Shoe gifts for toddlers: small, fun, and not plastic
The shoe goes out a few times in November, and before you know it, the windowsill is full of plastic that doesn't make it through the Christmas holidays. What a waste, because a shoe gift doesn't have to be disposable. With a small budget, you can easily give something that lasts.
Below are our favorites in two price ranges, plus the practical questions every family has about shoes.
Under 15 euros: the classics
Wooden city vehicles from Coco Village (14.95 euros each)
The fire truck, ambulance, and helicopter fit perfectly in a toddler's shoe and perfectly in a toddler's hand. Smart collecting tip: add one with every shoe round, and a wooden fleet of vehicles will grow all by itself. Also handy for families drawing names.
A booklet (from 12.99 euros)
A picture book is the stocking stuffer that you enjoy yourself in the evening. I Want My Hat Back is one of those books that parents find just as funny as children.
Watch I want my hat back or all books
Slightly larger: for the last shoe
Many families make the final round of putting shoes before Sinterklaas something more special. These sets cost around 30 euros and last for years to come.
Floating sea creatures bath puzzle by Mrs. Ertha (26.95 euros)
Soft sea creatures that float and fit together like a puzzle. From that moment on, bath time is no longer a struggle.
Wooden cookie set from Coco Village (29.95 euros)
Twelve interchangeable cookies to bake, stack, and serve. Role-play and fine motor skills in one box.
Wooden pasta set from Coco Village (29.95 euros)
Pan, colander, and felt pasta for the little Italian. In the shoe today, on the menu tomorrow.
Practical: how to keep the shoe looking good
Keep it small. The shoe is the warm-up, Pakjesavond is the party. Ten to fifteen euros is more than enough, and alternating with a treat or a tangerine is perfectly fine.
Also agree within the family on how often the shoe goes off. One to three times is common, but every family has its own rhythm. Children remember the ritual, not the number.
Frequently Asked Questions
From what age do you put out your shoe?
As soon as the child gets the hang of it a little, usually around age 2. With a 1-year-old, it is mainly fun for the parents, and that is also a perfectly good reason.
What is a good budget for a stocking stuffer?
Ten to fifteen euros. It really doesn't need to be more expensive; the magic is in finding it, not in the amount.
Does there have to be a toy in the shoe every time?
No. Alternate with a treat, a book, or something small for the bath. The surprise is more important than the category.
Read also
Sinterklaas gift for a 1-year-old child
Sinterklaas gift for a 2-year-old toddler
