Editor's note: This post was originally published on December 18, 2014.
Literacy is about so much more than just reading books. It's about storytelling, playing with letters, watching and listening to stories, and creating your own through play.
I gathered up some of my favorite stocking stuffers for kids that will wow them, won't break your bank, and best of all, promote literacy. When we tell our children that reading is important, they might listen. But when we show how important reading is by giving them books and other gifts that promote literacy, that message sinks in even deeper.
Below are my stocking stuffer picks along with the main literacy skill they promote.
Little Kids
Funny Magnets - Robots - Storytelling
I Spy Little Letters - Letter Recognition
KUBIX Wooden Letter and Number Blocks - Letter Recognition
Klutz Castle Fold-Out - Storytelling and Fine Motor Skills
Scholastic Storybook Treasures DVD - Listening
Story Box Farm Building Set - Storytelling
The Eric Carle Gift Set - Concepts of Print (how books work)
Bigger Kids
Allie Finkle's Rules for Girls Audio Book - Listening
Bananagrams - Spelling
How to Draw the Latest Pokemon - Fine Motor and Storytelling
Klutz Build-a-Book Kit - Concepts of Print
Minecraft Handbook - Reading Non-Fiction Texts
Star Wars Folded Flyers - Fine Motor and Storytelling
What is your favorite stocking stuffer that promotes literacy? Share your ideas on the Scholastic Parents Facebook page.