Highly Recommended Gifts & Experiences

LEGO Technic Ferrari FXX K (10+) — Challenging build with sleek design; the “wow” set of 2025.
Snap Circuits Spy Kit (7+) — Lets kids build working gadgets with real circuits; a Toy Insider STEM winner.
National Geographic Epic Circuits Science Kit (8+) — Hands-on experiments mixing art, coding, and light.
Gecko Run Marble Run (8+) — A top-ranked construction toy; modular, creative, endlessly customizable.
Magna-Tiles Rail Racers Deluxe Set (90-pc) — Combines magnetic building with kinetic race play.
Kano Coding Wand (6+) — Program spells like a wizard while learning basic coding logic.
LEGO Animal Crossing: Leif’s Garden Shop (7+) — Cozy collectible world-building; gender-neutral favorite.

Cool Maker Stack’d Heishi Bracelet Studio (8+) — Trendy jewelry maker that teaches pattern design.
Make-Your-Own Comic Book Kit (8+) — For the budding storyteller or illustrator.
Kinetic Sand Deluxe Play Set (5+) — Sensory and calming; still one of the most-used open-ended toys.
Rainbow Loom “Braid & Bead” Kit (7+) — A modern refresh of a nostalgic favorite.
Crayola Artista Deluxe Art Marker Set (6+) — Over 150 shades for big art dreams.
DIY Clay Jewelry or Trinket Dish Kit — Creative gift from Uncommon Goods-style makers; fun for family craft nights.

The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids (7+) — Encourages reading and confidence through humor.
National Geographic Kids Almanac 2025 — Always a hit for fact-hungry minds.
Osmo Genius Starter Kit (6–10) — iPad-based learning with tactile pieces; top-rated for hands-on learners.
Personalized Search-and-Find Book — Customize their name and hobbies; a magical bedtime hit.

Spikeball Rookie Set (6+) — Easy to learn, high-energy backyard play.
Flybar Pogo Trick Ball (5+) — A Toy Insider “Active Play” favorite; builds balance and confidence.
Mini Drone with Auto Hover — Beginner-friendly flying fun, good for parent–child play.
Putt-Putt Peril Indoor/Outdoor Mini Golf Set — Indoor play for winter days or rainy afternoons.

furReal Maggie the Feed & Follow Cow (4+) — Interactive plush that feels alive; Good Housekeeping Toy Award.
Disney Ultimate Stitch Interactive Plush (6+) — Talk-back toy that charms both boys and girls.
Playmobil City Action Fire Truck (5+) — Classic pretend play with durable design and moving parts.
Calico Critters Red Roof Cozy Cottage — Timeless small-world playset; peaceful, imaginative, and nostalgic.

Kid Museum, Bethesda — a hands-on maker space for children to build, tinker & explore STEM concepts.
Port Discovery Children’s Museum, Baltimore — interactive play and learning exhibits; a full-day adventure for young children and families; one-time visit or annual membership.
Maryland Science Center, Baltimore — engaging science exhibits and planetarium shows; great for curious kids and budding scientists; one-time visit or annual membership.
Escapology Escape Rooms, North Bethesda — family-friendly escape-room challenge that can be great for older elementary kids.
Imagination Stage, Bethesda — live theatre performances and youth classes (ideal for families going out together).