Show your faves how much you appreciate them with these gifts for coworkers
They get you through the day. Understand what you’re going through. On some days, they’re the best part of the job. Your coworkers are the glue that holds your workdays together. (We’d know. We have the best ones.) It’s the season for spoiling them, obviously. Afterall, they always remember you take oat milk in your lattes. But gifts for coworkers can be tricks. Well, unless you have our guide. Which you do.
Gifts for coworkers can range from ultra-professional to ‘we hang out on the weekends, too’ and everything in between. That doesn’t mean, though, that you’re stuck with another nice pen or a gift card (no shade to either, of course). We’ve rounded up some of the best office bestie, inspiring manager, keeps-it-all-straight admin assistant gifts out there that are sure to make them feel super appreciated. And, if you’re still shopping for your whole list, don’t miss our holiday gift guides that have everyone covered.
Work from Anywhere Kit by Pinch Provisions
This handy kit comes with a notepad and sticky flags, pen, phone/tablet stand, cord organizer, 2-in-1 charging cable, and more for working from home, vacations, or just to have on-hand in case.
CamelBak Cocktail Shaker & Tumbler Limited-Edition Set
CamelBak
Whether your high-stress job causes for the occasional relaxing cocktail, or the holiday libations deserve some special treatment, this sleek set from CamelBak delivers.
Find their comfort soulmate at Pajamagram. Featuring their customer favorite addictively soft micro velvet Tempting Touch Pajamas, this gift is complete with plush Cozy Escape Socks, a Scented Candle, and a cozy definition Tote Bag all inside a deluxe box.
They can sanitize their phone and other small, high-touch objects using UV-C light and charge their phone at the same time. It all only takes 10 minutes and germs don't stand a chance.
These four eggs are all perfectly weighted, ergonomically designed, and made from various earthly elements—each with its own set of natural properties. They're perfect for fidgeting (though they have way more benefits than just something for your hands to do) and helping you keep your focus, plus they're very cool to look at.
They'll never have to worry about forgetting to water these stunning succulents. Pick from three gorgeous designs that stand on a small copper wire tripod, or they can be added to a pot with filler (sold separately).
Everyone loves pretzels and waffles. This box is the perfect mix of gourmet soft pretzels and Liège Belgian waffles (which were both selected as Oprah’s Favorite Things in years past), plus artfully blended sauces, and gourmet toppings.
This coffee (or tea or hot cocoa or milk or candle...) warmer offers 6 timer settings, from 2 to 12 hours, plus it shuts off when it no longer detects the warmer is occupied. Available in multiple colors.
These beautiful little trees are perfect for adding some color to their desk (or home, of course). Since it comes with 12, they could use them in both, actually.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
This plan to help your kid “become a Santa” is honestly the greatest
In our family, we have a special way of promoting the kids from being on Santa’s list to becoming a Santa themselves. This way, the Santa construct is not a lie that gets discovered, but an unfolding series of good deeds and Christmas spirit. When they are eight or nine—whenever you see that dawning suspicion that Santa may not be a material being— that means the child is ready.
I take them out “for coffee.” We get a booth, order our drinks, and the following pronouncement is made: “You sure have grown an awful lot this year. Not only are you taller, but I can see that your heart has grown, too.” I point out two to three examples of empathetic behavior, consideration of people’s feelings, good deeds, etc, the kid has done in the past year.
“In fact, your heart has grown so much that I think you are ready to become a Santa Claus. You’ve probably noticed that most of the Santas you see are people dressed up like him. Some of your friends might have even told you that there is no Santa. A lot of children think that because they aren’t ready to BE a Santa yet, but YOU ARE.
“Tell me the best things about Santa. What does Santa get for all of his trouble? We work our way from “cookies” to the good feeling of having done something for someone else. “Well, now YOU are ready to do your first job as a Santa!”
Now for the fun part! Make sure you maintain the proper conspiratorial tone…
Santa is about being generous
We then have the child choose someone they know—a neighbor, usually. The child’s mission is to secretly, deviously, find out something that the person needs, and then provide it, wrap it, deliver it—and never, ever reveal to the target where it came from. Being a Santa isn’t about getting credit, you see. It’s about unselfish giving.
My oldest chose the “witch lady” on the corner. She really was horrible—had a fence around the house and would never let the kids go in and get a stray ball or frisbee. She’d even yell at them to play quieter. He noticed that she came out every morning to get her paper in bare feet, so he decided she needed slippers.
His next task was to go spy on her and decide how big her feet were. He hid in the bushes one Saturday and decided she wore a medium, so we went and bought warm slippers. He wrapped them up and tagged them: “Merry Christmas from Santa.” After dinner, he slipped down to her house and slid the package under her driveway gate.
