Looking for Christmas gift ideas for kids that inspire play and fewer screens? Unplug Bug is here to help. This fuzzy friend loves turning screen time into playtime, encouraging children to get stuck into crafts, discover new books, unleash their imaginations and head off on real-world adventures.
That's why Bug believes the most memorable Christmas presents are the ones that spark creativity, fuel imagination and bring families together. Bug has rounded up 12 of their favourite Christmas gift ideas for kids. Whether you're shopping for crafters or readers, you'll find plenty of festive inspiration to help them unplug, play, and make a little magic along the way this Christmas.
Bug's Top 12 Christmas Gifts for Kids
From family games and creative craft kits to interactive books, these are Unplug Bug's top Christmas gifts for kids that inspire screen-free fun, creativity, and quality time together.
1. Mermaid Operation
Best for: Ages 5+
Why Unplug Bug loves it: This magical twist on the classic family game encourages screen-free fun, concentration and lots of giggles. It’s great for family game nights and helping kids practice hand-eye coordination.
A gift for: Little mermaid fans and children who love a challenge.
2. Whack A Capybara
Best for: Ages 3+
Why Unplug Bug loves it: Fast-paced, colourful, and packed with giggles, Whack A Capybara encourages screen-free play while helping children develop quick reactions. It’s a great choice for friendly family competitions and energetic fun.
A gift for: Active kids who love games and challenges.
3. Care Bears Marble Pour Family
Best for: Ages 5+
Why Unplug Bug loves it: Creativity and hands-on play come together in this colourful Care Bears activity set. Complete with three bear models and everything needed to get started, children can make their own Care Bears creations while developing creativity, concentration, and fine motor skills.
A gift for: Crafty kids, Care Bears fans, and budding artists.
4. PlayWorks Pretend and Play Ice Cream Cart
Best for: Ages 2+
Why Unplug Bug loves it: Bug loves pretend/imaginitive play and it’s even better when there are ice creams involved! Little ones can serve up colourful treats, create their own ice cream shop and let their imaginations run wild. It’s a brilliant playset that encourages creativity, storytelling, and social play.
A gift for: Children who love role play, make-believe, and serving up sweet treats.
5. Jumbo XL Slime Spinner
Best for: Ages 6+
Why Unplug Bug loves it: What’s hiding behind the next spin? This fun vending machine-style spinner is filled with 12 slime surprises waiting to be discovered. From the excitement of the reveal to the satisfying sensory play, it’s a gift that keeps little hands busy and curious minds entertained.
A gift for: Sensory seekers and slime fans.
6. Giant 3D Printed Dragon
Best for: Ages 5+
Why Unplug Bug loves it: Every great adventure needs a dragon! This fantasy-inspired fidget toy combines imaginative play with sensory fun, making it perfect for small hands to play with. Whether it’s guarding a magical kingdom or displayed as a collectible, it’s a screen-free way to spark creativity.
A gift for: Dragon lovers, sensory seekers, and imaginative adventurers.
7. Santa’s Busy Workshop Interactive Book
Best for: Ages 0+
Why Unplug Bug loves it: Reading is one of Bug’s favourite screen-free activities, and this festive interactive board book brings story time to life. With noisy slides and flaps to lift, it encourages little ones to get involved in the story while building a love of books, imaginative play, and early learning.
A gift for: Curious toddlers, little bookworms and families.
8. The Christmas Story Book (With Sound)
Best for: Ages 1+
Why Unplug Bug loves it: Bug loves books that make story time special. With eight magical sounds throughout the pages, little readers can engage with the story in a fun, hands-on way while developing a love of reading and imagination.
A gift for: Little bookworms and families making Christmas memories together.
9. Disney Game Night
Best for: Ages 6+
Why Unplug Bug loves it: Nothing brings families together quite like a games night! With 10 Disney-themed games in one box, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and a great way to swap screens for family fun.
A gift for: Disney fans and families who love game night.
10. Family Jigsaw Puzzle
Best for: Puzzling together!
Why Unplug Bug loves it: Bug loves a jigsaw puzzle, and this one is made for the whole family. Featuring small, medium and large pieces, everyone can help complete the cosy Christmas pets scene, making it a fun screen-free activity to enjoy together over the festive season.
A gift for: Families who love spending time together.
11. Multi Shoot 2 in 1 Basketball Table Top Game
Best for: Ages 8+
Why Unplug Bug loves it: Bug enjoys games that get everyone involved, and this tabletop basketball challenge is perfect for a little friendly competition. With two ways to play, kids can put their shooting skills to the test and enjoy active play indoors. It’s a great way to swap screens for family fun and friendly rivalry.
A gift for: Competitive kids, sports fans and family game nights.
12. Block Tech Mega Box of Blocks
Best for: Ages 3+
Why Unplug Bug loves it: Bug loves building big ideas and this box of blocks is full of possibilities. Whether kids are constructing towering castles, speedy vehicles or their own imaginative creations, building blocks encourage creativity, problem-solving and hands-on play.
A gift for: Imaginative minds and children who love to create and play.
Unplug This Christmas
The best Christmas gifts for kids don't just keep them entertained for a few minutes on Christmas morning, they inspire creativity, imagination and real-world play long after the festive season is over. Whether they're crafting, reading, building, exploring or playing with family, these Bug-approved gifts are perfect for helping little ones unplug, play and make a little magic every day.
Why not take a leaf out of Bug's book and swap screen time for playtime this Christmas? Visit your nearest The Works store to find festive favourites.
