7 Key Moments That Explain Queen Charlotte’s Stoic Personality

Jasmine Williams
Jun 12, 2024
queen charlotte

I'm being completely candid when I say that my first impression of Queen Charlotte was wildly inaccurate. I actually want to meet the person who said, "First impressions are everything," because that's not necessarily true. Just like it's impossible to know everything about someone when you first meet them, viewers couldn't have imagined the things young Charlotte endured to become the queen we know today.

After learning more about her backstory, it's easy to see why she's become the stoic queen we know in Bridgerton. She understands that human nature is fickle, she demands excellence, and she's hopeful to catch glimpses of deep and true love. Because like Brimsley said towards the end of Queen Charlotte, she's frozen in time, endlessly longing (and waiting) for the dream life she had right at her fingertips.

This dream deferred isn't a simple characteristic that can be pinned down to one succinct moment, though. Here are the 7 key moments that add up to become the Queen Charlotte, ever-so frozen in time, we see currently.

1. Queen Charlotte was only 17 years old when her marriage to King George was arranged.

Image via Liam Daniel/Netlfix

Young Charlotte has always protested against things that felt unfair to her, but she couldn't change the fact that she'd have to leave her home in Germany behind in favor of a life in London with a man she'd never met. It's something we learned that George also protested prior to their fateful meeting at the garden wall.

The scene where Charlotte is in the carriage with her brother Adolphus hits home because I've never forgotten how unsure of myself I felt at 17 years old. It's an age where most teens are on the precipice of entering adulthood which can be really confusing. To have the burden of figuring out adulthood and marriage placed on your shoulders is something I couldn't possibly fathom for anyone.

2. Queen Charlotte was kept in the dark about King George's condition for a while.

Image via Liam Daniel/Netlfix

Shortly after getting married to King George, Charlotte spent a lot of her days and nights alone because George kept himself away from her. It's almost like no one expected this 17 year old girl — who realizes she actually is attracted to the man she just married — to want to be in her husband's presence. It was a truly lonely existence, but the staff frankly seemed to be bound by Princess Augusta's demands for silence.

It was only after several tense moments and long, lonely days that Charlotte began piecing together that something was amiss with George. Something he was scared for her to see lest she think he was truly a "troll or a beast."

3. Queen Charlotte and King George truly fell in love.

Image via Liam Daniel/Netlfix

But, learning about George's condition and how he was treated for the sake of 'healing him' only affirmed Charlotte's unwavering love for him. Her heart was with him, and she quite literally dug her heels in to let everyone know she'd remain by his side.

When I think about what it means to fully abide by one's vows, Bridgerton's depiction of Queen Charlotte is the embodiment of that.

4. Charlotte had to assume a ton of responsibility once she decided to embrace her role as Queen.

Image via Liam Daniel/Netlfix

Of course this meant Queen Charlotte had to begin assuming the responsibilities of a Royal whether George was fully present or not. It's like young Lady Danbury told her, "You are the first of our kind."

Because of Charlotte's determination, she created the inclusive Ton we've come to see. Charlotte's the one who suggested opening the gates to mingle with the Ton during balls instead of creating a line of separation between the Head of the Church and the citizens being ruled over. Are things perfect? No, but she made strides and she put her foot down when she had to.

TBH, I still think about the moment she kicked George's doctor off the premises for using methods of torture to 'cure' him.

5. Queen Charlotte's love for King George eclipsed the ways she was able to be present for their children.

Image via Liam Daniel/Netlfix

As amazing as Queen Charlotte's efforts were, it's hard for anyone to ignore how much she was unable to give her children. I honestly don't think she intended to be cold to them or spend all her time focused on her royal responsibilities, but her love for King George eclipsed the love she had for her own children.

She spent so much time making sure the Ton never questioned her ability to keep things afloat in spite of George's absence that she couldn't see much else. I can only imagine how much of a lonely existence that must've been — for both she and her children.

