Parenting and lifestyle expert Amanda Mushro says families don’t need to overspend to make the holidays memorable. Appearing on Live in the D, Mushro spotlighted affordable toys and activities she says deliver big fun for less.
“I love a plush that’s a little bit different,” Mushro said, holding up Wild Republic’s Flipkins, a weighted, eco-friendly stuffed toy that lands upright when flipped. She called them a “perfect stocking stuffer,” noting they retail for about $11.
For screen-free family time, Mushro recommended Dice Words, a fast-learning word game that packs into a small sack. “Takes just a few seconds to set up, a few minutes to learn,” she said, adding it comes in under $20.
For younger helpers, Mushro pointed to Boone’s INTRO Food Prep Set, a dishwasher-safe kit with a movable measuring cup ring and real working tools to get kids involved in the kitchen.
She also highlighted two “wow” gifts: the battery-powered Dungeons & Dragons Orb of Possibility, which rolls dice and adds flair to game night for longtime fans, and ESPN’s Virtual Reality Set, a 360-degree sports experience that includes a fact-packed guidebook. Mushro said the VR set comes in under $40.
Addressing the mess factor with trendy textures, Mushro suggested Dr. Squish’s Squishy Maker. Kids can customize their own squishies with glitter and water-based paint, and families can buy refill kits as needed. “It’s all of that sensory fun without slime in your carpet,” she said.
To watch the segment, click on the video above.