So, I was complaining to some fellow preschool parents that I was having a really tough time coming up with ideas for my 3-year-old and 1-year-old’s stockings. I didn’t want their stockings to be full of candy and disposable toys that will be in the garbage in a week. Another mom told me about HearthSong. HearthSong’s philosophy is that childhood is a special time and children should be allowed to be children. Their products are carefully selected to blend with their philosophy.

It’s too late for this year’s stockings, but I signed up for their catalog so I’ll remember to order for next year. They have an entire section called Little Gifts. Many of these would be great as stocking stuffers. Think ahead for Valentine’s Day or Easter baskets, too.

Here are some thrifty finds that caught my eye. Being trendy doesn’t mean you have to break the bank!

This Christmas Memories book looks really wonderful. What a great way to record all of those happy times so you can reflect on them year after year.

Anyone who knows me knows I love the concept of teaching through games. These two games are great for early learners. Zitternix says it’s for ages 6 and up, but I know my 3 year old could play it with supervision. Kids roll a die and pull out a stick of that color. It’s kind of a twist on pick up sticks. Star Stack Up is not really a structured game. Kids simply build the structure and then knock it down with the included ball. You could make it more of a game by having your child stack stars according to color.

The site has many retro-inspired toys as well. Remember the little cars you had as a child that zoomed forward after you pulled them back? HearthSong has several such toys, but my favorite was this Pull-Back Snail. And how cute are these tops? When your child pushes the button on top, the objects inside whirl around and they make noises. The train choo choo’s and the ocean themed top plays a variety of ocean sounds. They’re currently on sale for only $17.99 each.

Thanks for reading! If you ever have any ideas for me for future posts, feel free to leave me ideas in the comments section.