Absolutely Mama’s Carly Glendinning rounds up the best stocking fillers for kids – from cute and cosy socks, to creative art supplies.
The countdown to Christmas is on, and one of the most fun traditions is filling your little one’s stocking! Whether you’re looking for little surprises to pop in on Christmas morning (or the night before), we’ve rounded up a bunch of clever, age-appropriate stocking filler ideas that won’t break the bank, but will deliver big smiles. From tiny treats to educational bits, here are our favourite picks to help you tick off your list.
Stocking fillers little ones will love this Christmas…
Practical Bits With a Fun Twist
Gifts that are useful, but still feel like a treat.
- Cute socks, festive gloves or novelty hair accessories (we love this ultra soft and fluffy set from Stych.)
- Water bottles or key-ring accessories with characters they love
- Christmas-themed pyjamas, fun underwear or comfy slippers
- Sleep masks, book lights, or bedtime reading goodies
- A watch to learn to tell the time (the range from Djeco is one of favourites!)
Why we love them: These items will be useful way beyond Christmas, but you can still make them playful.
Tip: Make sure the sizes are right. For younger kids, grab easy-on gloves; for older, go character or trend-led.
Toys & Pocket Fun
Small toys that feel special, yet are stocking-size and won’t overwhelm the morning.
- Collectible figurines, tiny vehicles, or small soft or wooden toys (how cute is this dinky wooden kettle and Pet Set from Le Toy Van?)
- Mini construction sets (lego, magnets), or blind-bag style surprises
- Travel-friendly games or fidget items
Why we love them: They add excitement, especially when the stocking reveal is part of the memory.
Tip: Make sure they’re age-appropriate (no tiny choking-hazard bits for the littliest ones) and choose one ‘hero’ filler plus a few smaller ones.
Dress Up & Make-Believe
Small dress up items that spark role play and imagination work perfectly as stocking fillers. A magic wand would look really pretty poking out of the top. We love the accessories collection from Monsoon Children – there’s lots of cute ideas like this snow queen set and
this star wand and star headband are so magical too (perfect for the Nativity or festive parties!)
- Character badges or fun dress-up props (like wands or superhero cuffs)
- Mini capes, masks or fairy wings
- Costume jewellery, tiaras, or pirate hats
- Temporary hair chalks or glitter gels
Why we love them: Kids love transforming themselves, and even the smallest prop can inspire hours of imaginative play.
Tip: Choose lightweight, safe materials — and go for versatile pieces that can mix into their existing dressing-up box.
Creative Craft & Activity Bits
Little fillers that tap into their imagination or keep little hands busy.
- Pocket-size colouring sets, mini sketchbooks, crayons, or sticker packs (these fantasy metallic stickers from Djeco are dreamy!!)
- Craft kits (bead bracelets, stickers, temporary tattoos)
- Puzzle or card games that travel easily – this gorgeous magnetic Christmas mouse dress up is magical!
- Mini play-dough tubs or modelling clay
Why we love them: Stockings don’t just have to be edible, these items keep the fun going after the unwrapping.
Tip: Mix in items for a range of ages (siblings!) and consider non-screen options.
Little Pampering Treats
For kids who love a bit of sparkle, these mini beauty goodies are perfect for make-believe makeovers and dressing up.
- Easy-peel nail stickers with cute characters or colourful patterns we love these unicorn nail stickers.
- Play make up made just for kids — gentle, washable, and full of fun shades the sets from No Nasties Kids are just brilliant!
- Sweet-smelling lip balms or tiny bath fizzers
- Mini hair clips, sparkly brushes, or fun detangling sprays
Why we love them: They feel super special to little ones, but are safe and simple to use — no grown-up products needed.
Tip: Pick items that are non-toxic and washable so kids can enjoy the fun (and you won’t have to worry about clean-up).
Thoughtful Keepsakes
Small items that feel a bit more special — for when you want to elevate the stocking without spending big.
- Beautiful ornaments, personalised key-rings or small jewellery (for older kids)
- Mini books, picture books or special little editions
- Natural bath bombs, luxury little soap bars or festive toiletries (mirror for older kids)
Why we love them: These are the pieces that get used year after year (or at least remembered) and add a meaningful dimension to the stocking.
Tip: For younger children, choose durable items; for older children pick something that reflects their personality or interests.
