With the holidays just around the corner (okay, not ‘just’ around the corner, but you know as well as I do, it will be here faster than we think!) it is time to start thinking of presents for those friends and family members.

If you have read some of my other “holiday shopping” posts, you know that I like to do my shopping online. Especially when it comes to shopping for the kids. I can never seem to get out of the house without them and then to sneak the presents into the house? Nearly impossible.

Hence shopping for
. It makes my life so much easier!

For Christmas and birthdays in our home, the kids generally get an outfit (only one from mommy and daddy because I am sure we can all agree, getting clothes as a present really is no fun for anyone involved).

They get one “fun” present that they can just have fun with… (although a pogo stick may be a little much, but it sounds like fun, right?)

And one “learning” present that will help them either learn something or use their imagination (like how to tie their shoes!?)

I love that my kids are at the age where every toy has some sort of educational benefit. Their dolls and action figures have now taken on personalities. It is great to see my little ones (ages 4 and 6) play together using different personalities, creating conflicts and then solving problems with their toys.

Educational toys have helped my youngest one learn his numbers and colors (although he is refusing to learn his ABC’s at the moment).

Personally, in my opinion, toys are a great way to help a child learn. It makes learning fun which is why every holiday in our house, they get the “fun” toy, but they also get the “learning, educational” toy to help them learn even when they don’t know they are (or want to!)

What are some of your favorite educational toys for your children?