6. Queen Charlotte lives vicariously through those who find love in the midst of her own form of matchmaking.

Image via Liam Daniel/Netflix

The one thing that truly brought Queen Charlotte joy is the seeing others fall in love and have their own version of what she found with King George. I used to think finding the Diamond of the Season was pointless, but I realize she's not trying to punish anyone. She remembers what it was like to not have a choice in love, so she allows for several suitors to be available for who she feels deserves to be courted that particular season.

It's not the most efficient matchmaking service, but even she can admit that something good always comes from being positioned for love.

7. Queen Charlotte waits for moments when King George is lucid — which have lessened over the years.

Image via Liam Daniel/Netlfix

Lastly, Queen Charlotte is forever waiting for those moments when King George remembers their love. I doubt he's ever forgotten her, but I think his condition creates confusion that keeps him frozen in time, too. To him, Queen Charlotte will always be his beautiful Lottie who didn't go over the wall.

To her, King George will always be the man she fell in love with at first sight and taught her what it means to love someone unconditionally.

These moments come together to create a queen that yearns for love — her love — and seemingly can't ever have it on her terms. King George's mental faculties continue to deteriorate, leaving her lonelier than ever. So when you consider the way she channels this energy into the Ton and their many matters of the heart, it makes sense. She may be a woman on pause, waiting for any mere morsel of lucidity with King George, but that doesn't keep her inner romantic from creeping out into all her other endeavors.

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Lead images via Liam Daniel/Netflix

Fans Will Love This Easy ‘Bridgerton’ Costume For Halloween 2024

The latest season of Bridgerton gave us everything we loved about the first two installments: beautiful design and decor, romance, delicious recipes, and of course, some of the most beautiful costumes ever. Considering we can't pass up the opportunity to recreate memorable and iconic Halloween costumes, we had to give this one a go.

While the regency era might feel over the top, it's actually easier than you might expect to bring this look into your closet. There are only a few pieces you need to bring this look to life, and once you figure out which 'fit, colors, and accessories work for you, you'll have a Halloween costume you can wear for years to come.

The most important part of any Bridgerton costume is a colorful, empire waist dress. Each family in the show has a different color palette so you can base your Halloween costume off of your favorite characters. Since we're big fans of the Bridgerton family themselves, we went with blue ;).

This dress is also a great idea because of how versatile it is — if you have multiple Halloween parties, you can turn it into multiple costumes! Be a Bridgerton one day and a princess the next, or you can even turn it into a The Princess Diaries costume! It's a win-win-win.

Since the dress really steals the show with this costume, you only need a few more period piece-appropriate accessories and you're ready to party. Grab a pair of opera gloves and a tiara that you can add to your updo to really complete the look.

The beauty aspect of this costume is totally up to what you're comfortable with. The show has created its own makeup look that transcends the time period with a little bit of a smokey eye, and curls and jewels that make each character stand out, but you can also keep your hair and makeup plain if you'd rather be historically accurate and simple. Either way, you'll steal the show with this Bridgerton costume!

This post has been updated.

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Ryan Reynolds Praises Taylor Swift's "Very Sweet" Gesture As His Kids' Godmother

Take our favorite celebrity BFF's, Taylor Swift and Blake Lively, and our favorite celebrity couple, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, and you truly get one big happy family. Earlier this summer, Blake and Ryan showed up to the Eras Tour to support the "Fortnight" singer, and on July 25, Taylor returned the love by making a rare lengthy post to her Instagram story.

Here's everything you need to know about Taylor Swift's relationship with Blake Lively's kids as their godmother.

Taylor Swift/Instagram

Taylor Swift posted a photo to her Instagram story featuring Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, and Shawn Levy — all of whom are involved in Deadpool & Wolverine, in theaters July 26!

"Over the past few years I have watched one of my best friends on the planet pour every bit of his heart, soul, sweat, time, energy, jokes, pain, joy, rebellion, darkness, and magic into this film," she says. "He's created the best work of his life, and this film feels like an actual joy portal, a wild escape from reality, and an abs sandwich."

After joking that Ryan, Blake, and Shawn randomly crashed her photo, Taylor continues, saying, "Shout out to Wade Wilson [the character played by Ryan Reynolds], aka my godkids' sperm donor!"

Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for Fast Company

Ryan Reynolds had the funniest reaction, and told Deadline, "I'm going to need that on my gravestone, actually."

"Yeah, that is kind of it. She is the godparent to my daughters," the Deadpool actor continued. "That was very sweet. Not just sweet, that was, like, you could probably quantify a box office based on Taylor just doing something like that."

Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management/Noam Galai/Getty Images for Disney

In the past, Ryan Reynolds has been vocal about how much his kids (James, Inez, Betty, and Olin) love Taylor Swift, and the family's appearance at the Eras Tour even went viral!

"I think what's most exciting for them is that for the longest time they just thought Taylor's just like an aunt, like a friend of Mommy and Daddy that's very, very close, almost family," he says onThe Jess Cagle Show. "And then they went to a concert one day and were like, 'Ohhhhh, this isn't a hobby.'"

Read up on Blake Lively and Taylor Swift's friendship timeline for more!

Lead image via Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

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Nicola Coughlan Teases "Very Fun" ‘Bridgerton’ Season 4 With A Totally Unexpected Update

  • Actress Nicola Coughlan teases "very fun" Bridgerton season 4 at the Time 100 Gala.
  • She says Penelope Featherington & Colin Bridgerton are having "the best time together" as a newly married couple.
  • Coughlan also teases future queer storyline with Francesca Bridgerton and Michaela Stirling.

Bridgerton fans all over the world were thrilled to see Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) FINALLY get her happy ending with Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) — and swap her Featherington yellows & greens for Bridgerton blue. And no one is having more fun with newly married Polin than Coughlan herself!

Liam Daniel/Netflix

“It’s very fun to be playing a happily married person with a very cute baby,” she told Good Morning America at the Time 100 Next Gala in New York City on October 9. “It feels like they went through all their strife last time. So they get to come back and just be in love and have the best time together.”

Both Phoebe Dynevor and Simone Ashley saw a decrease in screen time after their characters got married and had their first child, but Penelope has played a prominent role in the series since the beginning. It sounds like the show could make an unexpected exception and continue to feature her (and the baby!) even though her love story has concluded. At least, that's what I'm hoping!

While Penelope and Colin will be busy enjoying their happily ever after, Coughlan says Luke Thompson and Yerin Ha are "hard at work being our leads this time," adding, "they're doing an amazing, amazing job."

Liam Daniel/Netflix

And while it's no secret fans of the show have been hoping for a queer plotline, Coughlan revealed just how much the cast has wanted it too. "I love Bridgerton because it's a show that tells all different types of love stories," she says. “I just know that it’s going to be done so well by Hannah [Dodd] and Masali [Baduza],” she adds. “Whenever their time comes, they’re going to be ready, and they’re going to knock it out of the park.”

The end of Bridgerton season 3 introduced us (and Dodd's Francesca) to Michaela Stirling, a gender-bent twist on her love interest from the books, Micheal Stirling. "It makes perfect sense that Michael Stirling is Michaela Stirling in the show," one X user tweeted. "There's no way a man could ever deliver what Michael Stirlin was in the books. Only a woman can serve like this."

Liam Daniel/Netflix

Ahead of the junior season of the hit show, Nicola Coughlan exclusively revealed to Brit + Co that she loved seeing Penelope come out of her shell, and gain more confidence, throughout Bridgerton season 3.

“It felt really different this time, I think just because she's finally a grown up and I love coming back to a show and playing a character again, and finding the new sides to them," Coughlan says. "She's becoming a woman and finding her self-worth — that side of her I really loved getting to play. It was great."

Liam Daniel/Netflix

And she didn't just find her self-confidence — she found the courage to ditch Lady Whistledown once and for all, stepping into the spotlight just the way she is. And it doesn't hurt that she looks dang good doing it.

"The glow!" Coughlan's Big Moodco-star Lydia West adds. "You look so stunning. [I love] the different wigs."

"When the wig comes off, it's so sad because you just like under a wig, you just look like a little wet rat and it's all your hair is just all slicked back," Coughlan jokes. Well, it was a Rat Boyfriend summer — maybe it can be a Rat Girlfriend fall?

