Santa's Christmas Gift Guide 2026
Santa reading his gift list surrounded by elves and presents beside the Christmas tree

The Best
Christmas Gifts
for Kids in 2026

Thoughtful. Fun. Unforgettable.

Discover handpicked gift ideas for every age and interest. Santa's elves have done the research — so you don't have to.

Explore Top 10 Gifts →Shop by Age

Shop Christmas Gifts by Age

Find the perfect gift for every stage of childhood.

Teens13–17 years

Santa's Top 10 Gift Picks

Our favourite gifts for the 2026 holiday season, handpicked from this year's top toy lists.

  • 1

    Tickle Me Elmo Giggle Max

    Ages 18 months+

    The laughing Elmo that parents remember is back, and it is on the Toy Insider's hottest-toys list for 2026.

    View on Amazon
  • 2

    Peekimo Interactive Pet and Wearable Charm

    Ages 5+

    A pocket-sized pet that reacts to its owner and clips onto a bag or backpack.

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  • 3

    Tamagotchi Paradise

    Ages 8+

    The virtual pet that started it all, updated for a new generation of kids who want something to care for.

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  • 4

    Rainbow Loom Spin Studio

    Ages 6+

    Bracelet making with a motorized twist, from a brand that made friendship bracelets a craze.

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  • 5

    Primal Hatch Megalodon Hatching Shark Egg

    Ages 5+

    Part of the hatching-creature trend. Kids help the egg hatch and discover what is inside.

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  • 6

    FurReal Gabby the Grow & Roar Interactive Plush Tiger

    Ages 4+

    A plush tiger that moves and roars, for kids who want a pet that feels alive.

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  • 7

    Guess Who? Pokémon Edition

    Ages 6+

    The classic guessing game with Pokémon, for a family that already plays both.

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  • 8

    Kayou KPop Demon Hunters Collectible Trading Cards

    Ages 8+

    KPop Demon Hunters is on nearly every 2026 hot-toy list, and trading cards are an easy way in.

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  • 9

    Play-Doh Blooms Flower Bouquet Making Kit

    Ages 4+

    Classic Play-Doh used to build a bouquet kids can keep on the shelf.

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  • 10

    National Geographic Mammoth Dissection Kit and Anatomy Lab

    Ages 8+

    A hands-on science kit for curious kids who like to find out how things work.

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Explore popular gift ideas by interest to find something special for everyone on your list.

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Gifts for Pets

Santa's top 10 gifts for dogs and cats.

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Featured

Hottest Christmas Toys of 2026

The most in-demand toys on every wish list, handpicked from this year's top toy lists and trending favourites.

See All 18 Hottest Toys

Santa's Advice

Gift-Giving Tips

Helpful advice on choosing age-appropriate toys, budgeting, and shopping before things sell out.

Read the Full Guide
More gift ideas by age, budget guide and shopping tips

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to help you find the perfect gift.

What's the average amount parents spend per child at Christmas?

Canadian parents typically spend $200–350 per child at Christmas, according to holiday spending surveys. Financial advisors suggest budgeting no more than one month of take-home pay across all gifts for the entire household. Setting a firm per-child budget in early November — before seeing ads — dramatically reduces overspending.

How many gifts should you give a child for Christmas?

Most child development experts suggest 3–5 thoughtful gifts over a large pile. The popular 'Want, Need, Wear, Read' framework (one gift in each category) is widely used. Research consistently shows children remember experiences and traditions more than specific gifts, regardless of quantity.

What are good Christmas gifts that aren't toys?

Experiences (museum memberships, cooking classes, concerts), subscriptions (book clubs, craft boxes), quality clothing or backpacks, musical instruments, books, art supplies, and outdoor sports equipment are all popular non-toy alternatives — especially effective for ages 9 and up.

How do you handle gift-giving for a large family?

Secret Santa draws (each person buys for one person), age-based budgets rather than equal spending, or family experiences (a trip, a dinner out) work well. Setting clear expectations in October via a family group chat prevents last-minute stress and financial awkwardness.

What's a good Christmas gift for a kid who has everything?

Experiences consistently outperform things for children who already have a lot: a trip to a trampoline park, a cooking class, a museum membership, concert tickets, or sports lessons. Alternatively, a donation to a cause they care about in their name teaches generosity.

Are educational toys actually worth it?

Yes — when educational value is packaged as genuine fun. The best educational toys (LEGO, Magna-Tiles, science kits, coding games) are ones kids choose to play with voluntarily. Avoid toys marketed as educational but not actually enjoyable — kids will ignore them.

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