UltimateMama has a little secret for you. The beautiful, needlepoint holiday stockings that she has for all four of her family members were purchased post-Christmas at a steep discount…and personalization was free!  This year, sales are popping up even pre-Christmas!

Watch websites such as Lands End for great sales!  UltimateMama just noticed holiday stockings reduced to $10.99 from $22.50 with free monogramming for up to ten letters!

UltimateMama is against buying little toys that are 1) not needed and 2) not useful just to fill holiday stockings.  Below is a list of UltimateMama's favorite stocking stuffers for babies, toddlers, and young children.

– fun, character toothbrushes (Winnie the Pooh, Elmo, Princess-themed, etc.) and toothpaste

– stickers

– washable crayons, colored pencils, markers

– small books for reading or coloring

– combs, brushes, or hair accessories such as bows or hair clips (for girls)

– socks

– mittens or hats

– watercolors

– colorful utensils or sippy cups

– slippers or sandals

– flash cards or playing cards

– bath tub toys or crayons

– boxes of raisins or bags of crackers (stay away from candy!)

– playdough or clay

– music accessories appropriate for children (like bells and such)