I know what you’re thinking – Halloween is just barely over, why are you posting about Christmas already? Well, bear with me! Those of us who fill our own Advent calendars need to get it done before December 1st, so… it’s gotta happen this month. If you’re like me, you don’t want to buy a bunch of trinkets at the dollar store, because then you’ll just end up with a bunch of clutter. But, if your kids are like my kids, they will become *completely* blasé about the chocolate on day 3, and you’ll need some variety in there to keep things interesting.

I figured I’d give you some ideas of things that don’t usually become clutter, as they are meant to be used up. Note that these can also make good stocking stuffers or Hanukkah gifts, or even party favors for the classroom on your child’s birthday or on Valentine’s Day. Let me know if you have other ideas!

Knick-knacks that are not disposable so much as consumable:

individual-sized bubble wands (0.2 oz.)
temporary tattoos
balloons (inflating them and playing with them will make my kids surprisingly happy)
small candy canes
chocolate
Hanukkah gelt
jelly beans
mini Nutella containers (0.88 oz.)
popcorn
cute tissue packets
lip balm
crayons / pencils / erasers
bubble bath / bath bomb
chocolate spoon or individual hot cocoa / hot chocolate packet
fun socks
gift cards/tickets to an activity (movie, zoo, museum…)