HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2025
STEM-Themed Gift Ideas for the Future Scientist in Your Life
If you’re shopping for a curious, inventive child who loves science, technology, engineering, or math, a STEM-themed gift is the perfect way to fuel their imagination and keep them engaged in learning while still having fun.
Here are some exciting and educational gift ideas for kids who love STEM:
Science Experiment Kits
Hands-on kits let kids explore everything from volcanoes and slime to crystal growing and circuits. Look for age-appropriate sets that include all the materials and step-by-step instructions.
LEGO® STEM Sets
LEGO® makes STEM-focused sets like LEGO Technic, LEGO Boost, and LEGO Education BricQ that challenge kids to build functional machines, robots, and more.
Coding Games & Robots
Interactive toys like Botley the Coding Robot, Osmo Coding, or Sphero Mini teach basic coding skills through play — no screen time required (or limited to tablets).
Brain Teasers & Logic Games
Games like Rush Hour, Gravity Maze, or ThinkFun Circuit Maze sharpen problemsolving and spatial reasoning in a fun, challenging way.
Planetarium Projector or Star Map
A home planetarium or glow-in-the-dark
constellation map helps space-loving kids learn about astronomy from their bedroom ceiling.
Magnetic Building Tiles
Toys like Magna-Tiles or Playmags encourage creativity and early engineering skills by letting kids build 3D structures with magnets.
Beginner Microscope or Telescope
Introduce kids to the microscopic or celestial world with an entry-level microscope or telescope designed for young explorers.
Build-Your-Own Model Kits
Wooden or cardboard kits let kids build bridges, solar cars, windmills, or hydraulic arms which are ideal for hands-on learners.
Monthly STEM Subscription Box
Services like KiwiCo, Tinker Crate, or Mel Science deliver new experiments, projects, and challenges each month tailored to different age groups.
Gifts Beyond the Bookshelf
Shopping for a book lover? While a great novel is always a win, there are plenty of other thoughtful gifts that show you really understand their reading obsession. Whether they’re into cozy classics, thrilling mysteries, or fantasy worlds, these gift ideas are sure to delight the reader on your list:
Personalized Book Embosser or Stamp
Help them mark their personal library in style with a custom embosser or name stamp. It’s elegant, practical, and perfect for proud book collectors.
Reading Mug and Tea or Coffee Set
Pair a cute, book-themed mug with their favourite brew or a sampler box of teas. Bonus: Add a mug warmer for the ultimate reader’s companion.
Cozy Reading Accessories
Think soft blankets, fuzzy socks, or even a lap pillow with a built-in book rest. Perfect for long reading sessions on chilly evenings.
Book Subscription Box
Services like Lit Love Book Box, Book Box Canada, or Once Upon a Book Club deliver curated books and themed goodies right to their door.
Unique Bookmarks
Magnetic bookmarks, metal feather designs, or custom leather options make great stocking stuffers and always come in handy.
Book Light or Reading Lamp
A rechargeable clip-on light or ambient reading lamp is perfect for night owls who love to read without disturbing others.
Book Journal or Reading Log
Give them a place to track books read, rate favourites, and jot down thoughts or quotes. A stylish journal or planner adds a personal touch.
Literary Art Prints or Tote Bags
Quotes, minimalist book covers, or illustrations from classic novels make great décor or everyday accessories that show off their love of reading.
Whether it’s a cozy gift for their reading nook or something to deepen their love of literature, these book-lover gifts are thoughtful, fun, and full of storybook charm.
DIY Gift Baskets: Personalized, Thoughtful, and Easy to Make
DIY gift baskets are the epitome of thoughtful holiday gifting, blending creativity with a touch of personal luxury. You choose every item based on what the recipient loves, making it a one-of-a-kind experience. Plus, they’re versatile! You can go big or small, luxury or budget-friendly.
How to Make the Perfect Basket:
Pick a Theme
Start with a focus — like Self-Care, Movie Night, Coffee Lover, or New Mom Survival Kit. A theme helps you stay organized and makes the gift feel cohesive.
