Our Christmas Week Recap: The Gifts My Kids Haven’t Put Down
- Jebrea Hines
- Dec 29, 2025
- 3 min read
Christmas week always feels like a blur. Wrapping paper everywhere, sweet moments, sugar highs, late nights, and kids bouncing from one thing to the next. With a 6 year old and a 1 year old, I was especially curious to see which gifts would actually stick once the excitement settled.
Once things slowed down, a few gifts really stood out. Not because they were over the top or expensive, but because they were thoughtful, age appropriate, and at really great price points. These are the gifts my kids have genuinely been playing with all week. The kind you feel good about buying because they support learning, creativity, and real life.

If you are saving ideas for birthdays, learning tools, or even next Christmas, this list is a great place to start.
Gifts My 6 Year Old Boy Hasn’t Put Down
At this age, curiosity and confidence are growing fast. These gifts met him right where he is. Learning, building, imagining, and dreaming big.
This has been one of the biggest wins. He loves building and problem solving, and this kit held his attention longer than expected. He followed directions, experimented, and proudly showed off what he built.
Why it workedIt blends learning with play and never feels like school, even though it absolutely is.
This gift sparked so much curiosity. He has loved stepping outside at night, exploring the sky, and asking questions that turn into really meaningful conversations.
Why it workedIt encourages wonder and exploration beyond screens.
One of his goals is to be a YouTuber or gamer someday, so this gift felt very intentional. He has been recording videos, narrating pretend shows, and creating his own little world.
Why it workedIt supports creativity and confidence while still being age appropriate and supervised.
We paired the camera with a fun gaming chair and age appropriate Nintendo Switch games like Luigi’s Mansion 3, Mario Party Jamboree, Pokémon, and even an Elf on the Shelf themed game.
Why it workedIt made him feel supported in his interests while keeping healthy boundaries around content and balance.
Gifts My 1 Year Old Girl Keeps Reaching For
At one year old, toys do not need to be flashy. The best ones encourage movement, exploration, and independence without overwhelming her.
These have all been on repeat this week.
This was an immediate favorite. She loves chasing the ball, trying to throw it, and clapping for herself after every attempt.
Why it workedIt encourages movement, balance, and confidence, especially on indoor days.
This includes a xylophone and simple drums that let her explore sound without loud noise or flashing lights.
Why it workedIt supports sensory development and creativity in a calm, age appropriate way.
Simple and classic, but surprisingly engaging. She stacks, knocks them down, and keeps coming back.
Why it workedThey grow with her and support motor skills without batteries or distractions.
This little chair has become her go to spot for independent play. She climbs in, presses buttons, and explores at her own pace.
Why it workedIt encourages independence while keeping play safe and contained.
Perfect for practicing balance and movement. She pushes it around proudly like she has somewhere important to be.
Why it workedIt builds confidence and gross motor skills naturally.
This doll has been such a sweet and meaningful addition. She carries her around, hugs her, and includes her in playtime.
Why it workedIt encourages nurturing play and representation, which is something I deeply care about.
A Special Note on Books
Alongside these toys, both kids received a beautiful collection of books focused on loving their skin and hair, building confidence, faith, prayer, and understanding God’s love.
Those books have already become part of our bedtime routines and quiet moments. I will be sharing a full blog soon dedicated to the children’s books we are intentionally choosing and why, because this category of gifts matters just as much as play.
Mama Thoughts 💌
None of these gifts were about trends or price tags. They supported how we live, learn, and grow together as a family. If you are bookmarking ideas for birthdays or future holidays, I hope this list helps you choose gifts with intention.
Thank you for being here and supporting KnowMomLife.
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