Santa is about being a helper
The next morning, we watched as she waddled out to get the paper, picked up the present, and went inside. My son could hardly contain his excitement and couldn’t wait to see what would happen next. The next morning, as we drove off, there she was, out getting her paper—wearing the slippers. He was ecstatic. I had to remind him that no one could ever know what he did, or he wouldn’t be a Santa.
Over the years, he chose a good number of targets, always coming up with a unique present just for them. One year he chose the daughter of some friends of ours, who were going through some tough times. With the help of his father, he polished up his bike, put a new seat on it, and with her parents’ permission, placed it on their back porch. The look on her face when she saw the bike with a big bow on it was almost as good as the look on my son’s face.
When it came time for son #2 to join the ranks, my eldest came along and helped with the induction speech. They are both excellent gifters, by the way, and never felt that they had been lied to—because, instead, they were let in on the “Secret of Being a Santa.”
Leslie Rush dons a Santa hat at Christmas, but wears many others throughout the year. She is a wife, mother and grandmother, as well as a teacher and a writer. She lives in El Paso, Texas, and has recently completed Dreamwalkers, a Young Adult novel.
The holiday season is full of Kodak moments. There’s the perfectly color-coordinated family card. Pics of the kids visiting winter wonderlands, holiday markets, extended relatives, and the Big Guy in red. Dozens where they’re tearing into presents, quickly followed by shots of them beaming alongside their haul. You stand behind the camera. Snap, snap, snap. Honestly, they should offer photography lessons as part of those what-to-expect baby classes (not to mention letting people know about the Tinybeans App for organizing and sharing all those sweet images).
But beyond the traditional photo ops, there are plenty more precious moments you should capture for your family album. I’m talking about the best images—the ones that show the quirks and real beauty of your family. One day you’ll see them and remember your kids as they were, not who people expected them to be. So this year, seek out the real holiday magic. Here’s a list to get you started!
1. Kids happily collapsed on the couch or in a car seat
After dinner, after presents, and after family parties, there are a few moments of magical stillness. The kids have eaten. The kids have run around. Excitement has drifted into quiet.
Yes, the high-octane moments are awesome. But there’s something extra special about this sudden, blissful hush. That feeling of: We did it, we’re tired, we packed a lot of life into a short time, and now we’re going to sleep it off. That’s what you want to remember right before the quiet explodes into an exhausted tantrum.
2. Siblings secretly getting along
It happens when you’re least expecting it. They’re baking cookies or opening presents or adding batteries to the newest blinking, shouting toy. Suddenly, your oldest is helping the youngest, or your toddler is excitedly explaining Santa to his woefully uneducated baby sister. They’re not teasing each other, shouting “mine!” or rolling their eyes. Snap it quickly: They’ll start battling over their new Furby in two minutes.
3. Action shots instead of finished products
The fun of cookies and crafting isn’t in the final designs, though we never turn down an unhinged-looking gingerbread man. It’s all about the doing—the tiny mountains of glitter all over your kitchen table, the flour caking your kid’s hands, the icing on their face. So go ahead and snap pics of those treats when they’re finished, but don’t forget the messy moments that got you there. One day (long after you’ve cleaned up the kidsplosion), you’ll love them.
4. Grandparents deep in discussion (or toys) with grandkids
Those posed photos of kids on Grandpa’s lap? They’re cute. But if your father-in-law is anything like mine, his forced grin is more terrifying than sweet. And if your kids are anything like mine, they’ll be squirming to get away. Rather than make everyone stop what they’re doing to slap on a smile, keep a lookout for that moment when a grandparent leans in to make the kids giggle or plops down on the floor to play or holds out a forkful of pie. Capture that instead.
5. Kids giving gifts—not just opening them
We all love the tearing-into-gift photos. Wrapping paper flies. Grins can’t be contained. Bows are stuck on people’s heads. But there’s a slight variation you should add to your shot list for the family album: your kids giving presents instead of getting them. Remember waiting for your dad to open the gift you made just for him and how excited you were?! Even if your little one is just helping hand out presents to other family members, snap those generous gestures. The giftee(s) will be glad you did.
All those posed photos? Adorable. The ones of kids making faces or unintentionally being weirdos? Better, because they capture the silliness and imperfections of those we love most. My relatives all agree that our best Christmas card ever—which my mother puts up every year—is the one that reads “Ho-Ho-No!” and features our eldest son (back when he was a baby) losing it on Saint Nick. I still feel twinges of guilt about that one, but it’s real. I like it better than all those smiling portraits, because it’s us.
7. A photo with you in it
While we all love that jolly fellow, Santa isn’t the source of Christmas magic. Moms are the do-it-all elves who make the holidays happen. So hand over the camera phone to someone else for a change. You deserve pictures with your kids. One day, they’ll want them. One day, so will you.
