8-10 Toy Gift Guide

Mandy here! This age is so important because they really do still want to PLAY! Play is so important at this age so we've rounded up toys that will keep them engaged and creating. You'll be surprised how many of these toys fit your kiddos interests even up to age 10.

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1. STEM Coding: My 9 year old is such an engineer-minded kid, and immediately jumped on the opportunity to build his own video game console. I cannot believe that at his age he is already learning how to code, assemble hardware, and use his creativity in such an advanced way. 

2. Fanny Pack Patch Kit: If my daughter doesn’t become an accessory designer after using the Bum Bag Patch Kit, I will be shocked. She spent an entire afternoon customizing her bum bag, and then proceeded to wear it every day for a month. It was so easy to use and it makes such a great gift or party activity!

3. Battle Box: When my older two kids start fighting, I tell them to take their fight to the Battle Box. This super simple but competitive game is so easy to set up and figure out. It strengthens their hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and doesn’t make a mess! 

4. Foosbots Stadium Battle: The storage needed for this game is basically nothing, it is so small! The kids will spend hours with their Foosbots, spending more of that time trying to hit each other’s bots down than making a goal, but they are having fun so what do I care! This is a great game/toy to take on the go!

5. Hydraulic Plane Launcher: What is better than a dart gun? One you can build yourself, obviously! This wooden Hydraulic Plane and Dart Launcher was a hit with my 9 year old who loves to build his own stuff. The launcher shoots both paper airplanes and darts, and is made out of sturdy wood that will last. I love watching my little engineer become a pro at following step-by-step instructions, anticipating the next step before he even reads it!

6. Find Finley: Hide and seek is a classic game that my kids have always loved, but they soon realized that they have used and reused every hiding place my house has to offer! The Find Finley game is a more advanced version, offering crafty clues that really challenge the kiddos’ deduction and strategy skills. Sometimes my husband and I join in too, and all four of us have a blast trying to out-wit each other. This game requries a lot of focus so make sure your kid loves a challenge.

7. Flower Rings: My 7 year old daughter is at that age where making her own jewelry is like a full-time job, so I have had to find creative ways to fill that need in her life. Creating colorful rings out of self-hardening clay? Sign a girl up! Learning the art of clay-making is so fun for her, and I feel at peace knowing that the clay is safe and non-toxic.

8. Peachybbies Slime: Slime may not be crowding your “For You” page anymore, but it just as popular with the kids now as it was 4 years ago! Peachy Bbies slime is cute, colorful, and makes for a great stocking stuffer. My 7 year old goes crazy for this slime, playing with it while she watches a show, reads a book, or when she just needs to quiet her mind.

9. Needoh Gummy Bear: Gripping one of these things has such a calming effect, and they are just so fun to squeeze. I make sure the kids know exactly where their bear is so they can find it quickly when their emotions escalate. I had to get one in every color for each of us!

10. 3D Printer: This toy is for the special years. It is truly a gift that keeps on giving! My 9 year old’s favorite part is that he can make whatever he wants, whether it's an original design he made in the app or a picture of his favorite TV character he downloaded from the internet. He already has a collection of action figures going, saving me so much money in the long run! Last year he made so many toys and sold them at his class store!

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11. Indoor Basketball: I don’t know about you but telling my kids (and husband) to stop playing ball inside the house gets real old real fast. Eventually I had to take matters into my own hands and get the silent indoor basketball! It is the professional standard size, so it feels real without endangering my home. And it is actually silent, so I don’t have to deal with any aggravating bouncing. If you have sports enthusiasts who insist on playing ball in the home, this is for you!

12. Play Sword: The bar for foam swords has been dramatically raised! Formidable Toys makes one of the most durable and realistic-looking sword for imaginary play. Their mix-and-match system is perfect for future swordsmiths who want to employ their creativity to craft the sword of their dreams. Get a unique sword for each member of the family and battle it out!

13. Diamond Art Jewelry: Have I mentioned enough that my 7 year old loves making jewelry? Snap bracelets are addicting enough to play with, but add some diamonds and you’ve got yourself the perfect combo of style and substance.

14. Giant Sarah's Silks: We have been singing Sarah’s Silks since the founding of Toy Testing Sisters! We haven’t had to worry about our kiddos outgrowing their silks, since the silks have grown with them! The giant silk is large enough to use as a fort covering, a canopy, or a cape. The options are limitless, especially in the eyes of our children. Don’t forget all Sarah’s Silks are made of 100% pure silk! Code: TOYTESTINGSISTERS

15. Crunch Labs: This is a subscription box that teaches kids engineering in a fun and creative way. The instrucions are easy to follow and I love that it gives them ownership over their builds.

