Presenting the Kidslox 2024, Low-Tech Gift Guide!
From toddlers, tweens to teens, we ‘present’ the ultimate list of screen-free, low tech Christmas gifts for the children in your life.
If you’re looking for some more innovative ideas that don’t require a screen to enjoy them, then look no further than our non-tech gift guide for tweens and more. We’ve rounded up the ultimate list of screen-free present options for little ones to teenagers. From art enthusiasts, sporty kids and the adventure-seekers, all our suggestions are low tech or completely no tech. Read on to get inspired.
Low tech gift ideas for kids of all ages
Whether you’re looking for something for your young niece, a friend’s teen, godchild, or your own children, we have searched high and low for some of the best screen-free, non tech Christmas gift options out there. From toddlers to teenagers, you can rely on this list of ideas to inspire your low-tech gift purchases this festive season.
The best low tech gifts for toddlers and preschoolers
A toy subscription – Lovevery sends a monthly expert-curated play kit to your children that’s perfectly tailored to their developmental age. It’s available for children aged 0-4, which makes it a great option for parents of newborns too.
An easel for those first mark-making moments to your child’s future masterpieces is a timeless gift that any family will love. This Melissa and Doug version is a classic.
At this age, bathtime can be one of children’s favorite times of the day. Make the time in the tub even more magical with toys that add sensory elements to their routine. Bath pipes are a great way to enhance motor skills, light up floating toys can add atmosphere, and a bubble machine adds endless options for fun!
Magnetic building tiles are a classic way to work on your kids’ creative skills. The construction options are endless and a great screen-free gift option to keep them busy for hours.
A Pikler triangle is a Montessori classic. While this wooden ladder shaped toy doesn’t look much, using your imagination it becomes a den, a climbing frame and much more. TinyLand has plenty of options.
Want your child to hone up their musical abilities but don’t fancy bulk instruments in the home? A floor keyboard is a super fun way for busy movers to make music without the need to sit and learn. Simply roll up and pack away when you’ve heard enough too!
The best low tech gift ideas for younger kids (5-8)
How can you play tetris without a screen? It’s easy! The Coogam wooden puzzle is suitable for kids ages 3+ and involves a lot of wooden shapes that slot against each other to make more shapes. It’s guaranteed to keep them busy for hours.
Nature lovers will adore releasing their inner scientist with the GeoSafari Jr talking microscope. Narrated by animal expert, Bindi Irwin, children get to view slides bursting with facts about their favorite animals and wildlife.
While us adults debate whether cash will be a thing of the past, develop your kids’ numeracy skills with a classic play cash register. This solar powered option is a brilliant way to teach social emotional skills like turn taking.
Whether you live somewhere warm, or you’re hiding inside from the cold this winter, a play tent and pop-up ball pit is the perfect transitional gift to keep kids active and away from their screens this Christmas.
Pets can be a popular addition to children’s Christmas lists, and if you’re not ready for a big commitment, but want to encourage their wild side, there are lots of animatronic options out there, from Fingerlings to Furreals.
Want something a bit bigger than a seamonkey? Pets can make an unforgettable Christmas gift – one that’s cute, but full of lessons about responsibility. Make sure you check out the experts’ advice on your particular choice, and how to ensure a successful transition into your home.
Screens before bed are a definite no-no, and sometimes you don’t have energy for the 5th story in a row…the Tonie Box is a brilliant way to encourage literacy and give yourself a little reading break too.
The best non tech gift ideas for tweens (9-12)
At this age, kids start to think about trends and in 2024 there were a couple that are likely to put a big smile on their faces, including Stanley cups and Crocs. Available in a variety of colours and with customisable Jibbitz, you can’t go wrong.
At this age, children are increasingly curious about the world around them. Why not help fuel that curiosity by giving them something to grow and care for? A grow-your own flower or vegetable kit like these from Click and Grow are perfect.
Replicate the excitement of video games but without the screens. Flipside Game is a reaction based toy that’s billed as a future generation version of the Rubik’s Cube. Got a star in the making? Why not give them a Karaoke machine to get their stage practice early?
In a similar vein, if your child has expressed an interest in music, Christmas is the ideal time to get them an instrument to pursue their passions.
Has your tweenager discovered crafting? This year, jewellery making kits were all the range and Beadology has plenty of options.
It’s not no tech, but low tech – plus, it’s the gift that keeps on going, a family ice cream maker. This one from DASH is the pint sized, perfect low tech gift to keep tweens creatively occupied this Christmas.
Tween struggling with anxiety? Squishmallows are the go-to cuddly toy of the moment, here’s where you can find them. Jellycat toys are another viral craze that are likely to be received with a smile.
No tech is needed with a lego kit that’s aimed at older kits. There’s also no time for screens when they’re busy creating something amazing like a model of the New York skyline or a Star Wars figurine.
Experimental eaters are covered with the Universal Yums subscription box. It’s the perfect tech free gift for tweens who want an edible present every month for the rest of the year.
The best low tech gift ideas for teenagers
Where do most teens like to spend their time? Their bedroom of course! Why not give them a bedroom makeover and allow them to get creative with some interior design choices? The teenage years can be a stressful and anxious time for all kids, but girls can feel this pressure even more. An affirmation card deck like this one is a great way for your teen to tell themselves daily that they’re awesome.
