Self-Care Gifts for a Little Me-Time
Sometimes the best gift is permission to slow down for a minute. These are our favorite self-care gifts, from spa-day-at-home treats to cozy blankets, reading-nook upgrades and little luxuries for the people in your life (yourself included) who rarely take a break.
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This guide contains affiliate links, which means we receive a small commission from some purchases to help support our team. All picks are determined editorially by our staff; there has been no compensation in exchange for our picks.
Metamorphabet (app)
Interactive alphabet app that turns letters into playful, animated scenes — a fun early-literacy gift for preschoolers.
From the guide
I Love Reading Kids Rainbow T-Shirt
A colorful, 70s-style kids tee that combines a love of reading with a rainbow graphic; available in kids and some adult sizes.
From: 9 clever, cool kids' tees for book lovers | Back to School Guide 2018Kindle Oasis (waterproof e-reader)
High-end waterproof e-reader with an ergonomic design and crisp display—great for avid readers who want a dedicated, durable device.
From the guide
Reading Is Lit Kids T-Shirt
A playful pun tee for young readers that celebrates books with a trendy ‘lit’ slogan.
From: 9 clever, cool kids' tees for book lovers | Back to School Guide 2018Skybrary
Digital library app for children offering story videos and read-alongs — useful for building a home reading habit.
From the guide
The Wingmen Audiobook / Biography Gifts
A hardcover, paperback or audiobook purchase from bookstores — timeless, easy-to-give gifts for reading dads.
From: 17 brilliant last-minute Father's Day gifts: Make, buy, print, ship, IOU or DIYMetamorphabet (Google Play)
Interactive alphabet app that turns letters into playful, animated scenes — a fun early-literacy gift for preschoolers.
From the guide
Gritin Rechargeable LED Book Light
Dimmable, travel-ready LED book light ideal for bedtime readers who don’t want to disturb others.
From: Last-minute Mother’s Day gifts that still feel thoughtfulMetamorphabet (Amazon Appstore)
Interactive alphabet app that turns letters into playful, animated scenes — a fun early-literacy gift for preschoolers.
From the guide
The Reading Bug Box
Curated monthly book subscription from an indie children’s bookstore, tailored by age to encourage reading for babies and kids.
From: The best subscription gifts for kids this year: 40+ ideas for every age, and every interest
Blurb Photo Books (custom hardcover or softcover)
Blurb lets you design and print high-quality, customizable photo books — a thoughtful personalized gift.
From the guide
Apple News+ subscription
A digital subscription granting access to hundreds of magazines and select newspapers — a clutter‑free gift for readers.
From: 11 creative Father's Day gifts for hard-to-shop-for dadsHarry Potter Collection at Pottery Barn Kids
Decor and bedding from the Harry Potter collection that make a charming, themed gift for young fans' bedrooms.
From the guide
Bookroo Kids’ Book Subscription
Curated monthly book boxes for kids, tailored by age to encourage reading year-round.
From: 45 brilliant last-minute holiday gift ideas you can ship, make, pick up, or IOU. You've got this! | Holiday Gift Guide
Gantri 3D-Printed Designer Lamp
Modern, designer-created table or pendant lamp sustainably 3D-printed from plant-based (corn-derived) materials — a stylish, eco-friendly gift for home lovers.
From the guide
DIY Confetti Bookmark Supplies Pack
Clear bookmark sleeves and confetti filler components for making colorful, custom confetti bookmarks.
From: 15 thoughtful DIY gifts for teenage girls | Holiday Gifts 2021Lumary Smart Recessed Light Fixtures
Smart recessed lights controllable by voice that change color, dim, and sync with music—an easy way to create mood lighting for a home theater.
From the guide
The Last Kids on Earth (book series) by Max Brallier
Action-packed illustrated middle-grade adventure series that makes a lively gift for 8–12 year-old readers who like humor, monsters, and graphic-novel style art.
From the guideL.L. Bean Rechargeable Lantern
A rechargeable lantern that provides dependable light for camping and outdoor activities — practical and durable.
From the guide
Magazine Subscription (digital or print)
A subscription to her favorite magazine or newspaper for monthly enjoyment and curated content she loves.
From: 25 special Mother's Day gifts under $25, which we totally want ourselvesLuMee Duo Illuminated iPhone Case
iPhone case with integrated front lighting for improved selfies and video—great for creators and frequent vide callers.
From the guide
Mamazine (online feminist parenting magazine)
A thoughtful digital magazine covering motherhood, feminism, and culture—great for moms who enjoy smart, reflective reading.
From the guide
Momready
A thoughtfully curated web magazine offering tips and ideas to make daily parenting and home life easier—good for busy parents who appreciate quick, helpful reads.
From the guide
TIME for Kids Digital Library — Free Access to 2020 Issues
Grade‑specific digital issues, teacher guides, and quizzes for K–6 readers — a practical gift for families homeschooling or supplementing school.
From: All the best free classes and memberships online right now: Get fit, learn a language, read a book, have family movie night...