Arizona GameCo Smack it Card Game for Kids

“Good things come in small packages.” That old saw gets truer every year, as technology makes toys not only more compact, but more full-featured. Handheld video-game systems like the Nintendo Switch look as great or better than home consoles did 10 years ago. Keychain-sized cars can do stunts that full RC cars once struggled to pull off. Even many action figures can now quote lines from the movies that inspired them.

All of the above toys have one thing in common: They can all fit into a stocking. And if you really want to earn that Santa hat, don’t see that stocking as a receptacle for afterthought toys. There’s plenty of affordable ways to wow the kids on your Christmas list when they open that oversized sock — especially if they’re boys.

When it comes to especially young boys in the 3-7 age range, things are a little easier. You can be pretty sure that these quickly growing tykes will always need new clothes, and most toddler casual wear will fit right into a stocking. But unless you’re the parent that has to give that thankless gift of plain white undies or socks, feel free to make an impression with some gear that features one of their favorite superheroes or cartoon characters.

For toys, the aforementioned action figures are always a good bet. Just do your research and make sure it’s a hero that the kid knows, yet doesn’t already have. When it comes to character merchandise, cheap knock-off brands aren’t likely to fool even the youngest kids in this media-saturated age.

Candy? That’s sure to be a hit with kids this age. Just make sure that it’s not too perishable or prone to melt, or you might be paying for another stocking.

As boys enter the 8-12 range, gift options open up dramatically, but their tastes are likely to be pretty mercurial. A little research is even more important here, if you’re not a close relative. What music do they like? What movies have they seen? What games do they own?

Speaking of games, lots of boys this age might be into trading card games such as Pokemon or Magic: The Gathering. If so, that’s an easy niche to fill. Booster packs for these games are pretty affordable and accessible. They’re also full of random cards so you can be sure you’re not duplicating somebody else’s present. Other types of stand-alone card games or travel games can also be fun. Just check the number of players required to make sure your kid has enough friends or relatives to play with.

Video games are also a good choice, if a bit pricier. This is one of the rare occasions where a used game might be acceptable, if you can find one that suits the player. Just avoid the rookie mistake of tech-averse grandparents everywhere: Don’t get them a game that’s only compatible with a console they don’t own.

Around this age, it won’t always be the flashiest tech items that get the biggest smiles. If the child is old enough to own their own phone or media player, a decent pair of headphones or a Bluetooth speaker might be just the thing — even if the boy already has one. Kids tend to lose earbuds with depressing regularity.

Speaking of losing items, school supplies will be appreciated at the end of Christmas break, even if they aren’t necessarily a hit on Christmas morning. Pens, calculators and pencil holders are all perennial needs for tweens, and compact enough for any stocking.

• The kids of distant relatives or friends can be tough to buy for, and it’s all too easy to just give in and buy them a gift card — especially when they fit so snugly into a stocking. And sure, free money is always appreciated. But at least put a little imagination into it by sneaking the gift card into an otherwise blah present. Say, a plain pair of socks or a pack of math flash cards. Just don’t get too sneaky if you won’t be around for the unveiling. Those cards can be easy to lose in the pile of holiday wrapping.
• Boys do love their video games, and even cheap games will usually get some appreciation. Just make sure you do a bit of research first. Check that the child owns a system that can play the game, and make sure that it’s age appropriate. Game manufacturers make it relatively easy these days: Just check the ESRB (Entertainment Software Ratings Board) box on the bottom corner. It gives a very general suggested age range with a rundown of questionable depictions in the game (violence, alcohol use, etc.).
• Stocking stuffers are sometimes a great way to sneak a little education into the holidays. Binoculars or toy microscopes can get a surprising amount of play out of curious tykes, and there’s a great array of mini-games out there that are great at teaching math and language skills.
• Don’t be afraid to go old school, even with the most tech-savvy tweens. It’s a great coincidence that many of the classic toys of yesteryear still fit pretty nicely into a stocking. Magic 8-Balls, Slinky toys and Hot Wheels cars can be a great last-minute addition that you and that kid on your list can bond over. And who knows? Maybe a bit of retro flair is just what they need.