16. 3D Pen: No 3D printer? No problem! My kids are obsessed with making their own 3D art with her 3Doodler. They want to create but don't want to have to think about it, so the stencils are great. If they don't want to follow the guide, they can free-style any creation.

17. Kids Claw Vending Machine: Stumbling upon this toy was such a fun surprise for me, especially because I always wanted to try the claw machine whenever I went to the arcade. I was told it was rigged, though, so I rarely got to use it. Not this claw machine! Use it the classic way, taking turns trying to grab something, or make it a competition by getting as many goodies as you can in 60 seconds.

18. Play Couch: Kids love having a couch their size, that they can easily manipulate in any way their imagination carries them! My older kids love to build obstacle courses for their toddler sister to practice climbing around on, or use it as a couch for movie night. Foamnasium stands apart because of their dedication to using the highest quality materials, making products that last years and don’t lose their shape. As your kids get older, they can use this as a couch in their room for reading and chilling.

19. Moon Lamp: Moon lamps went viral a few years ago, for good reason! They are beautiful and bring you closer to the greater universe. But now you can customize your own moon lamp, which is even better! Design it as a celestial body, a nature scene, or even make it a holiday decoration. The ideas are endless, and having your kids make it their own helps them enhance their living space with things they created and can be proud of.

20. Hey Clay: Sometimes guidance is needed to help a child build the perfect clay animal, and so I am obsessed with the Hey Clay animals kit! It comes with an interactive app that walks the builders step by step, helping my kids feel proud of their work. They can either leave the animals to dry and set within a day, or they can remold the clay into whatever they want!

21. Marble Run: We jump on any opportunity to save space in our playroom, and vertically designed toys are the best way to do that! This vertical marble run has special adhesive pads that can stick mess-free to glass, metal, wood, laminate, stone and ceramic. There are no support structures needed, so building is quick and easy! Watching marbles drop in a controlled way along the wall is so satisfying and ridiculously fun!

22. Blinger: Sometimes your hair just needs a little sparkle, especially if you are a 7 year old girl. Whenever we have a special event, my daughter pulls out her Blinger and puts as many diamonds in her hair as she possibly can. The best part for me is how easy they are to brush out at the end of the day. It isn’t just for hair, though- bling shoes, sunglasses, backpacks or clothes!

23. Yoto Mini: We love the Yoto Player in our home, and use it almost every single day. My kids have made it a part of their wind-down routine to listen to stories or guided meditations. This mini version is perfect for road trips, with its small and compact design! It has headphone or bluetooth capabilities and a lanyard so it isn’t easily lost!

24. Yoto Cards: Collecting Yoto Cards is a must when you have a Yoto player. I am so impressed with the variety of cards they offer, from adventure stories to music to meditation. The Magic Tree House collection is a great set for this age group.

25. Smart Sudoku: I’ve done sudoku puzzles since I was younger, and I would’ve killed to have an interactive smart device to play it on! The 3D pieces adds a sensory experience to the toy, which I never had the chance to experience until now. I play my 9 year old at least weekly, and he probably beats me 75% of the time. 

26. Crazy Cart Shuffle: Every kid needs this toy! It is loved by everyone in my house! Even my hubby gets on it. Razor did it again with the Crazy Cart Shuffle. It is child-powered so it enhances physical activity while providing exhilarating fun! My kids always start out racing on their carts, but before they can even cross the finish line they start doing spins and can’t get enough of them. I don’t worry about them getting hurt while they do their tricks, because it is so stable, safe, and intuitive.

27. Point and Shoot Camera: If your child has shown any real interest in photography, this camera is for you. The screen-free setup helps keep your kids in the moment, enjoying and capturing the great outdoors, or whatever adventure they are on. I love how many color options they have to choose from, making it the perfect camera for boys and girls.

28. Guess in 10 Countries: At a recent family reunion, my 9 year old learned that his cousin shares his same fixation on learning about the countries of the world. They were so excited talking about it that I caught the bug and found this family card game to help us all learn about the world. It is now a staple in our game night stack! It such a simple and informative game for the whole family.

29. Snap Glam: I never thought I would see the day when my daughter stopped asking me to do her hair, but sure enough, that day came the moment she received her Snap Glam set! She will do anything to get color in her hair, and this kit was a lifesaver for me. It is so easy for her and her friends  to use themselves, and it’s just as easy to remove at the end of the day. The beads are all reusable, too, so you don’t have to feel like you are wasting anything!

