Don't look now, but... it's time for the Younglings to get some love!
Gaming
Video Games: While there are other consoles... handhelds are still the way to go for kids who are usually on the go. Great for use on the telly (sure), but those trips to other locations like the Doctor's office, travel, and much more. These types of devices like the Nintendo Switch or the Valve Steam Deck... go a long way, for younglings, and... your nerves.
If your kid(s) doesn't have a system just yet... I can help you decide on which route to go.
Nintendo Switch is a system I recommend for ages 5+, especially for fans of Nintendo first party titles, because... you won't get them anywhere else beyond their platforms (legally).
Valve Steam Deck is a system I recommend for ages 13+, especially for PC gamers who already have a Steam library. This system will give access to newer games a lot longer because it isn't at risk of Valve pulling the plug on store access. It's a PC that gives you access to your game library on Steam just like a desktop... so it's a total win and gives you the option of connecting monitors + keyboard + mouse + speakers for the standard pc experience.
On that note, no matter which route you go... here are some games we recommend:
Cat Quest 3 is the third installment in the award-winning Cat Quest series. This 2.5D open-world action RPG takes players on a swashbuckling adventure in a fantastical pirate-themed world known as the Purribean. Players control a purrivateer cat, exploring varied dungeons and biomes, engaging in fierce battles with a refined combat system, and sailing the seas in their very own ship. The game features solo and local co-op play, allowing players to embark on treasure hunts, purrsue bounties, and more! The Trilogy is also available.
Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC.LEGO Horizon Adventures is an action-adventure game set in a distant future where the land is made of LEGO bricks. Players join hunter Aloy as she battles to save Earth from an ancient digital demon and a gang of sunworshippers. The game features thrilling online and couch co-op action, allowing players to hunt machines and customize their home and characters. With stunning cinematic visuals and a mix of action, exploration, and customization, this game offers a unique and engaging experience for fans of both LEGO and Horizon.
Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC.Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope: Take your dream team on a galactic adventure with Mario + Rabbids. Unleash your heroes' skills but be strategic as you dash your enemies, team jump on your allies, and... take cover! This game was added because it's a highly rated budget friendly game for the Switch! $14.99!
Yars Rising: On the Steam Deck side... I can't sleep on this side scrolling, charisma filled adventure with a cool cast of hackers. Run, jump, sneak, and hack your way to the... heart of the mystery as you infiltrate the QoTech Corporation. Emi will continue to powerup as your adventure progresses, by way of... challenging retro minigames (to hack the system). This one is for fans of 2D side scrolling, vibrant anime art, humor + story.
- Barbie Project Friendship: Girls game too, and while some play various types of games (duh of the day)... some are girly girls and enjoy games like BPF. You play as Malibu Barbie & Brooklyn Barbie working together with friends and family to complete challenges and quests to help the community by restoring the Malibu Waves Community Center. Fans of decorating, adventure, story, and mini games will enjoy this title.
Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC. Sonic X Shadow Generations: Strap on your kicks and dive into Sonic Generations... starring Sonic + Shadow! In this new standalone campaign for Shadow, Black Doom has reemerged and threatens to take over the world. Shadow must journey into his past, confront his memories, and unlock new dark powers to save the world. Harness those new Doom Powers to battle horse of enemies and tackle platforming challenges like never before. These abilities will give you the abilities to surf on water, stop time with Chaos Control, and fly over obstacles.
Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC.
Tech Gifts
Yoto Audio Player: Is an all-in-one storytelling toy that includes audiobooks, a night light, a clock, and more. This made the list because some parents want to reduce screen time for their children, but wouldn't mind them having access to tech with a simple pixel display.
- Music player
- Bluetooth
- Nightlight
- Acoustically-Engineered Stereo Sound
- Room Thermometer
- Pixel Display
- Audio Cards
- Durable
$79.99
There is also a Yoto-Mini Player for $54.99, which allows your Younglings to take the device on the go. Outside of the custom audio cards you can make, there are 1000+ cards available for educational activities, music, audio books, soundscapes, etc.
What's the benefit of this type of device? It gives your kids a safe STEM related option that also reduces screen time, while also working as a night light + white noise for bed time, clock, alarm clock and all that good stuff. These audio devices were created for ages 3 - 12+. Check out the Yoto Store for... more!
3Doodler Start+ Maker Bundle: This 3D printing pen gives your children an affordable way to create 3D creations. Consider the Scrib3D P1 Pen for teen crafters!
