8 magic-inducing gifts for kids who love to create
From witches and wizards to the wonders of algae, these are guaranteed to get kids of all ages excited about the world around them
For the younger contingent of your family, thinking of original Christmas gifts can be tricky. The secret? Buy things that would excite your inner child. Items that have a shelf life longer than a day and get you thinking about the universe you’re inhabiting (real or imaginary).
A drone to capture the world from above? Yes, please. A magic microscope to discover micro-organisms? Sold. A DJ deck to lay down your own tracks? Hold us back.
Here are our top picks for creative kids.
Mini music makers can show off their creativity on this feature-packed mixer. The decks have 15 built-in tracks in four different styles of music, and are also wifi compatible (so you can add your own playlist to the mix). Suitable from 6 years.
Calling all nature lovers. This smart microscope comes with double-sided slides covering an impressive array of subjects including flowers, foods, micro-organisms and algae. You can also use the blank slide to gather your own samples. Suitable from 5 years.
This magic notebook makes a dreamy first diary. Activated by a personal number passcode, the messages are written in a secret-ink pen that can only be read when you shine the notebook’s UV light. Suitable from 6 years.
Budding movie-makers are going to love this foldable drone camera, which is ready to take off in seconds and capture the world from above. Designed with a 360° camera, it has a simple remote control and comes with a rechargeable battery for hours of filmable fun. Suitable from 14 years.
Fire up their foodie enthusiasm with a mini version of the real deal. Complete with six recipes to follow, kids can create something yummy for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and magically – for you – there won’t be any washing up. Suitable from 9 months.
If, like us, you’re obsessed with the world of Harry Potter and still debate what house the Sorting Hat would put you in (Hufflepuff, obviously), this board game will keep your whole crew entertained for hours. Suitable from 8 years.
Every physicist, astronaut and engineer had to start somewhere, and this practical electronics kit – packed with 72 experiments (plus LED lights and a radio) – is the perfect introduction to the wonders of science. Suitable from 8 years.
This duo of iridescent nail polishes from Nails Inc will bring some high-shine holographic sparkle to festivities. Plus, it features a unicorn on the box, which instantly ups the magic ante.
