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Mindfulness is a lovely practice that helps bring attention to the present moment. For children, it’s especially helpful: it gives them tools to manage emotions, stay focused, grow empathy and compassion, and boost happiness. Below are some of my favorite books and resources that are great for introducing kids to mindfulness and encouraging regular practice.

Photo by Monstera on Pexels.

This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

I’ve practiced mindfulness for several years, and 2021 was the year I dove deeper—expanding my own practice and completing mindfulness teacher training. I’m excited to share this wonderful practice with more people and show simple ways it can be woven into daily life.

Why should kids practice mindfulness?
Teaching mindfulness to young children builds a lifelong skill. Habits formed early tend to shape behavior later on. Mindfulness fosters kindness, empathy, compassion, acceptance, and calm. It works the prefrontal cortex—the brain area involved in focus and self-control. By exercising that part of the brain, mindfulness strengthens pathways related to attention, self-regulation, and good judgment.

Mindfulness can reduce stress and increase happiness for both children and adults. It teaches them to stay present without judgment or attachment, which is helpful as they move through life’s ups and downs. It also helps kids understand their thoughts and feelings better, so they can respond more calmly, communicate more clearly, listen better, and build stronger relationships over time.

How do children learn mindfulness?
One of the best ways children learn mindfulness is by watching you. Kids copy adults constantly, so modeling calm behavior and having your own mindfulness practice is key. I’ve shared many simple ways to bring mindfulness into everyday routines on Zulily’s blog—many of those ideas can be adapted for kids with a few tweaks.

Below are some of my favorite books, tools, and resources that are excellent for teaching mindfulness to children.

14 of the Best Mindfulness Books & Tools for Kids:

I Am Peace
From the creators of I Am Yoga, I Am Human, I Am Love, and I Am One, this gentle book shares the heart of mindfulness, encouraging kids to breathe, taste, smell, and be present. Includes a guided meditation.

Alphabreaths: The ABCs of Mindful Breathing
Alphabreaths teaches ABCs and the basics of mindfulness through playful breathing exercises. Breaths like Mountain Breath and Redwood Breath connect kids with nature, while Heart Breath and Wish Breath guide them toward gratitude and sending kind thoughts to others. Simple, fun, and beautifully illustrated—perfect for introducing breath awareness.

I Can Do Hard Things: Mindful Affirmations for Kids
This book introduces children to the practice of using mindful affirmations for support and encouragement. It celebrates diversity and is a great addition to home or school social-emotional libraries.

The Breathing Book
Young readers explore mindful awareness through breathing practices and interactive activities that calm the mind, set intentions, and spark imagination. Christopher Willard and Olivia Weisser offer a book that’s more than a book—kids bring it to life by turning pages with focus, balancing it on a belly, tracing shapes, reframing tough thoughts, sending kind wishes, and practicing many repeatable activities. Easy instructions and charming illustrations make this a hands-on tool for breath awareness.

A Handful of Quiet: Happiness in Four Pebbles
Created by Zen master and bestselling author Thich Nhat Hanh, this book includes full instructions for pebble meditation—a hands-on way to involve children and connect them to nature. Practiced alone or with family, pebble meditation can ease stress, improve concentration, build gratitude, and help kids handle hard emotions.

My Magic Breath: Finding Calm Through Mindful Breathing
From New York Times bestselling author Nick Ortner comes a lovely picture book that helps children find calm through mindful breathing. In a busy world, My Magic Breath guides kids to a quiet place of self-awareness and balance.

ABC Mindful Me
A fun family read that teaches toddlers their ABCs while introducing mindfulness ideas that promote physical and mental well-being—breathing, compassion, gratitude, and kindness.

Sitting Still Like a Frog: Mindfulness Exercises for Kids
Simple practices to help children (ages 5–12) cope with anxiety, improve focus, and handle strong emotions. Includes a 60-minute audio CD of guided exercises read by Myla Kabat-Zinn.

Listening to My Body
This interactive book helps children name their feelings and recognize the physical sensations that go with them. From wiggly and squirmy to rested and still, Listening to My Body builds a sensations vocabulary so kids can express what they’re feeling. Kid-friendly mindfulness activities throughout make it a great social-emotional tool for parents, counselors, and teachers.