Choose a Container
It doesn’t have to be a basket! Try a decorative box, tote bag, mixing bowl, storage bin, or even a planter — something useful they can reuse.
Add Handpicked Items
Include four to six thoughtful items that match the theme. For example, a spa basket might include bath salts, a candle, face masks, herbal tea, and a soft towel.
Personal Touches
Add a handwritten note, labels, or a small DIY item to make it extra special.
Finish with Style
Arrange items neatly, use tissue paper or shredded paper for padding, and tie it all together with ribbon or twine.
HANDEL’S MESSIAH
December 5 •7:30pm Leamington United Church
HOLIDAY POPS
December 20 & 21 2:30pm & 7:30pm Capitol Theatre, Windsor
FAMILY CONCERT: ROBERT MUNSCH
January 10 10am & 11:30am Capitol Theatre, Windsor
MUSIC OF LED ZEPPLIN & THE WHO January 30 • 7:30pm Chrysler Theatre, Windsor
Gifts for Rest and Relaxation
In today’s busy world, giving the gift of rest, balance, and self-care is one of the most meaningful things you can do. Whether you’re shopping for someone who needs a break, loves a slow Sunday, or is starting a wellness journey, here are some calming, intentional ideas for gifts that promote well-being inside and out.
Bath Soaks & Spa Kits
Look for epsom salts, essential oil-infused soaks, or bath bombs made with natural ingredients. Pair them with a soft towel or bath pillow for an at-home spa experience.
Aromatherapy Candles or Diffusers
Calming scents like lavender, eucalyptus, or sandalwood can create a peaceful atmosphere. A quality diffuser with a few essential oils makes a beautiful and functional gift.
Mindfulness or Gratitude Journals
Help them slow down and reconnect with daily reflections, prompts, or intentions. Pair with a nice pen and cozy setting for a complete journaling kit.
Herbal Tea Samplers
Soothing blends like chamomile, peppermint, or rooibos promote relaxation. Add a pretty mug or tea infuser for a thoughtful, cozy touch.
Gift Certificate to Local Studios
Support their mental and physical well-being with gift certificates to local yoga studios or gyms.
Loungewear & Slippers
Soft robes, fuzzy socks, or comfy loungewear make self-care days feel luxurious. Choose breathable, high-quality fabrics for an extra treat.
Picture Perfect Gift Ideas
Photos have a unique power to capture the essence of a person, a relationship, or a special event. Over time, photographs become treasured keepsakes that bring joy, nostalgia, and connection each time they’re revisited.
Personalized Photo Books or Albums
Curate favourite memories like vacations, milestones, or everyday moments into a beautifully designed photo book. It’s a heartfelt way to tell a story and create a lasting treasure.
Instant Cameras or Film Kits
For those who love a hands-on approach, instant cameras or film sets encourage creativity and spontaneity, making the gift of photography interactive and fun.
Professional Photo Sessions
Gift a session with a local photographer for portraits, family photos, or even a creative shoot. It’s an experience that’s fun and empowering, resulting in stunning images to cherish.
Custom Framed Prints or Canvases
Choose a meaningful image and have it printed and framed or stretched on canvas. This turns a favourite photo into a piece of art that brightens any room.
Give the Gift of Good: The History Behind Giving Tuesday
In a world filled with shopping reminders, holiday sales, and endless online carts, Giving Tuesday emerged as a refreshing antidote — a day dedicated not to buying, but to giving. What began as a modest idea in 2012 has grown into a global movement that now inspires millions to support the causes that matter most to them.
A Response to Holiday Consumerism
The concept was born at the 92nd Street Y in New York City, a cultural and community centre known for championing social good. Partnering with the United Nations Foundation, organizers sought a way to shift the focus from Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping frenzies to something more meaningful. Their solution was elegantly simple: designate the Tuesday after American Thanksgiving as a day to give back.
What started as a hashtag — #GivingTuesday — quickly transcended social media. People resonated with the idea of balancing holiday indulgence with generosity, and within its first year, thousands of nonprofits and individuals participated.
