Thoughtful Holiday Gifts for Less Than $25

Plus one

There are lots of construction toys out there. But how many of them work for kids as young as 1, build both flat and three-dimensional creations that flex and bend, and start at just a few dollars? Made in Denmark, Plus-Plus building pieces come in one interconnecting shape that can be assembled to create flat mosaic patterns or intricate 3-D builds, from buildings and bridges to figures and faces. Plus-Plus 15-piece Big tubes are made for tiny fingers (18 months and older; $10.99); and Plus-Plus 70-plus-piece basic tubes are perfect for kids ages 5 and older ($7.99). Check the store locator on the Plus-Plus website to find a retailer near you.

On the grid

Circuit sets are a great way to introduce kids to electrical engineering concepts, but shopping for the more extensive circuit kits can trigger sticker shock (ha!). Before you spring for a big, expensive circuit set, start with Snap Circuits Beginner Electronics Exploration Kit ($24.99 on Amazon). It includes 14 parts, enough to build more than 20 projects, with extra safety features for younger engineers ages 5–9. 

Magna-tiny

If Magna-Qubix look familiar, it’s because they’re miniature cubic versions of the mega-popular (and more expensive) Magna-Tiles building toy. Pocket-size, three-dimensional building shapes with a petite price point to love, Magna-Qubix 19-piece ($19.99 on Amazon) won’t consume all your precious play space or your entire holiday toy budget. Find Magna-Qubix at Teaching Toys in Tacoma’s Proctor District or Teaching Toys, Too at Uptown Gig Harbor. (Ages 3 and older)

Inner beauty

More fun and educational than a lump of coal, geodes are ordinary-looking rocks that house sparkling crystals within. With ordinary household tools, eye protection and adult supervision, rock hounds can break geodes open to reveal their unique beauty. Magic Mouse Toys in Seattle keeps a selection of individual geodes and geode kits tucked into its science section downstairs; look for individual break-at-home geodes for $4 or Klutz Maker Lab’s Rocks, Gems & Geodes kit (ages 8 and older) for $24.99 on Amazon.