37 Extraordinary Gifts for Discerning Young Minds |
The main thing I have learned since becoming a parent is that the only thing that doesn't become harder when you become a parent is accumulating an avalanche of plastic beeping, blinking gizmos. In my blissfully unaware, pre-parent days, I naively never considered that, while my nieces and nephews might enjoy these raucous gadgets, what I was actually giving my weary siblings was yet another vessel by which to lose their minds. Once I crossed the threshold into parenthood myself, I realized the shameful, harsh truth: most things masquerading as toys are pretty much just future landfill.
Shortly after becoming a parent, you'll begin playing a fun new game called "Donate or Destroy?" on a more regular basis than you might change your sheets, purging your home of toy detritus with the steely resolve of a Kondō disciple. In the process, you'll develop a sixth sense for identifying presents with a lifespan longer than their batteries, because you'll have learned that finding gifts that spark imagination instead of noise complaints can feel like panning for gold in a sea of discarded Happy Meal trinkets.
This guide is the result of countless hours I've spent scouring shelves, testing doodads and observing my own pint-sized critics (ages three and five) systematically destroy contenders. These picks are ostensibly for the 4- to 6-year-old set, but don't be misled by Big Toy's arbitrary age recommendations. The items below captivate through their power to illuminate everyday wonder—whether in science, nature or even the art of "trash"—and transform it into something unforgettable. So put down that flashing, squawking, oops-it-already-broke junk that the kids on your holiday list will forget in five minutes. Cancel your bulk order of earplugs. Proceed with newfound wisdom.
Every couple of weeks, my kids will ask, "Mommy? What's New York City like?" which inevitably leads me to point to the Periodic Table of NYC Trash hanging in my office and say, "Let's take a look!" As my children gaze upon the 118 naturally occurring elements found on the streets of New York, they begin to question the stories behind each piece of trash. They wonder about the people who discard these items, the reasons behind their disposal, and the environmental impact of these objects. I purchased this years ago and, after almost a decade of cohabitation, I remain convinced it's the perfect gift to encourage critical thinking about consumption and develop a wise understanding of all the riches Manhattan has to offer.
$40 | Shop Now
In terms of gross things kids like, Darwin's Super-Pooping Worm Spectacular is a multitasking success. This wonderfully illustrated book sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of Charles Darwin's intense fascination with the slimy, wiggly creatures (worms) that keep our soil healthy (poop). Darwin spent 40 years studying worms, going to great lengths to prove that worms are more than just icky crawlies. Amidst the laughter and fun facts, there's a more profound message about the importance of perseverance and standing up for what you believe in. Darwin's peers may have mocked his fascination with worms, but he never let their teasing deter him from his groundbreaking research.
$20 | Shop Now
I've yet to meet a child who hasn't delighted in the endless possibilities of this toy. They can place it on top of other toys, a sleeping pet's face, or create mashups of textures and impressions made by everyday objects around the house. Not only does a pin art toy provide hours of entertainment, but it also encourages the development of fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness. It is hard to wash, though, so do your best to discourage using it to "see how slime works."
Unlike the cacophony of plastic monstrosities that pass for children's toys/sound like bags of broken glass, the Panda Drum produces soothing, harmonious tones that lull you into a zen-like state (or at least spare the onset of a migraine). With its foolproof numbered system and accompanying songbook, even the most rhythmically challenged can tap out a tune.
$180 | Shop now
At its heart, What Pete Ate from A-Z is a celebration of the unbreakable bond between a dog and his human. I acquired our copy at a used book sale this summer. It wasn't long before Maira Kalman's quirky romp through the alphabet accompanied me on a short-lived post as a mystery reader, allowing the opportunity to teach a bunch of five-year-olds that 'Fez' is both a hat and a city (Pete ate the hat). The book follows Poppy Wise's mischievous dog, Pete, as he devours his way through an astonishing array of items, from accordions to underpants. Despite Pete's insatiable appetite for mischief, Poppy can't help but love her unruly pup. It's a sentiment that will resonate with dog owners and animal lovers of all ages.
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This precious set takes the concept of stamps to a whole new level, offering a diverse assortment of insect shapes and textures that allow your child to craft their own unique bugs. With 25 wood-backed rubber stamps featuring an array of antennae, wings, legs and body parts, the possibilities are endless. Mix and match the components to create a buzzing hive of bumblebees, a graceful swarm of dragonflies, or a world of imaginary bugs that defy classification.
$26 | Shop Now
Ever since my son was given Mon Coeur's pocket sweatshirt, it has been a go-to. This versatile and sustainable garment is crafted from a blend of reclaimed, organic cotton, but the standout feature, of course, is the functional pocket into which your child can and will stuff all the tiny treasures they collect throughout the day—or insist on bringing with them each time they leave the house. As a brand, Mon Coeur is committed to creating a world where the planet comes first. Every item Mon Coeur makes is sustainably made using upcycled cotton, watercolor prints and non-toxic inks.
$52 | Shop Now
On a recent Sunday afternoon, I stumbled upon a heartfelt letter from my son,........