Growing up, I remember the sheer joy of the various holiday toy catalogs arriving throughout the months of October, November, and December. If I close my eyes I swear I can still smell them. I'd happily pull a pen from my school pencil case, lick my pointer finger and start flipping through. My mildly-interested-in toys got checks next to them, and I was allowed to "star" five things I really wanted, for Santa to choose from. As a little girl, I didn't realize what I was actually doing was semi-simplifying things for my hardworking mom to pick up. Today's moms might not be so lucky. I feel like that's especially true for moms in need of gifts for girls.
While sure, our younger girls today may write a letter to Santa, the reality is they are likely shouting "oooooh mom I want this," while hastily flashing us a two-second glace at some loud, colorful toy we couldn't quite catch on YouTube. To help stressed girl moms everywhere who are feeling lost on what exactly to do about that this holiday season, we present you some of the best gifts for girls this year.
Squishmallows
There is a current universal truth about shopping for kids aged 2 to even as old as 16: You cannot fail with a Squishmallow. These cute, oversized kewpie-ish looking stuffed animals are beloved by all because they come in practically every interest a kid could have. Unicorns? Got it. Puppies? Got it. Sushi? Yeppers. The best part is they come in a variety of sizes and prices range on the lower side. Trust us, you can't go wrong it it.
Books
There is never such a thing as too many books, and girls deserve an arsenal of them on their shelves. Parents can introduce them into the excitement of fantasy, whisk them away with an age-appropriate teen romance, or use it as an opportunity to introduce other amazing women for them to admire. Books are windows into wonderful worlds and what better gifts exist for that?
American Girl World By Us™ Dolls
$110
from
American Girl
This year, American Girl launched a new line of dolls: World By Us™. In this collection, there are three new dolls, Maritza, Makena, and Evette. All three dolls encourage girls to create the kind of world they want to live in. Makena, Evette, and Maritza all have causes they're passionate about, and they work to harness their power to positively affect the world. These inspiring dolls are the perfect gift for girls who want to make an impact.
Arts & Crafts
When winter rears its ugly head, and outside play is next to impossible, investing in a crafty gift is kinda' like giving yourself a present, too. Craft boxes keep idle hands busy and frankly might help kids to discover a new passion. There's something for everyone from jewelry kits to paper crafts, so we're sure you'll be able to snag something great.
Some Personal Space
Whether she is into tulle and frills or canvas and colors, there is one thing all girls want as kids: A space of their own. While were not about to suggest erecting a teenage she-shed for her, a magical area like a fairy-lit tent ought to do the trick. There are tons of sizes and styles available to give your sweet girl a space to curl up and read a book, doodle, or play with her dolls.
Fan Favorite Lego Sets
Lego sets are a fail-safe gift for littles, and that's especially true for ones catered to a specific fanbase. From Harry Potter to Mario there are so many ways to let girls "geek out" over their favorite set. Chances are if they have siblings, they may enlist their help for the more elaborate parts and really that's a two-fold gift. Hours of occupation and sibling bonding potential? Sign us up!
A Bike
Does it get any more classic than a bike for the holidays? It feels like since Christmas trees migrated into our livings rooms that bikes have been under them with a big, shiny bow. All this to say parents cannot go wrong by getting a new set of wheels. And the good news is this is a gift that works for all ages, as there are bikes for every level of experience and styles to fit nearly every personality.
Cocoa Belle Bee Baby Doll
$49.99
from
Orijin Bees
Every girl deserves to have a doll that looks like them! "Baby Bee Dolls were created to be representative of Black, African American, Latino, Biracial, Caribbean and all other black and brown girls with curly hair," explains Orijin Bees. With every baby doll, there's a matching hair accessory for her new mama!
Electric Ride-On Car
Now if you really want to get them a legit set of wheels, an electric ride-on toy is absolutely perfect. Available in a variety of styles and sizes, the neighborhood kids will see your girl rollin' and won't even be able to be hatin' because she'll look so darn cool. Plus, it is a fun way to take walks with littles in the summer.
Sensory Toys
Listen, those fidget toys and sensory bins are lifesavers for those incessant "I'm borrrred" days. One of the best toys on the market for such a day is kinetic sand. It's malleable, is creative, and honestly, it's a less messy option than other toys that rhyme with "grime."
Coding Toys
The future is female, and it is also powered by computers. Set her up for success and fun with a toy that flexes those coding muscles. There are coding toys out there for practically every age above 3, and not only are they educational, they are also super adorable. The look of pride on their faces when they "crack" the code and build a unique toy will absolutely be worth every penny.
Decor Gifts
We aren't saying go full Joanna Gaines on her, but giving her stuff for her personal space that truly speaks to her personality will do wonders for her mental health and confidence. If she feels like she owns her own space, you cannot stop a girl from conquering the world. Get her something funky or sweet, just make sure whatever it is, it totally screams "her!"
*Psst: if you choose to purchase an item from this post, CafeMom.com may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
