Ah, Christmas! That magical time of year when parents everywhere trade peaceful evenings for frantic online shopping, wrapping paper battles, and the yearly miracle of assembling toys in the dark after bedtime. If you’re anything like me, you’ve spent more time Googling “top gifts for kids 2024” than actually working on your fitness goals—or whatever that New Year’s resolution was last year.
Let’s be honest: finding the perfect gift for kids isn’t easy. One day, they’re obsessed with dinosaurs, and the next, it’s all about slime. (Why is it always slime?) But fear not, fellow parents! I’ve done the testing, endured the battery mishaps, and stepped on way too many Legos to bring you this ultimate Christmas gift guide.
Whether you’re shopping for your toddler, tween, or that one teenager who only communicates in TikTok references, I’ve got something for everyone. These aren’t just random picks either—I’ve put these gifts through the ultimate dad-review process: Are they fun? Are they worth it? And most importantly, will they keep the kids entertained long enough for you to enjoy a quiet coffee this Christmas morning?
Let’s dive in before the shipping deadlines catch us!
Pickleball Blast - The Pickle Smackdown Game!
Price: £14.99
This fast-paced face-off is guaranteed to leave you in stitches (and maybe with a bruised ego).
Prepare for Pickle-Geddon! This isn't your grandma's pickleball. Forget about underhand serves and sensible sporting attire. Pickleball Blast is all about whacking a wiggly pickle across the court with reckless abandon. Imagine badminton, but instead of a shuttlecock, you're using a plush pickle to torment your opponents.
Channel your inner Pickle Warrior:The game is simple: flip two of your opponent's three pickle jar lids before they flip yours. But beware, the sneaky pickle skewer has a mind of its own and can send the fuzzy fiend flying back at you in an act of pickly revenge! The paddles are hilariously oversized, making it look like you're trying to swat a rogue pickle with pool cues.
Easy to Set Up, Easy to Pickle People: Setting up Pickleball Blast is a breeze. Just whip out the pickle board (shaped like a giant pickle, naturally), plop down the net (held aloft by two flimsy net stands), and unleash the pickle from its plastic prison. The included label sheet allows you to add a touch of personality to your pickle jars, because apparently even pickles need nicknames these days.
The Verdict: A Hilariously Chaotic Pickle Party: Pickleball Blast - The Pickle Smackdown Game is the perfect antidote to a dull game night. It's loud, it's messy, and it's guaranteed to have everyone giggling like a bunch of toddlers hopped up on sugar. Just be sure to keep an eye out for flying pickles – they have a vendetta and they're not afraid to use it!
Highly recommended, especially if you enjoy pickling your friends (metaphorically, of course!).
For £19.99, this 17cm Dragon Stars Goku figure is a must-have for any Dragon Ball fan. With over 16 points of articulation, you can pose him in countless dynamic fighting stances, recreating your favorite battles from the series. The figure is incredibly detailed, right down to the muscle definition and the iconic Super Saiyan hair.
While the figure itself is fantastic, the packaging is equally impressive. It's a premium collector's box that would make any Dragon Ball fan's heart race. The only downside is that the box is so cool, you might be tempted to keep it sealed!
If you're looking to add a powerful punch to your Dragon Ball collection, the Dragon Stars Goku figure is a no-brainer. It's a high-quality, highly articulated figure that's sure to impress. So, power up your collection and bring home the hero!
Prepare for Titan-Sized Thrills!
This isn't your average Godzilla figure. This Godzilla is battle-ready, with enough articulation points to pull off mighty stomps, ferocious roars, and even unleash his atomic breath (in figurine form, of course). The figure's detail is truly impressive, capturing every scale, scar, and menacing grin that makes Godzilla the King of the Monsters.
More Than Just a Plaything (But Perfect for Play, Too!)
Whether you're a die-hard Godzilla fan looking to expand your collection or simply seeking a cool, conversation-starting display piece, this Godzilla figure delivers. The intricate details make it a fantastic display item, while the articulation points ensure playtime fun.
The Verdict: A Must-Have for Monsterverse Fans
The Monsterverse Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire 28cm Giant Godzilla Evolved Figure is a titan-sized win for any Monsterverse enthusiast. The impressive size, detailed design, and articulation points make it a true collector's item and a perfect addition to any Godzilla vs. Kong showdown. Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility (and maybe a little extra room on your shelf).
