The best Christmas gifts for grandkids fit what they enjoy right now. A child who loves making things may get more use out of a small art kit than a big toy. A teen might rather choose their own book or spend an afternoon with you. Here are 12 ideas for different ages, budgets, and ways to spend time together.
Christmas gifts for toddlers and preschoolers
1. A picture book you can read together
Pick a book about something they already love, such as trucks, animals, or the moon. Tuck in a note saying why you chose it. If you live far away, you can each have a copy and read it together over the phone.
2. A first puzzle
Choose a puzzle labeled for their age with a picture they’ll recognize. Wrap it with a card that says you’d love to do it together. For younger children, follow the manufacturer’s age guidance and ask their parents what fits.
3. A simple art kit
Combine age-appropriate supplies such as chunky crayons and a pad of paper. Add an easy idea to get started: draw a pretend pet, design a holiday card, or make a picture for the fridge.
Browse the Crayola store on Amazon (paid link). As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Christmas gifts for school-age grandkids
4. A building set and a challenge card
Choose an age-appropriate building set and add a challenge you can try together, such as making a bridge that holds a toy car. If they already have plenty of bricks, the challenge card can be the gift. Our guide to screen-free activities has more ideas.
5. A family recipe kit
Write out a favorite recipe and pair it with a small item they can use, such as a cookie cutter. Ask their parents about allergies and dietary needs before including ingredients. Set a date to make the recipe together.
6. A game they can teach you
Look for a card game, matching game, or set of dominoes that suits their age and the number of people who usually play. If you’ll play together, check that the print is easy for both of you to read.
7. A kit for a hobby they’re curious about
A sketchbook, a beginner craft kit, or a small gardening kit gives them something to try over the holidays. Pick a project they can finish in one or two sittings, and check whether it needs tools or supplies you’d have to buy separately.
Christmas gifts for tweens and teens
8. An upgrade for a hobby they already have
Ask what they’ve been making, playing, or reading lately. A set of pencils in a style they like or the next book in a series shows you paid attention. If the hobby is new to you, ask them to send you the exact item.
For a tween or teen who already enjoys drawing, a paint marker set with different tip sizes gives them room to try lettering, bold designs, or handmade ornaments. View the 62-count POSCA paint marker set on Amazon (paid link).
9. A gift card with a personal note
Choose a bookshop, craft store, or café they like. In the card, tell them why you picked it. If you live in different countries, check that the gift card can be redeemed where they live.
10. An outing they get to plan
Offer two choices within your budget, such as a movie and lunch or a visit to a museum. Let them choose the date with you. A handwritten invitation gives them something to unwrap.
Meaningful Christmas gifts when you live far away
11. A photo and the story behind it
Print a family photo and write a few lines about the moment it captures. Add a blank postcard so they can send back a story of their own. This works for a stocking, a small envelope, or a gift you mail ahead.
12. A voucher for time together
Give them a voucher for three short calls doing something they enjoy, such as drawing together or swapping favorite songs. Choose the first date before the holidays end. You’ll find more ways to stay in touch in our guide to things to do with grandkids.
How much should grandparents spend on Christmas gifts?
Choose an amount that feels comfortable, including any shipping, and ask the parents whether the family has a gift limit or wish list. If you’re buying for several grandchildren, a book, a family photo, or a planned afternoon together can keep things simple. Use our holiday planning guide to track what you’ve bought and what still needs to be mailed.
For a bigger budget: A two-seat electric ride-on truck could be a shared gift for siblings. Before ordering, ask their parents about room to ride and store it, and check the manufacturer’s age and weight limits. View the blue Ford Bronco Raptor ride-on truck on Amazon (paid link).