — ideally — teach something useful too. This year’s top picks balance tech, creativity, active play and educational value so that you can match a present to a child’s interests and age. Retailers and toy experts across the UK and US report that building sets, hands-on craft kits and experience-style presents remain consistently popular — both for their play longevity and resale value. If you want a crowd-pleaser that also ages well, look at building toys, creative kits and outdoor gear. If you prefer tech, choose durable, child-friendly devices with strong parental controls. Below Savings24x7 list ten reliable options, describe why each suits children, tell you where to buy, and give saving tips. Use this guide to pick gifts that give delight now and value later.
Best Kids’ Christmas Gift Ideas This Year
Choosing the right Christmas gift for kids can feel overwhelming, especially with so many new toys, gadgets, and educational products hitting the market each year. Parents want presents that spark joy, encourage creativity, and offer real value long after the excitement of Christmas morning fades. This year’s trending gifts combine imaginative play, hands-on learning, tech that grows with children, and budget-friendly options for families shopping smart. Whether you’re looking for something educational, something screen-free, or a fun tech upgrade, the list below includes reliable favourites that suit a wide range of ages and interests. Each recommendation explains who the product is ideal for, where parents can buy it, and practical ways to save money through seasonal deals, bundles, refurbished options, and loyalty discounts. With these ideas, you’ll find meaningful gifts that delight children and remain useful well into the new year.
1) LEGO Creative Brick Box (or a popular licensed set)
LEGO remains a top Christmas pick because it suits many ages and play styles. A Creative Brick Box or themed sets like Harry Potter, Star Wars or Disney give kids both open-ended building and structured model play. Younger children benefit from Duplo’s large pieces, while older kids enjoy Creator or Architecture sets that improve focus and fine motor skills. You can buy LEGO from the official LEGO store, Argos, Smyths Toys, Amazon and major department stores, many of which offer seasonal bundles. To save money, look for gift packs with extra baseplates or minifigures, subscribe to newsletters for discount codes, and compare prices across retailers. LEGO also holds long-term value, making classic brick boxes great investments that can be reused or passed down. For budget-friendly options, explore certified pre-owned sets or local marketplace listings in good condition.
2) Nintendo Switch OLED (family console) — screen time that connects
A Nintendo Switch (OLED model or standard) is a strong family gift because it supports local multiplayer and has a large library of family-friendly titles (Mario Kart, Animal Crossing). It’s suitable for kids aged around 6+ and makes a great shared household device. Where to buy: official Nintendo store, GAME, Smyths Toys, Amazon and major electronics retailers. How to save: look for seasonal bundles that include a popular game, hunt for trade-in deals at GAME or Currys, check refurbished or certified pre-owned options from the retailer, and use price comparison tools. Don’t forget to set up parental controls and buy a protective case and screen protector as sensible accessories that extend the console’s life. If console stock is tight, consider gifting a high-quality game plus a promise of a future console purchase.
3) Entry-level iPad or kid-focused tablet — educational screen time
Tablets are versatile: reading, educational apps, creativity tools and video calls with relatives. The standard iPad or robust kid tablets (with reinforced cases and parental controls) are best for older kids who will use apps for learning and creativity. Where to buy: Apple Store, Argos, Currys, and large retailers with holiday deals. How to save: watch for Black Friday/Cyber Week discounts, buy refurbished Apple-certified models to save substantially, and use student/family trade-in programs where available. Pair the tablet with subscriptions (family plans) only if you’ll use them; bundles sometimes include a case and keyboard at a discount. For younger kids, choose tablets with curated learning ecosystems to avoid accidental purchases. (Tip: protective case + screen protector are cheap insurance.)
4) Osmo or interactive learning kits (hands-on digital learning)
Osmo-style kits combine a tablet with physical play pieces to teach maths, coding, and literacy. They’re ideal for ages roughly 4–10, blending screen content with real-world problem solving. Where to buy: major toy retailers, Amazon, and education-focused stores. How to save: check bundle deals that include multiple game kits, look for back-to-school or holiday educational sales, and consider buying just one starter kit and adding single accessory packs later. Many parents find these kits deliver sustained learning value and reduce passive screen time because they require active problem-solving. For younger children, pick titles that emphasise foundational skills like letters and counting. Reviews from testers often call out Osmo and similar brands as high-value educational gifts.
