CR Staffers' Favorite Analog Activities Make for Great Gifts

Baby and health reporter Jess Waller loves giving and receiving puzzles, especially ones from Le Puzz. She lauds them for their sturdy construction, having the perfect jigsaw snap, and the ability to withstand multiple completions. “True puzzlers know there’s nothing more frustrating than a low-quality puzzle,” says Waller. Bonus: The mini puzzles make a thoughtful host gift.

We love a New Yorker cover, especially one depicting a classic New York moment. “I received this puzzle for the holidays last year, and it is wonderful,” says senior writer Jodhaira Rodriguez. “[It’s] one of the more difficult puzzles I’ve worked on ever, but it’s beautiful; the pieces are so uniquely shaped, and it is huge.”

Ally Cooper, who’s a CR food safety and nutrition technician, is also an avid puzzler, specifically those of another dimension. “I love a jigsaw puzzle, but also 3D puzzles (similar to Legos). Unlike a jigsaw puzzle, which you typically return to the box, this creates a cute piece of decor,” she says. Cooper’s puzzle of choice is this miniature kit depicting a cozy cafe scene. 

For the Lego-lover who’s ready to take things to the next level, this botanically themed set is sure to please. Once complete, display your work and relish the funky, woodland-inspired scene.

If your idea of a good time is getting cozy with a crossword puzzle in hand, you’ve come to the right place. “I count down the days every December until the release of NYT’s giant Puzzlemania pullout section in the Sunday paper, but now you can get your puzzle fix year-round,” says Waller. This joyful book features a compilation of crosswords, trivia, and other iconic games from The New York Times such as Wordle and Connections. “The Puzzlemania book looks great on your coffee table and is a perfect winter-break activity,” adds Waller. 

We’ll tackle a word search any day of the week, but one that doubles as a learning opportunity earns a major plus in our books. This tome of puzzles is categorized by themes ranging from pop culture to history, geography, and more. “I love word searches and have been doing puzzles from this book when I need a break from staring at a screen,” says Rodriguez. “This book is the perfect size for taking on the go. It’s my favorite part of my very own little brain stack.”

Hunkering down with a good book is always a good time, regardless of your age. “These bright, modern board books are endlessly engaging and interactive, and make the best baby gifts,” says Waller, who’s given these countless times to friends with new babies. “I’ve found that the graphic illustrations and fun wordplay mean you won’t get tired of reading them (on repeat).”

Waller also recommends "My First Book of Patterns" by Bobby George and June George, available for $12 at Amazon and Target.

For more advanced reading levels, Rodriguez recommends “Beautyland” by Marie-Helene Bertino. “I could share a list pages long of great books I’ve read this year, but here’s my No. 1 read: A beautiful story that I have not stopped thinking about since I first read it way back in February of this year.”

A screen-free activity that can turn into a gift is a no-brainer. Waller loves these beeswax candle rolling kits, which are especially great for kids. “Burning beeswax candles is basically my whole raison d’etre in the winter,” she says. “I made rolled beeswax candles with my kids to give as teacher gifts last year, and they were a hit! Tied up with a ribbon, they make for a beautiful and practical present. And the beeswax smells so heavenly when it burns.”

The holidays wouldn’t be the same without gathering around a board game. Between Clue, Monopoly, and Scrabble, the choices are endless. My personal favorite is The Game of Life, and this version from WS Game Company is the latest addition to my collection. I love that it’s discreet and compact enough to be displayed on my bookshelf, without compromising what really matters—the game itself. 

Calling all crafters. Here’s to an old-school activity that encourages a little outdoor time. “These nostalgic cyanotype printing kits use just sun and water to make beautiful artwork,” says Waller. “Paired with a nature walk, it’s a perfect winter day activity.”

CR’s senior major gifts officer, Elizabeth Lucy, is a big fan of this portable loom kit. It makes two 8x8-inch potholders in a vibrant colorway and comes complete with everything you’ll need to weave the pieces. “All my long car rides are so much better now,” says Lucy.