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Cubby’s Epic Gift Guide for Kids of All Ages

updated Oct 27, 2022
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

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Confession: I have a secret gift closet. I know it sounds excessive, but hear me out. Throughout the year, I keep small items stored for the loved ones in my life (let’s be honest — 90% of this closet is dedicated to my daughter) in a spare closet no one goes into. If I see something I think someone will like — even if it’s February and nowhere near gifting season — I’ll pick it up and stick it in the closet with a Post-it note with their name on it. Then, when a birthday or winter holidays roll around, I pluck items from my gift closet, wrap them, and send them on to my gift recipient. Magically, my daughter has not caught onto the secret gift closet.

Since I became a parent, I struggled with how many gifts to give my daughter, and how to make those gifts intentional. I’ve found the trick is to stay in tune with their passions and interests (which are, of course, ever-changing), and to think of things they may want to be introduced to. When I saw my daughter diving into the Captain Underpants series? Well, it was high time to grab this comic book kit. When she begged to listen to Taylor Swift on the ride to school? We knew a karaoke machine was in her future. 

This year in particular, gifting is bound to be a bit different. With shipping delays already anticipated, retailers are urging shoppers to get a head start. And parents are busier than ever, making it tough to scan all the different options for the perfect gift. But don’t worry — we’ve got you. Our editorial team members at Cubby are the biggest toy enthusiasts you’ll ever meet, and we’re passionate about finding great picks for kids of all ages and interests — at a variety of price points that work for parents. 

So here are all our gift guides in one beautiful, easily navigable place, as well as my top picks from all of the gift guides. And parents, don’t despair — we haven’t forgotten you either! 

Happy gifting! 

Babies & Toddlers

1 / 5
Amazon
$93.75

Little ones will have plenty of activities to keep them occupied with this combination walker and busy board. The solid wood construction makes it a sturdy walker that won't be an eyesore in your home.

2 / 5
Walmart
$18.99
was $29.99

Make reading stress-free by giving babies and toddlers books they can't rip. This Under the Sea soft book even comes with a matching mermaid doll.

3 / 5
Wayfair
$77.99
was $104.96

Rocking is excellent for gross motor development, balance, core strength, and more. To babies and toddlers though, rocking is simply fun. This rocking unicorn is soft and offers some back support. It even plays a song when kids squeeze its ear.

4 / 5
Barnes & Noble
$29.99

Understanding cause and effect is one of the earliest indications that your little's motor skills are moving and grooving, and this adorable wooden cow will help them get there. The brightly colored cow comes with six wooden shapes for sorting. The head is spring-mounted for a little bounce when touched. This delightful gift is also a brilliant display piece for nurseries!

5 / 5
Fat Brain Toys
$21.95

Garage band sounds are still light years away, moms and dads, relax 😉 As much as we adore analog, low-tech toys, there's definitely a time and a place for some interactive, battery-operated fun. And these bongos really light us up. Featuring two sides that your baby can toggle between for regular bongo beats and animal-sound stylings, music-making is easy and full of color. It's also the perfect size to fit between their squishy little legs, so pull up a spot on the carpet and get ready to rock.

Little Kids

1 / 5
Amazon
$19.99

What's cooler than a 3-foot-tall dollhouse? One they can design themselves. This wall sticker playhouse comes with over 650 stickers, and it doesn't take up any floor space making it perfect for small spaces.

2 / 5
Amazon
$109.99

Designed specifically for kids, this smart speaker allows them to play their favorite book, listen to their favorite music, and even record their own audio to playback. Other features include a nightlight, clock, and Yoto Radio, among others.

3 / 5
Walmart
$22.98

Little kids will be delighted when they watch their new fish magically swim out of its bag into water. Once their fish comes to life, they can interact with their little pet by feeding it with a magic bottle.

4 / 5
Etsy
$72.31

Create an amazing play world that requires very little setup with this play tent tablecloth. Throw it over the table and the adults can enjoy a meal while the kids entertain themselves underneath.

5 / 5
Fat Brain Toys
$89.99

A ride-on car meets a scooter meets the future! This unique car uses natural forces to move, so all they need to do is turn the wheel to get going. The weight limit goes all the way up to 220 pounds, which means the whole family can take turns going for a spin.

Big Kids

1 / 5
Walmart
$24.97

Every family has a skateboarder in the bunch. This board comes fully assembled, with all the important safety features parents look for. But don't forget the helmet and shin guards!

