Holiday gift guide
Stocking stuffers for kids, by age
Small gifts can bring the biggest smiles. Here are stocking stuffer ideas for every stage — from soft, safe picks for babies to creative finds for big kids — plus a few tips for filling stockings thoughtfully.
For babies (0–12 months)
Keep it soft, safe, and simple — babies mostly love the crinkly paper anyway.
Crinkle or cloth book
Soft, light, and perfect for little hands.
Teether
Practical and always appreciated during teething season.
Cozy socks or booties
Grab the next size up so they fit all winter.
Bath toys
Squirt-free floating toys are easy to keep clean.
For toddlers (1–3 years)
Toddlers love anything they can hold, stack, or carry around all day.
Mini board books
Pocket-sized stories they can 'read' on their own.
Chunky crayons
Easy to grip and made for first scribbles.
Small animal figures
Great for pretend play — choose ones too large to swallow.
Bath crayons or foam letters
Turns the tub into a creative space.
For preschoolers (3–5 years)
Imagination is in full swing — small creative gifts go a long way.
Sticker books
Reusable sticker scenes keep them busy for ages.
Washable markers or paint sticks
Mess-friendly art that parents will thank you for.
Play dough set
Mini tubs and simple tools fit right in a stocking.
Toy cars or mini dolls
Small favorites that join every adventure.
For big kids (6+ years)
Older kids love gifts that match their hobbies and favorite characters.
Card or travel games
Fun for family nights and car rides.
Activity or joke books
Puzzles, mazes, and riddles to share.
Craft kits
Bracelets, keychains, or mini models to make themselves.
Character-themed accessories
A water bottle, hat, or lanyard with a favorite character.
Little treats & practical extras
The small things that round out a stocking.
Fun toothbrush
A character toothbrush makes brushing a little more exciting.
Hair clips or accessories
Small, useful, and easy to personalize to their style.
Mittens or a winter hat
Practical for the season — check their size first.
An age-appropriate treat
A little snack or sweet, keeping allergies and age in mind.
Thoughtful & keepsake ideas
Small gifts with a lot of meaning.
Personalized ornament
A yearly tradition they'll keep for life.
Handwritten note or coupon
'One trip for ice cream' or 'a special day with Grandma.'
Experience ticket
A tucked-in pass to a museum, show, or class.
Photo keepsake
A mini photo book or framed picture from the year.
Tips for picking the right one
Mind small parts for little ones
For children under 3, skip anything small enough to be a choking hazard, along with button batteries and magnets.
Match their current favorites
A favorite color, animal, or character turns a small gift into the one they reach for first.
Coordinate with family
Grandparents and relatives often fill stockings too — sharing ideas ahead of time avoids duplicates.
Size up on clothing extras
Socks, mittens, and hats in the next size up last through the whole winter.
Buying clothes or shoes? Check our baby & toddler size chart first.
Fill their stocking with things they love.
Baby Sesame keeps a child's favorites, current sizes, wishlists, and purchased gifts in one private place — so everyone filling a stocking this season knows what they'll love, without doubling up.
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