I Am Yoga
Illustrator Peter H. Reynolds and author Susan Verde team up to celebrate yoga, creativity, and self-expression. I Am Yoga invites children to explore yoga and mindfulness and open their hearts to the world around them.

Breathe Like a Bear: 30 Mindful Moments for Kids to Feel Calm and Focused Anytime, Anywhere
This beautifully illustrated collection offers 30 short, simple breathing exercises and movements kids can do anywhere—on car rides, during busy homework nights, or at school—to help manage their bodies, breath, and emotions.

Mindfulness Tools for Kids:

Mindful Moments: Guided Exercises and Mantras for Kids
This card deck introduces mindfulness in a hands-on way, helping children learn new ways to breathe, move, and use their senses. The daily exercises and empowering mantras aim to boost emotional intelligence, focus, resilience, and calm, while reducing anxiety. It’s easy to add to a bedtime routine or use to ground a child after a long day. You can purchase it here.

Mindfulness Journal for Kids
This journal is filled with writing prompts, simple exercises, and inspiring quotes to make practicing mindfulness easy and fun for kids every day.

Mindful Maze Boards
These sensory maze boards are great for calming and refocusing while reinforcing mindfulness skills. Finger tracing helps pace the breath and reconnect attention. Each set includes three double-sided mindful maze boards.

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This post is sponsored by FLAVORx. All opinions are my own.

When your child is sick it’s stressful enough. If they refuse medicine, it can feel really frustrating and discouraging. I remember when my youngest was a toddler with a bad ear infection and needed an antibiotic, but he refused to take it. I felt my frustration rising, but then I remembered tips I picked up working as a pharmacy technician—tricks pharmacists often share to help parents with stubborn kids.

When a child won’t take liquid medicine, it can lead to tears, tantrums, and a longer illness. Whether it’s for a short sickness or a daily medicine, there are things you can try to make it easier for both of you. If you’re wondering “how do I get my child to take medicine?” these tips can help.

8 Ways to Help Your Child Take Medicine

Have a Positive Attitude
Kids take cues from your mood. Even if you’re frustrated, try to stay calm. The more upset you get, the more likely they are to fight it.

Improve the Flavor with FLAVORx
Some medicines really do taste awful, and that’s often why kids refuse them. FLAVORx offers a simple fix: at the pharmacy, kids can pick a flavor to mix into their medicine. When I worked in a pharmacy, we frequently recommended FLAVORx because it made medicine time much easier. I always ask for it when I pick up my kids’ prescriptions at CVS. It’s worth the extra step — they get to choose the flavor and it cuts down on battling.

Flavors are sugar-free, gluten-free, dye-free, and casein-free, with more than 16 options that can be used with hundreds of drugs. It’s a safe, easy way to make yucky medicine taste better and take away the stress of giving it.

Talk It Through
Ask your child what bothers them about taking the medicine and try to solve that specific issue. Explain why they need it and make it clear it’s not a punishment. Be calm, firm, and understanding. Work as a team to find a solution.

Give Them Choices
Let kids feel in control by offering small choices: which FLAVORx flavor, which tool to use (spoon, dosing cup, syringe), or where they want to take it (on your lap, in bed, on the couch). A bit of control can ease the fight.

Fool the Tongue
Try simple tricks to lessen the taste. Give a popsicle or let them suck on ice before medicine to slightly numb the tongue. After medicine, offer something sweet, like a spoonful of honey or chocolate syrup, to wash the taste away. Many taste buds sit at the back of the mouth, so using a syringe to squirt medicine into the side of the cheek can reduce how much they taste.

Role Play
For little ones, role play can help. Let them give “medicine” to dolls or stuffed animals to make the idea less scary and more fun.

Make It a Routine
For medicines taken over days or regularly, make taking it part of a routine and place it before something they love (playing outside, a favorite show, or screen time). That way they have something positive to look forward to.

Reward Them
Sometimes rewards work well. Use a star chart or promise a small toy if they take their medicine all week—tangible rewards can be powerful motivators.

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We love music in our family, so it wasn’t surprising when our tween wanted to learn guitar. Music is a gift that keeps giving, and there’s no cooler way for kids to express themselves than by playing an instrument. Learning at home can be a great way to get them started. If your child shows interest in guitar, encourage it—music offers so many benefits for kids.

