When I’m choosing toys for Arlo, I’m always curious to see what he goes back to once the wrapping paper has been cleared away. This guide is where I’m pulling together Christmas ideas for children who love making things, playing together or getting absorbed in a project of their own.
Some brands have offered review samples for consideration in this guide. Product details and press photographs are supplied by the brands where credited, and I add my own testing notes as we try the products. Prices can change, so check the linked retailer before ordering.
Creative toys and craft kits
Cosy Bedtime Stories from the Farm by Amanda Owen
Ten illustrated stories inspired by Amanda Owen’s family life at Ravenseat Farm in North Yorkshire. The stories include animal rescues, wildlife spotting and camping adventures, with artwork by Becca Hall. It is a lovely format for sharing a short story at bedtime with a child who enjoys animals and countryside adventures. Hardback £14.99. Shop Cosy Bedtime Stories from the Farm by Amanda Owen.
Find Your Drive by Billy Monger
Billy Monger’s book for readers aged 8+ draws on his experiences as a racing driver, commentator and para-athlete. It is written to encourage children to try challenges, build confidence and keep going when things become difficult. A thoughtful option for an older child who enjoys sport, cars or reading about real people’s experiences. Paperback £9.99. Shop Find Your Drive by Billy Monger.
A Poem for Every Night of the Year, edited by Allie Esiri
The tenth-anniversary edition of this anthology offers a poem for each night of the year. It is a gift that can become part of a family bedtime routine, with short reading sessions spread across the seasons. It would also suit a child who likes dipping into a book and finding a different voice or subject each time. £22. Shop A Poem for Every Night of the Year, edited by Allie Esiri.
Canal Toys Style 4 Ever Diamond Art LED Case
A craft gift for children who like working on a picture one little gem at a time. Guide price £19.99.
Crayola Colour Your Own Costume
A colour-in dinosaur or unicorn costume that turns a craft activity into dress-up play. See the retailer for the current price.
Craft Buddy Crystal Art 3D Buddies
These small 3D figures come with coloured gems to apply by following a coded design. Characters include Hedwig, Hello Kitty and Stitch. The finished figure can sit on a shelf or desk. £4.99 each. Shop Crystal Art Buddies at Craft Buddy.
Casdon My Vibe Glamour Heart Bag
I picked the Glamour Heart design because it would look lovely with my nieces’ Christmas outfits. My Vibe bags are aimed at children aged six and up. They can put the bag together and change the decorations, so there’s something to make before they get to wear it. Browse the My Vibe range at Casdon.
PLAYin CHOC Christmas Gift Set
£15 RRP, ages 3+. Children can slot the cardboard pieces together to build a 3D puzzle, discover the facts in the pack and have a chocolate treat along the way.
Games for the whole family
Big Potato Games The Muddles
Collect animal cards and combine them to create imaginary creatures. Rarer combinations score more points. RRP £10. Shop The Muddles at Big Potato Games, currently £9.99.
Not Mushroom
£14 RRP, ages 8+. A balancing game where players make room for their tiny fungi without toppling the stack. It’s the sort of game where a steady hand matters as much as your next move.
Tally Up!
£12 RRP, ages 8+. Roll the dice and decide when to bank your points or push your luck for a bigger score. The pocket-size format makes it easy to take to family visits.
Building and independent play
Bandai Anime Heroes One Piece Figures
These 17cm articulated figures are made for posing, displaying or recreating scenes from One Piece. RRP £19.99. Shop Monkey D. Luffy at Argos (£20). Best price spotted: £14.99 for Luffy Gear 5 at Lennies.
Brainstorm Toys Night Sky Projector
A space gift for a child who would happily cover their ceiling in stars. Four discs project views of planets, constellations, the Moon or a star field. RRP £39.99. Best price spotted: £37.74 at Eden, with free UK delivery.
BINCA Animals & Their Babies and Letters & Numbers Flashcards
Ages 18 months and up. Each set has 50 double-sided cards. Animals & Their Babies works for a simple matching game, while Letters & Numbers also comes with a phonics poster and a counting poem. £11.99 RRP per set.
Disney Darlings by JAKKS Pacific
An interactive doll with a wand that prompts it to respond during play. It’s aimed at children who enjoy making up little routines and stories with their dolls. The Minnie Mouse version is available from Smyths Toys.
More Christmas gift ideas: food gifts · stocking fillers · self-care gifts.
Last Updated on Wednesday, November 11, 2026 by Lavania Oluban