30. Popcorn Machine: Oh my gosh you guys, your family movie nights just got so much better. I had this popcorn machine growing up and it made me so snobby about my popcorn. There is nothing like freshly popped popcorn, and watching it work its magic is so fun for kids. We use our machine for movie theater popcorn, gooey caramel corn, and kettle corn! It takes minutes, doesn’t need oil, and is easy to store in my pantry.

31. Foil Fun: There are so many ways to make art, and I absolutely love making foil magnets with my kids. The foil makes for professional-looking and beautiful magnets that I am proud to put on the fridge! We also love making stickers to decorate their notebooks and tablets. It is such an easy and affordable way to personalize!

32. Kandoodle: When I need my kids to have quiet fun, during church or on road trips, the Kanoodle puzzle toy is what I grab. It challenges their problem solving skills and trains their spacial awareness in a way that is fun for them and quiet for me! They are always so proud when they figure out each puzzle, making sure to brag about each one they solve.

33. Instant Print Camera: This instant camera has been the talk of the town in my girl’s circle of friends. We got her one recently and they blasted through the camera roll so fast! They think the black and white photos are so “vintage" and “mysterious”.  Luckily there is an option to take digital photos, which are in color! The fact that the camera is also a panda is too cute to pass up. 

34. Space Station Lego: Have you ever shown your kids the international space station at night? I remember seeing it through binoculars when I was a kid and thinking it was so crazy that a full on space station could just float in space. Now your family can make their own space station, with a spacecraft that can dock and pods for sleeping and living! The details are intricate, and you can even use the LEGO builder app to view models from all angles as they build.

35. Drop Shot: Combine darts and connect four and you get Drop Shot! I could’ve used a toy like this growing up, because my hand-eye coordination is garbage. Drop Shot is the simplest game to improve this skill, and is also so fun and quick. No need to attach anything to the wall, just set it on the ground and it’s good to go!

36. Modern Calligraphy: I absolutely love this book because it teaches kids systematically, with warm-up and practice pages to sharpen their skills. My kids have been learning cursive in school so this beginner book has been really fun for them! You can even have your kids use their newly acquired skill to make personal invites.

37. Pinball DIY: What is even more fun than playing pinball in the arcade, in my son’s experience, is building a pinball machine himself and enjoying the fruits of his labors at home! I have loved watching my 9 year old develop engineering skills and learning about how things work as he builds them. Smartivity will replace any lost parts free of charge, which is such a nice feature with how small a lot of the parts are.

38. Speks Crags Magnetic Putty: Look no further for the most satisfying fidget toy on the market. These tiny magnets are incredibly fun to run between your fingers or stack on the desk. My kids will play with their Speks Fidget Putty while reading a book or watching a show, quieting their mind and helping them focus. With multiple color options, each person in the family got to pick their favorite color!

39. Space Lego: Space is really trending for 2024. Future astronauts or rocket ship engineers will be all over this LEGO Friends Mars Space Base kit. It comes with a research base, rocket, satellite, characters, and so many small details to make your kid’s research base their own! It can connect to other space-themed LEGO sets, so your kiddo can create an entire space empire.

40. Box Balls: We all love watching trick shot videos, and my 9 year old wants to try every one he sees. I found this all-in-one trick shot set and knew it would be a blast for him to practice! My husband will set aside everything to play with our son, switching off setting up various trick shots for the other one to try! They’ve made it a running competition.

41. Sensory Swing: Swings are fun in general, but what makes this swing special is the sensory-deprivation effect it provides. My kids can snuggle up in the soft fabric and forget the world for a time as they subtly swing. I’m not going to lie, I’ve hidden in there a few times myself when I needed some peace and quiet. This is the perfect family toy too because it can be used by so many ages.

42. Loom Bracelet Kit: Making colorful bracelets is a hallmark of being a tween, and the Loom Bracelet set is one of the best I have come across for parties or to give as a gift. There are so many colors to choose from, with all kinds of beads, tassels and charms to add to the bracelet.

43. Lite BriteTouch: Remember the classic light up pegs toy? This is the same vibe but without the pegs, so no worry about messes or stepping on any small parts. You can switch between game mode and creative mode all the time, extending their interest in the toy and giving you more bang for your buck!

44. Sticker Maker: Brand new for 2024 and it's a hit! This sticker maker allows your kids to make and create their own stickers. The app lets you select and print pre-loaded stickers or upload your own photos. My kids took photos of their stuffed anmials and printed a bunch of stickers. This set also comes with markers so you can color the stickers. The sticker maker can be used by younger kids but they will need help reading the app.

