Life by the Cupful
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When it comes to finding the perfect gifts for the little ones in your life, several Tahoe shops and stores have you covered. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor in town for the holidays, these charming stores cater to children of all ages, offering a delightful array of toys, clothing and fun presents.
Keep reading to learn about six of my favorite places in the area for kids' Christmas gifts. This is by no means a complete list of every place you can buy toys, gear and gifts for children in the Lake Tahoe area. See a more complete list here. A complete list of shops that offer gift-giving options for kids and adults can be found here.
Photo: Will & Ivey is spreading joy with every stitch. Photo courtesy of Will & Ivey
The Tree House Children's Boutique
Truckee
Established in 1979 in the historic district of downtown Truckee, The Tree House is a haven for parents seeking distinctive clothing, toys and books for children. From newborn essentials to size 14 for both boys and girls, this boutique covers all your shopping needs. Don't miss their collection of beachwear, snowsuits, dancewear, pajamas, adorable shoes and more. The Tree House is a go-to spot for quality gifts, featuring Constructive Eating tools, dolls and eco-friendly stacking cups.
Discover joy and play with a new friend from The Tree House. Photo courtesy of The Tree House
Toy Maniacs
South Lake Tahoe
For a specialized shopping experience, Toy Maniacs on the South Shore is your destination. A family-owned business with a rich history, it boasts an extensive range of toys, educational products and hobby gear. From kites and puzzles to remote-control cars to drones, Toy Maniacs has it all. The staff's expertise in the RC world, coupled with a diverse selection of brands, makes Toy Maniacs the go-to place for hobbyists. Take advantage of their free gift-wrap service and explore the largest selection of RCs and hobbies in the region.
Jack + Emmy
Truckee
Founded by Erica Farrell and inspired by her children, Jack + Emmy brings a blend of comfort and style to children's clothing. Located in Truckee, this boutique specializes in organic, USA-made and eco-friendly clothing, shoes, toys and gifts. Their modern and whimsical aesthetic includes brands like Ryan & Rose, Quincy Mae, Tea Collection and many more. Jack + Emmy is the place to discover small and hard-to-find brands that fit seamlessly into children's everyday lives.
The cold weather clothing at Jack + Emmy is functionable and adorable. Photo courtesy of Jack + Emmy
Will & Ivey
Stateline
Dedicated to creating simple, comfortable and toxin-free clothing, Will & Ivey is a standout in children's fashion. Their Oeko-Tex certified materials ensure ethical and organic sourcing, providing a cozy experience for little ones. Founder Sandra Ney's commitment goes beyond fashion; a portion of each garment purchased contributes to filling backpacks for children in need. With a focus on giving back, Will & Ivey offers clothing that spreads a little peace wherever it goes.
The fun is in the making at The Hot Spot. Photo courtesy of The Hot Spot
The Hot Spot
Tahoe City
Formerly known as All Fired Up, The Hot Spot is not just a store but a creative haven for kids and adults. From pottery painting to chunky candle making, this drop-in studio offers a variety of projects and crafts. Whether you're creating personalized gifts through pottery and canvas painting or diving into the ancient art of mosaics, The Hot Spot provides a unique and artistic experience for all.
Mind Play
Palisades Tahoe
In the Village at Palisades Tahoe, Mind Play is a store full of activities for cerebral interaction for children (adults enjoy this place too!). Some of the games are simple, others quite involved, but they're all perfect for after a day on the slopes or those storms days that keep the kids inside. Mind Play isn't just about games, though. You can also find a good assortment of books for all types of readers and toys of all sorts.
About the Author Shanie Matthews
A longtime Lake Tahoe local, Shanie is a freelance writer, Vinyasa Flow yoga teacher and positivity warrior. A true lover of the the gorgeous Tahoe region, she connects with the serenity of the mountains via skiing, biking and backpacking. She also believes in the gift of yoga and its way of allowing one to become his or her true best self, a passion she shares with the world with her online yoga studio.