VTech Kidi Star DJ Mixer: If your youngling loves music like mine, and you see them showcasing interests in possibly being a DJ... this is a badass device. Badass. You aren't just limited to the onboard options in terms of the music, you have the track sliders, tempo, custom keys, and you can also add your own music in. You can use vocals, line-in, bluetooth, and in addition to the DJ Party mode, you can record with the Studio function if they want to record a mix, but before they start on this path of DJing... they can start with Academy. It's recommend for 5+, but don't feel ashamed if you find yourself using it as well. This device comes in Black & Pink!
Toys & Edutainment Gifts
Scholastic Phonics First Little Readers (24 Book Bundle): Perfect for early readers, focusing on specific phonics patterns.
STEM Explorers Superhero Science: A budget-friendly STEM toy that introduces kids to science concepts.
Smiless Kiddo Stem Tech Kit: A hands-on tech activity kit that teaches children how to use electronics by way of connecting them to each other to make things work. This kit has 420 projects for your children explore. This is as simple as connecting wires, the more they mix and match the parts... the more things happen when they flip those switches or turn dials. Huzzah!
Minecraft Explorer Kit: I have to round out this section with this badass product from Make-A-Fort. You already know that some people just smile when they hear... "Minecraft", but imagine your kids unboxing this gift and being able to build like in one of their favorite games. You already know they go crazy over empty boxes, so imagine them diving into these:
- LEGO: LEGO is on the list without a doubt, because... it gives kids (and parents like myself) the opportunity to dive into creativity and practice those building skills. Playsets are cool, especially if they add to a theme we're going for... but the Classic Large Creative Brick Box gives more room to do more based on their imagination.
See Black Friday toy deals... here.
Outdoor Gifts
- Pedal Go Kart: Great for exercise by way of fun. The standard bikes are a classic and great for balance, but a pedal cart makes kids want to jump behind the wheel. The Honey Joy Go Kart's come in four colors, Red, Pink, Blue, and Green. If you have 2+ kids, just imagine the fun. You can grab two green karts for... $150. Honey Joy's Pedal GK2 is also available for $10 bucks more.
Gardening Kit: This gardening kit gives your younglings the ability to decorate their own flower pots, and grow their own herbs for use in their favorite meals. Even if they don't plan on being a big gardener, it doesn't hurt to have a green thumb.
Outdoor Explorer Kit: Includes tools for exploring nature, such as binoculars, a magnifying glass, and a compass. Other kits include tools to catch bugs. I would take this type of kit, give it to the younglings and let them roar off on their go karts in a designated area.
Huge Tree Swing: If you have a big tree... invite a swing to the party, especially one of the huge rectangular options. These are great for multiple children to enjoy with it's 700lb capacity. You would have literally created a new hangout spot. Ensure your branch can handle that weight though. If it checks out, don't be surprised if you find yourself laying across the swing snoring the day away. This is year round fun, just... tell them not to stand on it because it would only be a matter of time before someone runs in the house trying to catch their breath because the wind got knocked out of them. #LortWhatHappenedNow!
Gift an... Experience
Swimming Lessons
YMCA of Central Florida: Offers group and private swim lessons for all ages and skill levels.
Red Cross Learn-to-Swim Program: Provides swimming lessons tailored to the needs of each child.
Basketball Lessons
i9 Sports Youth Basketball Leagues: Fun and age-appropriate basketball leagues for kids.
Local Community Centers: Many offer basketball programs and camps for children.
Karate Lessons
Great Start Karate: Online martial arts program designed specifically for kids.
Local Dojos: Many offer beginner karate classes for children.
Cool Experiences in your Town (here are some options in or near Orlando)
Kennedy Space Center: An educational and fun experience where kids can learn about space exploration.
WonderWorks Orlando: Over 100 hands-on science exhibits, laser tag, a ropes course, and a 6D motion ride.
Tree Trek Adventure Park: An aerial obstacle course that takes kids far above the ground in a natural pine forest.
These gifts and experiences are sure to bring joy fun year round.
Face Washing Regimen
This is totally something a parent would appreciate more so than children, but... a face washing regimen with products that use natural ingredients is the gift that keeps on giving. A kid will go outside with the dog, touch everything + the dog, and... those hands end up on their faces. Gotta fight the dirt with a solid product:
TBH Kid Cleanser: Gentle on the skin, helps restore the skin's natural barrier, balance, and retains moisture.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser: Non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin.
