One of the highlights of Christmas morning for the little ones is seeing what Santa left in their stocking. So what if Santa is having difficulty finding interesting things to place in the stockings? Look no further. Having five kids myself, through the years I have discovered great ideas for stuffing those stockings without breaking the bank.
I usually discover a variety of goodies that fit well in stockings at places such as Dollar Tree and other dollar type stores, as well as craft and hobby type stores such as JoAnn, Hobby Lobby and Michaels. Other large retailers such as Walmart and Kmart usually have some great finds as well. Walgreens pharmacy is also a great place to find little goodies for the kids’ stockings. Most of these items cost around $1, which makes it possible to fill the stocking without emptying the wallet.
Some great ideas I’ve found for stocking stuffers include small holiday puzzles (cost around 59 cents each or two for a dollar at Walgreens), small journals or decorative note pads, holiday socks ($1, usually available in bins at JoAnn or Michaels during the holidays), pencils, fun erasers, small toys, craft and bead items (small kits to paint or bead usually available in small packages for $1 in craft stores), washcloths that “grow” when placed in water (with favorite kids’ characters on them), and any countless number of item at stores such as Dollar Tree. Check out the electronics section at these dollar type stores, and you can usually find jewel cases for CDs, colorful earbuds, cool little key chains, and other interesting gadgets that older kids will enjoy.
I have a lot of fun searching for fun, little things that my kids will enjoy. I am almost always able to find something that they collect, such as Peanuts themed items, or Hello Kitty, Spider Man, and other characters, all within the perfect size and price range to fit in stockings. Of course, there are also plenty of edible goodies readily available this time of year as well. I try to go light on the sweets and heavy on the little trinkets and gifts that will last awhile.
Start thinking about little stocking stuffers anytime you are out and about at any of these great stores. You’ll be surprised at what you can accumulate in time for the holidays, without even realizing it. I keep a bag hidden in my closet in which to place little items I’ve purchased throughout the year for Christmas stocking stuffing. This way, most of your work is already done when it’s time for Santa to visit.
Have a wonderful holiday season! I hope my ideas have given you a little inspiration.