We all know that the holidays are just as much about giving as they are about receiving. That’s why it’s always nice to purchase a few gifts that give back. Whether it’s for a loved one, a hostess gift, your child’s teacher or even your kids, here are some of the great gift options you can find that are two gifts in one!<\/p>\n
![\"gifts-that-give-back\"](\"https:\/\/mayahoodblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/Gifts-that-give-back-1024x256.jpg\")
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SickKids<\/h3>\n
Every year, approximately 300 patients at SickKids have to stay at the hospital\u00a0over the holidays. When you purchase a Get Better Gift, it helps them miss home a little less and brings them some of the joys and cheer of the holidays. You can find out more about it HERE<\/a><\/strong> and in my previous post HERE<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n I love this organization because they are focused on kids! They help children out in improvished and war-torn countries. They find ways to get to them and provide them with basic necesseties like clean water and food, but also give them opportunities to learn and play too. Find out more about their Survival Gifts HERE<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n This holiday season, the Starlight Foundation has teamed up with Toys \u201cR\u201d US to present \u201cFlash\u201d the 8th Limited Edition Collectible Starlight Bear.\u00a0Flash retails for $17.99 and can be purchased at www.toyrus.ca<\/a> and\/or at all participating Toys \u201cR\u201d Us stores across Canada<\/span>.\u00a0100% of the proceeds from the sale of Flash will be donated to Starlight<\/span> to continue to help brighten the lives of seriously ill kids. *GIVEAWAY*<\/strong><\/p>\n For as little as $10, you can purchase a Gift of Hope<\/a><\/strong>. Your gift will be supporting real projects that change lives for families in developing countries. For example, the Buzzing Bees gift ($35) gives a family the promise of a sure income, while giving local crops an extra boost with the work of pollinating bees.<\/span><\/p>\n I don’t know about you, but 99% of my holiday shopping list revolves around the kids. My three boys have been saving up their “wants” and “needs” all year for the holiday season. It’s their time to receive some of the bigger ticket items and some of the fun-to-have toys they’ve been eyeing. Here are some of our favourites!<\/p>\n Playskool Play Favourites Form Fitte<\/a>r<\/strong> – An oldie but a goodie for ages 18 months and up. What kids doesn’t like to put things in a box! Not only are they practicing their fine motor skills, but they’re learning about shapes and colours. Retails for $9.99<\/p>\n Teletubbies<\/strong><\/a> – If you loved these guys when you were younger, you’ll want to get your hands on these cute guys for your kids now!\u00a0The\u00a0Teletubbies show IS BACK on Family Jr. with 60 newly modernized episodes \u2014 and a brand-new range of adorable plush toys featuring the iconic characters, Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po!\u00a0All-new Teletubbies toys are now available at Toys\u2019R\u2019Us and Walmart stores across Canada and range from $10.99 (6″ size) to $39.99 (10\u201d Tickle and Giggle Po).<\/p>\n Fisher-Price Little People Sit’n stand skyway<\/strong><\/a> – \u00a0Similar type of Fisher-Price toys have been a big hit with our kids over the years and I love that they continue to use them as they age. When upright, the toy stands over 3 ft tall but can change to a sit-at roadway that your kids can drive their vehicles over the roads and down the ramps. Recommended for kids ages 1 \u00bd – 5 years it retails for $49.99 and is available at Walmart, Toys \u201cR\u201d Us, and Amazon.ca.<\/p>\n Playskool Heroes Transformers Rescue Bots Griffin Rock Firehouse Headquarters<\/strong><\/a> – My boys have recently started watching Rescue Bots on repeat (thanks Netflix) so I know they’ll be excited to play with this. The command tower can rotate and it comes with a hidden-reveal projectile launcher so they can pretend to put out fires! The best part is that you can stow away the tower and your kids can still play with the vehicles. Ideal for ages 3 to 7 and it retails for $49.99.