Teen Gift Guide

Mel here! Your babies are growing up and they are entering that stage of wanting really expensive gifts or you have absolutely no idea what to even get them. We've come to the rescue with some really fun and unique suggestions to gift your teen this year.

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1. DIY Book Insert: Your teenage bookworm probably has a bookshelf, and they are probably always looking for ways to beautify and personalize it. This Rolife DIY Book Nook kit is a magical dollhouse-like insert to put in between your books, bringing your bookshelf to life. Not only is it gorgeous to look at, but the process of putting it together yourself is so satisfying and worth the effort.

2. Smart Dog Puzzle Game: If your kid is a dog person, SmartGames has designed a fun and creative brain game for traveling, sitting in waiting rooms, or for quiet, phone-free time. Simply set up the pieces to match the challenge in the challenge booklet, and arrange the pieces one at a time to create an obstacle course for the dog to go through! Get the whole family involved and make it a competition, that’s what we did!

3. Hogwarts Castle: The Hogwarts Castle LEGO set is no secret in the Wizarding World community. Snagging one of these collectible sets is a dream for so many Potterheads, and a very special gift for the one in your family. They will feel that they’ve apparated into Hogwarts as they build the castle, and their notalgia itch will be satisfied for the year! I know families who display it as an annual Halloween or Christmas decoration, but it definitely deserves to be on display.

4. Quilling for Beginners: Looking for a craft for your teen to get excited about? The Quilling Beginner’s Kit has everything they need to dip their toes in the world of quilling, or making art by shaping paper! They can customize greeting cards, create artwork, door hangers, or even magnets. The kit is truly made for beginners, will easy-to-follow instructions on top of all the tools included.

5. Fine Line Temp Tats: I remember when I was in high school it was all the rage to draw on yourself with Sharpie or pens, which was not the safest or cleanest decision. But kids love to self expression and often find it in body art. These temporary tattoos last 5-7 days and are so easy to apply in seconds! There are over 240 tattoos to choose from, from inspirational words to flowers, wildlife and other symbols. They are so fun to do together as a group at parties, or make great party favors as well!

6. Super Slide Brain Game: Invite your kid to focus and strengthen their problem solving and planning skills with the Super Slide brain teaser game! It is about the size of a handheld console, making it a great travel companion. It is designed for fidgeters, children who struggle with focusing, or anyone who loves brain games! There are over 500 puzzles, providing endless challenging fun.

7. Gib Gab: I know you played a version of this game when you were a kid, but probably with your hands rather than a machine. It is a must-play for your next family game night, or when your kids have friends over! Choose a category, and think of words within that category faster than your opponent. If the light reaches you before you can think of a word, you lose that round! The first one to three points wins, so it is a pretty fast game that everyone can enjoy. It is just as fun watching as it is playing!

8. Face Serum: Just Ingredients has blown up in recent years, and for good reason. Their commitment to clean consumption is one that is addictive, and we are so glad that they have ventured into the beauty world! Their face serum is clean, effective, and safe for all skin types, especially youthful skin! All the ingredients are organic and recognizable, and the list doesn’t go on for miles! You can have peace of mind knowing that the best of ingredients are being soaked up by your or your child’s skin.

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9. Jumbo Scrunchie: Whether you or your child has really thick hair or you love statement accessories, the Kaxi Jumbo Scrunchie needs to be in your regular rotation. These massive scrunchies are 5 times the size of your average scrunchie and come in 15 gorgeous colors! These make the perfect finishing touch on holiday gifts.

10. Speks Putty: Look no further for the most satisfying fidget toy on the market. These tiny magnets are incredibly fun to run between your fingers or stack on the desk. My kids will play with their Speks Fidget Putty while reading a book or watching a show, quieting their mind and helping them focus. With multiple color options, each person in the family got to pick their favorite color!

11. Cats and Boxes Smart Game: I found one of the best on-the-go brain games that involves no technology whatsoever. The object of the game is super simple: set up the pieces to match the challenge in the challenge booklet, and arrange the pieces one at a time to get every cat inside of a box! It is perfect for road trips, airplanes, or when your teen needs to get off their device.

12. Roller Skates: Do you have a roller skating enthusiast in your home, or an upcoming birthday that you need to plan? If my parents had gotten me these roller skates when I was younger, I would’ve been at the skating rink on a daily basis! They are good for indoor or outdoor use, and whoever wears them will be riding in style. The holographic material is gorgeous and certainly stands out, and they even have an option for light-up wheels!