So much of this season is a whirlwind—which is why it just makes sense to go with it. Rather than manufacture joy, capture the in-between times, the unplanned exchanges, and the laugh-so-hard-it-hurts moments. That beautiful mess? That’s the real spirit of the holidays.
Make sure to capture all these blink-and-you’ll-miss-’em moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids and makes it easier than ever to turn them into a keepsake photo book.
Keep your whole crew festive in these family matching pajamas for the 2023 holiday season
Cozy mornings in front of a fire, watching family holiday movies, and spending time with the kids—the holidays have arrived! It may be a hectic time of year, but these are the things memories are made of, and the best part is that you can all look cute while hanging out at home with matching family pajamas. Whether you go all out with a professional holiday photoshoot, or you fill your camera roll with pictures (you’re posting them to your Tinybeans app, right?), these jammies are frame-worthy.
No matter where you live, what your holiday season looks like, or your family’s style, there’s something for every member of your crew in this list. Colorful, classic, mix-and-match? It’s all right here. In fact, we think it would be a great idea to gift a set of PJs to your extended family for an epic family picture. We’ve found our favorite family matching pajamas to set the mood this holiday season. See them all below.
Hanna Andersson Family Matching Holiday Pajamas
Hanna Andersson
Hanna Andersson is known for their holiday pajamas (just ask Blake Lively!). With prints like the new limited-edition Dear Deer (pictured on navy), Modern Merry, and classic Nutcracker, there are over 40 options to choose from. You'll definitely find something that matches your family perfectly (even pets).
Pajamagram offers exclusive prints like this hoodie-and-bottom Grey Plaid set, Charlie Brown Christmas, and Christmas Lights. And, don't miss this—free pet PJ with adult PJ purchase at Pajamagram. Use code PETJAMMIES at checkout (through 12/25).
What's not to love about Old Navy's Family Matching Pajamas Collection? With a ton of different styles, inclusive sizes, and fun prints like Red Madras (pictured), Holiday Campers, and Holiday Delivery Pink, Old Navy does not disappoint.
Before you ask—yes, that is Snoop Dogg. Family matching pajamas from The Children's Place are a must-have, even without Mariah Carey and Lance Bass sporting them (which they are). Check out the Iconic Wrap Remix (pictured), Santa's Sleigh, and the Fa La La prints.
Super cute jammies in organic cotton is Honest Baby's specialty.And considering they made Oprah's Favorite Things 2023, you can feel good about scooping up this year's set from them. Available in baby, adult, and pet sizes, in prints like Feelin' Pine (pictured), Night Pine, and Falling Snowflakes.
Mandy Moore has been collaborating with Gymboree for quite a while now, and that includes both pajamas and holiday clothes. For 2023, Gymboree's jammies include this Polar Bear Fair Isle print and the aptly-named Gymmies collection.
We look forward all year to the Target Family Pajamas Collection. The best part? All their designs can be mixed and matched, so you're able to customize each set for every member of your crew. Their collection includes graphics, stripes, plaids, buffalo checks, Hanukkah, and they even have slippers, socks, and pet options.
Pottery Barn never disappoints, and their 2023 holiday collection is proof. Check out this Heritage Santa print, Blush Heritage print, and the Rifle Paper Co. Hanukkah print. And, because it's Pottery Barn, you can pair the PJs with their whole line of traditional and personalized holiday goodies.
Love a Pink Christmas? Little Sleepies has you covered. The Merry & Bright print comes in pink and navy, Holiday Treats showcases the goodies of the season, and the Night at the Nutcracker print is a classic.
Merryreindeer is entirely dedicated to all things holiday pjs. From this soft Leafy Dreams print, best-selling Cocoa Cuddles, and new release Christmas Crew, they've got the holiday on lock.
JCPenny is pulling out all the stops this year. From this Snowflake Fair Isle style, the modern Space Santa print, to the beloved Mr. Grinch, we're just wild about their holiday offerings.
For every pair of family pajamas sold, The Company Store donate $1 to Ronald McDonald House, so you can feel good about snagging organic cotton options like the Fair Isle Mix (above), Holly Trees, and best-selling Skiing Animals.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
So you’re bored with the old green spruces? These unique Christmas trees are serving up a spicy season
Do you buck tradition? Cringe at the classics? Thrive on the unusual? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Who says you have to have a regular green Christmas tree? Shake things up this year with something out-of-the-ordinary. These unique Christmas trees range from the minimal and chic to the colorful and over-the-top, plus everything in between.
Replace your old tree, or add a fun unique Christmas tree to your holiday decor. Especially if you’re a multiple-Christmas-trees-in-any-room-they’ll-fit kind of person (we’re absolutely not judging), including a whimsical, non-traditional tree makes your holiday vibes even more interesting. Bedrooms, dining rooms, even an open corner of the kitchen is fair game for these. Any room in your home is perfect for a tree in our humble opinion. We’re pretty sure you’ll find a tree that suits your style, and we suggest decking them out with some equally whimsical ornaments.