Here are some tips to help your child learn guitar and have fun at home:
This post is sponsored by Rocksmith+. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Spark their interest
Fill the house with music your child likes. Hearing different songs and styles can inspire them to try and recreate what they hear. We mix up genres so they can explore different sounds and find what they enjoy most.

Make it fun
Learning shouldn’t feel like a chore. Let them explore the guitar, make goofy noises, have little dance breaks, and choose songs they love. The key is to keep it fun.

Gear up
Choose the right-sized guitar. A full-size guitar can be tough for small hands, so look for a smaller, fractional model that’s easier to hold.
Add kid-friendly accessories like colorful picks and comfy straps. Let them personalize the instrument so it feels like theirs.

Learning resources
Our son started off teaching himself for the first month, but we wanted to add more structure. We had trouble finding lessons that fit our schedule, so we looked into alternatives and found Rocksmith+. We were immediately interested.

What is Rocksmith+?
Rocksmith+ is an award-winning music learning service from Ubisoft that gamifies learning. It helps beginners and more experienced players practice guitar, bass, and piano anywhere. You can access it on iOS, Android, or PC with no extra gear. It offers real-time feedback and practice tools you can control—perfect for beginners.

Why Rocksmith+ works for young learners
– Huge, kid-friendly song library: Rocksmith+ has thousands of songs across many genres, from classic rock to modern pop, plus movie and game soundtracks. Your child can pick songs they recognize and enjoy.
– Learn by playing: Instead of boring sheet music, the app shows a color-coded display that tells you which frets to press and when. It makes learning notes and chords feel natural and fun.
– Adaptive learning: The program adjusts difficulty based on skill level. Kids can learn small parts of a song—a riff or a chord progression—and build up to the full song so they don’t feel overwhelmed.
– Real-time feedback and practice tools: Rocksmith+ listens to the guitar (acoustic, electric, or bass) and gives instant feedback on accuracy. Tools like “Riff Repeater” let them focus on tricky bits until they get them right.
– Different learning styles: If your child prefers traditional methods, Rocksmith+ includes sheet music view and video lessons from pro guitarists to mix things up.
– Sense of progress: The app rewards practice with points and unlocks new songs as your child improves, keeping motivation high.

Learn together
If you play even a little, jam with your child. It’s a fun way to bond and a chance for you to practice too.

Keep it positive
Celebrate small wins. Recognize progress—mastering a simple chord or strumming pattern is a big deal for a beginner. Rocksmith+ has been great for my son because he loves seeing his accuracy and mastery improve after each session. The app shows a summary of difficulty, accuracy, and mastery, which he enjoys watching change over time.
Keep the mood light and encouraging. Learning takes time, so patience is important.

With Rocksmith+ and a supportive home, your child can grow a lifelong love of music, build confidence, and maybe become a little rockstar. Spread the love.

