Kids Holiday Gifts that Inspire Adventure

by Jessica Pawl

Preparing for the holidays can feel overwhelming. And adding more “stuff” to a home that’s already crammed with toys isn’t exactly appealing. That said, as much as we advocate for gifting experiences over material goods, there’s something about that rustle of wrapping paper on Christmas morning.

With that in mind, we’ve rounded up gift options that inspire adventure in kids, whether it’s their first holiday season or their tenth. In addition to toys that entertain, these ones educate and stimulate curiosity. And as you close out the year and head into a new one, what could possibly be better than that?

Ages 0 – 3

Let’s start with the littlest ones. From newborn to those squirrely twos, we’ve got a round-up of exploration-inspiring goodies to distract and delight.

My First Atlas and Stuffed Globe Set ($49.95) | This gift pairs a plush globe that baby can play with now, and an atlas that they can read later (ages 3-6)
Let’s Go Outside Chew-Proof Book ($5.50) | A truly baby and toddler friendly book that they can happily rustle, read and chew on (we love bringing these on long car rides and planes!)
“My Happy Camper” Play Set ($35) | This clever camper unfolds to be campsite with lights, sounds and songs, recommended for 12 months and up
Toy Camera ($13) | For ages 6 months and up, twist the camera lens to see and hear colors in four languages or press the shutter for a pop-up pretend picture
Inflatable Indoor Canoe and Paddle ($99) | Technically for ages 3+, our little one loved this soft and canoe that can be blown up to bring a bit of sun on snowy or cool days spent inside
Light-Up Learning Camping Lantern ($15) | For ages 6 months and up, this pop-up lantern introduces baby to colors, counting, animals and more

Ages 3 – 6

For kids slightly older, we’ve sought out adventure-themed toys that not only entertain but stimulate. Open-ended options – like dress up – but also STEM-geared technical toys like binoculars with a night-vision spin…

Kids Night-Vision Binoculars ($13) | A built-in flashlight makes these binoculars stand out in the crowd, allowing kids to explore once the sun sets
Durable Camp Lantern ($20) | This lantern offers six colors of light to choose from with nature sounds – like rain and thunder or birds chirping – that will loop for up to 30 minutes of imaginative play
Adventure Dress-Up Trunk ($219) | Aviator, outback explorer and archeologist make up the three full costumes (16 pieces) included in this fun selection, designed for ages 3- 5
Kid’s Belt Bag ($19-28) | In a variety of fun and kid-approved prints, this 1L belt bag is perfect for stashing small treasures found on hikes or taking to recess thanks to wipeable fabric and a “belongs to” badge on back
Passport Craft Set ($10) | With a set of exotic stamp stickers, this set of a dozen pretend passports is a ticket to anywhere their hearts desire
Nature Kaleidoscope ($10) | Pick a flower or add some grasses to the viewing window of this kaleidoscope and create a dazzling display of color and intricate detail
Globe Puzzle ($20) | A learning experience that allows kiddos to pull and place continents with their names and native animals to each; a great conversation starter and travel tool

Ages 7 and Older

And for kids ages seven and older, we’re leaning into creativity and learning, with a VR experience, a monthly subscription option and a new instant film camera to capture every exciting moment.

Explorer’s Guide for the World’s Most Adventurous Kid ($17) | A detailed look at 100 of the world’s most exciting and exotic locales, written for ages 9 and older
Virtual Reality World Atlas ($60) | Use mom or dad’s cell phone to turn goggles into a virtual reality world, where kids can explore foreign countries, the tallest buildings and global landmarks
Stargazing Camping Lego Set ($24) | A trailer, tent and telescope for prime dark-sky viewing creates a buildable oasis with this set, created for ages 7+
Monthly Subscription: Global Kitchen Adventures ($21+/mo) | This special delivery serves up recipes, utensils, crafts and more that are all related to cultural foods loved across the world (pizza in Rome, empanadas in Argentina!)
High-Res, Compact Binoculars ($19) | In a rainbow of shades, these high-resolution binoculars are ideal for travel, with soft eye pieces and shock absorbing design
Instant Mini Camera ($99) | Portable and packable, this selfie-friendly instant camera prints quick mini photos wherever your adventures take you