Cactus Christmas Tree
Lamps Direct
We'll get right to the point (haha): this cactus Christmas tress comes pre-lit with 90 LED lights and classic gold and red Christmas balls.
They're actually calling this one an "Iron Ornament Display", but isn't that what all Christmas trees are? Anyhoo, this one is sleek, minimal, and adds some industrial flair. It also comes in silver.
Does it get anymore whimsical than this? Not only is this obviously unique as they come, the inverted shape actually leaves more room for presents and gathering!
The luxe is strong with this one! For some reason, feathers give us a plush, decadent feeling and just imagine how gorgeous this one would look with lights!
This is such a statement piece! Available in either white or acacia finish, you can adjust the branches and add ornaments to really customize the whole look.
The show-stopper of the season, this stunner includes a topper, a foundation of coordinating ornaments (leaving room for your own)—but wait. What if we told you it also produces snow that drifts down into the umbrella base and plays 25 classic Christmas songs? Because it does.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Just wait until you see these incredible holiday treats
Nothing says “Happy Holidays” quite like a box full of delicious sweet treats—and they taste even better when they’re delivered straight to your front door. It’s definitely the season where we would all use a little less stress, right? And, with straight-to-your-door delivery being the norm now, having the option to ship our favorite goodies is definitely a win. Afterall, you have enough on your plate (pardon the pun) between parties, gift shopping, and hosting.
We’ve rounded up our favorite companies that make it easy for you to send a loved one the sweetest gifts. There’s just something about food gifts that can feel a little more personal, and they’re perfect options for when you’re shopping for the person who seems to have everything. From flavor-packed mini cupcakes to hot chocolate bombs, and even some gluten-free and vegan options, here are our favorite services that deliver holiday treats guaranteed to put a smile on anyone’s face.
For a Gift They Can Customize: Sugarwish
Sugarwish
Instead of choosing people's treats, why not let them pick for themselves? Sugarwish is an online shop that allows gift-givers to send loved ones a "sugar wish." After choosing from varying-priced packages such as the Mini, the Medium, and the Grand, simply enter the recipient's email address, and he or she will get a sweet surprise in their inbox. After receiving the Sugarwish—which is essentially an e-gift card—recipients get to fill their virtual bag with whatever candy will satisfy their sweet tooth. They also offer customized cocktail boxes! Choose from drinks like rum old-fashioned, smoky margarita, Moscow mule, and more.
With so many festive flavors to treat all season long, these delectable mini cupcakes are the perfect way to share sweets without going overboard. Whether you want 100 for a class party or just a box of six to gift a friend, Baked By Melissa offers several sizes of their assorted holiday cupcakes for Christmas and Hanukkah. Flavors include White Chocolate Hot Cocoa, Vanilla Fluff, Christmas Sugar Cookie, Snowcap, and many more.
The Jinglebread Lil' Dipper Box comes with twelve classic gingerbread cookies and your choice of buttercream or cream cheese frosting. Or, opt for one of the Cookie Gift Boxes of 12 or 24 cookies in a festive box.
Who doesn't want to receive a red velvet cake in the mail? Daisy Cakes will send through Gold Belly to a lucky recipient one of their homemade four-layer cakes like their seasonal special is this Spiced Gingerbread and Eggnog cake, plus their classic, year-round flavors. They even have gluten-free and vegan options. Cakes arrive frozen, so you can store them until you need them before thawing and enjoying them.
For a Taste of Union Square, Anywhere: Breads Bakery Chocolate Babka
Goldbelly
Our Editorial Director raves about Breads Bakery Chocolate Babka, and she's never led us astray. Another delivery courtesy of Goldbelly, the braided loaf-shaped cake known as babka is at its best in New York City—and now your home!—thanks to Union Square’s legendary Breads Bakery. Dark chocolate chips. Nutella. French cultured butter. And in a 3-pack, shipped a few hours after being pulled from Breads Bakery's oven. How could you possibly go wrong?
Being gluten-free doesn't mean you have to forgo the holiday treats. Tate's Bakeshop has a wide variety of gluten-free cookies, dessert bars, and gift baskets, like the Gluten-Free Merry Christmas Gift Basket. They also offer several non-vegan holiday gift options.
Edible cookie dough? Yes, please! This unique dessert company has several flavors of cookie dough (like sugar cookie, nuts for nuts, and cake batter) that come in pints, and you can build your own four or six-pack. Or, spring for a party pack or any of their cookie + dough combo boxes. They have build-your-own cookie cake mixes and already-made cookie boxes too.