<\/p>\n Play-Doh Burger Barbecue Set<\/strong><\/a> – This is one of those toys that my kids can literally play with for a long period of time without getting bored or distracted. We already have a few play-doh pieces and accessories and I’m excited to add this BBQ set to our collection. What’s more fun than creating a ‘pretend’ meal to make your parents eat! Suggested age is 3+ but my two year old loves using play-doh too. Just make sure you supervise so they don’t try to eat it for real! Retails for $17.99<\/p>\n Newberry\u00a0Dolls from Sears<\/strong><\/a> – Not only are these the cutest life-like dolls, but they are super affordable too at $34.99. I’m so excited to give ‘Lilly’\u00a0to my niece and see how her eyes light up as she holds her in her arms. The best part is that you can find a doll that looks similar to your kid. These dolls have detailed facial features, soft hair and moving joints. Complete your gift with accessories and this doll with be your child’s favourite for many years to come!<\/p>\n Barbie Fashionistas<\/strong> <\/a>\u00a0– A childhood favourite toy of mine and I love seeing how far Barbie has come over the years. The new Fashionistas line includes dolls with a unique style, wide variety of hair colours and styles, eye colour, skin tones and face shapes. Recommended for kids ages 3+, each doll retails for $11.99 and is available at\u00a0Walmart, Toys \u201cR\u201d Us, and Amazon.ca<\/p>\n Star Wars Interactech Imperial Stormtrooper Figure<\/strong> <\/a>– My oldest son Kyle, dressed up as a Stormtrooper this past Halloween so I know he’s going to really enjoy this figure. And so will his two younger brothers. The Stormtrooper has 65 different sound effects and phrases and uses a motion sensor to respond to specific movements. Ideal for kids ages 4 and up and retails for $29.99.<\/p>\n Osmo<\/a> <\/strong>– This is one of those technology-based games where your kids are actually learning but they dont’ realize it. I’ve already written about a few of the games we have and love HERE<\/a>. While it’s designed for kids ages 4 and up, even my two year old enjoys playing with it (he does have his two older brothers that he tries to keep up with after all). For the holidays, I’m going to be purchasing the new Osmo Pizza Co. game for Kyle. He really loves math and I think it will be an interesting way for him to learn how to run a “business” without any of the actual risk! Most kids start at $100 and include a few games. The Pizza & Co game retails for $79.95.<\/p>\n Monopoly Ultimate Banking<\/strong><\/a> – We already own two or three different Monopoly games (who doesn’t, right?), but I’m obsessed with this new one! Introducing a modern banking version of the Monopoly game. Instead of money, you use credit-cards. I just like it because it means less pieces which equals less mess. It also makes it more travel friendly too. Ideal for kids ages 8+ and retails for $34.99. *GIVEAWAY*<\/strong><\/p>\n Irish Fairy door company<\/strong> – Kyle and I set this up as I wasn’t sure what he would think of it. Turns out, he was really into it. He recently lost two teeth, and so he associated this with the tooth fairy. We had fun picking out just the right spot for the door and setting up all of the accessories for her. You can leave notes for your fairy and they will write back. This is great for kids who need a little extra motivation to write. Also perfect for kids who love using their imagination! The Irish Fairy Door is available online and in select retailers in Canada.\u00a0The door retails for $39.99 and accessories start at $15.99 and Wall\u00a0Art\u00a0Packs are\u00a0$6.49. You can also learn more about the products and purchase them from this website:\u00a0https:\/\/us. Playmobil<\/strong><\/a> – I’m sure most of you who are familiar with Playmobil love it. In our house, it has provided hours on hours of entertainment. In fact, we had the NHL arena and players out in the playroom every day for the past year because that’s how often our kids play with it. With some of our other sets, we put them away after a few days and then bring them back out after a week. It’s like a brand new toy for our kids. Nate is especially obsessed with playing with his Adventure Tree House Playmobil figures and playsets. This holiday, I’m excited to give him the Pirate Treasure Hideout ($13.99) and Soldier’s Lookout ($34.99). While the recommended age is 4+ (for safety reasons), my two year-old-son Nate, loves\u00a0it too. Just make sure you supervise or remove all of the small parts.