Cheap Christmas Gifts

Every Christmas, it seems that toy stores tell us that there’s a new series of hottest toys available to give our little ones during the holidays. They top every kid’s “must have” list – but you have to wonder if your child really wants the toy, or if they simply want one because it seems all their friends are asking for it too? With these type of hot-ticket toys, parents can bet that the fad won’t last and there will be some other new toy to takes its place next month. Sadly with these coveted toy gifts, their playing power lasts only a couple days before kids get bored and stop playing with them in favor of their old favorites – so what toys are these that kids always turn to?

Old classics of course. I’ve put together some ideas for classic Christmas gifts for kids this season. The best thing about these classic gifts is that they tend to all be very inexpensive, especially in comparison to most toys bought in toy stores. Try choosing one of these special gift ideas for a child this Christmas – I guarantee they won’t be disappointed by these classic picks. They’ll be playing with them for years to come.

• Puzzles… not all puzzles are boring. Spice up this gift by picking a picture of your child’s favorite cartoon character or hobby. Putting the pieces of the puzzle together can be made into an activity where you get to spend time together talking with your child too. And if you’re up for the challenge, there are 3-D puzzles now available for you to complete which are very impressive looking when finished.

Disney-themed jigsaw puzzle

• Play dough… what child doesn’t like getting their hands dirty and creating something new? Play dough is a great gift that promises endless hours of entertainment that is a new playing experience every time. Choose exciting colors of dough for your kid to mold and sculpt with, as well as a few fun cookie cutter shapes.
• Crayons and coloring books… these provide creative entertainment for kids beyond plane and road trips. For younger kids, stick with the fat crayons which also come in different scents to match the color. Older kids will enjoy thinner crayons with more varieties of different color shades. This is the perfect present for developing artists.
• Bubbles… kids love bubbles. It’s just a fact that defies explanation. Make the bubble bottle even more fun by getting outrageously big wands or wands with kooky designs/shapes. The best part is this gift is practically free since it’s so simple and fast to make your own bubble solution.
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Tags: books, christmas, classic, dollar store, stocking stuffer, toy

I’ve entered full throttle mode on my Christmas gift shopping. On my frolics online to secure presents, I’ve come across these 10 gifts being sold on websites that I thought were absolutely phenomenal. At $5 (and sometimes less!), you get an incredible bargain deal for a really classy present that someone is sure to enjoy. Depending on how many friends and family are on your gift list this year, try to buy enough items to earn free shipping (since shipping costs are the only minor bummer about online shopping). However with careful planning, I was able to secure free shipping more than a few times. I haven’t been able to take advantage of all these cheap deals yet, so you can help me!

1. For anyone on your list who’s into retro-cool items, check out this absolutely adorable Fire department pen holder ($4.15). It will keep office writing utensils organized and has such wonderful detailing that it’s sure to brighten up any work space. It looks more like a mini sculpture than a pen holder!

2. I can’t believe this Air flow seat cushion is only $4.75. It’s great for use in the office, home or in the car. The special mesh design on the cushion is made to keep you cool and support your back.

3. If you have an acquaintance who likes unbearably cute kitchen items then this Apple cup and saucer ($3.70) is perfect. It adds color and fun to any kitchen since the cup is shaped like a big red apple. And at that price, honestly you cannot find a better unique cup design.

4. This Midnight Moon Oil Warmer ($3.70) is made of glazed porcelain and uses small tea lights to slowly warm your aromatic oils. Aromatherapy fans will love the special design and oil warming strategy. Even when not is use it adds a little elegance to any living room or bedroom.

5. I was so impressed with these handcrafted Peacock earrings (at only $2.35 per pair!) I bought 2 for my girlfriends and a pair for myself. The color of the handmade beads are a wonderful whirl of blues and greens that exactly match a peacock’s plumes. The earrings are big enough to make a statement but small enough to still look elegant.

6. This Glass Rose Candleholder ($4.90) reminded me of something out of “Beauty and the Beast.” It’s absolutely breath-taking and hard to believe it’s old-fashioned blown glass for that price. This gift kicks home decorating up a notch.

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Tags: $5 or less, books, home decorating, jewelry, pictures, scented