The Movement Spreads Worldwide
As word spread, so did the impact. By its second year, Giving Tuesday became an international phenomenon, embraced by schools, small businesses, large corporations, religious groups, and community organizations. Each put its own spin on the day, from fundraising drives and volunteer events to creative kindness campaigns.
Today, Giving Tuesday is celebrated in more than 75 countries, each shaping the movement to reflect its own culture and needs. Despite the global scale, the mission remains the same: to inspire generosity in all its forms.
8 main st. w. kingsville, on 519-733-TOWN (8696)
kingsville, on 519-733-TOWN (8696)
“Small
acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.” – Howard Zinn
How to Participate
Donate to a Local Charity
Support a cause you care about: local food banks, hospice, animal rescues, women’s shelters or mental health programs, like CAMH.
Organize a Mini Food Drive
Collect non-perishable food at your workplace, school, gym, or neighbourhood.
Give Books or Learning Supplies
Donate new or gently used books to libraries, literacy programs, or shelters.
Build “Warmth Kits”
Create care packages with gloves, socks, hand warmers, snacks, and hygiene items and donate to:
Sponsor a Family or Child for the Holidays
Many local charities run holiday programs that help families right in your neighbourhood:
• Salvation Army
• Local women’s shelters
• Christmas hamper programs
• Children’s Aid Society
• Toys for Tots
Donate Blood or Join the Stem Cell Registry
Book an appointment with Canadian Blood Services.
Support Environmental Projects
Donate to tree-planting charities orconservation groups, participate in a park cleanup or adopt-a-trail program.
The Warmest Gift of The Season
Carree
How to Match Your Gifts to Their Love Language
Giving the perfect gift isn’t just about the price tag or how long you spent searching for it — it’s about making the recipient feel genuinely loved and understood. That’s where love languages come in. Dr. Gary Chapman’s Five Love Languages — Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, and Physical Touch — offer a powerful framework to personalize how we express love.
Here’s how to match your
Receiving Gifts:
People with this love language feel valued when they receive thoughtful, tangible items. It’s less about the materialism and more about the symbolism and effort behind the gift.
Gift Ideas:
• A meaningful keepsake tied to a memory
• A book or item they once mentioned in passing (they’ll love that you remembered!)
• Surprise “just because” gifts, not just for holidays
Words of Affirmation:
For these individuals, words speak louder than objects. A gift should come with thoughtful written or spoken expressions of appreciation, love, or encouragement.
Gift Ideas:
• A heartfelt letter or card accompanying a small gift
• A custom piece with a favourite quote or your personal message
• A video message or voice note sent with a digital gift
Acts of Service:
This love language values actions over objects. A gift that helps lighten their load, makes life easier, or shows you’ve been paying attention to their needs can feel incredibly special.
Gift Ideas:
• A “coupon” book for chores, errands, or home-cooked meals
• Hiring a cleaner, meal delivery, or organizing service
• Fixing something broken or completing a task they’ve been putting off
Quality Time:
These people crave undivided attention. They’ll appreciate gifts that bring you closer together, spark connection, or allow time to be spent meaningfully.
Gift Ideas:
• Tickets to a concert, play, or class to attend together
• A weekend getaway or planned “date night”
• A personalized “experience box” with items for an at-home movie or game night
Physical Touch:
This love language is rooted in physical closeness. A thoughtful gift will often be one that enhances comfort, relaxation, or intimacy.
Gift Ideas:
• A cozy blanket or robe
• A massage gift card
• A custom pillow, skincare products, or scented candles for a soothing environment
Non-Cliché Gift Ideas for Teachers
Teachers work hard, care deeply, and often receive the same types of gifts over and over (hello, “Best Teacher” mugs!).
If you’re looking to break the mold and give something meaningful and unique, here are some gift ideas that feel personal, useful, and truly appreciated:
Personalized Notepad or Stationery
A customized notepad with their name or classroom title is both thoughtful and practical — perfect for lesson planning or jotting quick notes.
Audiobook or Podcast Subscription
A membership to Audible or another audio platform gives them entertainment for their commute or wind-down time — no grading required.
