In my 4 short years of motherhood, I’ve learned a few good lessons about toys: kids don’t really need much (but it’s hard to combat that consumerism in all of us), and you don’t have to sacrifice style just because you need things for your kids to play with.
This year I’m really trying to stick to a quality over quantity approach. After last Christmas I was left feeling overwhelmed and somewhat bothered by the amount of things my kids ended up with. Xander understands that gift-giving comes along with Christmas, but he would be happy receiving a few small things…he’s not old enough to have any sort of expectations. Along with a less is more approach, I’m hoping to give attractive, well-made items. I know children need toys, but the better looking they are, the less annoyed I am when they are covering our floors.
In my search for the triple threat: stylish, quality, and something my kids will want to play with, I stumbled upon the perfect set of blocks.
Blocks are a classic. You can’t go wrong with blocks. Babies can chew on and bang them. Toddlers can stack, knock over and repeat. And little kids can spell words with them. This graphic set even comes with some other pieces for factory making and tower stacking.
*This post is sponsored by Uncommon Goods, but all thoughts are my own. Thank you for supporting companies that make The Makerista possible.
Julia Konya says
Love those blocks so pretty especially on your books. I'm bothered by the amount of things my kids get very Christmas. My divorced inlaws have a contest on who gives more and I have no say in it. Drives me nuts!
themakerista@gmail.com says
Ha! It usually is the grandparents who buy them way to much in my experience too!
Things That Inspire says
I have been a parent for 15 years now, and I agree with you – kids really don't need that much materially, what's important are the feelings and emotions of the holiday. One of my favorite memories of Christmas is when Santa left his toy sack at our house accidentally. My kids and I were talking about this, and my youngest asked what was in the sack. I have no idea! But the thrill of Santa leaving his toy sack left such a huge impression.
– Holly
House Envy says
Exactly why this is a timeless gift. My kids received wood blocks as a baby gift and to this day they still find uses for them (they are 7 and 5). They really do inspire imagination at all ages.
Bethany DeVore says
I totally agree and have the same thoughts about gift buying this year. I would be happy to have those blocks sprinkled all over my floor, so pretty!
Mildred E. Benn says
Our kids playroom sounds like the one in the article, loads of LEGO, blocks, handmade toys, wooden toys, soft toys, muslin play cloths and baskets of sticks, logs, blocks and rocks. These toys last forever, forget the plastic junk and opt for something natural and made lovingly. best trampoline reviews