This post is sponsored by Aura.
Online gaming is a favorite pastime for many kids, and it’s one of the trickiest things I’ve had to manage as a parent. I want my kids to enjoy their games, but letting them play online can feel risky and stressful. Gaming can be fun and even educational, but parents need to keep children safe while they explore the online world.
Common risks in online gaming:
– Identity theft: Kids often don’t realize that sharing personal details while gaming or on social media can lead to privacy problems or stolen identities.
– Online predators: Children can be trusting. It’s hard for them to know if the person on the other side of the screen is who they say they are or has good intentions.
– Cyberbullying: Harassment through voice or text chats and social media is still a real problem. Stay aware of your child’s online interactions.
– Malware: Downloads, links in chats, and video content can infect devices and give hackers access to private information.
– Adult content: Games can include violence, sexual content, or mature themes that aren’t appropriate for kids, so check what they’re playing.
It may feel overwhelming when kids begin gaming online, but there are many tools and steps you can take to keep them safer. Here are our trusted tips for protecting children while gaming.
Eleven essential tips to help parents keep kids safe while gaming online:
1. Open communication
Talk honestly with your children about online risks and encourage them to tell you if something makes them uncomfortable. Open lines of communication are the best foundation for online safety.
2. Use parental controls and digital safety tools: Aura
Aura is a great all-in-one digital safety tool for families. It helps protect against identity theft, fraud, and online threats so you can feel more at ease. We use Aura for peace of mind with gaming and social media. It monitors the websites and apps our kids use and helps ensure their online time is safe.
Aura blocks harmful content, tracks screen time, offers 24/7 in-game voice and text monitoring for over 200 popular PC games, and lets you customize what games, apps, and content your child can access. It alerts us to cyberbullying, predator attempts, privacy risks, and more, and gives actionable steps to prevent future problems. I also like the usage reports that show gaming time and any threats detected.
Setting it up is simple: download the Aura Desktop App to your child’s computer, choose “Safe Gaming,” and install. You’ll get email alerts for cyberbullying or predator concerns. Beyond game safety, Aura also protects against identity theft, fraud, credit issues, and stores passwords. Try Aura with a 14-day free trial and get a special discount at aura.com/amber.
3. Choose age-appropriate games
Check ratings and game content before your child plays. Pick games that match their maturity level, and sit with them during the first few sessions to make sure the game is right for them.
4. Enable parental controls
Most consoles and gaming platforms have parental controls to limit content, set playtime, and monitor activity—use them. We use Aura with console controls to filter content, track activity, and set time limits. Aura’s customizable time limits can be set per app, per category, or per website; once time is up, access is blocked for the day. It’s also easy for parents to change limits or cut internet access when needed.
5. Teach about personal information
Make sure kids never share details like their full name, age, school, or address with strangers. Pick usernames that don’t reveal personal info and check their profiles regularly.
6. Manage friend lists
Tell your child to accept friend requests only from people they know in real life. Remind them that people online aren’t always who they claim to be.
7. Control in-game chat
Limit or turn off in-game chat to reduce exposure to bad language or unsafe interactions. Many games let you mute or disable chat—use those settings and combine them with Aura’s monitoring when possible. I appreciate that Aura monitors voice and text in-game around the clock for many popular PC games.
8. Recognize cyberbullying
Teach kids what cyberbullying looks like and urge them to report it. Reassure them it’s not their fault and that you need to know so you can help stop it.
9. Encourage responsible gaming
Set screen-time limits and require breaks for physical activity and homework. Help your child balance gaming with other daily responsibilities.
10. Stay informed
Know the games your child plays—play with them or watch so you understand the content and the community they’re part of.
11. Keep devices in shared spaces
In our house, laptops and tablets are used only in shared areas, not bedrooms.
Online gaming can be safe and enjoyable when you stay alert, keep communication open, and use the right tools. As a mom, I love the peace of mind Aura gives by helping prevent cyberbullying, scams, and predator threats. By following these tips, using digital safety apps, and staying involved, you can help your family have a safer, more positive gaming experience.
Try Aura for an easy way to stay safe online — start a 14-day free trial and get an exclusive discount using my link!
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Back-to-school season is almost here, and that means it’s time to pick one of the most important supplies: the backpack.

As a mom, I get it—the list is long. The backpack has to be tough enough to last the year (and maybe longer), big enough for everything kids collect, and cool enough that they actually want to wear it. Say goodbye to flimsy backpacks that fall apart after a month and hello to durable, cute options.

Adidas makes a great case here. Their backpacks are kid-approved and mom-tested. Whether you’re shopping for your child or want an upgrade for yourself, these bags hit the right notes.

What moms look for
– Strong materials that won’t tear after one semester
– Padded straps for comfort, especially when it’s heavy
– Multiple compartments for organization
– A look that’s nice enough to carry everywhere—from drop-off to practice

What kids care about
– Bright colors or bold prints
– Space for books, folders, Chromebook, snacks, and random trinkets
– Easy to carry and toss into a locker or gym bin
– Extra points for “cool” branding and trendy vibes

Our favorite adidas picks for kids
– adidas Classic Backpack: Simple, sturdy, and stylish—great for younger kids or tweens who like a cleaner look. Comes in lots of fun colors.
– adidas Prime Backpack: Has a padded laptop sleeve, multiple zip pockets, and comfy straps—perfect for middle and high school students with busy days.
– adidas Affiliate Backpack: Sleek and sporty, with plenty of room for books and gear and a timeless adidas logo.

Stylish picks moms will love
– adidas Originals Premise Backpack: A streetwear-inspired design with roomy compartments—ideal for moms moving from school drop-off to gym or coffee.
– adidas Originals Micro 3 Mini Backpack: Small but handy, great for errands, park days, or when you only need the essentials.

Why we keep choosing adidas
Adidas strikes a good balance between function and style. Their backpacks are built to last, comfortable for all-day wear, stylish for kids and adults, and fairly priced—especially with adiClub deals.

