Are you trying to make a wish list for the preschool or elementary aged boy in your life this Christmas? If you are ready to start shopping, I’ve compiled a list of the best Christmas gifts for boys. To be fair, the little boy on my list might prefer a holiday filled with gift cards and video games, but if you are looking for some imaginative play presents, you are in the right spot!
If you are able to support a local toy store or bookseller, I would highly encourage you to do so, but I am also compiling my gift guide from Amazon since I know many of us are shopping from home this year. (Our local toy store is offering call in and curbside pick up, so there are definitely still ways to support local while staying out of stores, if you prefer.) Hope you find the perfect gift for your little guy!
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Games, Puzzles and Building
Rubiks Race Game, Rubiks
Does your son love board games? Our son loves anything related to games and the Rubiks cube. These games are great extensions of the classic cube game, best for ages 7 and up. Even the big kid parents in our house love playing these games with him. Filled with different colors, these games make a fun way to practice logic and fine motor skills. This brilliant version of the classic game makes a great gift!
Mario and Minecraft Games
If you have a Mario or Minecraft lover in your household like we do, they might enjoy these games. We have all of them and they are played often around here! The Minecraft game is a very popular gift around here and is on our son’s list of the best gifts he has received lately. These would also make great stocking stuffers!
Nintendo Switch Games: Minecraft and Mario
If you have older kids who love video games, Minecraft and Mario Switch games may be the perfect choice. Our entire family loves to play these together, and they are so much fun on a family fun night.
Pengoloo
This is a cute color matching game for 4+ kiddos, great for the whole family. It’s easy to play with preschoolers and yet elementary kids will still be willing to play with younger siblings. We set it up in the living room, and it is such a fun game with a variety of colors. A favorite gift idea for any boy or girl!
Springbok’s and Melissa and Doug Puzzles
We love any puzzles by Springbok, lots of bright colors and something the whole family can do together. Another blogger I read mentioned writing the date of completion on the inside of the box to remember how many times the family has finished it – I love that idea!
Melissa and Doug make great 48 piece puzzles for the younger set. Also, consider scheduling a puzzle swap between families to get maximum benefit! These also make great birthday presents.
Happy Salmon
This is a fun, fast paced game that the whole family can play together. I also love it because you can easily throw it in a suitcase to take on a road trip! If you are trying to have a simple way to get off of screen time, kids of all ages will like this one.
Magna Tiles
If you don’t have Magna Tiles yet, they are the perfect building item for so many ages. Our six year old will even build with our one year old. (Now, when the baby destroys it, that leads to some angst, but I digress.) Magna Tiles consistently win the best toy awards with many great reviews. They hold up well from child to child and are worth the investment. Kids love coming up with their own designs and can have hours of fun creating a magical world with these.
Math Games
Looking for a STEM idea? My high school math teacher friend recommended these when my kids struggled with basic math facts. Combining this with online tools like Xtra Math or other math drills apps really sharpen basic math skills. One set is add/subtract and the other is multiply/divide. There are a variety of settings you can use with each game. Great for boys and girls!
Books and Toys
Legos and Play Mobil
Our son and daughters love Legos and Play Mobil, and they constantly build and rebuild. These are great toys to share with siblings.
HearthSong Double-Sided Magnetic Canvas Kids’ Target Game for Portable Play, Includes Six Magnetic Darts
We have this target game hanging in our kitchen and our kids and friends love playing it when they need something quick to play, like waiting for dinner or waiting for the bus. It’s magnetic and has two sides, so it is simple for all children to play.
Popper Toys
I don’t know what it is about these popper toys, but they are so fun and oddly satisfying! Another fun thing to throw in the car when you are heading on vacation or need something simple to fill time.
SHASHIBO – The Shape Shifting Box Geometric 3D Magnetic Transforming Magnetic Box Magic Cube
This is such a cool toy and it’s on our son’s list this year. It looks like a simple cube but the magnetic cubes makes over 70 shapes. It is so fun!
Geronimo Stilton books
This a great series for early elementary kiddos with vivid illustrations and the adventures of Geronimo. Great fantasy series!
I Survived Series
This series follows historic events and brings them to life through the voice of the young characters who miraculously survive them. A great way to teach history through story! Great for grade level 2-5.
Who Was? and What Was? Series
This is another series that teaches children about famous people and events in a compelling way. Full of facts and great illustrations, kids will come away learning so much from these books!
Magic Tree House Books
I can’t recommend these books enough. Our first grader loves reading about the adventures of Jack and Annie and learning more about the different time periods they travel to within the pages. I also love the nonfiction accompanying books that add context to the stories.
Hearth Song Dragon, Steam Breathing
Our son received last year’s version of the Hearth Song dragon and he still loves it. This one is steam breathing, moves its wings, and lights up to add to the thrill.
Melissa and Doug Magic
If you have children that love to perform like we do, they may love this Melissa and Doug Magic Set. Ours love to be the expert and surprise us with their newfound knowledge!
DK Nonfiction Books
DK publishes some great nonfiction books on a variety of subjects. There are encyclopedia style books if your child is interested in a particular subject or sticker books that they can work through quickly. Highly recommend.
Movement Best Gifts for Boys
These are some items we are going use to keep our boy moving this winter! (And our girls!)
HearthSong Corn Hole
Soccer Rebounder
Razor Pogo Stick
I hope this list gives you some ideas for the best gifts for the boys in your life! Be sure to hop here for more ideas for babies/toddlers or here for more ideas for girls. Happy shopping!
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