What started in the East Village in 2008—Christina Tosi’s Milk Bar—has now blossomed into a bakery with a cult following. And good news for those who don’t live near a storefront: they ship nationwide. Check out their holiday gift shop, which features over-the-top delectable goodness like Peppermint Bark Cake and Chocolate Mint Chip Cake Truffles. Or, opt for their popular goodies like Milk Bar Pie or Classic Birthday Cake.
Bake Me a Wish has a ton of variety when it comes to having holiday treats delivered. You can order chocolate cakes, key lime pies, New York cheesecakes, cookies, brownies, and even fruit and nut trays. They also have treat towers and holiday-themed gifts like jumbo holiday cupcakes and candy cane cookies.
For Old-World Goodies Everyone Will Love: European Deli
European Deli
A surefire way to create a merry holiday season is enjoying hard-to-find food items that make your loved ones feel like they've been traveling in Europe. European Deli as the one-stop gourmet destination for delicious specialties from Germany and nearby countries. Fans of Lebkuchen-Schmidt (gingerbread cookies and pastries) are in for a serios treat. European Deli is the exclusive partner in the U.S. and imports the Lebkuchen fresh from Germany. You won’t find it in stores. These goodies are also packaged in the most gorgeous tins and boxes they'll love displaying.
For Utterly Thick, Soft Cookie Perfection: Taylor Chip
Taylor Chip
Soft cookie lovers, this one is all for you. Taylor Chip creates sinfully (but in a good way) thick, soft, chewy, dense cookies that are the size of your palm (we aren't kidding). These are the cookies we think of when we think of Christmas cookies, and with flavors like Mocha Peppermint, Gingersnap, and Toasted Coconut, it's basically a box Santa himself wouldn't be able to turn down. Trust us when we say whoever you gift these to will be talking about them way beyond the holidays.
To Wow with Color: Baked in Color's Holiday Colors Chocolate Chip Cookie Tins
Baked in Color
Freshly-baked and beautifully colored cookies like the ones from Baked in Color are sure to brighten anyone's cold winter day. If you'd rather do something with more of a holiday theme, check out the Christmas Cookie Tin or the Hanukkah Cookie Tin. Naturally, Baked in Color is available via Goldbelly.
Harry & David boasts delicious seasonal fruit, cookies, and pastries, and their well-known Harry & David pears. They have a really impressive selection for everyone. Check out their holiday gifts here.
The holidays are a time for everyone to indulge—not just people without dietary restrictions. Enter Karma Baker, the scrumptious treat delivery service that only bakes up vegan and gluten-free desserts. From gingerbread houses to cupcake jars and cookie dough cakesicles, Karma has anything and everything sweet for your gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan friends. And if you happen to live in or around Los Angeles, local pick-up is available. Treats (for everyone) on demand? Yes, please.
Stand out during the season of cookies, cakes, and cupcakes by sending a gingerbread house. But not just any old gingerbread house—a customized gingerbread house. Whether you want to keep it simple and personalize your gift with the recipient's name or go big with a full-on customized gingerbread house—The Gingerbread Factory has you covered.
For an Underrepresented Dessert: Fairytale Brownie
Fairytale Brownie
Let's face it: Brownies are woefully underrepresented in the dessert world. Change that with an ooey-gooey brownie delivery from Fairytale Brownies (Seriously, when was the last time you saw someone upset about opening a box full of brownies?). All of the brownies are made from scratch, and you can even customize wooden boxes or tins in which to deliver the goods. Recipients will be thrilled to tear into an array of irresistible brownies with flavors such as cream cheese, raspberry swirl, and pecan blondie.
For Not Your Mother's Rice Krispie Treats: Treat House
Treat House
Just when you thought Rice Krispies treats couldn't get any more delicious, Treat House ups the ante. The all-American snack comes in flavors like birthday cake, cookies and cream, and caramel and sea salt. A perfect sweet treat for anyone on the list, they even have a holiday shop. Also, if you have friends or family members with food allergies, Treat House has you covered with nut-, dairy-, and gluten-free options.
Dylan’s Candy Bar has several impressive gift basket towers, including one for chocolate lovers, a gummy sweet treat tower, a Best of Dylan’s Candy Bar Bucket, and even a Movie Night bucket! If you want something specific for the holidays, opt for the classic Christmas Tackle Box or the Snow Many Sweets Paint Can.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Picking out toys is a gamble. Kids can go from sheer excitement one moment to losing all interest in about a week (let alone a few days).
While you might have been sold on all that these shiny, new items could do—whether it was the flashing lights, easy-to-memorize tunes, or mystic ability to move and shake—they eventually end up forgotten at the bottom of the toy box.
So if you’re in search of a gift that’ll pique your kid’s interest (and keep it!) this holiday season, it’s time to revisit the store shelves with our must-have list of open-ended toys from schleich®.