Whether you’re sending a kid to middle school (not ready, I know) or revamping your own routine, a good backpack makes the transition easier. Find a style that works for you and your kid—happy shopping!

There’s nothing like hitting the road with your crew for sun, adventure, and a break from the daily grind. We recently took the family to sunny Florida, and it was exactly what we needed—full of great memories. From the wild Everglades to snorkeling in the Keys, every moment was unforgettable. Best of all, we did it all in the stylish, super-safe Mazda CX-90.

🐊 Everglades Alligator Farm: A Wild Adventure
One of our first stops was the Everglades Alligator Farm, the oldest alligator farm in South Florida. Home to over 2,000 alligators, the farm offers thrilling airboat rides that bring you up close to this unique ecosystem. The ride is fast, loud, and packed with adrenaline—those 360° turns had us laughing (and a little wet), but the views were worth it. The kids loved the alligator shows and even got to hold a baby gator. It was both educational and exciting for the whole family.
The farm also rescues and cares for nuisance alligators that would otherwise be removed from the wild, which made the visit feel meaningful as well as fun. Highly recommend if you want adventure, wildlife, and lasting memories.

🌊 Silent World Dive Center: Snorkeling in Paradise
We went to Key Largo to snorkel with Silent World Dive Center—our first time, and it was amazing. We boarded their 51-foot snorkel-only boat and explored North America’s only living coral barrier reef. The water was crystal clear and the marine life was stunning: colorful fish, coral, conches, barracudas, jellyfish, and even a shark. We also saw the famous Christ of the Abyss statue. Snorkeling is a little of a learning curve, but once you settle in it’s calm and magical. The kids did great, so it’s a fantastic option for adventurous families. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, and they provided reef-safe sunscreen to protect the ecosystem.
If you get motion sick, take Dramamine—the captain said to take it 24 hours before for best effect. I felt a bit queasy at times, but I’m sensitive and it was totally worth it.

🏖️ Hollywood Beach: Sun, Sand, and Boardwalk Strolls
We wrapped up the trip at Hollywood Beach, where the palm-lined Boardwalk had that old-school Florida charm. We strolled the beach, people-watched, listened to live music, enjoyed beachside food, and let the kids run wild on the soft, white sand. It was the perfect mix of chill time and activities.

🚗 Mazda CX-90: The Ultimate Family Travel Companion
Our trip MVP was the Mazda CX-90. As a mom, I need a car that makes life easier, and this one did just that. It earned the 2024 Top Safety Pick, which gave me peace of mind driving in busy areas and unfamiliar places.

Family-Friendly Features We Loved:
– Seating for up to 8: Plenty of room for family, cooler bags, and beach gear (yes, even the pool noodles).
– Third-row access that’s actually easy: Getting kids in and out was a breeze—no gymnastics required.
– Rear-seat USB ports: Kept the kids charged and entertained on the road.
– Hands-free power liftgate: A lifesaver when your hands are full of snacks, towels, and flip-flops.
– Quiet cabin: Road noise was minimal, so the ride felt calmer for everyone.

Advanced Safety That Had My Back:
Mazda’s i-Activsense® suite includes:
– Adaptive cruise control
– Lane-keep assist
– Blind spot monitoring
– Smart brake support
These features gave me real peace of mind, especially on highways and unfamiliar routes. The plug-in hybrid option is also a win for fuel efficiency and the environment—something our family is trying to be more mindful about.

Final Thoughts
Florida gave us sunshine, wildlife encounters, ocean adventures, and so many sweet memories. If you want a stylish, safe, and family-friendly ride for your next trip, the Mazda CX-90 is totally worth the hype.
Check out more about the family-focused features of the CX-90 here: Mazda Family Car Features
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This post is sponsored by Wicked Uncle. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Summer is here, which means birthday parties and more free time with the kids home from school. We have a 6-year-old daughter and an 8-year-old son, so we’re always on the lookout for toys that keep them busy, happy, and entertained.

Finding gifts for 8-year-old boys can be tricky. They’re past the cutesy toys but not quite ready for high-tech gear. The best choices challenge their growing bodies, engage their minds, spark creativity, and help them learn new skills.

Below are some of my favorite toys for 8-year-old boys from Wicked Uncle. They carry a huge selection of unique, well-loved toys for all ages—perfect for birthdays, Christmas, or just adding something new to your toy stash. You can even add gift wrap at checkout to make giving easier.