13. Lap Loom: Have you ever been asked how rugs and tapestries were made back in the day before machines? I know I have wondered about it before, but Harrisville Designs have taken away all the mystery with the introduction of their Lap Loom kit! Create a 9x15 inch piece made of 100% wool through the ancient practice of weaving. You and your kids can learn the history of weaving with the booklet provided, and create something truly beautiful and fulfilling!

14. Volleyshot: Let your kid bring the fun to the lunchroom, greenroom, or game night with Fat Brain’s Volleyshot! This super simple table-top game challenges hand-eye coordination and cognition, and is a great way to compete with friends in a short amount of time. Make it a scoring competition, or see how long you can keep a volley going!

15. Gold Chain: Gold chains are all the rage across the board for men and women, and I was shocked when my husband expressed interest in getting one! I found this 18K gold plated, sterling silver chain for such a good deal by Miabella. This chain is made in Italy, by people who value quality craftsmanship. It comes in 7 length options, so you can make sure it’ll lie right where you want it. It is a great staple piece that adds a little shine to every outfit!

16. Face Scrub: You or a young one in your family may be in need of a face scrub, but I beg you (!!!) to not run to the grocery store and buy one of their abrasive, chemical-ridden scrubs that will do more harm than good. Just Ingredients has a safe, gentle face scrub that smells amazing and will not harm your or your kid’s skin. No parabens, endocrine disruptors, or irritants, just organic and real ingredients that you can trust.

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17. Detangling and Massage Brush: Everyone with long hair and within the sound of my written word needs to invest in the Glow Beauty detangling brush. Meant for wet hair, dry hair, thick or thin hair, the brush is for everyone. It seamlessly detangles my hair, even when I have been out in the wind all day, and I do not have to worry about it breaking or pulling my hair. Unique to this brush is an intentional drainage hole to prevent water damage, water retention, or bacteria buildup.

18. Face Socks: Remind your loved one how much they love you with custom Face Socks from Etsy! These custom socks are the perfect silly gift for Mother’s or Father’s Day, Valentine’s Day, Christmas, groomsmen or even school dances. They can fit almost any occasion, are affordable, and will easily bring a laugh to the recipient. You can put up to 5 different faces on the socks, so creativity has no bounds!

19. Thinking Putty: Sometimes you just need something squishy, stretchy, and bouncy to play with while you read, do homework, or listen to your favorite podcast. Not only is Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty is a sensory dream, and so fun to play with, but it is also made out of a gorgeous color-changing silicone that never dries out. It is an incredible fidget toy for all ages over 3.

20. Mixhers HerTime: I cannot praise Mixhers enough, with their devotion to women’s health and the making of tasty drinks. HerTime is one of their most genius creations. It was thoughtfully crafted with female hormones in mind, helping to ease menstrual cramps, mood swings, and bloating. It also supports normal cycles all month long, regulating hormones when taken regularly. I have my HerTime every single day and I have felt a major difference in my cycles.

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21. Super Flying Disk: I found the ultimate outdoor toy that is easy to travel with, lightweight, and loads of fun. The Star Magic Beamo Woosh frisbee flying disk is 20 inches in diameter, making it larger than a standard frisbee, and so easy to catch. It is great for the beach, pool, & park, improving hand-eye coordination in all who play with it! Watch it glide up to 100 feet and catch it without any fear of getting hurt.

22. Boomabandz: Do teenagers still do outdoor game nights? If they do, or if you have room in your home or backyard, you need a BoomaBand! This massive band provides a thrilling, physical activity for youth and adults! Bring it to your next picnic, 4th of July party or family game night. Simply wrap the band around four people, and get an unexpected giggly workout as you all take turns running to the other side of the band. It is breathtakingly fun and exciting!

23. Tech Deck: Finger boards, or mini skateboards for your fingers, are not only a great fidget toy, but are meant for collecting and trading with friends! This exclusive Olympic Games 2024 8 pack includes mini versions of Olympians’ boards, and they each come with trading cards and stands for the boards! Your skater boys and their friends can bond over this fun hobby and learn finger tricks along the way!

24. GRWM Towel Headband: Kaxi designed the cutest and functional headband there is! Get your hair out of your face with a gorgeous, soft, microfiber headband that prevents creasing. I use mine every single day when I get ready, and so do all my beauty influencer friends! If you have a content creator in your house or they just like feeling pretty when they are getting ready, this is a must-have for your day-to-day!

25. Bow Earrings Pack: 2024 is the year of the bows, and if you haven’t got on the train yet, it is never too late! This 12-pack of gold plated bow earrings are an incredible value and come with all kinds of styles and sizes of bows: long and skinny, short and squat, sparkly and flat. They are hypoallergenic and nickel-free, and are hard to tarnish, helping them last longer!

