If you’re on the hunt for a Christmas present that will inspire creativity in little ones and delight them, look no further. Here are 10 gifts that could be perfect to wrap up and place under your tree.
Creative play is any type of open-ended activity where children are encouraged to use their imagination and experiment. It offers them a chance to try different things and see how they can affect the outcome. It can help children develop a range of skills that are important, such as critical thinking and emotional control.
The good news is there’s a huge range of toys to boost creativity, including these 10.
1. Wooden train set
Wooden train sets have been a staple childhood toy for decades, and the chance to build different tracks and create characters for the trains means children will soon be tapping into their imagination.
Well-known brand BRIO is set to feature under many Christmas trees this year thanks to its Mega Spiral Set, which features curving tracks and a bridge so children can make complex layouts.
2. Craft kits
Craft kits are a great way to let children’s imaginations run wild and get inventive. Hand them craft items and they might surprise you with what they come up with. If you need some inspiration, there are plenty of projects to find online – CBeebies features 50 to get you started.
Chad Valley sells a range of excellent art kits that make it simple for children to make their own stickers, tie dye bag, animal masks, and more.
3. Fashion dolls
Fashion dolls give children a chance to create storylines, drawing inspiration from their own lives, what they see, and their aspirations.
The iconic Barbie has been gracing Christmas wish lists since 1959. Among popular sets today, you can find Barbie in a stable, trying her hand at gymnastics, and even being a mermaid. There are plenty of dolls to choose from in shops, including Elphaba and Glinda from Wicked, which are sure to be popular among fans of the musical.
4. Climbing frame
While it might be chilly outside, it could still be worth investing in outdoor play equipment now if you want to inspire creativity. The climbing frame will quickly become a pirate ship or mountain when children are playing, and it’s sure to get lots of use once spring arrives.
5. Baby doll
If your child is fascinated by babies, a baby doll to look after could be a fantastic option. They provide an opportunity to develop social skills and empathy through caring for the doll and imitating the adults they see looking after a baby.
Toy stores are filled with baby dolls to choose from. This year, a baby doll of Peppa Pig’s new sister, Evie, is featured on must-have Christmas lists.
6. Dressing up costumes
From superheroes to doctors, dressing up in costumes lets children cast themselves as the main character in their favourite film, career, or adventure they’ve been dreaming up.
7. House playsets
Playsets that feature homes, shops, and other locations provide a great way for children to explore daily life and understand what they see.
Popular children’s TV show Bluey has a range of sets to choose from this Christmas, with the beach cabin set a popular choice. Another classic option is Sylvanian Families, which features quaint homes and cute animal families.
8. Toy kitchen
Toy kitchens are another item that you might recognise from your own childhood, and they’re popular for a reason. They offer endless ways to play and get creative. This year, John Lewis has launched a wooden version of a kitchen must-have, the air fryer, so your little one can practice using the latest technology.
9. Building blocks
Building blocks are a great tool for imaginative play and problem-solving. Whether they’re simply stacking a town or building an impressive castle, building blocks encourage planning and imagination.
For older children, Lego sets remain popular. While many of the sets come with instructions, children can break down their models to build anything they like, or you could purchase a box of bricks that has endless possibilities.
10. Books
While books might not be a toy, they can inspire creativity and spark lots of new games featuring your child’s favourite characters and adventures. This year, Waterstones lists the latest instalments in the Skander, Impossible Creatures, and Percy Jackson series among the popular choices.