We know you’ve got a lot of things on your mind—and a lot of people on your shopping list. And when the holidays roll around, it can be hard to keep track of all the best gifts for different ages and stages (and interests). So we did the work for you. We picked 50 gifts under $50, all of which can be found at some of our favorite independently owned Chicagoland toy stores. In the market for a splurge? Check out five slightly more expensive ideas that still won’t completely break the bank.
And when you’ve wrapped up your holiday shopping, go ahead: sit back, relax and enjoy an extravagantly decorated sugar cookie (or two). After all, you’ve earned it.
Baby (0-12m)
Toddler (1-3)
Preschool (3-5)
Early Elementary (5-7)
Late Elementary (7-10)
Tweens/Teens (10 and up)
Santa-worthy splurges
Where we shopped
Becky & Me Toys, Evanston
Building Blocks Toy Store, Lakeview and Wicker Park, Chicago
Galt Toys + Galt Baby, downtown and Lincoln Park, Chicago and Skokie
*play, Logan Square, Chicago
Moore Toys & Gadgets, Wheaton