Search

2024 Best Modern Gifts for Kids

There’s nothing quite like the joy of finding the gift for the little ones on your list – the one that gets a genuine squeal, a joyful jump, or that wide-eyed wonder. And while choosing gifts for kids can be a bit of a treasure hunt, we’ve done the legwork for you with this year’s playful guide. From magnetic building sets and artsy activity kits to whimsical nightlights and modern play kitchens, these picks promise to dazzle every budding artist, builder, and dreamer. Dive in and discover gifts that are as fun to give as they are to get – and may just make you wish you were a kid again, too!

Two children play with colorful toy constructions on a table, with more toys floating in the background against a blue backdrop

Clixo \\\ $18-$200

In the same league as LEGO, Magnatiles, and wooden blocks, Clixo offers endless open-ended play with a super simple design. Made from durable synthetic paper and strong magnets, Clixo is light and flexible, letting little hands shape and mold the pieces into… well, whatever they can dream up! As a mom of three, I’ve personally tested these, and I’m constantly wowed by the creations my kids come up with. Today it’s a ball, tomorrow a web shooter, and the next day? Who knows! The magnets’ satisfying “click” sound adds to the tactile fun, and I love the bright colors and easy portability – just stack them up, no carrying case required.

A cluster of king oyster mushrooms against an orange background, with one mushroom hairclip

Mochi Kids x Jenny Lemons Hair Clips \\\ $20-$24

Add a little fun to any stocking – kid or adult! – with these adorable hair clips from the Mochi Kids x Jenny Lemons collab. The toughest part is choosing which one to get: Shiitake mushroom, ginger, bok choy, or papaya? (I’ve got the mini lemon clip, and its surprisingly strong grip is chef’s kiss!)

Person holding six colorful basketballs against their chest, partially obscuring their face

Chance Basketball \\\ $30-$40

For the budding athlete, Chance makes basketballs from recycled rubber in eye-catching designs. And there’s something wonderfully nostalgic about wrapping up a basketball – no surprises, just instant excitement!

A collection of colorful op art materials, including a magazine titled "Major Ideas Vol. 1 & 2," various geometric designs, and vibrant artwork cards

Majo Ideas, Vol 12 – Opt Art \\\ $22

This summer, I challenged myself to do daily art lessons with my kids for a week, and it was a blast! I wish I’d known about Majo Ideas beforehand – these packs are filled with art activities and inspiration, like mini-museum kits for home. Adding this latest issue to my oldest’s stocking is my winter-break survival plan!

A minimalist table with terrazzo design holds a potted plant, a ceramic mushroom-shaped item, wooden utensils, herbs, and a jar, set against a plain background

Studio Eggi Kitchen \\\ $875

If you’re after a show-stopping “big ticket” gift, a play kitchen is universally loved. This particular set has a terrazzo-inspired finish and is crafted from recycled materials. More than just a pretend kitchen, it’s designed for real, messy experimentation. Bonus: it’s flat-packed, tool-free to assemble, and comes with play-ready accessories like a water dispenser, mixing bowl, and utility cups. It’s a mini chef’s dream!

Modern kids gifts include this vibrant sun-shaped nightlight with a cheerful face, snugly plugged into a wall socket beside a striped container.

Areaware x Dusen Dusen Everybody Night Light \\\ $35

Bring a bit of whimsy to bedtime routines with these friendly-faced nightlights in three fun colors. They set just the right tone for winding down in style.

Puzzle game with colorful Tetris-shaped pieces on a wooden table beside the game board

Giiker Super Blocks Smart Puzzle Game \\\ $59

For a screen-free game that’s a brain workout, this retro-looking puzzle lights up, and the challenge is to fill the lit circles with the right blocks. With over 1,000 levels, it’s engaging for kids (and let’s be honest, parents too).

Person assembling interlocking flower-shaped pieces at a table, with several bowls of colorful pieces nearby

Mushi HEX Connect Building Toy Set \\\ $15

This set of 100 hex shapes connects at the sides, making it intuitive for small hands to create endless structures. Great for the little architect – and for giving you a moment to sip that hot coffee!

Children's playroom with a house-shaped tent, small wooden chair, abacus, and plush toys on the floor. Colorful wall decorations hang nearby

Avenlur Flair House Desk \\\ $269

Give them a space all their own with this adjustable wood house desk and chair. Suitable for toddlers up to 6 years old, it includes a chalkboard, colorful abacus, and cozy cushion. The curtains make it a cozy nook for reading or a prime hide-and-seek spot.

Child in a geometric-patterned jumpsuit stands beside a wooden cabinet with unlit candles against a plain wall

Noble Utility Suit in Dorothy’s Quilt \\\ $105

Last but not least, our favorite utility suit fits all genders up to 12 years old. Made with GOTS-certified organic Pima cotton canvas, this outfit withstands serious play while staying soft on skin. The geometric quilt pattern gives it a classic twist with a modern edge – perfect for the fashion-forward kid!

Follow along so you don’t miss any of our 2024 Gift Guides this year!

This post contains affiliate links, so if you make a purchase from an affiliate link, we earn a commission. Thanks for supporting Design Milk!

As the Senior Contributing Editor, Vy Yang is obsessed with discovering ways to live well + with intention through design. She's probably sharing what she finds over on Instagram stories. You can also find her at vytranyang.com.