You love them to bits, but choosing a Christmas gift for a grandchild can feel like guesswork. What are they into this year? What do they already have? And will their parents thank you for another thing that needs batteries?
These Christmas gift ideas for grandchildren are creative, screen-free and made to last, with something for every age from toddlers to big kids.
What are the best Christmas gifts for grandchildren?
The best Christmas gifts for grandchildren are ones they will use again and again, that suit their age and that parents are glad to have in the house. Choose something creative, screen-free and easy to store, and ideally something you can enjoy together on your next visit.
1. A gift to colour in together
A colour-in tablecloth turns a family meal into a joint project. The world map tablecloth is made from 100% cotton, measures 130 x 85cm and comes with wash-out fabric pens, so everyone can colour in countries, landmarks and animals together. Spread it out at Christmas, or save it for your next visit. When the map is full, wash it following the care label and it is ready to colour again. See all our colour-in tablecloths.
2. For ages 1 to 3: a fabric colouring book
For the youngest grandchildren, the Farmyard Fabric Colouring Book and the Under the Sea Fabric Colouring Book are made for ages 1 and up and come with five chunky wash-out pens. They are soft, sturdy and made to be coloured, washed and coloured again. Our guide to screen-free Christmas gifts for toddlers has more ideas for this age.
3. For ages 4 to 7: placemats and pencil cases
At this age, children love something that is theirs to take out and about. Our colour-in placemats to go fold into their own mini cotton tote bag and come with ten wash-out fabric pens, so they are easy to pack for a visit, a restaurant or a long journey. A colour-in pencil case with wash-out pens included is another good choice. Browse all our gifts for kids aged 4 to 7.
4. For ages 8 and over: something to make their own
Older grandchildren often like gifts they can personalise. A colour-in backpack, crossbody bag or pillowcase gives them a canvas for their own design, and it can be washed and coloured again. Take a look at our gifts for kids aged 8 and over.
How to choose for grandchildren
- Ask a parent first. A quick message about what they already have saves duplicates.
- Check the age. Look at the age guidance on each product page.
- Think about space. Gifts that fold away, like our placemats, are easy for parents to store.
- Choose gifts that last. Reusable gifts are still being used after Boxing Day.
FAQs
What should grandparents buy for grandchildren at Christmas?
Choose something that suits your grandchild's age, will be used more than once and doesn't need batteries. Reusable creative gifts, books and cosy bedtime favourites are all good choices, and a parent can usually tell you what they already have.
What are good screen-free gifts for grandchildren?
Colouring, books, pretend play and craft sets all work well. Colour-in gifts are a good option because they come with wash-out pens, so everything needed is in the box and the design can be washed out and coloured again.
What gifts can grandparents and grandchildren enjoy together?
A colour-in tablecloth is a good one, as everyone can colour at the same table. Board games, jigsaws and a shared bedtime story also work well, and they make a lovely memory for your next visit.
Are colour-in gifts washable?
Yes. The ink is water-soluble and washes out on a warm machine wash, ready to colour again. Always follow the care label on the product.
Keep it simple
The best gift for a grandchild is one that makes you part of their day. Choose something simple, creative and made to last, and you will not go far wrong. Browse all our colour-in gifts to start your list.