26. Mixhers Focus: Replace your sugary caffeinated drink with something made of clean ingredients that is just as yummy! Mixhers Focus is designed to help you focus while also aiding in stress relief and supporting brain function. When I take this regularly, I feel a boost in my energy and a restored vigor so I can do everything I need to do as a busy mom of 3. Mixhers is a woman-owned, woman-owned brand that we have proudly partnered with for years and recommend them to everyone we know!

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27. Wolf Em Stick: Roasting over the campfire is not limited to marshmallows and hot dogs. In fact, some people don’t even care for these campfire staples! I introduce to you the Wolf’em Stick. The creators of Wolf’em discovered a way to roast biscuit dough over the fire, creating a crunchy bowl to be filled with whatever sweet or savory treat you want! My favorite feature is the easy-turn wooden handle, making it so easy to cook my food evenly.

28. Harry Potter Puzzle: I would honestly be shocked if the Harry Potter fan in your household didn’t already have a Harry Potter puzzle, but whether they do or not, this puzzle is a must! It is for advanced puzzlers, with 3000 pieces. It is 32x45 in when completed, and totally captures the beauty of the Hogwards Castle. Do it as a family in one day, or make it more of a long-term project for one! Either way, it will bring some magic into your home.

29. On the Go Blanket: Beddy’s On-The-Go blanket is a necessity for travelers. It is double-sided, with a plush minky side for extra cold conditions and a lighter-weight side for when you just want the comfort of a nice blanket. It comes with a water-resistant carrying case for ease of travel, and I promise it will become your best traveling buddy the moment you use it for the first time! We love ours and have it in the car with us at all times.

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30. Crystal Chakra Balls: We recently watched Inside Out 2 as a family and fell in love with the emotion characters all over again! When I found these crystal light-up chakra balls, I was so excited because they reminded me of the panel of emotions depicted in the movie! The seven colors are each so beautiful and vibrant, and when lit up become the most beautiful night light anyone could ask for! They add vibrance to whatever room they are in, and can be used as an emotional support item as well.

31. Get Out Pass: If you are a Utah local and have not tried a Get Out Pass yet, I am so sorry but you are really missing out! My husband I got the Get Out Pass in our first year of marriage when we wanted to explore what Utah has to offer and see what we enjoy doing together! It could not have been a better purchase. With each pass you get 1 visit at Lagoon, ski resorts, water parks, sports games, golf courses, trampoline parks, and way way more. The deal is truly unbeatable, and will get you and your family out of the monotonous routines and into the fun that Utah has to offer!

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32. Needoh Gum Drop: Stress balls can be retro, too! The Needoh Gumdrop brings a bright and nostalgic feel to stress balls, with its bright colors and classic Gumdrop candy-shape. It bounces back to its original shape every time it is squeezed, and the texture is so nice to feel in your hands. If your child needs to destress or simply requires a fidget toy, this affordable ball can do the trick!

33. Permanent Jewelry: Commemorate a relationship with permanent jewelry from Bonded Bracelets! We were introduced to Bonded a few years back, and immediately got ourselves matching bracelets. It was the best bonding activity for us to go to together, and the quality of the jewelry is the best of the best. We recommend going for a girl’s night, birthday parties, or hiring them for a private party! It is an act of permanence that will complete any outfit, and one you will never regret!

Arts and Crafts Toy Guide

Mel here! My girls are absolutely with all things art. They could create all day long if I let them. Mandy I put our heads together to finally come up with an art guide that is full of the best supplies, kits, and everything in between.

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1. Nortier Board: We are honored to have a Toy Testing Sisters special bundle reserved for our TTS family only! This art bundle has everything your littles could need, including a double sided chalk/magnetic board, fruit felts, magnetic letters, cute animal erasers, and more! My girls are into playing school with their friends, and this set has provided them the perfect pretend space to let their imagination run wild!

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2. Doh Kits: It is so not fair that kids these days have the most creative toys available to them! We stumbled upon Happy Life Magic's doh kits on Etsy and we died at how cute they are. There are countless choices for every occasion: Halloween, birthday parties, girls’ nights, and world exploration! The doh literally comes to life in every kit, and I love watching my kids go wild with their creations.

3. Sticker WOW: It is like a stamp, but for stickers! The Sticker Wow Pen is such a fun way to place stickers, and there are so many different character pens to choose from. If your kids can’t get enough of stickers, they certainly need this activity booklet! I love how many stickers the pen can hold, so I am not continually needing to help my kids load their pens. Its simplicity makes it a great on-the-go toy!

