The countdown to Christmas is most definitely underway. Once those festive adverts pop onto our screens, it’s probably time to turn our attention towards Christmas shopping.
And whilst it’s most definitely one of our favourite times of the year, lets face it, searching for the right gift can sometimes be a little stressful.
Fear not. We are on hand to rescue you with our top picks of the best big ticket gifts to stir up excitement on The Big Day.
As well as saving the day, these gifts play a small but mighty hand in helping to save the planet too. Mindfully chosen for their approach to sustainability, so that future generations can continue to enjoy traditions in a more environmentally conscious world.
We can’t promise they will all fit under the tree, but these stunning showstoppers are 100% guaranteed to spark squeals of delight, impromptu dancing and rounds of hugs come Christmas morning.
We’re pretty sure we’ve made finding that perfect present a doddle, so retreat to a quiet spot and seek inspiration from our magical collection.
For the wow factor, a doll's house really does tick all the boxes. These heirloom pieces really are gifts with longevity, to be enjoyed from the toddler years, right up to adolescence. Luckily we have some real beauties that will really take their breath away.
First up, this contemporary home of dreams from Scandi brand, Plan Toys. Crafted from solid wood, this stunner really is a miniature modern utopia. We’re moving straight in. The epitome of Scandi style, it will look right at home in the playroom or nursery, destined to be played with for many years to come.
Let's make way for the Maileg House of Miniature. If you’re wanting a big reaction then this eye catcher is sure to do it. Ok, wow. It’s eye poppingly beautiful and a bit of a whopper too, sitting pretty with three story's to discover. This really is what childhood dreams are made of and definitely one to be passed down through generations.
This traditional home is practically bursting with vintage charm and is the perfect pad for the Maileg mice to call home sweet home.
As you’d expect from this enchanting brand, there’s a whole host of exquisite miniature furniture pieces and room sets available to buy separately, so that little homemakers can set about furnishing it to their heart's content. Incidentally, this makes a great gift to add to over the years, so that’s birthday’s sorted too then.
And how about this gorgeous offering from Sebra? Old meets new with this distinctive hybrid home and we’re head over heels for it. This handcrafted gem is suitable from 1 years upwards, thanks to it’s child safe design, and it’s sure to be out on show all year round.
For Wheelie Good Fun
Who remembers their first bike? This is one gift that will instantly create a magical memory to last forever.
We’re not sure ours looked like this dazzler, but in our dreams it sure did.
This retro ride from Trybike has some serious curb appeal and is ready made for mini adventures. The classic design evokes a sense of nostalgia. Ideal for those wanting to give a truly traditional looking Christmas gift.. And the best part, this clever two in 1 converts from a trike to a bike just like magic. A wonderful investment in play, it will grow with your little one.
Don’t forget to add a helmet (coordinating colours available, of course). These cute options are full of safety features for added peace of mind as they step into the saddle. And, for a final flourish, this tres chic wicker basket brings all the style and makes a handy storage spot or seat for soft toy friends to hop in and enjoy the ride too.
Banwood also makes the most swoon worthy trikes, just the ticket for younger riders, which are great for getting them used to taking the reins. They come in an array of dreamy traditional colourways to suit your style. They are all so lovely we just can’t decide on our favourite, so we’ll just leave them all here.
For babies and toddlers, how about a ride on? These also make a great Godparent or grandparent gift. Beep beep.
Take a look at this handsome fellow for starters. If he doesn’t say “jump aboard “then we don’t know what does.
Or how about one of these delightful friends? They are certain to conjure up giggles aplenty as they rock around the Christmas Tree.
For Little Cooks
If you're not feeling ready to take on the Christmas dinner just yet, then a toy kitchen may be the answer to your cooking woes. Mini master chefs will get busy whipping you up imaginary feasts and showstopping bakes with one of these little wonders. This one from Kids Concept will do the trick nicely.
For inspired imaginary play at it’s finest, the sellout toy kitchen in mint from our faves Little Dutch, is our go to every time. Sturdy, sustainable and stylish. The gender neutral design and colourway gives it extra brownie points, plus it’s compact size means it won’t take over the entire house, whilst still allowing plenty of space to get creative.
Those clever people over at Little Dutch also do the most adorable market stall. It’s another best seller for a reason. The sweet striped canopy, chalk board and soft felt fruit accessories seal the deal for us. A lovely gift to encourage role play and teach numeracy and social skills too.
Throw in some play food and its winner, winner chicken dinner. We’ve got an extensive collection of delicious treats just waiting to be devoured. Have a nosey around.
From traditional to modern, there’s bound to be one that your budding baker will love.
For Mini Makers
For a big surprise, Little fixer uppers will go wild for one of these handy tool benches.
The Little Dutch Tool Workbench is a real Christmas cracker. Complete with no less than 48 tools and wooden play pieces, it will keep little hands and minds entertained for hours on end as they hammer out role play adventures day after day. The vice and cogs offer a nice realistic touch too.
Sebra’s striking edition features a unique, uber stylish design, crammed full of features for a hands on play experience. The soft pastels make this an appealing option to fit happily into any room in the home. There's a circular saw, vice and chalkboard too which makes for a truly immersive, interactive experience.
Add a tool belt like this one from Plan Toys, or this handy tool box also from Little Dutch, and you're good to go.
For Wild Ones
For outdoor enthusiasts, any time of year is a good time to get out and about in the fresh air. And how about a gift that you actually have to go outside to find.
These super sized statement presents create an instant wilderness in their very own back garden or yard. Perfect for letting off some steam, they are ready to be enjoyed all year round and are fully certified to give your child rosy cheeks and windswept smiles all day long.
Check out these top picks from Plum Play. The Discovery Tree House is totally enchanting and gives us serious Huckleberry Finn vibes. Crafted from FSC certified wood, it is jam packed with fun features to discover including a wooden ladder, slide, bucket and winch, painting screen and a planter for little green fingers to get busing growing their own.
And that’s a (Christmas) wrap. We hope this read has inspired you to find a meaningful gift with all the trimmings, to make mini dreams come true.
For more gift ideas, be sure to check out our Christmas gift guide. Packed full of stunning toys, gifts and homewares to spark a season full of joy.
Come and say hi over on Instagram @scandiborn. and don’t forget to follow along on Instagram too.