Here are my top picks:

– Sonic Booma Sports Boomerang — A whistling boomerang that flies 45–60 feet and reliably comes back. Great for burning off energy outdoors.
– Metal Detector — Perfect for backyard or beach treasure hunts. This one has a waterproof base, detects metals, and flashes and beeps when it finds something.
– Dodgetag — Combines dodgeball and tag. Comes with colorful Velcro vests and four soft dodgeballs for hours of active play. Great for family games too.
– Mega Bounce XTR — Super bouncy balls that can soar higher than a two-story building when thrown hard. Kids of all ages love them.
– Mini Hornit (Blue) — A bike and scooter light and sound accessory with 25 effects. Waterproof and easy to attach, it includes a remote trigger so kids don’t have to let go of the handlebars.
– Bump Balls — Two giant (36-inch) inflatable balls that let kids bounce, roll, and bump into each other safely. They’re a guaranteed laugh-fest.
– Wandini — A magic LED levitation wand with eight light modes. It creates cool light effects for backyard magic shows.
– Paper Planes – Fold, Fling, Fly! — A kit with a book, colorful paper, and everything you need to make 20 different paper airplanes. Perfect for rainy days and competitions.
– Stomp Rocket Ultra LED — Foam-tipped rockets that launch up to 100 feet when kids stomp on the launcher. The LED lights make night launches even more fun.

These are just a few of my favorite gift ideas for 8-year-old boys. Wicked Uncle also has a massive list of over 140 great toy and gift ideas if you want even more options.

This post is in partnership with Babbleboxx and Moose Toys.
The holidays are coming, and I’m sharing some of my favorite gift ideas for boys ages 5 and up. I love picking out toys for my kids at this time of year. I try to choose toys they’ll play with again and again, toys that spark imagination, and most of all, toys that bring smiles and laughs.
Moose Toys is one of my go-to brands — they have so many great lines like Treasure X, Magic Mixies, Little Live Pets, and more. From action figures and arts & crafts to collectibles, dolls, and games, there’s something for every kid.
Below are a few of my favorite holiday gift picks for boys 5 and older!
Treasure X Skull Island
These micro playsets are packed with adventure — 15 levels of digging, blasting, and treasure hunting that keep kids engaged for hours. Players uncover two tiny figurines, find hidden temple secrets, and sometimes even discover real gold-dipped treasures (1 in 12 packs). The step-by-step unpacking and blasting process is easy to follow, and there’s fun sensory stuff like squishy pretend snow that my son loved. The kids really enjoyed exploring and finding surprises. You can find Treasure X Skull Island here.
Heroes of Goo Jit Zu Deep Goo Sea
Sensory toys are a big hit with this age, and Deep Goo Sea fits the bill. Each figure is filled with a different type of goo — some even have tiny sea creatures floating inside — making them squishy, crunchy, and super stretchy. They can stretch up to three times their size, and the Double Goo figures include pop-out weapons. These are stretchy, gooey action toys that offer tons of tactile fun. Buy here!
Akedo Battle Giants
Battle toys are always a winner. The Akedo Battle Giants line has new supersized Beast Strike Giants and a button-bash controller for epic face-offs. Shadow Roach has Double Strike Armor — hit him once to see his armor burst off, then hit him again for a dramatic Split Strike. There’s also a line of mini battling warriors (25 figures across series 5 & 6) that are great for collecting and playing. These make perfect stocking stuffers — my kids love battling and already want more for Christmas. Purchase here!
Doo Doo Kangaroo
Silly games are always a hit in our house, and Doo Doo Kangaroo had the kids in stitches. You feed the kangaroo donut treats until he goes “doo doo” — when he’s full he wiggles and then lets it go. My kids thought it was hilarious (they’re big fans of bathroom humor), and the first to collect five donuts on their plate wins. It’s great for mixed-age play and is recommended for ages 3 and up. Available at Target.
Flipslide
We’ve had Flipslide for years and still love it. It’s a handheld electronic game where you flip and slide to match colors and beat the clock. There are four competitive modes — choose the speed, play by memory, solo, or head-to-head. It’s perfect for road trips or camping since it provides long stretches of focused fun (and you can turn the sound off). Great for older elementary kids (8+) and fun for adults, too. Buy here!
I hope these picks gave you some holiday gift inspiration!
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Calling all adventurous fourth graders and their families! The Every Kid Outdoors program gives fourth graders free access to hundreds of national parks, wildlife refuges, forests, and more for a full year.

