10 Great Stocking Stuffer Ideas

Here are 10 great ideas for cheap, but awesome stocking stuffers that don’t involve massive amounts of sugar.

1.  Art supplies

I have to admit, I never thought of this one before, but it’s so simple!  Crayons, water color sets, modeling clay, stencils, and stamps would all fit into a stocking. They’re also pretty easy to find and purchase.

2.  Bath squirters

Often sold in sleeves (perfect for stuffing in a stocking), these toys are great for toddlers who might be too young for many other traditional stocking stuffers. Little kids love bath toys and it’s a great reason to get rid of some old bath toys.

3.  New toothbrush & toothpaste

If you’re the practical sort, this one is just for you! There are lots of great options to get your kids excited about brushing their teeth.  Try getting a spinning toothbrush with your kid’s favorite movie character on it or a light up brush that signals the length of time your little one should be brushing.

4.  Yo-yo or Paddle Ball

Classic toys like a yo-yo or paddle ball are great for the Christmas stocking.  I love these sorts of toys because they usually provide some quality time as the adults try to teach the kids how to use them.  While you’re teaching your son how to “walk the dog” with his new yo-yo, you’re making memories … instead of watching as they zone out with a new video game.

5. Books

Little board books are another perfect stocking stuffer for tiny hands! Paper backs work well for older kids too. Looking for more quality time? Get books you can read aloud to your little one.

6.  Cards

Flash cards, card games like “Go Fish” and “Old Maid,” and playing cards for older kids.  Cards fit perfectly into a stocking and can provide hours of fun and learning.  There are lots of great card games and they are all relatively inexpensive.  Not interested in games? Now could be the perfect time to start Junior’s baseball card collection or teach Susie her colors with a cute set of flash cards.

7.  Novelty Toys

Stockings are the perfect vehicle for gifting all those cute Holiday novelty toys you bought on impulse.  A wind up Santa Claus, a dancing solar powered snowman, a set of glow in the dark snowflakes, or a giant plastic candy cane…. These toys won’t last forever, but the memories will!

8.  Pick-Up Sticks

Do you remember this game? My brothers and sisters and I used to love spending rainy afternoons playing pick-up sticks.  I’m currently searching for a set to put in my little guy’s stocking.  These are a must on my list because they help build imagination and creativity without the mess of craft supplies.

9.  Maze Games

Plastic or wooden, these little mazes usually involve a tiny marble, so they might not be suitable for younger children. Older kids can’t help but get sucked in as they try to master the maze.  A couple of these in their stockings might just keep them from getting bored on that car ride to Grandma’s house for Christmas dinner.

10.  Oranges

Putting an orange in the Christmas stockings is an old tradition from a time when fresh fruit wasn’t so readily available.  If you’re trying to avoid sugary candies, but still want to include something sweet, an orange is a good choice.  A small and easy to peel variety would be just perfect. Added bonus:  the kids will have something healthy to snack on while they wait for you to finish Christmas morning breakfast.

I hope this list gave you some ideas. I’d love to hear your great stocking stuffer ideas! Share them in the comments.

Written by: Sara Parise