Their playsets are adorable, durable, and highly beneficial. As they grow with your children, they’ll also help nurture their imagination, creativity, social skills, and cognitive development along the way (that’s what we like to call a quadruple whammy).
Here are six open-ended toys that’ll keep your child entertained for years to come!
Use code TINYBEANS10 to save 10% off your next purchase from December 1 through December 31.
What are Open-Ended Toys & Why Are They Beneficial?
Open-ended toys are boundless toys. They don’t have specific instructions or a predetermined outcome and can be played with in many different ways. They give children the freedom to invent a new story over and over again, allowing them to foster their imagination and creativity, stimulate their social skills, and enhance their critical thinking and decision-making skills.
In short, kids can play by their own rules and interests as many times as they want.
Our 6 Favorite Open-Ended Toys for Kids
Large Barn with Animals and Accessories
$99.99
Kids can create their very own farmyard adventure right from their playroom. This large barn playset includes an expansive collection of toy animals, from cows and piglets to cats and doves, and farming accessories. They can grab barrels of hay with the working hay trolley or lead your cattle to their stalls. Plus, you can expand the fun of farming by adding other kits to your set.
$59.99
Future veterinarians will get a kick out of this pet hotel where all animals are welcomed. Puppies can roam around the obstacle course, while other furry friends can play on the seesaw or soar high on the moveable animal swing. This adorable set comes with an animal keeper and a handful of toy animals (we’re talking kittens, a baby goat, a golden retriever puppy, a guinea pig, and a whole lot more).
$19.99
The Farm World Starter Set comes with the right amount of play animals to introduce your farmer-in-training to the basics of animal caretaking. With a cow, donkey, sheep, and rooster, your kids can create endless farmyard fun, then once they’ve mastered their pen, they can grow their farm with other unique add-ons from schleich®.
$29.99
Calling all young equestrians, this horse set can bring your stable dreams to life. With a pinto foal, a Knabstrupper foal, a mustang foal, an Arab mare, and a Pintabian mare figurine, children can gallop through fields, groom their herd, and embark on a long journey.
$69.99
Animal heroes, it’s time to lace up your boots and prepare to be muddy, as you dive into the wild. This 10-piece, adventurous kit lets little ones play as Ranger Tom, Ted the Meerkat, or a lion through its realistic details and moveable parts. Every day crafts a new adventure, from exploring the lush jungle and taking friends on an epic safari ride.
$19.99
Parents, put your child’s request for a unicorn at bay with the Llamacorn—a charming mythical creature that’s part llama and part unicorn. This fantastical figurine is the perfect companion to bring beloved fairy tales to life as well as create brand new journeys. Kids can activate the exciting superpowers of the llamacorn’s horn or prance through an enchanted forest, adding a twinkle of magic to their playroom this season.
Save 10% on your next schleich® toy purchase with code TINYBEANS10 from December 1 through December 31 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Offer cannot be combined with any other offers or codes.
Party like it’s midnight—even when it’s really only 8 p.m
Those excited faces as your kids shout “Five! Four! Three! Two! One!” as the midnight ball drop are adorable—but there’s nothing cute about the next day when they’re exhausted. Thankfully Netflix’s New Year’s countdowns for kids are back and better than ever to help you welcome 2024 without sacrificing bedtime. For even more fun, check out our favorite ideas for celebrating New Year’s Eve at home.
The Netflix New Year’s countdown offerings include a whopping 13 different countdowns featuring some of Netflix’s most popular shows, like Skylanders Academy,Super Monsters, and Boss Baby. The new countdowns also include several tailored for tweens.
To check out what Netflix’s New Year’s countdown might look like, check out the promo for 2019.
Each of the on-demand countdowns will be available to stream starting soon, so you can even pre-screen them to decide which one will make for the best New Year’s Eve bash. All you have to do is search “countdowns.” Easy peezy!
It’s time to get trimming with some of the most unique Christmas ornaments out there
Whether your tree has been up since November 1, or you wait until December is in full swing, these unique Christmas ornaments will definitely put you in a festive mood. Although a lot of our priorities are making sure under the tree is all taken care of, you can’t ignore the tree itself, right? These baubles are some of the most fun, funky, and funny we found. And we looked at a lot of ornaments. Maybe we ended up also buying a lot of those ornaments, too.
Maybe your tree is severely lacking in the Swiftie ornament department. Perhaps you’ve decided to go for a more organic holiday vibe. It’s possible you’re looking for the perfect Amazon lover in your life. We’ve made this list. We’ve checked it twice. And no matter what you’re looking for when it comes to unique Christmas ornaments, we have it here.
Kait Cup Christmas Ornament
Altar'd State
If you're as attached to your emotional support tumbler as we are, this is the ornament for you.
The famous El Arroyo marquee is ready to hang on your tree this year. Made from mercury glass, it's available in multiple quotes so it's perfect for your family.