4. Soft Core Colored Pencils: Every kid needs a standard set of colored pencils, and I feel like Amazon Basics did a great job with this one. The tin storage case keeps the pencils neat and organized, preventing breakage when they aren’t in use. I also feel like they don’t break as easily as some colored pencils, and the color selection is exactly what we were looking for! You also can't beat the price. These make great friend gifts.

5. Dot It: If I can find a way for my kiddos to draw without using markers or paint, I do it! The Dot It art activity is such a fun and developmentally creative way to color! Stickers are provided to fill in the blanks of the canvas, and kids can practice their fine motor skills by peeling and strategically placing their stickers. It is a mess-free way to keep my kids busy during church, waiting at the doctor’s office, or car rides!

6. Tivi Tray: Art is beautiful, and it can also get really messy. I try to minimize the mess as much as possible, and the Tivi Tray has been so helpful with that! Its silicone material is also heat and slip resistant, and the raised edges help to contain the art being crafted within! We’ve used them to make jewelry, paint, and for special glitter art. It has been a life saver for clean-up! I just throw it in the dish washer and it’s ready to go for the next project.

7. Fun Foil: If precision, shine, and professionalism is what your child wants to see in their art, then Fun Foil is exactly what they need! This new way of making art is magical, clean, and so fun. No worries about coloring outside of the lines or getting glitter everywhere, because the foil leaves a crisp edge and glittery surface with little work required from your kiddo. 

8. Chalk Crayons: Wondersticks are a versatile, multi-surface chalk crayon, that my girls could not live without. They usually use them in the traditional way, on paper, but I have let them decorate our windows in the past with them for holidays! It comes right off of glass and windows, and is permanent on paper and wood products! This fall we even decorated pumpkins with them, which will definitely become a seasonal tradition.

9. Painting Set: I don’t know about you, but I swear every time my girls paint their brush cleaning cup spills at least once, and brushes roll off the table and get paint all over my floor. It’s no fun! This 4-in-1 painting set was the solution and has had me breathing easy every time the paint comes out. I love it enough for the brush holders and the built-in brush rinser, but the mixing tray and brush scrubber were the cherries on top. 

10. Color by Number Puzzle: The Color by Number puzzle is the best of both worlds- puzzles and coloring. What kid doesn’t love both? The puzzle pieces are all white, but once the puzzle is put together, then the coloring can begin! One of my children loves to follow the instructions and color it the way it was intended, but my other child chooses to disregard the instructions and let her imagination run wild! Either way, they both have so much fun every time they do one of these. 

11. Fingerprint Activity Book: Whether you are on the go or are trying to rid your space of messy, risky art projects, then you need Fingerprint Ink Painting. Your kiddo, especially if they are a little young to be handling markers or brushes, will be excastic when they see the magic at their fingertips… literally! All they need is their finger, and they can create art in the car, at a friend’s, or even in their bed! No mess, no stress, just clean, magical fun.

12. Scrubbies: Reusable art projects are such a good investment, especially when it’s affordable and clever! Crayola’s Scribble Scrubbies are so fun because when my 4 year old messes up or doesn’t like her pet creation, she can throw it in the bath, rinse out the ink, and try again! Even if she is happy with it, she often wants to try new designs anyway. She plays with her Scribble Scrubbies almost daily right now, and I am all for it.

13. Rainbow Scratch Offs: My childhood flashed before my eyes when I was introduced to the Rainbow Scratch Art Mini Notes. I had to get them because I knew they would be such a good toy to take on the road or to church because they are mess-free and so compact! I also used it to my advantage when I wanted quiet time in the house and encouraged my girls to pass rainbow notes to each other instead of talking. It worked like a charm!

14. Wall Art Frames: Parents are so proud of their kids’ art that we love to display it, but sometimes we end up making piles and piles of undisplayed art that we can’t throw away but don’t know what to do with. The Li’l Davinci Art Cabinet solves this problem by being both a frame and a storage container! Each frame can hold up to 50 sheets of paper, and the frames come in so many sizes! This is a must-by for parents whose kids make a lot of art. 

15. Liquid Water Color: Once we discovered Colorations Liquid Watercolor Paint, we said goodbye to all our food coloring! We use it for egg and silk dyeing, but most of the time we use it to add color to water for sensory play! The paints are so vibrant, and since they are non-toxic, I feel safe letting my girls play with it.

