15 Birthday Gifts for Kids Under $20

Finding a thoughtful birthday gift for kids under $20 is easier than you think. From LED gloves to DIY kits, this list has affordable options that combine fun, creativity, and learning. Here’s a quick overview of the top recommendations:

• LED Gloves: Light-up fun for kids aged 6+ ($19.99).
• Educational Games: Brain teasers, STEM toys, and logic puzzles ($8-$19.99).
• Creative Kits: Shrinky Dinks, puppet crafting, and art sets ($10-$19.99).
• Fidget Toys: Stress balls, spinners, and mini bubbles ($8-$15).
• Outdoor Fun: Water slides, mini bubbles, and window crawlers ($9.99-$19.99).
• Interactive Toys: Electronic megaphones, metal robots, and dance games ($10-$19.99).
• Unique Experiences: Root beer kits, tasting games, and juggling balls ($12.99-$19.99).

These gifts are budget-friendly, age-appropriate, and designed to entertain while supporting skill-building. Whether you’re shopping for an active, creative, or tech-loving child, this guide has you covered. Keep reading for detailed descriptions and tips to pick the perfect gift!

Top 10 Christmas Gifts Under $20

1. LED Gloves

LED gloves, priced at $19.99, are a fun and engaging gift for kids aged 6 and up. These gloves light up with colorful LEDs, creating vibrant displays that react to movement. They’re not just entertaining - they also promote physical activity, improve hand-eye coordination, and spark creativity.

Through play, kids get to explore concepts like light, color, and basic electronics, blending fun with a touch of learning. These gloves are sturdy when handled with care, making them a great option for evening parties or outdoor play during shorter daylight hours.

For a better fit and longer use, choose models with adjustable sizes and replaceable batteries. Some premium options might include extra features. If your child loves interactive and hands-on activities, the next gift idea takes learning to the next level with games they can play and learn from.

2. Educational Games

Educational games under $20 are a great way to mix fun with learning. Take the Kanoodle 3D Brain Teaser Puzzle ($19.99), for example - it challenges kids to solve engaging 3D puzzles while sharpening their problem-solving skills. For younger children (ages 4 and up), the PinkSheep Rings Set uses colorful, durable pieces to teach pattern recognition and introduce basic math concepts.

If your child loves science, STEM toys like the Mechanical Submarine can make learning hands-on by showing how buoyancy works in a fun, interactive way. For group activities, the Solve Fun Logic Puzzles collection includes puzzles with varying difficulty levels, perfect for encouraging both solo problem-solving and teamwork.

For something a bit more creative, the Animal Mosaics set lets kids explore art and spatial skills. It comes with sturdy wooden cubes that can keep them entertained for hours. You can also use tools like GiftList to organize and find games that suit your child’s interests.

If your child thrives on creative play, the next gift idea will inspire them to explore their imagination with hands-on kits.

3. Creative Kits

Creative kits are a fantastic way to combine fun and learning, all while staying under $20. Take the Shrinky Dinks Jewelry Kit, for example - it lets kids design and shrink their own charms, sparking imagination and leaving them with a cool keepsake.

Another great option is the DIY Puppet Crafting Kit. It comes with colorful fabrics, googly eyes, and easy-to-follow instructions, making it ideal for crafting alone or with friends. For repeated use, look for kits made from sturdy materials like wood.

Here are some popular choices:

• Art sets (ages 4-12): Help improve fine motor skills and teach color recognition.
• Jewelry-making kits (ages 6+): Encourage hand-eye coordination and pattern-making.
• Puppet crafting (ages 5-10): Boost storytelling skills and spark imaginative play.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics , creative play is essential for a child’s growth. Activities like these not only inspire self-expression but also help kids develop problem-solving skills. Kits with larger pieces or simple instructions are especially helpful for children with special needs .

If your child loves hands-on activities, the next gift idea will keep their minds engaged and their fingers busy.

4. Fidget Toys

Fidget toys are a fun and affordable gift option, all priced under $20. Popular choices include the Power Your Fun Arggh Rainbow Giant Stress Ball ($8), Bouncing Ball Fidget Spinner ($14.99), and Unpoppable Mini Bubbles ($12.99) .

These toys come in a variety of styles, from squishy stress balls to spinners with LED lights. They offer engaging textures, interactive features, and a satisfying tactile experience. Many teachers even recommend them for helping kids stay focused during homework or class.

When picking a fidget toy, keep these factors in mind:

• Age-appropriate design: Younger kids may prefer softer, simpler options.
• Durability: Silicone or rubber materials generally last longer than plastic.
• Safety: Double-check that there are no small parts that could be a choking hazard.

The best fidget toys combine vibrant colors, unique textures, and interactive elements to hold kids' attention over time. Silicone-based options are particularly sturdy, making them a great choice for frequent use.

Parents appreciate how portable these toys are - they're perfect for keeping kids entertained at home, school, or even during travel. And with most quality options priced between $8 and $15, they’re a budget-friendly pick that delivers plenty of value.

Next up, let’s dive into a gift idea that brings fun to the great outdoors: mini bubbles.