Even our own parents remember the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer movie, so the nostalgia is strong with these super cute light-up ornaments. Bumble, Rudolph, and Santa are all here, crafted out of faux fur and velvet, embellished with lights, and ready to adorn your tree!
Jim Marvin has been the man behind the White House holiday decorations for years (1997-2014, to be exact), so there's no surprise that this collection is capital 'S'tunning. Every single ornament is handmade, making them the perfect heirlooms, and they're available in a bunch of different absolutely beautiful colors.
It goes without saying that a state or province-themed ornament would automatically be a keepsake, but these handmade geode-inspired ones make them extra special. And yep, they come in the shape of U.S. states and Canadian provinces, too. They're created by Kerry Brooks in Minneapolis, MN.
Not only are these precious ornaments made in Nepal from 100% wool, they're created in a Fair Trade Certified™ facility, directly benefiting the artists who produce them. They hang from a jute string for a handmade touch!
Laser-cut names make up these personalized snowflakes! They're perfect for each member of the family and they make a really cute gift. Each one is unique and handmade in the U.S.
We know you like unique (you wouldn't be reading this if you didn't, right?), so these (literal) Funky Tree Ornaments are right up your ally. Each funky tree is hand-selected from a collection of fun colors and styles and sent with a ribbon and an attractive box. Add a bow and boom, gift-ready.
It's likely you've seen Kurt Adler's name next to a bunch of decorations before. This set is bold and beautiful with a classic twist, in true Kurt Adler style.
Give this holiday side the respect it deserves with this deviled egg ornament from Sur La Table. Handcrafted in Poland exclusively for Sur La Table, this entire ornament collection is stunning.
We never said we were only including tree ornaments on this list, did we? (No, really, did we? We're parents. We have no idea what we said five minutes ago.)
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
With a little planning—and forgiveness—surviving the holidays without losing your temper is possible
It’s the holiday season—you’re supposed to be happy, jolly, merry… right? RIGHT? Maybe not entirely. If you’re like most parents, the holidays come with equal parts Christmas cheer and seasonal stress. On one hand, we want to spoil our kids and feel their joy as they tear off the wrappings of their brand-new bikes or coveted toys—on the other, on the other, we can’t help but see red (the bad kind) as a result of all the ways they act out leading up to the big day.
And it’s no wonder: Between the added expenses, event overload, family drama, and travel plans, there can be more than merriment lurking behind those “perfect” holiday moments. In fact, according to a C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital report, one in six parents reports being more stressed during the holidays (with moms reporting twice as much stress as dads). As for what causes most yuletide woes, parents ranked holiday shopping, keeping kids healthy, household finances, party planning, meal-making, and criticism from family members as the biggest offenders
The holidays usually mean increased spending, a change of schedule, interaction with extended family, and of course, less sunlight, says Los Angeles-based psychologist Tara Klein. “We need to be extra careful about self-care during this time to have the emotional resilience for all the ups and downs that go along with the holidays.”
What that means is with planning—and forgiveness (of you and your kids!)—surviving the holidays without completely losing it on your little sugarplums is possible. Here’s how to make it happen:
Find Ways to Alleviate Financial Stress
If you’re worried about how to afford all those gifts—you’re not alone. A poll conducted by debt resolution company Beyond Finance found that more than two-thirds of people said holiday spending ups their stress levels—82 percent worried they won’t be able to pay for all the gifts they want to buy. Here are some tips for surviving the holidays when it comes to finances:
Make a budget—and stick to it. Be realistic about what you can spend and map out your gift-giving list on paper. Then, be sure to stick to your plans! Need some help? Microsoft offers this free budget-making template
Get creative with gifts. You don’t have to buy all your gifts; there are plenty of crafts and “I Owe You” items that your family and friends would be just as happy to receive. Offer your scrubbing skills to a relative in need of a car wash. Spend the evening babysitting for a friend overwhelmed with her littles (Best. Gift. Ever.). And, DIYers: From fresh-baked cookies to homemade photo gifts, this is your chance to shine!
Take advantage of free shipping. While there is an anxiety-ridden rite of passage to braving the mobbed post office during the days before Christmas—it’s unnecessary. Save money on shipping by taking advantage of stores that offer free shipping for purchases.
Be honest with family members. It’s OK to simmer down the expectations. Tell your extended family members that your budget is tight this year and that they’ll receive “creative” gifts (or just cards) instead of pricey gifts. Most people will welcome your honesty—it may even take the load off them, too—and you’ll feel better knowing everyone knows what to expect.