Netflix/Tudum

Stay tuned for the latest Bridgerton season 4 updates, and check out Bridgerton Star Yerin Ha Praises Showrunner Jess Brownell For This "Empowering" Character Change for more!

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13 Addictive December TV Shows Everyone Will Be Watching

If your group chat is blowing up over the Bad Sisters premiere, or you're still reeling from that Outer Banks season 4 ending, never fear: these merry and bright December TV shows are here to save the day! (Don't worry though, they're not all about the holidays. Sometimes you need a break from even the best Christmas music!). Even though these programs offer wildly different things — from a gritty spy and life or death games to juicy reality dating and sitcom royalty — they're all the perfect choice for an evening in...especially if you've already watched all our Binge-Worthy November TV Shows ;).

Here are the best new December TV shows premiering in 2024.

​The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On season 3 — On Netflix December 4, 2024

Netflix

These couples are at a crossroads in their relationship: will they tie the knot and spend the rest of their lives together, or will they call it quits? It's a dilemma a lot of relationships face, and you'll have to tune in to find out how these couples handle the ultimate q.

The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On is hosted by Nick Lachey and Vanessa Lachey.

Black Doves — On Netflix December 5, 2024

Netflix

This thriller stars Keira Knightley as Helen, a politician's wife who doubles as a spy — and feeds her organization all his deepest, darkest secrets. But when her secret lover is assassinated, Helen is forced to play a dangerous game of survival that involves everyone she holds close. This December TV show is also set against London at Christmas...you really can't go wrong!

Black Doves stars Keira Knightley, Ben Whishaw, Sarah Lancashire, Andrew Buchan, Adeel Akhtar, Tracey Ullman, Finn Bennett, Luther Ford, Andrew Koji, Kathryn Hunter, Sam Troughton, and Ella Lily Hyland.

Southern Charm season 10 — On Bravo December 5, 2024

Michelle Watt/Bravo

The best TV shows always involve reality TV, and nobody's doing it like Southern Charm. Set in Charleston, South Carolina, these ladies are balancing their "bless your hearts" and sweet tea with plenty of drama. Although...when is dating not dramatic? Our favorite familiar faces are joined by some newcomers, bringing a whole new edge to the show we know and love.

Southern Charm Season 10 stars Venita Aspen, Leva Bonaparte, Craig Conover, Taylor Ann Green, Austen Kroll, Madison LeCroy, Rodrigo Reyes, Shep Rose, Jarrett “JT” Thomas, Salley Carson, Ryan Albert, and Molly O’Connell.

The Sticky — On Prime Video December 6, 2024

Jan Thijs/Prime Video

Despite the fact this new series revolves around a maple syrup empire, it's actually not related to Riverdale. Sorry to disappoint! This dark comedy is inspired by the Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist, where a maple syrup farmer stole millions of dollars worth of syrup in order to save her livelihood. Yep, really.

The Sticky stars Margo Martindale, Chris Diamantopoulos, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Guillaume Cyr.

Queer Eye season 9 — On Netflix December 11, 2024

Netflix

We're in need of some life advice right now, TBH, and thank goodness The Fab Five are bringing it in the new season of Queer Eye. And alongside the emotional stories and heartfelt connections they make in Vegas, we'll see plenty of fabulous style. Because duh!

Queer Eye Season 9 stars includes Antoni Porowski, Jonathan Van Ness, Karamo Brown, Tan France, and Jeremiah Brent.

No Good Deed — On Netflix December 12, 2024

Netflix

Sitcom fans rejoice! This December TV show has some of the all-time greats sharing the screen, and we can't wait to rewatch these episodes 100 times. Multiple families believe one house will solve all their problems, and are all racing to sign on the dotted line. But, naturally, the beautiful 1920s Spanish-style home isn't as beautiful as it appears.

No Good Deed stars Linda Cardellini, O-T Fagbenle, Abbi Jacobson, Lisa Kudrow, Denis Leary, Poppy Liu, Teyonah Parris, Ray Romano, and Luke Wilson.

