Each person in the family is unique, so think about the interests of the children before setting out to find stocking stuffers. Look for ways to surprise them and give them something they don’t expect. It’s okay to add traditional items, but have at least one item that will bring a gasp of joy.
Edible Stocking Stuffers
Almost all boys and girls love sweet treats. Bake their favorite cookies and put them in small containers. Add a candy bar, some Skittles or a miniature Whitman’s Sampler. A little bit will go a long way with the sweet treats.
Stocking Stuffers for School
Extend the child’s favorite holiday by stuffing his stocking with Disney character pencils and SpongeBob erasers. Look for colorful school supplies that will make her smile and think remember the joy of finding them in her stocking. A thermal lunch bag with a Snoopy, Looney Tunes, Finding Nemo, Dora the Explorer or Spiderman theme will make the noon meal even more fun.
Fun and Games Stocking Stuffers
Most children enjoy handheld electronic games. BestBuy and Walmart offer a large variety of inexpensive games during the holiday season, so choose one that suits the child’s tastes. Add some miniature jigsaw puzzles, word searches and small board games for hours of fun.
Practical Stocking Stuffers
Stuff a new toothbrush, toothpaste, her own soap and soap dish into her stocking. Add combs, brushes and other grooming items. If he has a hard time falling asleep at night, he may enjoy a Disney Cars night light. A prepaid Tracfone, T-Mobile or Verizon cell phone will surely bring a smile to the child’s face. A new wallet filled with gift cards to his favorite arcade or a miniature makeup pouch with a gift card to an accessories store she enjoys will give them something to look forward to after the holidays.
Sporty Stocking Stuffers
If the child is an athlete, include some accessories for her favorite sport. She might like a softball, a new can of tennis balls or a wrist band. He’ll appreciate sports cards to trade and collect.
Stocking Stuffers for Girls
Most girls are trying to establish their individuality and identity by forming alliances with peers, associations with favorite celebrities and looking up to the next age group for style. Stuff their stockings with cool accessories from Gap Kids or The Limited Too. A lightly scented bubble bath or body spray from Bath and Body Works will make her feel all grown up. For the older girl, add a tinted LipSmackers lip balm.
Stocking Stuffers for Boys
Boys are likely to race to their stockings and turn them upside down to see what all they got. Don’t disappoint them with too many practical items. Include some fun things, like a yo-yo, a harmonica, a rolled and banded poster, some silly straws and some Spiderman action figures. Drop in a few matchbox cars, and he’ll have something to do for hours.
Debby Mayne - Debby Mayne is a published author of more than 30 novels and novellas and former fashion writer for the Home Shopping Network.