Learn How to Handle the Constant “I WANTs” from Your Kids
Is your child summoning her inner Veruca Salt whenever you take her to Target? Deep breaths! It’s hard to handle the barrage of “I wants” that can possess our kids during the holidays, but it’s not entirely their fault. After all, every ad and conversation they have about Christmas likely has to do with gift-giving. So the wanting is normal, but it’s the demands you need to curb. Here’s how to manage:
Make a Wish Board to help kids feel heard. Parent coach Abigail Wald—author of a Parenting Survival Deck that includes tips for handling tricky kid behaviors (click here to get the “Want Wanter” card for free!)—recommends that families make a Wish Board to help kids organize their holiday wants.
“Let them put every single thing that they want on there. Then, throughout the next month or two, you can help them physicalize it by cutting out little pictures and moving things up and down the list of where they want them. It can become a fun little connective art project that the two of you have together, which takes down some of the wanting,” says Wald.
She also suggests checking back in with the list: Every time your child thinks they would have played with that one thing, put a checkmark by it; whichever has the most checkmarks by the end might be what they want the most.
Talk about giving. We all know what the holidays are supposed to be about, but to the typical kid, it’s all about getting presents. Help your kids see it in a different light by talking about what your family will give the grandparents or other extended family members; have them make small gifts to pass out to friends, neighbors, and teachers; take part in a neighborhood toy drive or an “Adopt a Family” campaign. The more they experience the joy of giving, the less they may want.
Take pictures. When your child begs for a particular toy at a store, pull out your phone and take a picture of the item to add to their special Wish List. Often, acknowledging what the child wants by photographing it is enough to quiet the wanting.
Teach them how to properly accept gifts (even the ones they don’t like). It might not be easy to watch, but it’s normal for kids to complain when they open a sweater instead of a Switch. Your kid is not “spoiled “or “ungrateful;” they’re just a developing human that hasn’t refined their filter. Yet.
To help, try this: Wrap an assortment of random items—a rock from the driveway, a toddler fork, a stick—and put them wherever you open holiday gifts. Then, take turns opening gifts and showing an exaggerated level of gratitude over each thing (OMG, “I’ve always wanted a fork like this!” “Thank you so much! This rock will look perfect on my dresser!” or “Wow, this stick is PERFECT!”). You’ll get enough giggles to get the point across, and hopefully, your kids will transfer the game to real life when they receive their next sweater.
Try to Keep (at least some of) Your Kids’ Routines
For kids, veering from the everyday routine can be a recipe for disaster. And even though the holidays can mean no school, travel, and a candy-lined upheaval of the norm, you can still keep at least some of your regular rituals, including finding time for naptime and following traditional bedtime routines.
As Harvard Health Publishing Senior Faculty Editor Claire McCarthy, MD, states, “As tempting as it may be to let kids stay up late and sleep late throughout the holidays, try to stay within an hour of usual times, except for special occasions (like New Year’s Eve). Same goes for mealtimes (be sure your kids get three healthy meals a day, preferably with you and not in front of the television).”
Keep Kids Busy—Especially During Family Gatherings.
If your kid has something to do, they are less likely to be tugging on your arm demanding attention or melting down on the living room floor over a broken candy cane. Bring toys or games to keep your toddlers busy during family gatherings, and let older children help by passing out hors d’oeuvres or taking guests’ coats.
Make a List of All the Events—and Decide Which Ones to Skip
School concerts! Holiday office parties! Family gatherings! Santa! There is so much going on over the holidays that it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But YOU DON’T HAVE TO DO IT ALL. Write a list of all the events happening over the month and decide which ones you can do and which ones you can cut. Then, put all those things on a family calendar that everyone can see. This way, you don’t overextend yourself (and your kids know what to expect). The more relaxed you feel, surviving the holidays without losing it on your kids won’t feel so unattainable.
Keep a Designated Friend on Speed Dial
If you’re worried about surviving the holidays without losing it, Wald advises finding a “listening partner” for when times get tough. “I love to have a speed dial buddy—a friend I can text or call when I need to check in. You can feel alone even amid a lot of people, so it’s nice to have someone who knows your life, who knows your kids, who’s got your back, who you can text or call from the bathroom, from the car, or while you’re going for a walk. Just someone who can help you regroup and get grounded again,” she says.
Surviving the Holidays Means Remembering It Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect
Melissa Heckscher
The entire holiday season is a little like my 2019 holiday card. It took so long to get my three kids to sit still with corresponding “Happy. New. Year” signs that we attracted a small crowd of onlookers who chuckled at my Sisyphean efforts to corral the trio into a picture with at least three open pairs of eyelids (because after a while, that was my bare minimum). The moments leading up to the photo were filled with arguing, frustration, and the promise of candy, but all I see now is that perfect picture and those sweet smiles.
Wald offers sage advice about surviving the holidays, “It’s the things that happen year after year that they will remember most, so if a particular holiday time winds up pear-shaped, don’t worry. It doesn’t need to be perfect; it’s the fact that it’s happening at all that matters.” So be gentle with yourself and allow yourself—and your kids—some grace.