What is Every Kid Outdoors?
Started in 2015 by the U.S. Department of the Interior, Every Kid Outdoors aims to help kids fall in love with nature by offering a free annual pass to all U.S. fourth graders. The pass lets students and their families visit thousands of federal lands and waters without paying entrance fees.

Why fourth graders?
Around age ten—usually fourth grade—kids are at a great age to form lasting connections with the outdoors. They can understand and enjoy nature while still being strongly influenced by these experiences. The program encourages outdoor activity and teaches responsibility for caring for the environment.

How it works
Who’s eligible: Any U.S. fourth grader, including homeschooled students and free-choice learners.
Getting your pass: Visit the Every Kid Outdoors website, complete a short activity, and print a voucher for your free annual pass.
Using your pass: If a site charges an entrance fee, show the voucher at the ranger station for free entry. The pass is valid from September 1 through August 31.
Who the pass covers: The pass covers the fourth grader, up to three accompanying adults, and all kids under 16 in the group.

Where you can go
Use the pass at over 2,000 federal sites—national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, historic sites, and more. Many locations offer ranger programs, guided tours, and kid-friendly activities.

Make the most of it
– Start local: Visit nearby parks first to build confidence and plan longer trips later.
– Plan a road trip: Search parks by state or region to pick destinations everyone will enjoy—hiking, camping, history, or ranger programs.
– Become a Junior Ranger: Many parks have activity booklets and badges that teach kids about plants, animals, geology, and history.
– Try citizen science: Help with projects like bird counts, water monitoring, or plant surveys to learn and give back to the park.

Tips for safe, fun trips
– Pack essentials: sunscreen, bug spray, sturdy shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, snacks, water, and a basic first-aid kit.
– Leave No Trace: Pack out trash and follow park rules to keep places beautiful for others.
– Document memories: Take photos, write in a journal, or collect small items with permission to remember your trips.

Every Kid Outdoors is a chance to explore, learn, and make memories with your family. Get your pass, pack your bags, and enjoy a year of outdoor adventures—then share the experience with friends and family.

If you’re looking for unique, fun, and practical gifts for outdoor lovers, nature fans, and adventurous friends or family, you’re in the right place. If someone you know loves hiking, camping, or simply being outdoors, these ideas will make them smile. From gear and clothing to handy gadgets, this curated list will help you find the perfect gift.

This post contains affiliate links.

The Best Gifts for Outdoor Lovers, Nature Enthusiasts, and Outdoorsy People

Atlas, Almanacs and Guides
Add to their collection with a few of these top and most popular books. Click each book image to learn more.

Aventon Aventure.2 E-Bike
Give the gift of adventure with the Aventon Aventure.2 Step-Through electric bike. Its torque sensor senses your pedaling and provides natural-feeling assistance. I speak from personal experience—this bike is amazing. One charge can cover over 60 miles on a smooth, fun ride. It’s especially helpful on hilly routes and great for exploring more areas while traveling. Whether you’re on pavement, gravel, or grass, the Aventure.2’s rugged 3-inch tires can handle it. Learn more here or at Best Buy. See it in action here!

Insulated Mug
This stainless steel insulated mug is perfect for enjoying a cool afternoon outside. The press-in lid slides shut to reduce splashes and hold temperature, then opens wide enough for easy drinking or using reusable straws. BPA-free and toxin-free. Purchase here.

National Geographic Calendar
Plan park days for 2024 with the National Parks calendar, printed on FSC-certified, eco-friendly paper. It’s ready to hang or sit on your tabletop. Buy here.

Waterproof Phone/Wallet Holder
Keep phones and valuables dry with triple zip-lock protection—waterproof up to 32 feet (10 meters). Ideal for snorkeling, swimming, sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, tubing, river rafting, water slides, and more. Purchase here.

Nature Journal
These compact composition journals make great stocking stuffers. Jot down thoughts, sketches, and memories while on the trail or traveling. They feature a water-resistant hardcover and premium paper that resists bleed-through from markers and pens. Buy here.

