How many of you put up Christmas stockings for your kids (or yourself)? If you do put them up, do you have problems finding healthy stocking stuffers? I know I do.
I often think back to my own childhood and getting up early before the adults were up. We kids would rush out to see what was in our stockings. Back in those days, we didn’t get a lot of stuff in them but there was always something fun and something sweet. With the next generation of kids, we have many more options of things to put into the stockings. The struggle is finding healthy stocking stuffers.
Who doesn’t like getting a stocking full of sugary treats? But too much sugar is not a healthy way to start Christmas morning (or any morning). I am always on the lookout for healthy stocking stuffer ideas. Most of the time I have no problem finding non-food items like fun socks and lip balm, which are nice staples. But everyone wants some edible treats on Christmas morning too! It’s fun to add a few unhealthy treats but I don’t like going too overboard on the junk. So let’s see what we can do to help you all have some healthy stocking stuffer choices this year.
Healthy Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Kids
Depending on the age of your children, pick and choose what is appropriate for them. While some of these food items may still have sugar in them, look for things with less sugar and things made with organic ingredients when possible. I addition, buy them in small packets, like the type you’d add to lunches, so you have everyone eating less of what ever it is that is in those packets.
Food Items
- Small bags of nuts
- Organic gummy bears (or other animal shapes) made with real juice
- Flavored popcorn
- Food bars
- Healthy bunny-shaped or fishy-shaped cheesy crackers
- Trail mix
- Justin Peanut Butter Cups
- Dried fruit packs
- Organic low-sugar chocolates or other candies
- Jerky
- Greek yogurt-covered berries
- Sugarless gum
Non-Food Items
- Cute socks!
- Hats
- Gloves or mittens
- Hair scrunchies or clips
- Bath bombs
- Miniverse food cafe
- Bookmarks
- Fun or cute nightlights
- Lip balms, chapstick, lip gloss
- Bubbles
- Coloring books, drawing pads, crayons, ink pens
- Tiny puzzles or games
- Fidget popping toys
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Moisturizing or clay face masks (for skin care)
- Stickers
- Gift cards
Adult Stocking Stuffer Ideas
Depending on your budget, you could go overboard with crazy or expensive stocking stuffers for the adults in the family. Or you can stick to the simple and inexpensive things. Everything we listed above for the kids could also be stocking stuffer ideas for adults. Here are some other more adult choices as well.
- Organic Tea
- Tea accessories
- Coffee
- Hot chocolate kits
- Collapsible water bottles
- Exercise bands or other smaller equipment
- Natural soap & lotions
- Fun small cooking gadgets
- Essential oils
- Small camping/hiking gadgets
- Cocktail kits
- Gourmet food kits
- Mushroom growing kits
- Small Electronics
- Small craft kits
- Small tools & tool accessories
- Jewelry (real or costume)
- Candles
- Keychains
- Coasters
- Card games
- Mugs
- Drink cozies
- Portable/rechargeable hand warmers
- Personal safety alarms
- Post-it notes with funny sayings
- Fun chopsticks
- Scalp scrubber or massage tools
- Cell phone holders or stands
- Back scratcher
- Manicure set
- Good old Gift Certificates work for everyone!
Four-Legged Family Member Stocking Stuffers
Now don’t feel any pressure to do this if it isn’t your thing. Some people have stockings for their dogs, cats, and other pets. If that is you, here are some ideas.
- Any treat they love
- Balls and chew toys
- Stuffed pet toys
- New leash or harness
- Sweaters and t-shirts
Wrapping it All Up
Remember, as always, to stop cavities in their tracks, eat healthy, and stay away from as many sugary foods and drinks as possible. Daily gently brush your teeth after every meal using a soft toothbrush and floss twice daily. In addition, don’t forget to visit us, your hygienist and dentist at least once or twice a year for a check-up and cleaning.
We hope you have a wonderful Christmas holiday season and a Happy New Year!