Holiday Gift Giving Ideas for Kids Under $20

The holiday season is fast approaching, and finding the perfect gifts for kids can be a challenge. But fear not! We’ve got you covered with our 2023 Holiday Gift Ideas for Kids Under $20.

We’ve curated a list that is sure to bring joy and excitement to children without breaking the bank. Get ready to make this holiday season unforgettable with these affordable and delightful gifts that kids will love!

Note: All prices reflected are subject to change at any time without notice. Please see the individual manufacturer’s website for current pricing.

Taylor’s Pick:

Expandable Breathing Ball | $14

Taylor says: “I believe this is a great gift idea as it has so many uses! The breathing ball can be a great way for kids to have a tangible item in hand while they take deep breaths.

It can also be used as an interactive toy with parents or siblings as they can take a deep breath while making the ball smaller and bigger before tossing the ball to their family member who then takes a deep breath before tossing it back. The breathing ball can also be used as a fidget toy to play with while watching a movie, television show, or on a car ride.”

Lydia’s Pick:

Calming Jar Kit | $19

Lydia says: “This calming jar kit is the gift that keeps on giving! Not only is it a fun craft activity for you to do with your child, it also provides them with a sensory bottle to utilize when they are having big feelings.

This kit comes with a variety of materials, so you and your child can create sensory jars that best meet their needs.”

Susan’s Pick:

Mindful Maze Boards | $8 – $20

Susan says: “This set of hands-on breathing boards helps build social-emotional coping skills by providing cues and physical objects to guide kids through breathing exercises. They also provide and prompt for slowing down by using multiple external senses to promote grounding and centering.

Using these boards as a consistent resource and transitional tool can be fun and centering all at once. Try doing it together with your kids!”

Lizzie’s Pick:

Reversible Octopus Plush | $14

Lizzie says: “This gift provides a sense of comfort, but also incorporates a way for communicating emotions in a fun and kid friendly way.”

Cheryl’s Pick:

Wreck This Journal | $9 – $19

Cheryl says: “As a coping tool, Wreck This Journal by Keri Smith (in all of its various editions) provides a creative outlet for school-aged kiddos to release stress and be creative. Also, great for kiddos who struggle with perfectionism and rigidity to be given permission to explore and try out of the box thinking and doing. So much fun.”

Sarah’s Picks:

Watercolor Starlight Kids Daily Gratitude Journal | $16
Emoji A5 Kids Diary | $15

Sarah says: “Support your child to build a habit of journaling about gratitude or their emotions with these gifts. I’ve enjoyed this company’s journals due to their aesthetics and feel like the cover options will catch the eye of most children.

Encourage your child to use it with you as a part of their bedtime routine.”

Carly’s Pick:

The Gift of Presence | FREE

Carly says: “Spending 3 hours of devoted time with children and family without the use of any screen. That can include going for a nature walk in the snow, making family snow angels, having hot coco, creating a new family tradition, or building a family of snow people. The present is the gift of presence.”

Jon’s Pick:

Family Coupon Books | FREE

Jon says: “As a no-cost option, parents or caregivers can design and issue coupons to their child that give them fun experiences or help.

As an example, ‘This coupon entitles you to reading a story of your choice with…….FRESH BAKED COOKIES OF YOUR CHOICE. Note: You must ask Mom at least the day before so we can have everything in place!’

Other ideas might match the interests of your child, like sledding time, hot chocolate during reading time, 15 minutes of pushing on the swing, or other games. Put aside all the hats you wear with your child except for the fun one!”

Need More Gift Ideas?

Check out our 2022 Holiday Gift Guide with some of our favorite therapeutic gifts for kids!

And, if you are in need of additional resources for support during this (or any) season please reach out to us at Kid Matters Counseling. As always, we are happy to share our best resources with you.  It’s important to stay equipped for the parenting journey, so remember, don’t parent alone!

Have a wonderful holiday season and happy new year!

Kid Matters Counseling Staff

Hinsdale,IL