Hand Cream or Desk Essentials Kit
Opt for a beautifully packaged, non-greasy hand cream, lip balm, or stress-relief roll-on for quick desk drawer selfcare between classes.
Small Plant in a Stylish Pot
A low-maintenance plant like a snake plant, pothos, succulent adds life to their classroom or desk—and won’t require a green thumb to survive.
Classroom Wish List Surprise
Secretly ask what’s on their Amazon or school supply wish list and surprise them with something useful for their students (markers, books, games, etc.).
A Custom Stamp Set
Create a personalized stamp with messages like “Great Job!” or “Parent Signature Needed”—something they’ll use daily and smile every time they do.
Snack Basket with Healthy & Fun Treats
Fill a small basket with a mix of energizing snacks (granola bars, trail mix, dark chocolate, herbal teas) for those long afternoons in the classroom.
Local Artisan Gift
Support a local maker by gifting handmade soap, a small piece of art, or a ceramic dish. It’s unique, thoughtful, and supports small business.
Last-Minute Gift Ideas That Don’t Feel Last Minute
Pressed for time but still want your gift to feel thoughtful and personal? Here are some last-minute gift ideas that are quick to grab or send, but still make a big impression:
Curated Gift Cards
Skip the generic options and go for a themed gift card (like a cozy coffee shop, local boutique, streaming service, or spa). Pair it with a handwritten note explaining why you picked it for them and it instantly feels more personal.
Subscription Boxes
Sign them up for a subscription that suits their interests: tea, books, snacks, puzzles, or self-care. You can print a cute note or e-card letting them know what’s on the way.
Digital Classes or Experiences
Gift an online cooking class, virtual museum tour, yoga membership, or language course. It’s thoughtful, clutter-free, and shows you considered their interests.
DIY in a Jar
Layer ingredients for cookies, soup, or hot cocoa in a mason jar and tie it with ribbon. Add a handwritten tag with instructions for a charming, homemade touch.
A Great Book (With a Twist)
Buy a favourite book (or one that reminds you of them) and write a short message on the inside cover. Thoughtful and timeless—even if you picked it up today.
Potted Plant or Herb Kit
Plants are a symbol of care and growth. Local nurseries or grocery stores often carry small indoor plants that make lovely, living presents.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Wrapping Paper
Gift-giving doesn’t have to come with piles of waste. Traditional wrapping paper often isn’t recyclable — especially when it includes foil, glitter, or plastic. The good news? There are plenty of eco-friendly (and often more charming) alternatives that are better for the planet and just as thoughtful. Here are some creative and sustainable wrapping ideas:
Fabric Wrap (Furoshiki Style)
Use scarves, tea towels, cloth napkins, or fabric scraps to wrap your gifts. Inspired by the Japanese tradition of furoshiki, this method is reusable, elegant, and surprisingly easy to learn.
Newspaper and Magazines
Old newspapers or magazine pages make for unique and artistic gift wrap. Add twine or a sprig of greenery for a rustic touch.
Brown Kraft Paper
Plain brown paper is recyclable and versatile. Dress it up with stamps, dried flowers, or hand-drawn designs for a personal touch.
Old Book Pages or Sheet Music
For small gifts, pages from damaged books or old sheet music add vintage charm. Great for literary lovers and music fans alike.
Reusable Gift Bags or Boxes
Cloth or canvas gift bags, mason jars, and small wooden boxes can be part of the gift itself. Bonus: they can be reused over and over again.
Natural Decorations
Instead of plastic bows, try tying gifts with jute string and adding natural elements like pinecones, cinnamon sticks, dried oranges, or sprigs of rosemary.
Shopping local this holiday season does more than fill gift boxesit strengthens our community
Every purchase made at a local business helps support our neighborhood shops, keeps dollars circulating close to home, an supports the artisans, makers, and small businesses that give Leamington its unique character, all while helping our community thrive.
Celebrate the season by celebrating your communityshop small, shop local, shop Uptown Leamington!
Pelee