12 of the coolest menorahs for kids from dinos to emoji

While I think using an heirloom Hanukkah menorah that has been passed down from previous generations is a lovely idea, it’s also nice to have a menorah just for kids, to help get them as excited about lighting the candles as they are about eight days of gifts. And there are so many fabulous, kid-friendly menorahs out there this year, we could barely narrow it down.

From cute menorahs for younger kids, to edgier options that will appeal to tweens and teens, take a look at these 12 cool options that Liz and I found, and see if one makes it into your own family’s Festival of Lights.

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After discovering it last year, we still can’t resist this extremely fun (and surprisingly chic) Menorasaurus Rex, which we’ve included in our suggestions for cool modern Hanukkah gifts for kids. The artist at The Vanilla Studio has also added other dinos and unexpected creatures this year, all decked out in shiny gold or silver coats. But order soon — she sells out! ($85, The Vanilla Studio)

I just love this Chalkboard Menorah & Candlesticks, which lets kids or parents write messages to each other or wish any guest who visits a very Happy Hanukkah. ($19.95, Traditions Jewish Gifts)

Jonathan Adler’s shop is a great, go-to source for a cool, modern menorah design with a playful twist. This Menagerie Elephant Menorah really stands out as a favorite. Just be aware that it’s ceramic, so it’s probably better for older kids who can appreciate its cuteness without wanting to snatch it from the windowsill. ($128, Jonathan Adler)

We featured this tangram Menorah last year in our 2015 Hanukkah gift guide, and we still haven’t gotten over how cool it is. Rearrange the blocks into a cat, camel, samurai (whoa), or a totally new creation. Plenty of options for this year’s eight nights and beyond — but it’s definitely spendy. And you need to order, stat. (Studio Armadillo, $236)

I’m really digging the happy, unexpected pastels of these colorful ceramic Hanukkah menorahs, in eight colors from turquoise to juicy orange. They’ll brighten the windowsill even when they’re not lit. ($53.10, Tzad Sheni)

This Aluminum Multi-Color Train Menorah is so modern, I think it would look great if you wanted to keep it in the nursery all year round. And since it’s made of nearly unbreakable aluminum, you probably can. ($139.99, Traditions Jewish Gifts)

I truly identify with this hand-painted emoji menorah since my emotions do typically run the gamut during the holidays. But don’t worry, no tears or tantrum emoji here — just varieties on joy. Is there any kid these days who wouldn’t totally want this? ($29.99, Modern Tribe)

If your kids are as obsessed with rainbows as they all seem to be these days, this handmade porcelain rainbow menorah is so cheery. I love that each one is crafted by hand, triple-kiln-fired, and finished with real 22k gold. Plus, kids will love looking at it even when it’s not lit. Maybe pair with one of the artist’s rainbow unicorn mugs? ($140, Make Good Choice)

In the spirit of eco-friendliness blended with techy coolness, this Electric Circuit Board Menorah uses recycled cardboard and an energy saving LED bulb to produce its festive glow. Plus, it’s a safe option for kids’ bedroom windowsills since you light it with the flip of a switch, not a match. ($29.99, Greenfield Judaica)

I’m loving this Kid-Friendly Waldorf Play Menorah, also found in this year’s Hanukkah gift guide. From the customizable peg dolls to the elaborate flaming headdresses (do those come in human size?), I know a few kids who will play with these long into the new year. ($48.50, Zooble)

You may have already noticed, but we love wall decals here at CMP and we’re excited to have found this Menorah Hanukkah Wall Decal. So great for little kids who want to participate but probably shouldn’t be around open flames — or breakable ceramics — just yet. ($39.59, Houzz)

Calling all LEGO lovers! If you have older kids who delight in all things assemble-able, try this 3-in-1 Custom Menorah totally made from LEGO bricks. The kit lets kids create three different configurations, including a dreidel, that are sure to keep them busy enough to keep their hands out of the gelt stash. ($38, Jbrick)