*GIVEAWAY*<\/strong><\/p>\n Grit hockey bag<\/a><\/strong> – Do you have a hockey lover in your clan? I have three! Equipment is not only an expensive part of this classic Canadian game and hobby, but it also takes up a lot of room (in my non-existing storage space). That’s why having a good quality bag is key. Not only to store their stuff, but something that will protect their gear from getting damaged, something that can provide some ventilation, and something that will stand through drops, dragging and pulling. I’m so thankful I got my hand on Grit\u00a0HYSE Youth Hockey Tower! It’s small and easy to handle, it encourages the player to take responsibility for their own equipment. I can’t wait to gift the Toronto (blue) bag to my oldest son this holiday!<\/p>\n Gas Out<\/strong><\/a> – As a boys mom, I naturally gravitated to this game. I knew it would be something my kids would enjoy playing and anything that gives me several minutes of alone time is a win in my books. To play, you place Guster on the center of the table and deal 3 Gas Out cards to each player. If you play a number card, press Guster as many times as the number shown. If Guster farts, you\u2019re out! Other cards in the deck keep the fun tooting (pun intended) along. Be the last player to keep Guster from farting during your turn and you win! Recommended for kids ages 5+, this game retails for $24.99 and is available\u00a0at Walmart, Toys \u201cR\u201d Us, and Amazon.ca<\/p>\n Hot Wheels Ultimate Garage<\/strong><\/a> – This was on my kids wish list and my parents got it for them. I can’t wait to see their faces when they open it up. Load up your vehicles and take them on a variety of wild adventures. From air to land to sea, this set covers it all! It also includes a\u00a0helicopter and a fire engine bell that \u00a0sounds and light up. For a little friendly competition, you kids can race side-by-side race to see which car is faster. Recommended for kids ages 5Y+, this retails for $139.99 and is available at\u00a0Walmart, Toys \u201cR\u201d Us, and Amazon.ca.<\/p>\n Pie Face Showdown<\/strong><\/a> – We’ve been playing this family-friendly game since October and the boys can’t get enough of it! I mean, what’s funnier than going head-to-head against your parent and watching them creamed in the face. Luckily, there’s no “loser” in this game because WHIPPED CREAM! Hasbro even came out with a nice holiday edition. I love this game because it’s great no matter how young or young at heart you are. Recommended for kids ages 5+, this game retails for $24.99.<\/p>\n Whether you’re shopping for a sister, brother, mother, father, your spouse or yourself (raises hand), here are a few of my new favourite finds that is sure to please someone on your list!<\/p>\n Lif3<\/strong><\/a> – New on the Canadian market, the Lif3 chip is a game changer for anyone who uses their smart phone as an extension of their body. Lif3 chip is a simple, affordable, and practical solution that reduces your cell phone radiation exposure. It goes on to the back of your phone like a sticker and helps reduce radiation by up to 99%.\u00a0It retails for $79 and fits all cell phone types. This isn’t just another product, it’s an investment in your family’s health!\u00a0\u00a0Receive 20% off your purchase until December 31 using code: IMPR2016<\/strong>.<\/p>\n RAFFINALLA<\/strong> <\/a>– Tired of leggings that are see-through, too thin, and ones that wear out or stretch after a few wears and washes? Me too! I love leggings, but I’ve had a hard time finding ones that I love. Enter Raffinalla… A Canada company (YES!) that designs and manufactures quality jeggings. I pretty much live in my denim and black ones in 3 out of 4 seasons. The leggings has mid rise tummy tuck and stretch fabric for a comfort fit. I’m happy to report that they don’t stretch out over time so you don’t have to keep pulling them up! They retail for $78 and are a really good investment for your wardrobe.