Campfire Candle
This 100% natural soy candle is infused with essential oils that evoke the warmth and smoke of a campfire. Non-toxic and crafted for long, clean burns—bring the outdoors in with this campfire-inspired candle.

Hammock
This portable hammock includes everything needed for a quick, easy setup and has excellent reviews. Lightweight and compact, it weighs only 24 oz and packs down to the size of an eggplant. The single measures 9 feet by 4.5 feet, and the double is 10 feet by 6.5 feet for two people or extra space. Toss it in your backpack and go. Buy here (multiple sizes).

Double Camping Chair
Cozy up with a friend in this double camping chair. It folds easily for storage but is sturdy enough for two adults. Perfect for campfires, stargazing, or outdoor sports events. Buy here.

Pocketknife
The Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Liner Lock folding knife features a black high-carbon stainless-steel partially serrated clip-point blade, ambidextrous thumb knobs, jimping, and an index flipper. The black aluminum handle has jimping and a pocket clip—an excellent stocking stuffer. Purchase here.

Hiking Backpack
A waxed canvas backpack that’s just as at home on the trail as in the city. It comes in multiple sizes and colors and uses weather-resistant, durable fabric to keep up with any adventurer. The Thule AllTrail X collection offers versatility for hiking, travel, and daily use. Made with 50% recycled waxed canvas, these packs provide comfortable carry, plenty of storage, and quick-access pockets so you can reach your phone or tools without slowing down. Purchase here.

Apple Watch Ultra
Rugged and capable, the Apple Watch Ultra is made for endurance athletes, outdoor adventurers, and water sports lovers. It offers up to 36 hours of battery life and built-in features to help you stay healthy, safe, and connected. The redesigned Compass app provides new views and functions—mark locations with Compass Waypoints and use Backtrack to retrace your steps with GPS. The Alpine Loop band is tough and secure for hikers and climbers. Buy here.

CamelBak Classic Hydration Pack
CamelBak’s light bike hydration packs are minimal, durable, and comfortable—perfect for everyday trails. The pack holds a 1.5-liter Crux reservoir with a Quicklink disconnect and offers about 1 liter of extra cargo space for essentials. Lightweight materials, an Air Support Light back panel, and a ventilated S-curve shoulder harness keep you cool and comfortable. Learn more here.

Massage Gun
Help relieve sore muscles after a day of cycling, running, or hiking with a Renpho massage gun. It features a heating massage head that warms up to 131°F (55°C) for deeper muscle relaxation and comes with four interchangeable heads to target different muscle groups. Buy here.

Gift Cards
Let them choose their own gear. Popular retailers for outdoor enthusiasts include:
– Amazon
– Bass Pro Shops
– Cabela’s
– REI
– L.L. Bean

Nikon ProStaff P3 10×30 Binoculars
Compact and powerful, the ProStaff P3 10×30 binoculars offer 10x magnification for clear detail. Waterproof, fog-proof, and drop-resistant, they’re built for backpacking, birding, or sporting events—delivering great performance at a reasonable price. Buy here.

Backpack Cooler
For road trips, beach days, picnics, or hikes, the TOURIT backpack cooler is a reliable companion. Padded shoulder straps and an insulated back make it comfortable to carry, and the main compartment has room for drinks and food while front zip pockets hold snacks, wallets, or small accessories for easy access. Spend a perfect day at the beach or on the boat with this insulated cooler. Buy here.

America the Beautiful Pass
This pass grants access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites, covering entrance fees at national parks and wildlife refuges and standard amenity fees at national forests and grasslands. Give the gift of exploration. Purchase here.

GoPro
Capture adventure with a GoPro—shoot up to 5K video and take 20MP photos with clarity. Features like SuperPhoto auto-processing, a larger rear touch screen with touch zoom, and a front display make framing and control simple. Buy here.

National Parks Edition of MONOPOLY
Take a Monopoly-themed trip through America’s national parks. This edition features over 60 beautiful and historic sites—from the Grand Canyon to Yellowstone—and highlights the wildlife that live there. A portion of proceeds supports the National Park Foundation. Buy here.

Snowshoes
Stay active outdoors during winter with an affordable, easy-to-use pair of snowshoes. They come in sizes for the whole family and offer improved flotation for easier walking. Ratcheting bindings make them simple to put on—even with gloves—and a durable polyethylene deck plus hardened steel crampons provide reliable traction in snow and ice. Buy here.

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