As if there wasn't enough to get them giddy at this time of year, lots of families kick off the excitement the night before with a Christmas Eve box for the kids. (Many European countries actually do all their gifting on the 24th). We're not saying you need to - most kids get more than enough at this time of year! - but it you are considering some extra treats to warm them up for the Big Day, look no further.
Kick off the excitement the night before with a Christmas Eve box.
If you're after a box to stash their bounty in, we love the Aykasa crates, which are a huge fave with KIDLY customers all year round. Pick a mini or midi, pop in the goodies and after the festivities are over, you can use it as versatile storage in their rooms. They're stackable and fold flat too. Bonus.
So, what to put in there? Where, her are a few faves of ours:
1. A CUDDLY CHRISTMAS PAL
Every year we can't wait to see what Jellycat brings out and they never disappoint. Once again this Christmas they have another great line-up of cute and quirky Yuletide cuddlies - we're particularly loving Jolly Gingerbread Fred. For the rest of the holiday season they can site on the window ledge, mantlepiece or in the middle of the table, for some extra characterful cheer. Maileg and Fabelab also make adorable festive elves and helpers who you can station round the house to get everyone feeling full of seasonal goodwill.
2. A Storybook Torch
Moulin Roty's Storybook Torch and 3 Mini Books is so easy to use. Kids simply insert a disc, switch on the torch and project the images onto a wall or ceiling to inspire conversations and storytelling with you, with friends or with siblings.
3. Festive dress-up
Festive dress-up doesn't have to be fancy or expensive. We love this Reindeer Headband from Rockahula Kids for a simple but super-cute bit of Christmas pizzazz.
4. PJs
In our book, boxfresh PJs are a must at Christmas, when duvets days can seem to take over the schedule! KIDLY Label's Organic Cotton PJs come in sizes 6 months to 5 years, so the whole gang can wear them. Made from 100% GOTS certified cotton, they’re skin-kind and soft, in a closer-fit, unisex style with an elasticated waist. In bespoke prints, these tonal pyjamas all mix and match together. Aaaand relax!
5. A brilliant book
Christmas Eve is an ideal time to give them a great new book. For the youngest, Abrams & Chronicle books are super and for older ones we love the Little People Big Dreams series. We're also mad about the Story Orchestra series that'll get young kids enthralled by classical music. Each book features a particular classical score and features clips from it that are activated by pushing buttons on the pages. Any one would make a wonderful gift and the start of a fantastic collection.
6. Something Crafty
It's a nice idea to add some crayons and a new colouring-in book, or a craft set that will keep them entertained while you get on with the thousand-and-one things on your to-do list!
7. A NIGHT LIGHT
And finally, maybe a little nightlight to help them drift off and to assist them as they hunt for evidence of Santa's visit, super early on Christmas morning! Before they head to bed, though, don't forget to leave out a mince pie and some milk for Mr Claus, plus a carrot for Rudolph!
We hope this has given you some inspo. And remember, as well as shopping for your Christmas gifts by age, you can browse by price and type of gift you’re after.
Still not sure what to get? Pop us a message on Live Chat: we're here every day from 8am-10pm and we’ll happily help you suss out the Best Gift Ever. Just hit that purple button, bottom right.
Our picks
Moulin Roty Storybook Torch and 3 Mini Books Multi
bookspeed The Story Orchestra Sleeping Beauty
