Kids love the holidays, and yours have probably been dropping hints about their wish list for months.
Here you’ll find some popular toys you might have heard of, but weren’t sure where to buy, along with a few new choices to introduce to your kids.
1. Rainbow Loom: The latest fad taking over elementary schools is a great gift for kids age 8 and up. This starter kit comes with a rainbow loom, mini rainbow loom, hook, bag of c-clips, instruction manual and 600+ mixed color rubber bands. $15, Children’s Gift Shop, 310 Happ Road, Northfield, 847-441-5975
2. Laser Pegs: Laser Pegs will spark your child’s imagination and empower creativity. If you’re new to these light-up toys, start with one kit. This Land set allows your child to build six models, including a Mini Indy Car, Battle Drone and Big Wheel. $28, Beanstalk, 654 Central Ave., Highland Park, 847-432-8300
3. pipSquigz: These bright, textured suction toys are perfect for keeping your baby or toddler occupied while encouraging exploration and sensory awareness. Attach these toys to a table, high chair, bathtub or each other. And pipSquigz are BPA-free, so they make great teething toys. Smaller versions are available for older children. $20–25, Children’s Gift Shop, 310 Happ Road, Northfield, 847-441-5975
4. 1965 VW Camper Van Play Tent: Make indoor playtime more exciting this winter with a mini-version of the iconic 1965 Split Screen VW Camper Van. The tent easily pops up and is ready for play within minutes. When it warms up, this tent is perfect for your backyard or the beach. Groovy! $75, Little Peach, 303 Happ Road, Northfield, 847-441-7584
5. Shagbark Road Junior Collection: Give your daughter a unique piece of jewelry that comes with a matching bracelet for her American Girl doll. Artist Dottie Zoller, founder of Chicago-based Shagbark Road, creates distinctive jewelry with African trading beads and gemstones. $26, Shagbark Road
6. The Little Experience Knit–It Mr. Monkey Kit: It’s never too early to learn a new skill. Get your child excited about knitting with this kit, which comes with knitting needles, a plastic sewing needle, three colors of organic cotton yarn, stuffing and step-by-step instructions. $29, Maya Papaya & Tony Macarony, 1901 Central St., Evanston, 847-866-6292