2 / 5
Uncommon Goods
$25.00

These volcano and coral crystals are pretty as they are fun to make. It's a unique science experiment that (safely) teaches kids about chemical reactions.

3 / 5
Amazon
$19.99

Who else desperately remembers trying to keep their Tamagotchi alive against all odds? Give your kids the same experience with the original virtual reality pet. They might even learn some responsibility as they feed it, play with it, check its health, and more.

4 / 5
Amazon
$39.49
was $69.99

Kids can create their own videos with this high-definition camera that includes its own animated backgrounds. The camera includes a tripod and a green screen, giving kids everything they need to independently create. Be sure to monitor younger kids if they proceed to upload their videos to social media.

5 / 5
Amazon
$11.00
was $23.96

"The Magic Tree House" books have been a hit for two decades. Not only are kids whisked into a magical world, but they also learn a little history along the way. And with tons of books in the series, your avid readers won't tire of these any time soon.

Teens & Tweens

1 / 5
Amazon
$115.00

Teens and preteens are all about selfies. They'll enjoy this Polaroid camera that will introduce them to the original instant selfie.

2 / 5
Uncommon Goods
$40.00

Bubble tea is incredibly popular and totally Instagram-worthy. Give them the opportunity to make their own bubble tea themselves with this kit that includes two tea flavors. It also comes with stainless steel straws large enough to suck up the boba.

3 / 5
Urban Outfitters
$15.00

This simple beanie makes a bold statement while keeping their head warm at the same time. Bright, neon colors are popular with the tween and teen crowd these days; you really can't go wrong with such a simple and trendy gift.

4 / 5
Bed Bath & Beyond
$19.99

Have a future star on your hands? This cute ring light lets them look their best while filming tutorials, videos, or just getting set up for video calls. It features various brightness levels and color temperatures, so your teen or tween can customize their lighting and start finding their best angles right away.

5 / 5
Amazon
$20.00

This trivia game for teens will teach them facts they probably should have known but didn't. Which hand does the Statue of Liberty use to hold her torch? What city in South America is most populated? The game features a good mix of easy and difficult questions, making it accessible and fun for varying ages and abilities.

Parents & Caregivers

1 / 5
Freshly
$8.49

Hangry parents aren't happy parents. So, if you can ensure your favorite couple gets a few key meals in during the day, then you're helping out in a big way. Unlike traditional meal kits that still require an hour or two of cooking and cleaning, Freshly does all the prep and dirty work. When their box arrives, all they have to do is heat and eat. Even if you just go with breakfast meals (probably the most important meal for worn-out parents) for the first few weeks, it'll keep their energy levels up when it matters most!

2 / 5
Anthropologie
$96.60
was $138.00

This oh-so-soft throw blanket might look simple and uninspired, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Featuring luxurious faux fur and availability in six fun colors (including a statement-making coral and mint), it's a gem that will sparkle in any room. Be it for a cat nap on the couch or a soft sleeping spot on their littles' bedroom floor, when they're having a particularly-tiring nightmare flair-up, this blanket comes to play.

3 / 5
Pinhole Press
$32.99

New year. New goals. Same great family. Treat your grandparent, sibling, or cousin to a calendar that makes them smile big every time they pencil something in. Featuring large, easy-to-read text and a wire-o for easy hanging, this personalizable wall calendar — with spots for 12 of your favorite photos — is just the thing to ring in 2022.

4 / 5
Food52
$45.00

Anyone who loves chocolate and art would happily squirl this box away for a rainy day (because this totally isn't everyday chocolate). Whichever box you choose (i.e. a 12-piece, 24-piece, or 36-piece) promises a medley of European-style ganaches and pralines (with flavors like Basil Lime and Striped Gianduja), plus a rainbow of bold, hand-painted and glossy confections (Pop Rock Praline, Speculoos Cookie...the list goes on). Willy Wonka's gone completely chic with his contemporary, chocolatier and famed pastry chef, Kriss Harvey, and we're so here for it. Oh! And not to worry about the chocolates losing their integrity in transit — all orders ship overnight express from Los Angeles, so your chocolate arrives in tip-top shape.

5 / 5
Williams Sonoma
$79.95

If your caregiver is renowned for charcuterie artistry, then you can't let another gift-giving occasion go by without serving this up! As practical as it is elegant, this marble board is naturally cool to the touch and helps keep cheese, fruits, and accompaniments at the ideal presentation temperature. The natural stone is hand polished to a semi-luster that sets foods off beautifully. And a heart shape for the win!