5) Barbie Dreamhouse or large-imaginative playset
A large playset such as the Barbie Dreamhouse or a major dollhouse promotes imaginative, narrative play, useful for emotional and social development. These sets are best for ages 3–10 depending on complexity, and they encourage roleplay for groups of children. Where to buy: TheToyShop, Smyths Toys, Amazon, and department stores. How to save: buy off-season sales, check retailer bundles that include dolls or furniture, and consider certified pre-owned sets if budget is tight. Smaller accessory packs let you stagger spending while keeping play fresh. For parents worried about space, choose modular playsets that can be stored or disassembled. Popular video and editorial gift lists routinely include larger roleplay sets as ‘big-ticket’ family presents.
6) Razor or micro-scooter (outdoor active gift)
Scooters are simple, durable gifts that encourage kids to get outside. Look for well-reviewed models (Razor A or Micro Mini) with age-appropriate size and safety features. Suitable ages range from toddlers (three-wheel variants) to pre-teens (kick scooters with larger wheels). Where to buy: sports stores, Smyths Toys, Argos, and specialist scooter retailers. How to save: buy from seasonal sales, consider last-year models (often discounted), and pair with helmet/lighting bundles for safety. Second-hand scooters in good condition can be a safe, cheaper alternative; always inspect bearings and brakes before gifting. Active gifts are often among the most used, and they double as a way to manage screen time and energy.
7) Hot Wheels Ultimate Garage or large track sets
Hot Wheels track systems provide high replay value and are great for kids who love cars and mechanical play. These sets promote experimentation (angles, speed, ramps) and cooperative play. Age recommendation typically 4+. Where to buy: toy retailers like Smyths, Amazon, and Argos. How to save: buy starter packs then expand with single-car multipacks during promotions; retailers often discount track add-ons during holiday events. Also look for bundle promotions where a track set comes with exclusive cars. Track systems are durable and easy to incrementally grow as interest develops. Consider storage-friendly track configurations for smaller homes.
8) Kinetic Sand or creative craft kits (sensory + creative play)
Kinetic Sand, Play-Doh Mega Sets, or themed craft kits are brilliant for sensory play and creativity for preschoolers up to tween crafters. These kits build fine motor skills and reward open creativity. Where to buy: retailers, craft stores, Amazon, and supermarkets. How to save: buy multi-packs during promotions, use coupons from craft-store loyalty programs, or assemble DIY craft bundles from discount suppliers to produce a personalised, budget-friendly gift. Craft kits also make great stocking fillers if budget is limited. For parents who want educational value, pick kits that include step-by-step projects or STEM craft elements.
9) STEM science kits — curiosity and skills
Science experiment kits (volcano builders, crystal growing, robotics starter kits) nurture curiosity and practical learning. Choose age-appropriate kits: simple chemistry and nature kits for younger kids, beginner robotics and electronics for older ones. Where to buy: educational retailers, Amazon, and specialist science brands (e.g., Thames & Kosmos, National Geographic kits). How to save: buy kits during school-holiday discounts or in bundles, and consider starter kits plus add-on modules rather than expensive full bundles. Libraries and community centres may offer loaner kits or STEM program vouchers if you want a sampling before committing. Well-chosen science kits can become a multi-year interest that pays off academically.
10) Squishmallows or a high-quality plush — comfort + collectibility
Soft collectibles like Squishmallows remain hugely popular for younger kids and tweens. They’re comforting, portable, and collectible — often an easy win for stocking fillers or secondary gifts. Where to buy: supermarkets, specialist toy shops, Amazon and brand stores. How to save: buy during multi-buy promotions, take advantage of supermarket seasonal markdowns, or hunt retailer clearance racks after holiday peaks. Limited-edition or large-format plush can be pricier; for budget shopping, choose standard sizes and pair with a small book or craft kit. Plush toys are often impulse buys by kids, so including one with another larger gift creates an emotional, well-balanced present.
Conclusion
Picking the right gift depends on the child’s age, interests and how the family uses toys and tech. Building sets and creative kits give long-term play and resale value; outdoor gear encourages healthy habits; and curated tech or educational systems blend fun with learning. To save money: compare prices across big retailers, sign up for newsletters for welcome discounts, use cashback and price-comparison tools, consider certified refurbished electronics, and shop early or close to major sale events when stock and deals are best. For tight budgets, stagger purchases (one large gift + a few small tactile stocking fillers) or choose modular toys you can expand later. Finally, think experience-first: a membership, class, or family outing often creates memories longer than most single toys. With the ideas above you can tailor thoughtful presents that fit both budget and the child’s personality.
