🎁 Holiday Gift Guide: What to Get a 1st Grader

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I don’t know who it was that first told me that pregnancy an child-raising are magical, but when I was thinking about raising a human, I didn't realize how many opinions they would have. And oh boy do those opinions come out during the holiday season.

But here’s the twist: half the stuff these kids beg for ends up abandoned by New Year’s, and we’re left wondering why we didn’t just wrap up a cardboard box and call it a day.

So, in the spirit of saving you from gift-regret, I decided to start a gift-guide series. Every week I'll put together some gifts (that won't break the bank) for the loved ones in your life - from 1st graders, teenagers, to that loving 40 year old child (aka your partner) that lives in your home.

This week it's your lovely first-grader: aka, your live-in CEO who thinks they know exactly what belongs on their holiday wish list. After some intense surveying (aka asking my child during bedtime) and internet sleuthing, here are a few presents that 1st graders will actually use, and that won’t make you question your parenting choices or your bank account. A mix of creativity, pretend play, and just enough “wow factor” to earn you hero status... for at least 48 hours.

🧵 1. My First Sewing Kit for Beginner Kids

This is a perfect introduction to crafting and fine-motor creativity. It kept my little one entertained longer than most toys, and the sense of accomplishment when they complete a project is the best part.

👉 Check it out here: https://amzn.to/4nx6t35
Why 1st Graders Love It: They get to make something “real” all by themselves.

🐾 2. Bluey Advent Calendar

For kids who love counting down to the holidays, this Bluey set adds daily excitement and surprise. Each door reveals a themed toy, so the joy lasts more than just one day.

👉 See the advent calendar here: https://amzn.to/4qH2Eev
Why 1st Graders Love It: It turns the whole month into a celebration. Bonus points if you let them watch a Bluey marathon during winter break.

🎤 3. Mini Karaoke Machine

Prepare yourself: this one is loud, hilarious, and

so much fun. Great for playdates, singing performances, and boosting confidence. Just give your neighbors a heads up... or better yet, invite them over.

👉 Shop the karaoke machine: https://amzn.to/4nwShHp
Why 1st Graders Love It: They get to be the star of their own living-room concert.

🛳️ 4. Gabby’s Dollhouse Friend Ship

A big-time crowd pleaser with tons of pretend-play potential. Gabby fans will adore this set because it encourages imagination and open-ended storytelling.

👉 Find it here: https://amzn.to/3WVEJKZ
Why 1st Graders Love It: It feels like a “big gift” and inspires hours of pretend play, while being a little bit easier on the wallet than the "big house" toy.

✨ Final Tip for Parents

First graders love gifts that let them create, pretend, or perform. If you can find a present that checks even one of those boxes, you’ve found a winner.

Save this list for later, or share it with a fellow parent who’s stuck on gift ideas!