Fatboy makes great lounging pillows for kids, that look like they would be as comfy as can be. You can use them as a chair, or put them flat and stretch out on them. I love the great Marimekko print of this black and white design. This would look great in a modern bedroom or playroom. It would make a great gift for a child of any age. It is a bit pricey, at $189 at DesignPublic.com, but I think it would remain a well-loved and useful piece of furniture, helping to justify the initial expenditure. I can even see this heading off to college with your child, especially if you get a hip print like this one.

Here’s a great holiday gift idea for the child who’s shown an early interest in music. The Jamtown Junior Pak contains three instruments sized just right for small hands: Junior Coconut Claves (wood rhythm sticks), Junior Shaker (a carved, dried gourd), and Junior Drum (double headed goat skin stretched over a wooden bark frame). It also comes with a learning CD and activity guide, rhythm cards and games, and it can all be carried in its own travel bag. All of the fair trade world instruments are hand-crafted by artisans in Peru and Bali.

This toy is the winner of the Oppenheim Gold Seal and the Parent’s Choice Gold Award. You can view it at NaturesChild.com, where it sells for $44.95.