A few of my adult children won't be home for Christmas this year, so I'm trying to get things shipped in time for the holiday. My daughter told me she would especially love a Christmas stocking.
I feel the same way. I grew up on a farm and didn't have a lot of material posessions, but my grandma always took a sock of my grandpas and filled it with oranges, nuts, and candy for her grandkids.
It's a special memory of mine, I didn't care that it was my grandpa's socks, but I did feel remembered through this tradition and have kept it going for my own children (except they have dedicated stockings instead of old socks).
Some of the items we put in stockings include-
1. Mini Art Supplies
Small watercolor sets, beeswax crayons, or a tiny sketchbook invite your child to create anywhere, anytime. These compact tools fit perfectly into a stocking and open doors to quiet, imaginative play.
Check out our Amazon stocking stuffer list here!
2. Nature-Inspired Gifts
Seeds for spring planting, small pinecones, or a collection of smooth rocks encourage curiosity about the world around them. Even a tiny magnifying glass tucked in a stocking can spark hours of exploration.
3. Books & Pocket Stories
Tiny classics, board books, or short stories in miniature editions are perfect for little hands—and for cozy reading moments. Bonus: you can pair a story with a special family tradition like hot cocoa or a candlelit reading.
4. Hands-On Fun
Think simple, tactile joys: hand-carved animals, Playdough, or a small set of building blocks. Gifts that encourage the hands and the mind simultaneously always delight.
5. Cozy Treats
Warmth and comfort are at the heart of the season. Tea bags, cocoa packets, or a homemade cookie mix in a tiny jar can be a sweet addition. Even little “coupons” for experiences—like a family walk, baking together, or an afternoon of storytelling—count as treasures.
6. Small Toys
Small toys like Lego minifigures, Calico Critters and Schleich animals get added to beloved collections while filling stockings with joy.
7. Affirmations & Blessings
Tiny cards with words of encouragement, prayers, or affirmations can make a child feel seen, loved, and supported. You might write them yourself or purchase a small deck to tuck into stockings.
Print our free Nature Bible Verse Cards
8. Clothes and Toiletries
Travel toothpaste, warm socks, natural lip balm, and other items fill stockings while also filling necessary lists. I'm most excited to add some Earthley tinctures and skin care to stockings for my teens so they can stay healthy this winter. (Save 15% on Earthley with code YJ2ZKNMGXTY2)
A Thoughtful Stocking Is a Memory in the Making
Stockings don't have to be extravagant, they just need intention. When we choose gifts that spark curiosity, creativity, and connection, we create moments that linger long after the wrapping paper is gone.
More important than the stuff we put in stockings though is the stuff we do together. If you are lacking ideas this Christmas, check out our Holiday Book Flood.
It's okay if you can't do all 25 days of activities, just pick and choose what works for you so your children remember laughter and happy moments together this holiday season.