<\/p>\n Happiness Is<\/strong><\/a> – I love the story about how this company came to be just as much as I love their clothes. Happiness Is… has a variety of shirts and sweatshirts for man and women that are soft, comfortable, and made in Canada. It came to fruition after a 95 year old man, Gordon Carton, decided to share his moments of happiness which include being a Canadian. He wants to inspire all Canadians to join him in celebrating their happy moments too! Receive a 15% off your purchase until December 31 using discount code \u00a0MAYA15.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Skechers<\/strong><\/a> – I’ve already written about my fondness for Skechers shoes both past and present. They are a favourite among my boys and my feet! With hundreds of different styles and colours to choose from, there’s something for everyone on your list. I’ve picked out a new pair for myself, my husband and some winter boots for Kyle! Skechers shoes are affordable and stylish and if you have little ones on your list, you can’t go wrong with a new pair of shoes.\u00a0Parents can always use an extra pair or two, especially since most schools require an indoor shoe. As for women, we also seem to never have ENOUGH! *GIVEAWAY* (2 pairs)<\/strong><\/p>\n Origami Owl<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0– While most women can’t resist jewelry, nothing compares to personalized jewelry. Origami allows you to get creative and show the person that you really took the time to think about their gift. You select a locket (for either a necklace or a key chain) and you choose the little charms that go inside. I received a beautiful, customized heart necklace for my birthday last year and it’s one of my favourite pieces to wear.<\/p>\n Grit Hockey Bag<\/strong><\/a>s – This makes for a great gift for the big kid hockey player in your life. I know because my husband is in love with his new Grit FLEX Hockey Tower bag. The bag stands up right, can be pulled with a handle or carried with a shoulder strap. Everything is compartmentalized, with easy access, extra storage and the bag\u00a0has airflow ventilation down the back which effectively eliminates the funky hockey gear smell. A new bag for him, a nicer smelling basement for me. It’s a win-win!<\/p>\n Sometimes kids have enough “stuff” and what you really want to (or should) get them is an experience! A day or night out with yourself or a gift for the family to enjoy together. I know that I often look at my house and feel like it’s a smaller version of Toys R Us and I want to throw out everything because it’s just too much! I’m a big fan of experience gifts, but just remember that if you offer to take the kids somewhere, follow through with the promise or\u00a0it will be all for naught.<\/p>\n Disney on Ice<\/strong><\/a> – Going to see Disney On Ice over the winter break has been somewhat of a family tradition for us. The boys just love it and we always bring their friends along. This is a perfect gift to give to\u00a0a child that has everything (like my kids). It’s a win-win because it means you get quality time with them, and you’re not piling up their house with more toys that they don’t need. Peachy Buy always has great deals on including ticket discounts for Disney on Ice. So make sure you sign up for their mailing list to be the first to receive these special deals! For tickets for the Toronto show (code: PEACHDOI) and Hamilton show (code: PBDREAM). Purchase your tickets on Ticketmaster.ca and enter the codes for discounts! Tickets start at $25 each.\u00a0*GIVEAWAY* (4 tickets)<\/strong><\/p>\n Monster Jam<\/strong><\/a> – This is becoming a new favourite with my boys as they age. What can be more fun than seeing your favourite game (hot wheels) come to life! There is a lot of jump, races and bumps, so it’s always exciting. Just remember to bring ear plugs! Similarly to Disney on Ice, Peachy Buy has some great discount codes you can use when purchasing your tickets. So make sure you sign up for their mailing list to be the first to receive these special deals! Use discount code\u00a0PEACHMJ and save!\u00a0Purchase your tickets on Ticketmaster.ca and enter the codes for discounts! Tickets start at $25 each.\u00a0*GIVEAWAY* (4 tickets)<\/strong><\/p>\n Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament<\/strong><\/a>– This is another favourite with our kids. Last year we went to Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament for the first time and the kids had such a blast (as did we). You can find out more about our experience HERE!