Try as I might, I did not get my Christmas gift list or shopping completed before December 1. But I have some great gift ideas and I’m almost done shopping just over a week later. Here is a Life on a Dime’s Christmas 2024 game plan!
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gifts for the parents/grandparents
I don’t know a single grandparent out there who doesn’t like family photos. But as a minimalist, I have difficulty keeping up with printed photos. This Bluetooth/wifi photo frame is the perfect solution! You can upload photos remotely from the app, so it’s a gift that keeps giving!
Christmas 2024 Game Plan: Gifts for the girls
We’re officially in the tweens here at the Life on a Dime house. And that means lip gloss, friendship bracelets, an evolving clothing style, and the ever-present desire to express oneself. In other words, life is steadily becoming more expensive!
This year we decided to bite the technology bullet and get our tween a tablet. But we aren’t going crazy; I settled on a Galaxy in the $150 range. She doesn’t need anything fancy to begin with. We just want something simple I can set parental controls on, add a messaging app for her to chat with her friends, and on which to watch all her favorite YouTube channels. Also included is a shockproof case.
If you have a crafty girl on your list, there is no shortage of options for gift sets. And if you also find storage space in said crafty girl’s room limited by all the crafty things, I highly recommend a craft set that can be used up such as a bath bomb or lotion-making kit.
Another great option is a DIY item that can be used as decor, such as a macrame wall art item or fun thread art designs. Some are even made to hang from the ceiling and include LED lights!
For the Boys on Your List
We have a seven year old in the house (still not sure how that’s possible) and he’s probably the easiest person to buy for on our list.
He loves anything Lego, RC vehicles, and dinosaurs. He’s also getting more into gaming. That opens up a lot of possibilities.
When it comes to Lego, the sky is the limit with sets. And there is a line for almost every Fandom from Jurassic World to Star Wars. You can also never go wrong with a bucket of bricks or a flat platform to build on. That’ll really encourage their imagination to run wild!
If you have a video game enthusiast, a custom controller, good headset, or even just a comfy gaming spot are all great ideas.
These switch controller throw pillow covers will probably find their way to our boy’s room. Most game platforms have gift cards, so it’s okay if you don’t know what game to get them. Just make sure you know what system or online platform they prefer.
This year we’re finally upgrading our son’s old Radio Flyer 3 wheel scooter to an electric scooter. It’s a gift that he should get plenty of use out of with no screen time required. It’ll also grow with him.
If you have a teen boy on your list, encourage a new hobby with supplies or a gift card somewhere specific.
Most years my kids get socks and/or underwear. This year is no different. I’ve become a fan of Amazon Essentials this year.
Christmas 2024 Game Plan for him
If yours is anything like mine he’s probably going to buy something himself if he wants it. But, on occasion, he’ll throw out a suggestion absentmindedly or mention a problem. Gift him the easy fix!
Most gift lists will include a custom travel mug or book of toilet humor/dad jokes, and while they are funny, they’re not something you buy twice. They’re not necessarily something that will be kept long either.
Rugged Bluetooth speakers are great if your man likes streaming music while he works but doesn’t necessarily find ear buds comfortable or easy to keep up with. Some even clip on. And they come in just about every price range.
A portable charger is also great for guys on the go; my husband has found his handy when camping.
Flashlights seem to be something they can’t get enough of. And some are wearable such as headlamps or gloves. Rechargeable batteries are always a plus.
If your man prefers to pick his own stuff out, but you know his preferred stores, a gift card makes a safe but appreciated choice.
Experience gift cards are also a great idea; does he have a favorite hangout place? Has he mentioned wanting to try a specific activity? Gift the experience! It could be one of a lifetime or the start of a new hobby.
gifts for her
Tis the season to get cozy! Give her the gift of warmth with a stylish shawl or trendy throw blanket. Who doesn’t love a matching scarf and gloves?
Help her relax with a spa experience. You can gift one even if your budget doesn’t allow for professional services! Bath bombs, salts, an eye mask, and a plush robe or slippers make for a wonderful home pampering session.
AND WE’RE ALMOST DONE!
At this point I have a couple of returns to make and I’m just waiting for a few more things to arrive so I can wrap them. 90% of our shopping was completed online this year and I’m quite happy about that.
We were able to save quite a bit of money by drawing names with the extended family on both sides.