Christmas shopping for kids are four words that can strike the fear of God into anyone, whether you’re a parent or not.
Shopping for adults can be hard enough, but few of us are privy to the whims, wants and bewildering trends currently lighting up the school playground.
It’s critical to get right, primarily because children haven’t yet learned the polite and socially vital art of masking disappointment. If they hate your gift, you’ll soon know it.
If you’re hoping for shrieks of glee rather than howls of misery on Christmas morning, you need to be in the know - and we’re here to help with this crib sheet of 2020’s hottest toys to place beneath the tree this year; a list that’s second only to the one currently under heavy elf guard in the North Pole.
From fun gifts that sharpen their science skills on the sly, to building sets the whole family can play with and presents that spark unadulterated joy, here are the very best gifts to shop for girls and boys aged 5 - 11 this Christmas.
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See more of our designated gift guides here:
- Best Christmas gifts for 2020
- Best Christmas gifts for him
- Best Christmas gifts for mums
- Best Christmas gifts for teens
- Best luxury Christmas gifts
- Best budget Christmas gifts
- Best beauty gift sets
Micro Recycled Scooter
Crafted from old fishing nets, this scooter is the modern version of the bike or roller skates you might have asked Father Christmas for in your own childhood letters.
BRIO Smart Tech Sound
This very modern railway set from BRIO Smart Tech promises hours of railroad fun. Simply set up the Smart Tech arches, hit 'go' on the engine and watch the train automatically detect each arch and stop, honk its horn, back up or flash its lights.
Botley 2.0
Set your little one on the path to digital greatness with this friendly little coding robot, Botley. The set is made up of 77 pieces to help kids decipher the art of programming and encourage critical thinking as well as problem solving.
In the Night Garden Dancing Igglepiggle Soft Toy
From In the Night Garden comes this soft dancing toy that's a perfect playmate for infants from 10 months and up.
I Heard Your Feelings conversation cards
With kids being kept home for weeks at a time during lockdown they may have missed out on opportunities for emotional and empathic development with their peers. This mindful game teaches them how to read and understand emotional situations.
Earth Heroes Children’s book hardback edition
All children should know and revere national treasure Sir David Attenborough - just like the rest of us. This hardback version of ‘Earth Heroes’ focuses on the environment, teaching kids very timely lessons about our planet with the legendary wildlife presenter and schoolgirl activist Greta Thunberg.
VTech Feathers & Feelings Peacock
Suitable for tiny kids (ages 2+), this brightly coloured peacock helps toddlers learn colours, shapes, numbers and emotions. As well as eight light-up shape buttons and eight emotion pegs, there’s also a peacock button that can play friendly sounds and fun phrases.
Fisher-Price Rollin’ Rovee
This fun interactive toy is ideal for older babies/ toddlers. It can 'grow' with your little one, lighting up, playing music and suggesting activities through four modes of play to take them right up to nursery age.
Hey Duggee Woof Woof Duggee Soft Toy
Say hello to your kid's new number one playmate, Duggee! The super cuddly toy is the perfect nap-time companion too, and ready for adventures with two child-safe badges on the front.
LEGO Gingerbread House
A festive update on a childhood classic, this LEGO set promises hours of building fun for ages 12+.
Containing all the components to make your very own gingerbread house, this set also includes festive details such as a Christmas tree with wrapped gifts, a rocking horse and a tiny LEGO toy train, plus more dinky winter-themed models. Completely adorable.
Wooden Baby Walker and Bricks
Sharpen your little one's motor skills and coordination with this colourful wooden walker. As well as chunky wheels to keep them stable as they steer, there are colourful numbered and lettered bricks to keep them busy too.
Monopoly Mega Edition Exclusive
Rock around the block with this classic game. It’s Monopoly 2.0, bigger and better than ever before: think more buildings, more properties and crucially - more money.
Design A Friend Sienna Doll
Dressed in a dance top and disco leggings, this huggable Sienna doll is ready to boogie with your little one this Christmas.
L.O.L Surprise! OMG Fashion Dolls Series 3
This fashion doll is ready to surprise and delight with cool-girl roller skating vibes.
Collector’s Doll
If you fancy giving her a makeover, you can expand her wardrobe by buying different outfits (sold separately) to make sure she always looks her finest.
Hatchimals Pixies Crystal Flyers
Pretty fairies that launch themselves into the air from crystal eggs… obviously.
Kidizoom Studio
Get your future Hollywood star making mini blockbusters with this child-friendly camera and HD video recorder.
Laser Battle Hunters
Hail, the next generation of radio-controlled cars, perfect for racing around on Christmas Day.
LEGO Adventures with Mario Starter Course
They’ll enjoy a whole world of adventures with this playset based on the iconic video game character, Mario.
LEGO Technic Lamborghini
Want to kick their playtime up a gear? Shift to this luxe LEGO set, which will have them building a detailed model of a Lamborghini Sian FKP 37.
Little Live Pets ‘Gotta Go Flamingo’
This weird flamingo will keep kids entertained by eating, dancing - and then going to the loo. Inexplicable.
PAW Patrol Dino Rescue Dino Patroller
A raaw-some gift featuring a Jurassic lineup from PAW Patrol, one of the top toy brands.
Poopsie Dancing Unicorn
It’s all in the name with this one. This dancing doll is a joy to look at with brushable rainbow hair, a fun outfit and a cute cloud hairbrush. Requires three AA batteries, which are included.
The Child Animatronic Edition
Wrap up Disney's The Mandalorian’s Baby Yoda for squeals of delight come Christmas Day.