<\/a><\/strong> Whether you’re gifting this for a knight or maiden, this gift is sure to delight and it’s a perfect way to spend some fun and quality time together with your favourite little people. Tickets start at $65.95 for adults and $45.95 for children under 12.\u00a0*GIVEAWAY* (4 tickets)<\/strong><\/p>\n These are my husband’s favourites. Sometimes the little trinkets and chachkas are just as fun (and unexpected) as the big gifts themeselves. Here are some idea for what to include in your stocking stuffers!<\/p>\n Playmobil NHL<\/strong> <\/a>– perfect for your little hockey player. You can find players ($8.99), goalies ($8.99), rivalry sets ($15.99) and the Stanley Cup Presentation set ($9.99). You can find the players and goalies in all 7 Canadian Teams including: Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, Ottawa Senators, Winnipeg Jets, Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers & Vancouver Canucks. My kids have them all and play with them daily. I will also be adding a few more to their stocking.<\/p>\n My Little Pony Vehicle Pony Pack<\/strong> – I know of a few girls who love my little pony and this is a nice way to give them something that they can play with on the go. Retails for $9.99.<\/p>\n Marvel 3.75″ Legends Figure –\u00a0<\/b>If your kids like Marvel superhero and villain characters, they will love these small-size figures. These make great toys to bring along when traveling since they are durable and small. Ideal for kids ages 4+, retails for $12.99.<\/p>\n Shimmer & Shine dolls<\/strong> – Another kid favourite based on the popular TV show. Fun to play with and easy to take along for road trips and travel. Recommended for kids ages 3+ and retail for $9.99.<\/p>\n HEXBUG nano Junior<\/strong> – Perfect for younger kids but just as much fun as the smaller version.\u00a0Ages: 18-36 Months Retails for $9.79.<\/p>\n This holiday season, it’s important to remember those who may not be able to celebrate like we do. Please consider purchasing a new toy and donating it to Toy Mountain or purchase a Wish List gift for a kid with cancer and receive a tax receipt (talk about a win-win)!<\/p>\n Help Chai Lifeline’s\u00a0Toy Drive by shopping at Toys R Us and receiving a tax receipt. Visit Toys R Us at\u00a0http:\/\/www.toysrus.ca\/wishlist\/<\/a>. \u00a0Under \u201cFind a Wish List\u201d drop down bar, select \u201cWish List #\u201d and enter 10494314. On any item that is greater than $25 you get a tax receipt. Simply include your name, and full mailing address in the comments section online for a tax receipt.<\/p>\n I’m excited to host a giveaway that includes some of the amazing things included in this gift guide. The approximate retail value of all of the prizes is $688!! I hope this helps one of my readers with their\u00a0holiday shopping list.\u00a0Enter the giveaway via Rafflecopter (please\u00a0give it a\u00a0few seconds to load).\u00a0\u00a0Contest is open to all residents of Canada.\u00a0Contest ends Monday December 12, 2016.<\/p>\nUnicef<\/h3>\n
The Starlight Foundation<\/h3>\n
Plan International Canada<\/h3>\n
Gifts For Children<\/h2>\n
Infants \/ Toddlers<\/h3>\n
![\"holiday-toys-infants\"](\"https:\/\/mayahoodblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/Holiday-toys-infants-1024x341.jpg\")
<\/p>\nPreschooler<\/h3>\n
![\"holiday-gifts-preschoolers\"](\"https:\/\/mayahoodblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/holiday-gifts-preschoolers-1024x256.jpg\")
<\/p>\nKids<\/h3>\n
![\"holiday-gifts-kids\"](\"https:\/\/mayahoodblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/holiday-gifts-kids-1024x651.jpg\")
<\/p>\nAdults<\/h3>\n
![\"holiday-gift-guide-adults\"](\"https:\/\/mayahoodblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/holiday-gift-guide-adults-1024x1024.jpg\")
<\/p>\nExperience Gifts<\/h3>\n
![\"holiday-gift-guide-experience-gifts\"](\"https:\/\/mayahoodblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/holiday-gift-guide-experience-gifts-1024x341.jpg\")
<\/p>\nStocking Stuffers<\/h3>\n
![\"holiday-gift-guide-stocking-stuffers\"](\"https:\/\/mayahoodblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/Holiday-gift-guide-stocking-stuffers-1024x205.jpg\")
<\/p>\nGIVE BACK<\/h2>\n
![\"chailifeline\"](\"https:\/\/mayahoodblog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/chailifeline.png\")
<\/p>\nChai Lifeline<\/a><\/h3>\n
GIVEAWAY<\/h2>\n