The Best Stocking Stuffers for Toddlers

I do the majority of my Christmas gift shopping before December even rolls around, but the stocking stuffers seem to wait until the last minute. They require less planning, less storage space, and you can find them most anywhere you go. The key, however, is picking the BEST ones! Especially for toddlers! Here are a few of my recommendations and favorite gift ideas for stocking stuffers for toddlers!

• First of all, you don't have to overwhelm them with a heaping sack full of trinkets before they even get to the presents! A small handful of items will still be really awesome to them.
• Unknown items, or things that you have to explain, might not be best for this age. If they can't identify it immediately, it could get cast aside and it might be hard to build enthusiasm or interest when there are other favorites all around. I've found it best to stick with things they are familiar with and already love.
• The key is to choose small items with minimal packaging, or else you'll only be able to fit a couple things in their sock, depending on the size. Save the big items for under the tree, and save the oddly-shaped things that fit in your palm for the stocking.
• Avoid things with batteries or toys that need assembly. We all know that toddlers can be impatient and are all about the "here and now", so to hopefully avoid a break down on Christmas morning, when expectations are high and parents are sleepy, try to tend towards items that don't need an hour of your attention before you even eat breakfast.
• Also avoid too much candy! Like on Halloween, they'll see it all and want to eat it all immediately! One small candy treat that won't get smeared all over their new Christmas jammies is perfect.

The best part of this list is that you can probably find every single item here at the dollar store. No need to break the bank if you've already spent the budget on the larger gifts! We're also linking to some of these items on Amazon - in case you don't want to leave the house. Some of the items from Amazon may be in bigger quantities than you need right now, but you could always save some for party favors, an incentive treasure chest, or donate them to your child's teacher.

1. Bouncy balls
2. Chocolate candy coins (especially for pirate enthusiasts)
3. Play Doh
4. A small, folded art smock
5. Art supplies like crayons, a small paint kit, or new markers
6. Small cars or trains or anything on wheels
7. Socks or mittens in their favorite color
8. Small puzzles
9. Wind-up racer cars (but make sure all the other kids get one too!)
10. Finger puppets
11. A small board book (see our recommendations for the best ones!)
12. Kazoo or toy harmonica
13. Bubble bath
14. GLOW STICKS!

Do you have any other ideas that have been big hits with your toddlers?!
Share below!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Happy shopping!