Ready, Set, Glow — On Hallmark+ December 12, 2024

Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Hallmark Media

If your favorite scene from Jim Carrey's The Grinch is Molly Shannon and Christine Baranski's Christmas light competition, then this reality show is for you. Hallmark star Wes Brown introduces us to four families who have the best decorations around — and are sure to make your home feel even more festive.

Ready, Set, Glow is hosted by Wes Brown.

Paris & Nicole: The Encore — On Peacock December 12, 2024

Bravo

The girls are back!! Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie reunite in an attempt to produce something the world desperately needs: an operatic performance based on their iconic "Sanasa." Say no more.

"I'm so excited to be doing this with Nicole on Peacock," Paris told E! News. "Nicole has been my best friend since we're 2 years old, every memory that I have is with her."

Paris & Nicole: The Encore stars Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie.

Virgin River season 6— On Netflix December 19, 2024

Netflix

In the face of loss and hardship, nobody comes together like the town of Virgin River. And despite the struggle, this season promises to be heartwarming and lovely too — Mel and Jack are finally getting married! Their nuptials are met with some family drama but don't worry romantics. True love is sure to win out.

Virgin River season 6 stars Alexandra Breckenridge, Martin Henderson, Tim Matheson, Annette O’Toole, Colin Lawrence, Benjamin Hollingsworth, Zibby Allen, Sarah Dugdale, Marco Grazzini, Kai Bradbury, Kandyse McClure, and Mark Ghanime.

Laid — On Peacock December 19, 2024

James Dittiger/Peacock

According to the official Peacock site, this dark rom-com answers the age-old question of "Is there something wrong with me?" with “Yes. There is. The problem is definitely you.” This December TV show follows Stephanie Hsu's Ruby, who's in for a rude awakening when she realizes all of her past sexual encounters are dying. Now she has to get to the bottom of it before anyone else bites the dust.

Laid stars Stephanie Hsu, Zosia Mamet, Michael Angarano, Tommy Martinez, Andre Hyland, Olivia Holt, David Denman, Finneas O’Connell, Chloe Fineman, Ettore “Big E” Ewen, and John Early.

Kennedy Center Honors — On CBS December 22, 2024

Paul Morigi/Getty Images

The Kennedy Center Honors (a tribute ceremony that celebrates contributions to American performing art) always provide us with iconic moments — like Anna Kendrick fangirling over Beyoncé and Cynthia Erivo performing "Alfie" for Dionne Warwick. And this year promises to be no different.

The 2024 Kennedy Center Honors will honor Francis Ford Coppola, the Grateful Dead, Bonnie Raitt, Arturo Sandoval, and The Apollo.

Squid Game season 2 — On Netflix December 26, 2024

JuHan Noh/Netflix

Despite the fact we all took games very seriously in elementary school, I'm sure we can all agree no game of Red Light, Green Light comes close to the one in Squid Game. And we're in for another round of nail-biting challenges when season 2 drops December 26. As for what to expect?

"As we all saw at the end of season 1, the main plot of season 2 will be revenge," actor Lee Jung Jae told All K-Pop. "The key figure who controlled the workings of the games in season 1 was Lee Byung-Hun...it seems that the two of us will be the central figures of this next story."

Squid Game season 2 stars Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-jun, Gong Yoo, Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Sung-hoon, and Yang Dong-geun.

Dick Clark's New Year’s Rockin’ Eve — On ABC December 31, 2024

New Year’s Rockin’ Eve

If you ask me, there's no December TV show as iconic as New Year’s Rockin’ Eve. It's going to be the perfect way to ring out 2024 (and welcome 2025). Although I have to admit, I don't know how they're going to top Megan Thee Stallion, Jelly Roll, Sabrina Carpenter, and Tyla's performances from last year!

Dick Clark's New Year’s Rockin’ Eve is hosted by Ryan Seacrest.

Which December TV show are you most looking forward to? Don't forget to add these 12 Cozy New Christmas Movies On Netflix, Prime Video, Hallmark Channel, & More This Year to your watchlist!