Sports kit or leisure clothes are a great way for your teen to feel more confident about getting outdoors and moving their body more.
Get your teens motivated to take notes with some personalized stationery that they’ll want to get out in class.
Not no-tech, but definitely low. This year we saw old school toys like Tomagotchis, Furbys and Gameboys are all back in vogue.
Do you struggle to get your teens excited about family games night? It might be time to update your board game selection with some contemporary options they’ll love to play. Here are some trending ideas that your teens will know and love:
- Wordle the Party Game – The popular app now comes off-screen, and is a great way to work on language skills while having a lot of fun
- Taco, Cat, Goat, Cheese, Pizza – super easy to play and guaranteed to make you laugh, this game can be played by all ages
- Never Have I Ever – Just make sure it’s the family edition to keep things age-appropriate
- What do you meme? Meet them on their own turf with a screen-free game that’s based on the social media craze for memes.
- An escape room in a box – fun for all the family, this problem solving board game is a great way to work together on a goal
Does your kid ask to change up or dye their hair? Hair chalks are a great, commitment free way to change up your look without resorting to drastic measures. They come in a variety of crazy colors, so there’s something for all tastes.
Is your teen going one further and talking about tattoos? Don’t panic! BIC has a BodyMark temporary tattoo marker kit that will allow them to experiment with different looks.
Have you got an avid social media sharer on your hands? Worried that they spend too much time documenting their lives online? Why not encourage a shift to a more traditional way of tracking your thoughts? Journaling kits come with lots of exciting accessories and ways to make your diary entries look fantastic. It’s a great non-tech idea for a new year’s resolution too.
Has your teen got a packed exam season this year? Allow them to take the stress out of it by buying them a stress ball to squeeze when their anxiety takes over. Other ideas include yoga lessons or a mindfulness course to help them find their zen.
Does your beauty conscious teenager squeal over Sephora? Grab them a voucher to buy something or check out kid-friendly skincare range, Bubble.
Amazon has created the Happy Teen gift card. You can top it up anywhere between $20-$500 and it can be redeemed at loads of their favorite restaurants and shops, including Sephora and Jamba.
The best non tech gift ideas for the hobby mad tween
Got a kid who can’t keep up with their growing list of interests? Fear not, here’s a run down of some of the most fun and creative ways to keep their passion for learning new skills going.
Give them the chance to craft bowls, vases, or sculptures with a beginner-friendly pottery kit. This hands-on hobby builds creativity and patience.
Perfect for nature-loving tweens, a build-your-own birdhouse kit is perfect. Let them design and construct a birdhouse to hang in the garden and record what comes to visit.
Introduce them to the art of archery and their inner Katniss Everdeen with a safe, beginner-level bow and target, ideal for building focus and coordination.
Encourage precision and creativity with a comprehensive origami kit featuring step-by-step instructions for intricate designs.
A classic gift of a telescope, constellation guide, and a star chart can spark an interest in astronomy that will last a lifetime.
A beginner leatherworking set to make items like wallets, bracelets, or keychains, helps develop craftsmanship skills and a way to create their own gifts for others too!
A screen-free robotics kit that lets them build mechanical devices, exploring engineering without digital distractions.
For the curious tween, a beginner beekeeping set (or bee-friendly garden kit) introduces them to the wonders of pollination and sustainability.
Non tech and screen-free experience gifts for tweens
What better way to avoid screens than to get outside and make some memories? The low tech and no tech gift ideas for tweens are endless. And, if you can’t get a formal ‘gift’ on the below, you can always get creative and package up your own homemade vouchers. Here are some ideas for experience-related gifts your kids will love.
For the creative tween, local art classes offer the perfect escape—think painting, drawing, or sculpting sessions that spark imagination and build artistic confidence.
For the adventure-seeker, a weekend camp packed with hiking trails, canoeing excursions, and rock-climbing challenges is an unforgettable way to foster a love of nature and movement.
If they’re a budding foodie, hands-on cooking or baking classes can ignite a passion for the kitchen, teaching life skills while stirring up their culinary curiosity.
Music lovers will thrive with lessons in their instrument of choice—be it guitar, piano, or drums—unlocking both talent and self-expression.
For a touch of equestrian elegance, horseback riding lessons offer not just a chance to learn a timeless skill but also to build confidence and develop a unique connection with animals.
Consider gifting a science museum membership that keeps on giving: interactive exhibits and educational programs to feed their curiosity all year round.
For the sports fanatic, clinics in soccer, basketball, or tennis are the ultimate way to sharpen teamwork, agility, and focus.
Drama workshops provide a stage for the aspiring performer to build confidence, refine public speaking skills, and embrace their creativity.
Photography classes go beyond the snapshot, teaching the art of composition, lighting, and visual storytelling to capture moments that matter.
And for the green-thumbed dreamer, a gardening kit is more than just a gift—it’s an invitation to nurture life, learn responsibility, and connect with nature.
Whoever is on your shopping list this year, we hope this guide helps inspire you to find some creative gifts that give your young person a little less time with technology in 2025.
