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‘Tis the season of lights, laughter, and little miracles in our front-yard football games—but also the season of gift-giving. As a Catholic elementary teacher, husband of four lively children, and founder of The Simple Catholic, I’ve learned that the best gifts are those that reflect more than the wrapping paper. They reflect truth, virtue, and wonder.
This year I’m delighted to share a curated Christmas Gift Guide featuring small Catholic and Christian-owned businesses I’ve had the joy of partnering with. These aren’t just products; they’re invitations to faith, family, beauty, and home. I’ve organized this guide by kids → parents → home so you can easily scroll, sip your cocoa (or eggnog), and find something meaningful for everyone on your list.
For the Kids
Shining Light Dolls
When you want a toy that does more than entertain, when you want a tool for faith formation packaged in soft fabric and storytelling, Shining Light Dolls is a winner. Their tagline says it best: “Passing on the Faith through proven play-based learning.”
Founded by a mom (and fellow parent of energetic kids I can relate to), the company crafts saint dolls, saint-themed puzzles, and books, all with a heart for forming little disciples.
Why I recommend it: It’s perfect for kids, especially elementary age, who might love a saint doll as much as a superhero figure. The saint comes with a story and invites your child into the communion of saints.
Gift tip: Choose a saint your child already connects with—perhaps their name-saint or a saint whose patronage inspires them.
Affiliate note: The link in this post is my affiliate link. Thanks for supporting this ministry as you shop.
Playful Pitch
If your child loves music or you’re looking for an enriching gift that combines creativity, rhythm, and faith, Playful Pitch is a gem. Their instruments are Montessori-inspired, color-coded, and designed so every child feels like a natural musician. Their Christmas and Religious song cards include Catholic hymns and children’s Bible songs, bringing a layer of worship to musical play.
Why I recommend it: My inner catechetical nerd loves that this isn’t just “another toy.” It builds joy, discipline, and worship through play.
Gift tip: Pair the instrument with a shared moment, like a family hymn sing around the tree.
Affiliate note: Use my link to support The Simple Catholic while giving a gift that truly sings.
Finding Jesus (via Seek Him First)
Finally, for kids: the Finding Jesus activity set by Seek Him First. It’s a simple, tangible way to keep our Savior’s birth at the center of Christmas.
The concept is brilliant—a plush doll paired with a dual-sided puzzle that unfolds each day of Advent and Christmas, helping children “find Jesus” while assembling the story of the Incarnation piece by piece.
Why I recommend it: For chaotic households (hello ADHD-friendly families!), this is a playful yet purposeful Advent tradition that keeps the focus on Christ rather than just candy or gadgets.
Gift tip: Start on the first Sunday of Advent. Tuck a puzzle piece or note in the doll’s pocket each night, and let Christmas morning reveal the completed picture.
Help your kids “find Jesus” this Advent at Finding Jesus.
For the Parents
TAN Books — Illustrated Classic Christmas Carols by Katie Warner
Parents, this one’s for you (or for someone who tutors, teaches, or leads a Catechism class). Illustrated Classic Christmas Carols beautifully marries fine artwork with theologically rich hymns. “In this unique resource, stunning classic artwork meets timeless, theologically rich Christmas hymns.”
Hymns include O Come, All Ye Faithful, Once in Royal David’s City, Angels We Have Heard on High, and more.
Why I recommend it: As you shepherd young minds (I teach 4th and 5th grade math myself), this is a way to pause the equations and rediscover wonder. Imagine reading these hymns and reflections beside your spouse or older child near the Christmas tree.
Gift tip: Pair the book with a classical hymn playlist and plan a “carol night” for your household or classroom.
Affiliate note: Don’t forget to use my link when purchasing—it makes an elegant and faith-filled gift.
For the Home
Party Like a Saint
Your home is the domestic church. Why not celebrate it with décor that lifts hearts and minds toward Heaven? Party Like a Saint is a family-run, God-loving business dedicated to creating faith-filled experiences at home.
Party Like a Saint.
From banners and saint-party packs to prayer cards and games, they make the feasts of the Church both joyful and meaningful.
Why I recommend it: Whether it’s Christmas Eve, Epiphany, or a family feast day, decorating with intention helps make your space sacred and joyful.
Gift tip: Give a “Saintly Bundle” decorating kit for your children’s gatherings or swap your usual décor for something that points to Heaven.
Affiliate note: Your purchase through my link helps support these artisans and this ministry.
SwaddleAn
Rounding out the home section is SwaddleAn, an American brand with Vietnamese heritage. It was founded by two former teachers who weave beauty and care into every eco-friendly, baby-safe product.
Whether you have a newborn or know someone entering parenthood, these swaddles and baby clothes are gifts for both home and heart.
Why I recommend it: It’s humble, beautiful, and rooted in cross-cultural friendship—an echo of the manger and the Magi.
Gift tip: Choose a set of baby wear or swaddle blankets and include a note: “May you wrap your little one in God’s peace and promise.”
Affiliate note: Thank you for using my link to support your gift-giving and this blog’s mission.
‘Wrap’ping Up
As Christmas approaches, I hope this guide helps you shop with heart and purpose. Whether it’s inspiring a child, encouraging a parent, or beautifying your home, these small Catholic businesses reflect more than commerce. They reflect vocation, culture, and the Gospel.
To borrow a front-yard football image: the ball may fly and the scoreboard may flash, but the most important runs are scored when we give with love, connect with faith, and invite others into the story of the Word made flesh.
May your Christmas be simple, joyful, and rooted in that story. And may each gift you give become a doorway to wonder.
Merry Christmas from The Simple Catholic family to yours—now, back to the front yard for one more quarter of football with my kids.
