Can you believe that we’re already well into December? If you’re so organized that your holiday shopping was finished months ago, and all that’s left to do is sip cocktails and string popcorn garlands by the fire, then this article isn’t for you.
However, if you’re like us, and this month has hit you like a hand-delivered snowball from Buddy the Elf, then read on! We’ve got some great last-minute gift ideas, perfect for their stockings, their teacher, and daycare educator, the crossing guard, the neighbour’s party, or that cousin you only see twice a year.
KIDS
A little something to add to their stockings ?
CATANimal Sprite Plushes
No, you are not dreaming! In addition to collecting and trading resources to develop the Island of Catan, you can also collect these adorable little plushes! The perfect size for their stockings, there are six CATANimal Sprite Plushes: Wood, Brick, Sheep, Wheat, Ore and even a Robber sheep!We know you want them all – we do!
Spot it!
Ages: 3+ / Players: 1-8 / Play Time: 15-30 minutes
This little powerhouse of a game is a must for any child (or grownup!) on your list. A game of observation and speed, that hones reflexes, and supports executive functions like impulse control, emotional regulation, and more, Spot it! will definitely keep them (and you!) on your toes! What’s more, it comes in several different versions and is the perfect size for their stockings. Spot it! also makes a great teacher gift ?
Spot it! comes in multiple versions, including, Spot it! Classic, Spot it! 1-2-3, Spot it! Animals Jr., Spot it! Beach, Spot it! Camping, and more!
*Ages, number of players, and play times vary depending on the game version.
TEACHERS AND DAYCARE EDUCATORS
A nice way to thank them for their year-long dedication❤
Timeline
Ages: 8+ / Players: 2-6 / Play Time: 15-30 minutes
In this engaging educational trivia game, players must place event cards along a timeline. The trick? Place them in the correct chronological order. The first player to get rid of all their cards by placing them correctly wins! Timeline is easy to learn, with engaging gameplay that makes learning fun and it’s perfect for players of all ages!
Timeline comes in various different versions, which can be combined for new challenges! These include, Timeline Classic, Timeline Canada, Timeline Events, and Timeline Inventions.
Rory’s Story Cubes
Ages: 6+ / Players: 1-12 / Play Time: 20 minutes*
A game where the imagination knows no limits and adventure awaits! In Rory’s Story Cubes, players roll nine 1” cubes to generate nine random images. Then, use these images to invent a story that starts with “Once upon a time…”. A great game to sharpen your wits and unlock creativity! Play it alone, or as a party game and watch the narratives come to life! Several versions of Rory’s Story Cubes are available, including Classic, Actions, Mystery, Voyages, and more!
*Ages, number of players, and play times vary depending on the game version.
FRIENDS
Want to play games with your friends but their attention spans are… squirrel! ?
Colt Super Express
Ages: 7+ / Players: 3-7 / Play Time: < 15 minutes
Compete to be the last Colt Express rider standing! Place action cards to determine if you’ll move, shoot, and more! Easy to learn, Colt Super Express is a fast-paced, survive-to-win format that players can take anywhere.
CuBirds
Ages: 8+ / Players: 2-5 / Play Time: 15-30 minutes
Birds of a feather flock together! Every day, dozens of birds land on fences in the countryside. In this card collection game, players help adorable cube-shaped birds find their way back to their nests by collecting those of the same species. Easy to learn and teach, this fast-paced game allows for round after round of chirping fun!
Love Letter
Ages: 10+ / Players: 2-6 / Play Time: 15-30 minutes
Will your love letter be enough to woo the princess and capture her heart? Carefully use a cast of characters in the castle to carry your message of love to the Princess, while keeping other players’ letters away. Successfully carry your letter to her before your opponents catch you and obtain her affection and win her heart in this game of risk, deduction, and luck! This lightweight card game with quick gameplay is perfect for players of all skill levels.
The Werewolves of Miller’s Hollow
Ages: 8+ / Players: 1-6 / Play Time: 15-30 minutes
Bloodthirsty werewolves terrorize your village! In this game of suspicion and intrigue, you could be the sheriff, the hunter, the innocent, or maybe even a ravenous werewolf! While the villagers rule by day, the werewolves own the night. Guess who lives? Guess who dies? The Werewolves of Miller’s Hollow is an immersive game that brings life (or death ?) to any party. :
Patchwork Doodle
Ages: 8+ / Players: 1-6 / Play Time: 15-30 minutes
A roll-and-write version of Patchwork, Patchwork Doodle is centered around cards, a die and a 9×9 grid players fill in over the course of the game. Like the original, the idea is to fill in your patchwork quilt, but in this version, you draw it yourself. Patchwork Doodle offers quick game play and expands the Patchwork universe for up to 6 players. It also comes in a small format, making it a great option for a game night with friends!