16. Paint Sticks: Sometimes our youngins don’t have the patience or the attention span to get out all the paint supplies, paint, clean the brushes, and wait for their art to dry. My 4 year old is at that stage. I got her Ooly’s paint sticks because she wanted to paint, but she wanted to paint now. The tempera paint stick is so easy for littles to hold, and dries quickly so they don’t have to wait long before admiring their work!

17. Magic Light Brush: Okay the Magic Light Brush is the ultimate mess-free art toy, bar none. The technology is so cool that I still don’t quite understand it. All I know is that my girls dip the light-up brush into the “Wonder ink”, which is totally invisible, brush on the provided “Wonder Paper”, and paint appears! The brush lights up to whatever color you are going to paint with, so there is no confusion as to what you are about to see. It is pure magic, and our family is obsessed!

18. Sidewalk Chalk Activity Kit: Sidewalk chalk is a necessity for childhood, but sometimes kids need a little direction to help them maximize their sidewalk chalk potential! The Skillsmatics Activity Kit provides 18 pieces of colorful chalk and 15 activity cards that the whole family can enjoy. The activities are simple to understand and I personally love that it keeps us all outside together! 

19. Hey Clay Kit: Sometimes guidance is needed to help a child build the perfect clay animal, and so I am obsessed with the Hey Clay animals kit! It comes with an interactive app that walks the builders step by step, helping my kids feel proud of their work. They can either leave the animals to dry and set within a day, or they can remold the clay into whatever they want! Both my girls are obsessed with animals so this was a solid win for them.

20. Washi Tape: If your kiddo is getting into journaling or scrapbooking, they will no doubt ask for some patterned tape. The Washi Tape set gets you so much tape for such a good value, and the patterns are to die for! They come in all different sizes for variability, and my favorite part is how it peels right off paper without damaging it. So you can re-adjust your tape as much as you want until you get it just right! 

21. Gem Art: My 6 year old just started 1st grade this year, which meant we were all in for school supplies. She was so excited to pick out her folders and notebooks, and I could not resist the temptation to pick her up a Big Gem Diamond Painting set so that she could customize her new supplies. Her excitement was on a whole new level, and we had a blast gemming stickers together! She made every school supply her own, and it made sending her off to school a little less hard for me.

22. Dot Markers: Switching up how our kids color is so beneficial to their overall development, so I try to find new ways for them to express themselves often. The Do A Dot markes are a great way to introduce different styles of coloring, and my 4 year old prefers it to using traditional strokes. Overlapping circles can create texture to an art piece that you couldn’t get otherwise, and there’s something so satisfying about watching that perfect circle form every time!

23. Paint by Stickers: Some kids are paint kids, and some are sticker kids! The Paint by Sticker book is made with sticker kids in mind, while also taking into consideration their developmental needs. The book helps them work on their ability to follow instructions, promotes fine motor skills, and helps them learn how different shapes can make up a beautiful finished product! My 6 year old is a sticker kid and has a Paint by Sticker book in the car, ready to go, whenever we drive.

24. SmART Sketcher Projector: My 6 year old told me one day that she wanted to draw our dog as a gift for Father’s Day, but she wanted it to look accurate. I had just learned about the SmART Sketcher Projector and figured she was at the perfect age and ability to use it! It was the best decision. All we had to do was upload a picture of our dog into the app, and the projector was able to make a sketch for my daughter to trace! It came out so lifelike and professional-looking, and my husband totally cried when he saw it.

25. Magic Water Gel: I love nothing more than watching my kids’ eyes fill with wonder as they view the world through a magical lens. The Magic Water Elf Toy kits are really amazing to witness when put to work! My girls channel their creativity when designing their gel creatures in the various molds, and watching the liquid gel turn into solid in the water is pure magic.

26. Poke In Art: Any future fashion designers are going to swoon over the Poke-in-Art Magical Princess set. It is such a simple way to pretend like you are building a dress from scratch, with real fabric squares that you push into the holes around the skirt template, bringing it to life! It comes with 6 princesses, making it the perfect party activity. My girls have required at least one box each because it is just too fun to share. 

27. Craft Mat: If you have a painter who wants to have access to many colors, this craft mat is a great option. This mat is made from silicone and is heat resisteant. It has a built-in brush cleaning cup and the cups are fully collapsable. Clean-up and storage is so easy.

28. Acrylic Paint Pens: These paint pens are for the young artist who is ready to up their game and dabble in the world of precision art! The tips are extra fine, so they are catered to people who want crisp, straight lines. They can be used for all kinds of projects on all kinds of surfaces, though! We have a cute rock collection in our neighborhood full of decorated rocks made by the community, so we used these pens to decorate some rocks and added them to the display!