Gifting for kids is always a conundrum—they don’t need any more stuff and yet there’s the ever-present urge to get them everything under the sun. Luckily, there are plenty of California artisans creating items little ones will actually use, and even cherish, for years to come. Whether that’s handmade baby blankets or sweet wooden dolls that make the transition from toy chest to mantel, you’ll find exceptional gifts here for every little one on your list.
Things They Love Dim Sum Activity Kit, $39
For the aspiring chef, this kit encourages kids to make their own dim sum out of DIY play dough. With mini bamboo steamers, a dumpling press, tongs, a teacup, and an order card, they’ll have everything they need to whip up a lavish Cantonese brunch. Commiskids, created by two Torrance-based moms, is sold through Things They Love, a Riverside children’s shop.
Coyuchi Organic Baby Blanket, $128
An instant heirloom, this cotton blanket only gets better with age. For more than 30 years, this San Francisco brand has been crafting beautiful cotton bedding essentials. Parents will have peace of mind during tummy time thanks to Coyuchi’s 100 percent plant-based finishing process that uses zero toxic chemicals.
Santa Cruz Skateboards Micro Classic, $110
Let your little one start the skate life early with a pre-built board for ages 4 to 8. This board may be miniature, but it’s the real deal: Santa Cruz Skateboards has been crafting decks and wheels for more than 40 years. Skating can help kids learn balance, confidence, and mobility—along with plenty of street cred.
Cleobella Littles Ojai Pajama Set, $88
For the stylish youngster on your list, snap up some handmade pajamas in a fashion-forward floral print. The Huntington Beach boutique Cleobella created this pair in collaboration with children’s book author Katherine Schwarzenegger. The set comes in both toddler and kid’s sizes—and a mom’s matching pair is available too.
Holly Yashi Hummingbird Necklace for Kids, $55
Gift your little bird a keepsake necklace to help their imagination take flight. The Arcata-based design team behind Holly Yashi creates whimsical pieces out of niobium, a metal that develops pigmented hues through contact with electrically charged water. With the durability of iron, the niobium jewelry will hold up to freeze tag, mud puddles, pig piles, and more.
Tubby Todd The Essentials Gift Set, $71
A Carlsbad-based husband-and-wife team created Tubby Todd out of a personal struggle to find bath products gentle enough for their son’s skin. Ten years later, the company has developed a loyal following thanks to a 100 percent natural line that works for even the most sensitive babies and kids. The Essentials kit includes the popular Hair + Body Wash, All Over Ointment, Everyday Lotion, and Bubble Bath.
Covet Sun Rattle, $15
For the ray of sunshine in your life, this bright rattle is hand-stitched out of cotton to double as a snuggly toy. Founded by the Palm Springs–based designer Adrienne Wiley, Covet sells cute baby gifts, plus apparel and decor for dapper adults.
Kris Teeny Tinys Custom Family Set, $70
Research shows wooden toys promote creative play and help children focus. Crafted by a Solvang artisan, this five-piece peg doll set is custom-painted for every order—you send in a photo—and can include cats, dogs, grandparents, or anyone central to your little one’s heart.
California 89 VW Bus Onesie, $28
Make nap times filled with California dreaming thanks to this road trip–themed onesie. California 89 out of Truckee creates lifestyle items centered on the famous Sierra highway. This long-sleeve is made from organic cotton and comes in a neutral cedar or a blush rose.
Exploratorium Giant Sequoia Crystal Growing Kit, $7
San Francisco’s Exploratorium invites kids to gain a deeper understanding of the world through interactive exhibits focused on science, technology, and the arts. This crystal growing kit lets their exploration continue at home, and includes interesting facts about Giant Sequoias, as well.