This 33cm Mega Punching Kong figure is a towering testament to the King of Skull Island's might. Priced at £39.99, this figure is a must-have for any serious Monsterverse collector.
A Fistful of Fun
With multiple points of articulation, you can pose Kong in a variety of dynamic stances, ready to take on any foe. But the real highlight is the figure's interactive feature: a powerful punch that activates light and sound effects. It's a fun and engaging way to bring the cinematic excitement to life.
A Detailed and Durable Figure
The figure is highly detailed, capturing the intricate details of Kong's muscular physique and menacing expression. The durable construction ensures that this figure will withstand countless battles and playtime adventures.
A Worthy Addition to Your Monsterverse Collection
If you're a fan of Kong and the Monsterverse, this figure is a must-have. It's a fantastic way to display your love for the franchise and relive the epic battles between Godzilla and Kong.
Don't let the simple rules fool you. Azul Mini requires careful planning and a bit of mind-gaming your opponents. It's a challenging and rewarding experience that will keep you engaged. The compact size and sturdy travel tray make Azul Mini perfect for road trips, vacations, or even just a quick game around the kitchen table. Azul Mini boasts a beautiful and minimalist design that's both visually appealing and easy to understand.
Kid-Friendly Fun: The rules are simple enough for even younger children to grasp, making it a great family game. The tile-placing mechanic is incredibly satisfying, and kids will love the challenge of creating beautiful mosaics. Kids can easily take their game on the go, keeping them entertained during car rides, waiting rooms, and more.
Power Up Your Dragon Ball Collection with Dragon Stars Goku
Price: £19.99
Website: https://www.smythstoys.com/
For £19.99, this 17cm Dragon Stars Goku figure is a must-have for any Dragon Ball fan. With over 16 points of articulation, you can pose him in countless dynamic fighting stances, recreating your favorite battles from the series. The figure is incredibly detailed, right down to the muscle definition and the iconic Super Saiyan hair.
While the figure itself is fantastic, the packaging is equally impressive. It's a premium collector's box that would make any Dragon Ball fan's heart race. The only downside is that the box is so cool, you might be tempted to keep it sealed!
If you're looking to add a powerful punch to your Dragon Ball collection, the Dragon Stars Goku figure is a no-brainer. It's a high-quality, highly articulated figure that's sure to impress. So, power up your collection and bring home the hero!
Monsterverse Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire 28cm Giant Godzilla Evolved Figure
Price: £19.99
Website: https://www.smythstoys.com/
Unleash the raw power of Godzilla with this epic 28cm Giant Godzilla Evolved figure.
With a design inspired by the latest Godzilla x Kong movie, this colossal creature is ready to stomp through your living room. Its multiple points of articulation allow you to pose it in countless dynamic poses, from a menacing roar to a devastating atomic breath.
With a design inspired by the latest Godzilla x Kong movie, this colossal creature is ready to stomp through your living room. Its multiple points of articulation allow you to pose it in countless dynamic poses, from a menacing roar to a devastating atomic breath.
The figure is incredibly detailed, capturing every scale, scar, and menacing grin. It's the perfect addition to any Monsterverse collection, whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking for a cool toy to display.
So, grab your favorite Kong figure and let the battle commence!
Prepare for Titan-Sized Thrills!
This isn't your average Godzilla figure. This Godzilla is battle-ready, with enough articulation points to pull off mighty stomps, ferocious roars, and even unleash his atomic breath (in figurine form, of course). The figure's detail is truly impressive, capturing every scale, scar, and menacing grin that makes Godzilla the King of the Monsters.
More Than Just a Plaything (But Perfect for Play, Too!)
Whether you're a die-hard Godzilla fan looking to expand your collection or simply seeking a cool, conversation-starting display piece, this Godzilla figure delivers. The intricate details make it a fantastic display item, while the articulation points ensure playtime fun.
The Verdict: A Must-Have for Monsterverse Fans
The Monsterverse Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire 28cm Giant Godzilla Evolved Figure is a titan-sized win for any Monsterverse enthusiast. The impressive size, detailed design, and articulation points make it a true collector's item and a perfect addition to any Godzilla vs. Kong showdown. Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility (and maybe a little extra room on your shelf).
Monsterverse Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire 33cm Mega Punching Kong Figure
Price: £39.99
Website: a Symth Toy Store Exclusive: https://www.smythstoys.com
This 33cm Mega Punching Kong figure is a towering testament to the King of Skull Island's might. Priced at £39.99, this figure is a must-have for any serious Monsterverse collector.
