holiday gift guide

With the holidays coming up, I've been thinking a little about what to give my son and other kids on my list this year. I always try to find toys that my son will get a lot of use out of, so I thought it might be fun to share with you a short list of toys that we've been playing with a lot around here lately.

1. Plastic hanger from Old Navy: This toy is versatile, but we primarily use it as a steering wheel. (Yes, that is a blueberry muffin in his hand. We love them.)

 

 

2. Cardboard box: It may be a cliché, but you just can't beat a cardboard box for versatility and stimulation of the imagination. It seems like there is always a cardboard box being dragged around our house lately, full of "garbage," toys, or blankets.

 

3. Styrofoam: Remember this post? Yep, we're still using this piece of styrofoam, primarily as a camera (see demonstration in left photo) or car tunnel.

 

 

4. Sticks: You really can't go wrong with sticks. They can be used for everything from gates to sword fights. Plus, they're inexpensive. The only thing is, I need to more strictly enforce my "sticks stay outside" policy.

 

The takeaways: The most loved toys are those that allow my son to fully jump into imaginative play. They don't need to be expensive. You never know what is going to spark his interest. And - I have no idea how to top these toys with something I can buy.