5. Mini Bubbles

Mini bubbles are a playful and budget-friendly gift option under $15, offering hours of fun for kids. Made from non-toxic, flexible plastic, these bubbles can be touched, shaped, and played with, creating a unique sensory experience. They're compact, durable, and ideal for children aged 3 and older.

Playing with mini bubbles helps improve sensory skills, hand-eye coordination, and encourages imaginative play. Here are some key features to consider:

Parents appreciate their mess-free design, making them a cleaner alternative to traditional bubbles. They’re great for indoor use, avoiding spills and stains, and can be used in bedrooms or classrooms. Pair them with art or music activities to inspire creative play.

If your child enjoys expressing themselves, the next gift idea - a fun electronic megaphone - might be just what they need to get creative.

6. Electronic Megaphone

The electronic megaphone, priced between $10 and $20, is a fun, portable toy that kids enjoy for its voice-changing effects. One popular option, the Zany electronic megaphone ($12.99), offers four different voice-changing modes , making it a hit with children.

This compact gadget keeps kids entertained while helping them develop new skills. Here’s why it’s a standout choice:

The electronic megaphone is a great pick for kids who enjoy drama or storytelling. It works well for a variety of activities, from backyard explorations to indoor performances. Parents especially like the volume control, which keeps playtime noise at manageable levels.

You can use this megaphone to make storytelling, drama games, or even simple science experiments more engaging. When buying one, check for safety features like secure battery compartments and sturdy materials to ensure it lasts.

This budget-friendly toy not only entertains but also helps develop creativity and communication skills, making it a thoughtful gift for any occasion. For kids curious about exploring their senses, the next gift idea - a tasting game - brings a fun and interactive experience.

7. Tasting Game

The "Test Your Tongue's Fortune" tasting game ($12.99) offers a playful way for kids to explore flavors and textures while having fun. Ideal for parties or family game nights, it keeps children entertained and helps them become more aware of different tastes and sensations .

This game stands out for its interactive setup. Kids take turns sampling various flavors and guessing what they are tasting. The mix of familiar and unexpected options keeps the game engaging and sparks curiosity.

Adult supervision is recommended to ensure safe play and to assist younger kids as they navigate the tasting process.

Beyond just being fun, this game helps kids develop sensory awareness and build a vocabulary for describing different flavors. It's especially helpful for:

• Encouraging kids to try new foods and recognize taste categories.
• Improving descriptive language skills in a natural way.

This affordable option, priced under $20, is both entertaining and educational, making it a thoughtful gift. Plus, it can be easily adjusted for dietary restrictions, so everyone can join in the fun.

For kids who enjoy experimenting with their senses, this game is a winner. Up next, a gift idea that combines fun with physical activity: window crawlers.

8. Window Crawlers

Window crawlers, available for $9.99, are adhesive toys that stick to smooth surfaces and slowly make their way down. They provide a simple yet engaging play experience that kids love . These toys can turn windows, mirrors, or walls into a fun playground, sparking physical activity and imaginative play. Plus, they offer a fun way to introduce basic physics concepts without feeling like a lesson.

Here’s what makes them stand out:

These toys are more than just fun - they help kids improve hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness. Perfect for preschoolers and elementary-aged children, they keep little ones entertained while encouraging movement and curiosity.

Ready to add a festive twist to your next celebration? Check out the birthday cake light show!

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9. Birthday Cake Light Show

Make any birthday party stand out with the Birthday Cake Light Show, available for $9.99. This gadget projects colorful LED patterns onto cakes, bringing an extra layer of fun to the celebration. It's safe, cordless, and reusable - perfect for creating a lively atmosphere.

The gadget can even spark curiosity about how light works. Designed to be used at a safe distance from the cake, it ensures a worry-free experience for parents while kids enjoy the show during the cake-cutting.

For an unforgettable moment, turn it on during the "Happy Birthday" song - it’s sure to wow the birthday child and guests alike. Want to take the fun even further? Pair it with a tasting game for a full sensory experience. And if your child loves creative play, the next gift idea - a metal robot - might just be their new favorite toy.

10. Metal Robot

This sturdy die-cast metal robot, priced at $19.99, is designed with light-up eyes and movable limbs, encouraging imaginative play while introducing kids to basic engineering concepts.

With its glowing eyes and adjustable limbs, this robot invites kids to explore creativity while getting a simple introduction to engineering and electronics. Its solid metal construction ensures it can handle plenty of play, offering great value for the price.

The robot’s design lets kids create endless imaginative scenarios, from space adventures to daring rescue missions. It’s an ideal choice for children curious about technology and engineering, blending fun with learning.

Want to take the fun up a notch? Pair this robot with a hands-on root beer kit for a playful "robot scientist" theme that combines creativity and experimentation.

11. Root Beer Kit

Turn a young scientist's birthday into a fizzy and fun-filled experiment with this DIY root beer brewing kit. At $19.99, it’s an engaging way to mix fun with learning.

This kit combines science and hands-on fun, teaching kids about measurements, carbonation, and following instructions while they create their own tasty drink. Each brewing session is a chance to explore basic scientific concepts in an exciting way.