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30 Unique Holiday Gifts That Kids Will Actually Love

Holidays are a 1000 times better with kids. From baking holiday treats together to getting in the spirit with DIY holiday decorations, everything about the festive season is new and exciting as they wait for the big day to arrive. My daughter recently turned 10 and there have been so many wins (and a few duds) under the tree that I thought I'd share our favorite gifts over the years (that are great for *all* kids, not just girls). From interactive toys to educational kits to gifts that will get them away from screens and excited for the outdoors, these unique gifts will inspire creativity and spark their imaginations while being totally fun too!

Woom Bike

My daughter has grown up with these bikes, from the Balance Bike to the Explore Bike with disc brakes, 7 gears and all-terrain tires, and she LOVES them. They're super light and glide easily, even the kickstand is so smooth. Woom Bikes are designed specifically for kids at every stage. They are pricier than other bike brands, but I find that they resell very quickly at a high price point so you essentially get your money back. Choose from an variety of colors and levels, and they even have a warehouse option for gently used Wooms.

Micro Kickboard Foldable LED Scooter

This is on our holiday wish list because my friend and her son love them so much. These scooters are Swiss-designed, three-wheeled, lightweight and durable enough for well kids. They conveniently fold for easy carrying and perfect for traveling and on-the-go and when your kiddo doesn't feel like walking (but you do).

Yoto Mini

For your future podcaster, this cute, compact audio player plays stories, music, and educational tracks. Kids just pop in a card for what they want to listen too and they can use it with or without headphones. It's great for long car rides!

Ravine Cooperative Game

This game says 12+ but we've enjoyed it at 7+. This hilarious game is set in the woods and you need to survive together with firewood, shelter, spears, and forest food while keeping your wits! It's great to bring along on a camping trip!

Hey Clay Bugs

Bug lovers can make cute clay bugs with 18 different colors of clay using an interactive app that shows kid-friendly step-by-step instructions. Think spiders, caterpillars, a praying mantis, snail, ladybug, and dragonfly to spark imaginations and build fine motor skills/spatial reasoning. Clay is nontoxic, wheat and gluten-free, nut-free, latex-free, and won't stick to hands.

Habbi Habbi Wand + Bilingual Flashcards

Expose the kid in your life to new languages like Chinese and Spanish with these fun kits. My daughter has learned a few Spanish words from this game, and she still loves it. The magnetic wand reads the words as kids read along with visual cues.

Etsy Wooden Slingshot

We love a good old-timey gift with a modern edge. These handmade wooden slingshots are perfect for any kid who loves to get outside and play, no matter what the weather. Each slingshot comes with 20 colorful felt balls for gentle play.

ROBUD Kids Explorer Kit & Bug Catcher Kit

Get them outdoors and exploring year-round with this magnifying glass, net, and bug exploration kit with carry bag. It has everything kids need to immerse themselves in exciting outdoor exploration.

We Are in an ACT-ivity Book!

For kids and parents who love the ELEPHANT & PIGGIE books as much as we do, these activity books are so much fun! My daughter loved his original We Are In An Art-ivity Book, which not only teaches so much about art but also encourages kids to create their own art show. In this theatrical event, readers discover how to be a set builder, prop maker, costume designer, playwright, and star of their own show.

3Doodler Start+ Essentials 3D Pen Set

Get kids interested in 3D printing and creating 3D art with this pen set designed with no hot parts, completely safe for kids aged 6+.

Mini Explorer Voice Changer

Kids can transform their voice with four hilarious voice-changing modes – Alien, Ghost, Monster, and Robot.

Rainbow Joy Potion Kit

Kids are natural mad scientists and love to experiment, making this potion kit a kid pleaser every time.

Zoom, Ooze & Explore Ultimate Science Lab

Budding scientists will have fun while learning to hypothesize, measure, mix and observe through these 15+ creative science experiments. Best for ages 8 and up.

FAO Schwarz Toy DIY Ultimate Slime Kit

This is perfect for kids who love to get their hands dirty in a fun, tactile, science-y way.

Kidamento Bear Digital Camera

This toy digital camera offers features like filters and frames, face recognition, a selfie timer and burst mode, plus an HD video option.

