Curated by Senior Editor Gina Munsey for Babiekins Magazine.

Yesterday over lunch, my extremely analytical kindergartner was pondering the mysteries of the human body while reading an anatomy book. She lingered over the detailed skin and hair chapter for a while, and then commented, “So, that’s a disappointment. The long hair in movies.” (Accurate.)

But the princess game is strong in our society, isn’t it? There’s nothing wrong with dressing up or fairy tales, of course, but as a parent, I can’t help try to counter the entitlement message that so often goes along with princess culture. So I really love fun gift ideas which encourage my daughter to explore, discover, and actively observe the world around her.

What do you have tucked away to surprise your little babiekins with this Christmas? Here are a few of my recommendations!

01. Hardcover Rosie Revere, Engineer book via Seed Factory Atlanta  |  02. Waterproof Bluetooth Swimmer, Jr Speaker via Polk Boom | 03. Perito Moreno Photoreal Dress via Tea Collection | 04. Yucca Blue / Shell White Fitzsimmons Kids Boots via Native Shoes | 05. Paperback How to be an Explorer of the World book via Barnes & Noble | 06. Brain Cell / Neuron Plush via Giant Microbes | 07. Yay! Pencils via Caroline Creates on Etsy | 08. Nancy B’s Science Club Microscope & Activity Journal via Amazon

[Aveline is wearing kids’ accessory glasses from Target, hat from H&M and faux-fur puffer jacket from Ruum.]