A Fistful of Fun
With multiple points of articulation, you can pose Kong in a variety of dynamic stances, ready to take on any foe. But the real highlight is the figure's interactive feature: a powerful punch that activates light and sound effects. It's a fun and engaging way to bring the cinematic excitement to life.
A Detailed and Durable Figure
The figure is highly detailed, capturing the intricate details of Kong's muscular physique and menacing expression. The durable construction ensures that this figure will withstand countless battles and playtime adventures.
A Worthy Addition to Your Monsterverse Collection
If you're a fan of Kong and the Monsterverse, this figure is a must-have. It's a fantastic way to display your love for the franchise and relive the epic battles between Godzilla and Kong.
Azul Mini Game
Price: £19.99
Website: https://www.amazon.co.uk/
A Tile-Placing Treat for Dads and Kids Alike
Looking for a portable and engaging game to play with your kids? Look no further than Azul Mini! This travel-friendly version of the critically acclaimed Azul offers the same strategic tile-placing fun in a compact and convenient package.
Don't let the simple rules fool you. Azul Mini requires careful planning and a bit of mind-gaming your opponents. It's a challenging and rewarding experience that will keep you engaged. The compact size and sturdy travel tray make Azul Mini perfect for road trips, vacations, or even just a quick game around the kitchen table. Azul Mini boasts a beautiful and minimalist design that's both visually appealing and easy to understand.
Kid-Friendly Fun: The rules are simple enough for even younger children to grasp, making it a great family game. The tile-placing mechanic is incredibly satisfying, and kids will love the challenge of creating beautiful mosaics. Kids can easily take their game on the go, keeping them entertained during car rides, waiting rooms, and more.
The Verdict: A Tile-Placing Triumph
Azul Mini is a fantastic game for dads and kids alike. It's a perfect blend of strategy and fun, with a compact design that makes it perfect for travel. Whether you're looking for a challenging game to play with your kids or simply want a portable and engaging pastime, Azul Mini is a tile-placing treat you won't want to miss.
Azul Mini is a fantastic game for dads and kids alike. It's a perfect blend of strategy and fun, with a compact design that makes it perfect for travel. Whether you're looking for a challenging game to play with your kids or simply want a portable and engaging pastime, Azul Mini is a tile-placing treat you won't want to miss.
Bananagrams Party Edition: A Word Game with a Side of Chaos
Price: £12Website: https://www.amazon.co.uk/
We recently gave Bananagrams Party Edition a try and found it to be a surprisingly engaging and entertaining word game. Building on the classic Bananagrams formula, this version introduces a few unique twists that add a welcome dose of chaos to the gameplay.
We recently gave Bananagrams Party Edition a try and found it to be a surprisingly engaging and entertaining word game. Building on the classic Bananagrams formula, this version introduces a few unique twists that add a welcome dose of chaos to the gameplay.
The core mechanics remain the same: players race to create individual word grids using letter tiles.
However, the addition of "Party" tiles throws a few curveballs. These special tiles can trigger unexpected events, such as forcing players to swap letters with an opponent or requiring everyone to shout out a random word.
While the Party tiles definitely add a fun element, we found that they can sometimes disrupt the flow of the game, especially for younger players. That being said, the overall experience is still highly enjoyable, and the Party tiles certainly add a unique flavor to the classic Bananagrams gameplay.
Pros:
- Fast-paced and exciting gameplay
- Portable and easy to learn
- Great for families and game nights
- Party tiles can sometimes disrupt the flow of the game
We recommend this game to families and friends looking for a fast-paced and entertaining word game.
I hope this version meets your requirements!
I hope this version meets your requirements!
Level Up Your Game Night with Dobble Super Mario!
Price: £14
Website: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Looking for a quick and engaging game to bring some excitement to your next family game night? Look no further than Dobble Super Mario! This fast-paced card game combines the classic Dobble gameplay with the beloved characters and world of Super Mario, making it a perfect choice for fans young and old.
It's All About Speed and Observation!
Dobble is a game of lightning-fast reflexes and keen observation skills. It's simple to learn but challenging to master. Players race to find the single matching symbol between two cards. Don't be fooled by the seemingly simple premise – the pictures can be different sizes and orientations, making them tricky to spot!
