Super Stocking Stuffers for Kids

Today's kids seemingly have it all, which can make holiday shopping a bit of a challenge for those looking for something special to slip into a stocking. Thinking outside of the box is one way to come up with some clever gift ideas, especially ones that serve dual purposes. Think about these stocking-stuffers that are both fun and functional.

Treat of a toothbrush - Kids tend to tune out when Mom or Dad tells them to take care of a chore or handle daily grooming. But with recognizable and enjoyable music as their partner, they'll want to tune into something that won't be a chore at all. Snow White "whistled while she worked" and now kids can hum along to "Old MacDonald" while keeping their teeth pearly white. The colorful and quirky FireFly® Boppin' Barnyard Musical Timer Toothbrush from Dr. Fresh® plays that familiar childhood tune for the length of one minute -- the amount of time dentists say each row of teeth should be brushed for optimal health.

"Young children love music and animals, so we've combined them in a toothbrush that is sure to banish boredom, and to encourage good oral care from an early age," says Dr. Fresh. Soft, yet resilient, rounded bristles guard delicate young gums from irritation and microscopic cuts, and the toothbrush is ergonomically designed for a child's small hand. Learn more by visiting www.drfresh.com.

Colorful toy bins - Chances are that the children you know will receive dozens of new toys this holiday season. And there's an even greater chance that they're joining an already mile-high pile of toys collected from birthday parties and doting grandparents. A toy sorter, toy chest, colorful bins, or stackable units can be the ideal complement to all of these toys. While it actually won't fit in a stocking, it's still useful nonetheless. Kids will learn the lesson of keeping their toys in top-notch condition by putting them away neatly and an in an organized manner. Parents will bestow on you words of great praise for helping to tidy up the house.

Spectacular stationery and more - A trip to a stationery or office supply store can open doors to many wonderful stocking stuffer ideas. Additionally, these finds can be put to good use by children for homework and in school. Stock up on colorful pens, pencils, sticky note pads, card stock and coordinating envelopes (for sending secret notes to friends), and stickers. These stores often also sell arts and crafts supplies that will fit right in with the theme. Kids can spend time expressing their creativity in between taking breaks from playing with their new holiday toys.