The kit is reusable, so kids can experiment with different flavors over time. Its sturdy, food-grade materials ensure safe and repeatable fun. Plus, adult supervision adds a layer of safety and creates opportunities for parent-child bonding, whether it's learning kitchen safety or handling ingredients together.

For kids who love experimenting and learning by doing, this gift is a perfect mix of fun and education. And if they’re ready for more science-inspired activities, the next idea will keep the momentum going.

12. Dance Game

This $19.99 dance game offers hours of fun at a budget-friendly price, making it an excellent gift choice. It features a charming penguin character, lively music, and various game modes to keep kids entertained and engaged.

The game’s straightforward design makes it ideal for kids of different ages and abilities. Children can mimic the penguin’s movements, improving their rhythm and coordination while having a blast. Its sturdy build ensures it stands up to energetic play sessions, and the intuitive controls allow for solo or group fun.

This game blends music and movement to sharpen rhythm, timing, and spatial awareness, all while keeping the learning process enjoyable. For an extra layer of fun, kids can create their own dance routines, sparking creativity.

If your child enjoys games that combine activity and imagination, the next gift - a set of phone magic tricks - is sure to grab their attention.

13. Phone Magic Tricks

For $19.99, this kit transforms any smartphone into a mini magic show, blending modern tech with classic tricks. With over 50 tricks and step-by-step tutorials, it's a fantastic choice for kids who love gadgets.

Kids can perform tricks like making objects disappear, reading minds, and creating magical animations. These activities spark imagination and help build confidence. The app even lets kids customize their tricks, making each performance their own.

This kit isn’t just about fun - it also helps kids develop presentation skills and boosts their confidence in front of an audience. It’s a great way for tech-loving kids to entertain friends and family while improving social skills.

For those who prefer outdoor activities, the next gift - a water slide - provides a fun way to stay active and cool during warm days.

14. Water Slide

Transform your backyard into a mini water park with this 16-foot water slide for just $19.99. It's perfect for keeping the kids entertained all summer long.

The slide is designed with smooth edges to ensure safe play. Its tough, puncture-resistant material means it can handle plenty of action, making it a great choice for repeated use during the summer months.

For the best experience, set it up on flat, grassy ground, away from any obstacles. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, activities like water sliding contribute to the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity for children aged 6 and older.

Want to take the fun up a notch? Place a small pool at the slide's end to create an engaging water play zone that can keep multiple kids entertained at once.

15. Juggling Balls

Wicked Uncle's colorful and soft juggling balls, priced at $14.99, are a great way to dive into this timeless activity. Designed with durable materials and bright colors, they make learning to juggle fun and easy.

Juggling balls are more than just a toy - they're a tool for building skills. Kids naturally improve their hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and fine motor skills as they practice. The soft texture ensures safety, minimizing the chance of injuries or damage to household items.

Whether practicing alone or with friends, juggling grows with the learner. Beginners can start with simple throws and gradually work up to more advanced tricks. These balls are lightweight and easy to grip, making them ideal for kids just starting out. Plus, their sturdy design means they can handle plenty of practice sessions, giving you great value for the price.

For beginners, starting with two-ball exercises is a smart way to build confidence before moving on to three-ball patterns. Juggling balls provide entertainment and skill-building, making them a thoughtful and engaging gift option.

Tips for Choosing the Right Gift

Picking a great birthday gift under $20 means thinking about the child's interests, age, and abilities. Here's how to make choices that are fun, practical, and budget-friendly.

Look for gifts that balance fun and learning without breaking the bank. For instance, puzzle games like the Educational Insights Kanoodle 3D Brain Teaser are great for boosting cognitive skills while keeping kids entertained. Active play items like water slides or bouncing balls are another solid option - they promote physical activity and offer great value .

If you're short on time, GiftList’s AI-powered Genie and curated guides can help you find gifts under $20 that match a child’s interests. Their wish list feature also makes it easy to coordinate with others, avoiding duplicate presents and staying on budget.

Keep these practical tips in mind when shopping:

• Match the gift to the child's current abilities to avoid frustration.
• Choose items that can grow with the child for longer-lasting use.
• Opt for compact gifts if the family has limited space.
• Check reviews to ensure the gift is durable and well-made .

For example, a root beer kit offers hands-on learning fun, while mini bubbles provide sensory play in a small package. Both are thoughtful, affordable options that can make a child's special day even better.

Conclusion

Finding birthday gifts for kids on a budget doesn’t have to be challenging. There are plenty of fun and engaging options under $20, like root beer kits or LED gloves, that cater to a variety of interests while keeping things entertaining and even educational. These options show that great gifts don’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

GiftList’s tools, such as the AI-powered Genie and wish list feature, make it easier to discover budget-friendly gifts. By focusing on items that match a child’s hobbies and developmental stage, you can create a memorable experience without overspending.

Whether you’re picking out craft kits or active play toys, the key is choosing age-appropriate gifts that keep kids engaged. With a little thought and the right tools, finding the perfect affordable gift can be both simple and rewarding. These choices prove that giving on a budget can still make any celebration special.