Mindware Pattern Play Puzzle

You know a good gift when the parents want to play too. These beautifully designed puzzles are perfect for building problem solving skills and creating artful displays. Kids follow one of the 40 pattern cards to design the brightly-colored blocks into varying motifs. The blocks can also be used to create endless freeform designs - so fun!

Toy Market Cart by Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

This cart can be anything your kid's imagination desires: a lemonade stand, a birthday cart, an advice stand a la Charlie Brown? It comes with open drawers in the back and a black board to name their business.

Mindware Colored Pencil Set

For the budding artist, this beautiful case of 36 already-sharpened colored pencils is a great gift for kids who love to color and create. The mix of classic colors and fresh hues makes all the kid drawings frame-worthy. Adults will love them too!

Personalized Afternoon Tea Set

We've had so much pretend tea over the years and I can't get enough over this customized tea set, including cake stand, cupcakes, and cake slices to share with friends, family, and dolls! ADORABLE.

Swingly Doorway Storefronts

These cute doorway storefronts are perfect for pretend play and performance play. My daughter uses them for puppet theatre and I've hung one where I door used to be in our hallway closet. Choose from a camper food truck to a Boba tea house to a farmer's market for your kidpreneur. Swingly helps parents create play spaces that inspire kids to think creatively and grow through entrepreneurial play.

Brown Toy Box

I'm a big fan of this brand and the woman behind it. Founded by a mom of four who wanted to see more representation in STEAM early development, this fun activity kit lets kids learn about coding and app development in an age-appropriate and culturally representative way.

Melissa & Doug Ice Cream Counter

We've ordered scoops and scoops of faux ice cream over the years and this one is delicious!

Little Lady Classic Collection Kit

Create a mini nail salon at home. Mani/pedis are one of our favorite things to do on a rainy day. Pick up these darling 7-free polishes for your next salon-at-home day. The bow is actually a ring they can wear post pampering! Vegan and cruelty-free too.

Play Mixer Kitchen Set

Littles can play chef or mimic mom and dad with this adorable (and affordable) wooden stand mixer. Rotatable beaters, a swiveling mixer head, and on-and-off button create an experience like a real mixer. This one's a fun add to any play kitchen!

Green Toys Tugboat

Bath toys are the best toys for bath, beach, muddy puddles, even snow! This floaty toy is made from 100% recycled plastic milk containers and safe for your little captain. No BPA, phthalates, or PVC. Mother Earth will thank you!

Paint By Sticker Kids: Outer Space

We are obsessed with these Paint by Sticker books as much as the kiddos in our life. From Outer Space to Mermaids & Magic, there's a theme for every kid passion. Get in a meditative zone with your little bud and choose from 10 sticker paintings, like a Mars rover, a space shuttle, and celestial bodies like Saturn, Jupiter, and the Sun. Plus, the back of each image includes a fascinating scientific fact *and* kids score glow-in-the-dark stickers!

Melissa & Doug Pet Vet Clinic

Kids love to play animal doctor and this set with a plush dog and cat, pretend play vet medical equipment, and a tote bag is perfect for all their veterinarian dreams.

Outfoxed Cooperative Board Game

Get the whole family a gift with this cooperative whodunit game for ages 5 and up. A wily fox has stolen Mrs. Plumpert's pot pie and is high-tailing it to the foxhole! You'll work together to gather clues and eliminate possible suspects. Figure out who is the guilty fox before they escape!

Surprise Ride Make a Model Plane Activity Kit

Aviation fans can make a model airplane while learning about Amelia Earhart with this fun kit. The 40-page book features a short story, facts and jokes about Earhart and aviation, along with a biplane wood model kit, art supplies, and a disposable apron.

Create Your Bright ideas Book

This interactive book written by our pal Jess Ekstrom is perfect for creative tweens and teens who want to be inspired to make a difference in the world.

Check out our Gingerbread Decorating Class to share with kids and subscribe to our email newsletter for more holiday gifting ideas. Follow us on Pinterest too for tons of holiday decor and recipe inspiration!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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