A Super Mario Twist on a Classic
This Super Mario edition of Dobble takes the original game and injects it with a healthy dose of nostalgia. Players will be delighted to find all their favorite characters on the cards, including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Bowser, and Yoshi. It's a great way for fans of the franchise to test their knowledge and have some fun with iconic symbols from the beloved video game series.
Perfect for Travel and Family Fun
The compact size of the tin box makes Dobble Super Mario the ideal travel companion. Take it on road trips, camping adventures, or simply keep it handy for a quick game night at home. With its simple rules and fast-paced gameplay, it's a great game for players of all ages, making it a fantastic addition to any family game collection.
The compact size of the tin box makes Dobble Super Mario the ideal travel companion. Take it on road trips, camping adventures, or simply keep it handy for a quick game night at home. With its simple rules and fast-paced gameplay, it's a great game for players of all ages, making it a fantastic addition to any family game collection.
Overall: Dobble Super Mario is a fun and engaging game that combines the classic Dobble mechanics with the excitement of the Super Mario universe. It's a great choice for families and fans of the franchise alike. With its portability, easy-to-learn rules, and fast-paced action, Dobble Super Mario is sure to become a favorite for game nights.
Cat Goat Cheese Pizza: A Hand-Slapping Frenzy!
Price: £5 (Core Game - Pack of 2)
Website: https://www.argos.co.uk/
Get ready for some fast-paced fun with Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, the card game with a name as outrageous as its gameplay! This high-octane, rowdy cousin to Slap Jack and Irish Snap is filled to the brim with hand-slapping mayhem!
Simple Rules, Explosive Fun!
This power-packed game is quick and simple and is great for any party. The goal is to be the first player to get rid of all your cards. Players take turns revealing cards from a central deck. Top Tip! Keep these 5 words in Mind… Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza! When there’s a match between the card and a spoken word, race against each other to slap your hand on the central pile of cards. The first player to slap the pile correctly wins the round and collects the cards.
A Bite-Sized Blast for All Ages
Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is a fantastic choice for players of all ages, from kids as young as 8 to adults who enjoy a quick and engaging game. With its compact size, straightforward rules, and frenetic gameplay, it's a perfect party game or icebreaker at any social gathering. Plus, the affordable price for a two-pack makes it a great value!
Overall: Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is a hilarious and fast-paced card game that's sure to bring laughter and excitement to any game night. With its simple rules, frantic action, and affordable price, it's a must-have for anyone looking for a quick and engaging game for all ages. Just be prepared for some serious hand-slapping mayhem!
The STABILO Trio DECO Unleashes Your Kid's Inner Artist (and Maybe Yours Too)
Price: £8
Kid-Friendly Fun: These Stabilo pens are like crayons that graduated top of their class and got a sweet metallic paint job. With eight shiny colors and a chunky XL tip (we're talking 3mm!), even the littlest Picassos can create masterpieces without worrying about those frustrating teeny tiny lines. The triangular grip zone is like training wheels for their penmanship, helping them develop a proper grip from the get-go.
Dad Joke Alert!: Just a heads-up, these pens might make your kid's artwork so good, you'll be tempted to hang it on the fridge... next to your own childhood macaroni picture, of course. (Because let's be honest, Dad, yours is still the best.)
Beyond the Coloring Book: These aren't just for coloring pages, folks! Think crafting projects, personalized cards, or even jazzing up a boring cardboard box for their next "invention." Just remember, these work best on absorbent surfaces, so maybe skip that attempt to turn your car into a disco ball with them.
The Verdict: The STABILO Trio DECO is a winner for both kids and, ahem, dads who secretly enjoy a little metallic art therapy themselves. At just £8, it's an affordable way to unleash their creativity and maybe even get them to leave your good pens alone (fingers crossed).
Never Lose Your Cap (or Your Sanity) Again: The STABILO Cappi Pen
Price: £5
Say goodbye to the age-old frustration of lost pen caps! The STABILO Cappi pen is here to save the day (and your sanity). With its clever cap-ring system, you can keep all your caps organized and within reach. Plus, the ergonomic grip and sturdy medium tip make coloring and drawing a breeze, even for little hands.
I used to think losing pen caps was a rite of passage for every kid. But now, thanks to STABILO Cappi, I’m starting to think I might have been wrong. Maybe it was just a conspiracy by the pen industry to sell more pens? Just kidding (sort of).
Beyond the Basics: The STABILO Cappi isn’t just about the cap-ring. These pens are also super durable, with washable ink that won’t stain clothes or furniture. And the best part? You can leave them uncapped for up to 24 hours without worrying about them drying out. Talk about a game-changer!
