Meaningful Holiday Gifts for the Little Learners in Your Care
Nov 09, 2025
Heartfelt Holiday Gifts for the Little Learners You Care For.
Real gift ideas from an educator who loves to make every child feel seen and celebrated.
The Heart Behind My Gift Giving
Every December, I think about the children who fill my home with laughter, curiosity, and endless stories. Gifting isn’t about perfection or spending a certain amount — it’s about connection.
Over the years, I’ve found a few special gifts that my dayhome kids (and their families) truly love. Some are cozy keepsakes, some spark creativity, and others bring our whole group together. I’ve gathered my favourites here — tested, loved, and chosen with care.
Favourite Gifts to Give
These are the little gifts that always make the kids light up — from seasonal Lego ornaments to cozy books and hot chocolate pairings.
💡 Tip: Pair a book with a small treat like hot cocoa, or a mini building kit with a holiday story for a simple but meaningful surprise.
Games and Puzzles I Love to Give
Board games are such a wonderful way to build teamwork, patience, and laughter. These are tried-and-true favorites that even my mixed-age group can enjoy together.
💡 Favourites: Count Your Chickens, Spot It!, and The Sneaky Snacky Squirrel — all great for practicing turn-taking and problem-solving.
Magnetic Tiles I Love to Give
If you’ve followed me for a while, you already know my love for open-ended play! Magnetic tiles are always a crowd-pleaser and one of my favorite long-term investments in play.
💡 Tip: I’ve even wrapped up small sets as gifts before — they’re perfect for creative play at home.
Art Supplies I Love to Give
Nothing beats fresh art materials for sparking imagination. Crayons, paint sticks, and coloring books are simple, affordable, and instantly exciting for young children.
💡 Tip: Bundle them together in a small tote or reusable bag for a personalized “mini art kit.”
A Gift for the Whole Group
Instead of individual gifts some years, I choose something new for our shared space.
My favorite group gift has been adding new Holiday Yoto Cards to our collection — stories, music, and cozy seasonal sounds the children can enjoy together all December long.
See our favourite Yoto Cards here.
Shop the Guide
Want to find all the gifts mentioned in this post in one easy spot?
Click below to browse my favourites, see prices, and get inspired for your own group of little learners:
Favourite Gifts
🎲 Games & Puzzles
🎨 Art Supplies
Magnetic Tiles
📻 Group Gift
This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I truly love and use in my own program.
Whether you’re an educator, caregiver, or parent, I hope these ideas spark some inspiration for meaningful, joy-filled giving this season. Remember — it’s never about the size of the gift, but the heart behind it.
If you found this helpful, make sure to follow along on Instagram @capablelearnersdayhome for more play-based inspiration and cozy seasonal ideas.
