I’m going to be honest with you. This was NOT Grayson’s entire list for Santa. Yep. Eight year olds are very imaginative and very… well… let’s just say they think presents grow on trees. Or, in my case, sleighs. I am getting tired of video games and the like, so I was hoping he would have lots on his list that promoted learning, tactile sensation exploration, and critical thinking. Lucky for me, he totally did. Since we are in an apartment, I stayed away from anything too big that required a yard, and just focused on some cool toys and activities for indoors. Here are some of my favorite ideas from his list.
Piper Computer Kit- Minecraft Pi Edition
The Piper Computer Kit is one of the highest rated STEM tools available on Amazon, is endorsed by Steve Wozniak and is used by the school Elon Musk’s kids attend. It basically teachers your kids to build a computer that they can then use for one of their favorite games.
Maya Toys Orbeez Magic Chef Set
Watch out, there’s a new cook in the kitchen! The Orbeez Magic Chef Set from Maya Toys makes cooking fun, allowing you to create a wacky recipe for your friends and family. These toys make the perfect gift for any occasion and they are offered in-stores at Target, Walmart and Toys”R”Us!
Aquabeads are unique beads that stick together with water. No heat is necessary. There are templates where they can create a design. Super cool!
Another trendy toy this year was the fidget spinner. Did you know they come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and qualities? They do. I figured it was time to get him one of the “nicer” ones to add to his collection, so this one was the winner. It’s kinda fancy for a fidget toy, but I know he will just love it.
G came to me one say and said he wanted a model roller coaster set for his room, and I was like…huh? I didn’t know such a thing existed… until I found this guy! This is a kit to build a mini-rollercoaster. How cool is that?! He is going to be so stoked!
Another great sensory toy is kinetic sand. This is a great deal on a 5lb bag. Both of my older kids will enjoy playing with this, molding it, and shaping it. The best part is, it never dries out!
Grayson is also into journaling, doodling, and writing lately. If you haven’t seen these, they are super cool take on journaling. Each page gives you an instruction on how to “wreck it”. It’s a super cool way to have fun and document your days.
What kid this age ISN’T asking for slime?! Enough said.
He specifically requested a “science kit” as he is really into all things science experiment right now. I found this one and thought it was a great, affordable place to start.
This is the age of “I know everything and I never stop talking” so this is is the perfect gift for under the tree or the stocking. He can test his knowledge until his heart is content.
Love love LOVE these blankets. Grayson is a blanket addict and every single Christmas he asks for a new cozy blanket. This year, I want to do something special and get him a personalized one from Shop Highway 3. They are a small shop, too, which is even better to support during the holidays.
Does your kiddo need a Hatchimals fix? This might do the trick. These are mini-versions at a way lower cost, and I have a feeling they will be just as big of a hit. I just can’t bring myself to pay $60 or whatever it is for the big one.
I was gifted many of these items as a thank you for including them on my gift guide. All opinions are 100% mine.
That’s all folks! What’s on your elementary-aged kids’ lists?
1 Comment
chelsea jacobs
November 29, 2017 at 8:33 amThe wreck the journal book is such a good gift idea for that age!