The Verdict:If you’re tired of constantly replacing lost pens, the STABILO Cappi is a must-have. It’s a practical, fun, and affordable solution that’s sure to make both kids and parents happy. So, go ahead, let your little artists unleash their creativity without the fear of lost caps.
Sonic the Hedgehog Go-Go Racers Super Sonic Deluxe Playset
Price: £14.99
Calling all Sonic fans! This Super Sonic Deluxe Playset is a surefire way to turn your living room into the Green Hill Zone. Launch the included diecast Super Sonic figure through the loop-de-loop, helping him defeat Dr. Eggman and zoom to victory. The easy-to-use design is perfect for little hands, and with no batteries required, the fun is powered by pure imagination (and maybe a little encouragement from you to clean up afterwards).
Just a heads-up, this playset might unleash your own inner child. Don't be surprised if you find yourself muttering "Gotta go fast!" as you race Super Sonic around the track. (Hey, at least it's good exercise, right?)
Beyond the Basics: This playset is more than just a loop-de-loop. It's a gateway to the world of Sonic. The good news? It can be combined with other Sonic Go-Go Racers playsets (sold separately) to create an epic Sonic adventure. The bad news? This might just be the start of a very expensive toy collection for your little hedgehog enthusiast.
The Verdict:The Sonic the Hedgehog Go-Go Racers Super Sonic Deluxe Playset is a winner for any Sonic fan. It's affordable, easy to use, and encourages imaginative play. Just be prepared to hear the sound of tiny hedgehogs racing around the house at supersonic speeds. (Ear plugs optional, but highly recommended.)
So Slime DIY Fluffy Ice Cream Factory Set
Price: £19.99
Website: https://www.smythstoys.com/
Age Suitability: 6 Years +
Calling all slime enthusiasts! This So Slime DIY Fluffy Ice Cream Factory lets your little one become a master confectioner... of slime, that is. With three different slime textures (Ice, Fluffy, and scented Slime Sauce), they can create all sorts of crazy concoctions. The best part? No messy glue required, just add water and let the slimey fun begin!
Just a heads-up, this toy might turn your kitchen into a science lab (or a crime scene, depending on the color combinations). Be prepared for some interesting "ice cream" creations, and maybe invest in some extra cleaning supplies. Beyond the Basics: This isn't just about mixing slime; it's about imagination! The set comes with an ice cream factory, cones, a scoop, and even decorations, so your child can create elaborate slime sundaes that would make Willy Wonka jealous.
The Verdict:
The So Slime DIY Fluffy Ice Cream Factory Set is a win for kids who love sensory play and getting a little messy. It's easy to use, encourages creativity, and provides hours of entertainment. However, parents should be prepared for some potential clean-up duty. Just remember, a little slime on the floor is a small price to pay for a happy kid (and maybe a few hilarious photo ops).
Spoiler Alert for Parents: The description says "messy sensory play is fun," and they're not wrong. Just be prepared to embrace the slime, or at least have a good sense of humour about it.
The Phoenix Comic: A Weekly Dose of Laughter, Adventure, and Creativity for Kids
Price: Trial price 6 issues for £1
Website: https://thephoenixcomic.co.uk/
The Phoenix is a weekly magazine designed specifically for kids aged 7-14. It's packed with action-packed comics, hilarious jokes, and creative activities like drawing guides and competitions. Each issue is like a treasure trove of fun, sure to keep kids entertained for hours.
The Phoenix is more than just a comic book. It's a gateway to creativity. The magazine features inspiring stories, drawing guides, and even writing competitions. It's a great way to encourage kids to develop their imaginations and explore their artistic talents.
The Verdict: The Phoenix is a win for parents and kids alike. It's a fun and affordable way to get kids away from screens, encourage reading, and spark their creativity. With a weekly dose of laughter, adventure, and creative inspiration, The Phoenix is the gift that keeps on giving. Why not sign your child up for a trial subscription and see if they love it?
- Here are some additional details from the website:
- Perfect for adventurous kids with curious minds
- Loved by kids, parents, and teachers
- Action-packed comics Gut-busting comedy
- Epic quests Animal adventures Drawing guides
- Creative competitions
Just imagine the look on your kid's face when they come home from school to find a new issue of The Phoenix waiting for them. It might just be the highlight of their week!
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