About Haliburtons & Co. | Beautiful Gifts for Children

HALIBURTONS & CO.

Our story: A vision of childhood

From our founder

I created Haliburtons & Co. after observing what held our children's attention. Often, not the loudest or brightest toys, but the ones with depth and possibility. The wooden building blocks used in countless ways. The books returned to again and again. The pens that became daily companions.

These observations shaped what matters to me: fewer, better things. Design with purpose. Choices that respect children's intelligence and spark their imagination.

I wanted to create a place to share these discoveries—championing brands making innovative and inspiring products that I would be proud to have in my own home. Gifts that bring joy today and will still matter tomorrow.

Set of colorful toy cars on a beige background

APPROACH

Design that sparks imagination

We seek out products where every detail has been considered – from the way a wooden block fits perfectly in small hands to the satisfying click of puzzle pieces finding their place.

Good design isn't just about how something looks; it's about how it feels to use, how it invites exploration, and how it stands up to the enthusiastic play of childhood.

When form and function work together beautifully, the result are gifts that children return to again and again.

Christmas Gifts for Preschoolers: Imaginative Play & Discovery

Ask a three-year-old what they want to be when they grow up, and you'll get a different answer every week. Veterinarian. Firefighter. Dinosaur expert. Artist. Sometimes all four at once. This is the magic of the preschool years: when imagination runs wild and every day brings new obsessions. The cardboard box becomes a spaceship. The teddy needs urgent medical attention. The rainforest must be understood immediately. We've curated twelve gifts that honour this glorious phase of curiosity and pretend. These aren't toys that will be forgotten by February—they're the ones that get woven into daily adventures, the doctor's kit that lives by the sofa, the book requested every single bedtime, the puzzle that proves "I can do hard things." The Dinosaur Next Door – Magic Cat Publishing Where prehistoric wonder meets modern storytelling. This award-winning picture book brings dinosaurs into contemporary life with stunning illustration and engaging narrative. Perfect for preschoolers who are obsessed with dinosaurs but ready for more sophisticated stories than simple board books. The sort of book that gets requested every bedtime. What makes it special: Award-winning illustrations capture children's imaginations Engaging story perfect for read-aloud sessions Introduces dinosaurs through relatable, humorous narrative Quality hardback construction for years of reading Ideal for: Dinosaur enthusiasts, children who love story time, families building a quality home library. Shop The Dinosaur Next Door → Dinosaur delight in picture book form. Perfect for ages 3-6 years. Animal Vet Set – Le Toy Van Where compassion meets imagination. This beautifully crafted veterinary set transforms children into caring animal doctors. Complete with a vintage-style medical bag, stethoscope, medicine bottles, paw balm, and grooming brush—all made from FSC-certified wood with non-toxic finishes. It's the sort of roleplay toy that invites genuine storytelling and empathy. What makes it special: Completely plastic-free with walnut stain finish and natural wood touches Encourages nurturing play and caring for animals Develops fine motor skills through realistic medical tools High-quality construction built for years of veterinary adventures Ideal for: Animal lovers, children who care for pets, budding veterinarians who love helping creatures great and small. Shop Animal Vet Set → Where care and play meet. Perfect for ages 3+. Farm Wooden Playset – Tender Leaf Toys A complete farmyard that grows with imagination. This is the "big gift" that becomes the centrepiece of playtime. A beautifully detailed wooden farm featuring a barn with opening doors, stables, hay loft with working pulley system, cowshed, fencing, and a complete collection of farm animals and accessories. Made from sustainably sourced rubberwood with water-based paints. What makes it special: Open-plan design encourages narrative play and farm life storytelling Working magnetic pulley system teaches cause and effect Includes 2 horses, 2 geese, hay bales, feeding troughs, and beehive British brand known for exceptional quality and ethical production Ideal for: Children who love animals and farming, families seeking a substantial centrepiece toy, grandparents choosing a memorable Christmas gift. Shop Farm Playset → Where farm stories come to life. Perfect for ages 3+. If You Come to Earth – Chronicle Books A love letter to our beautiful planet. This stunning picture book invites preschoolers to see Earth through fresh eyes—as if explaining our world to a visitor from space. Award-winning author Sophie Blackall celebrates the wonder of everyday things: rain, seasons, animals, kindness. The sort of book that sparks profound conversations and stays with children for years. What makes it special: Award-winning illustration captures Earth's beauty and diversity Introduces big concepts through gentle, accessible narrative Celebrates what makes our planet special Perfect length and complexity for preschool read-alouds Ideal for: Curious minds who ask big questions, families who value environmental awareness, children who love beautiful books. Shop If You Come to Earth → See the world with wonder. Perfect for ages 4-8 years. Construction Toy Cars, Trucks & Diggers – Le Toy Van A fleet for budding builders. This wooden construction vehicle collection includes everything needed for imaginary building sites—diggers, cement mixers, trucks, and more. Each vehicle features smooth-rolling wheels and robust construction that stands up to enthusiastic play whilst maintaining its beauty on the shelf. What makes it special: Quality wooden construction built for years of construction adventures Inspires narrative play around building, creating, and problem-solving Compatible with blocks, train sets, and other building toys Sustainable alternative to plastic toy vehicles Ideal for: Children fascinated by construction sites and vehicles, young builders who love diggers, families building a collection of wooden toys. Shop Construction Vehicles → Built for play, made to last. Perfect for ages 3+. Brown Bear Wood: It's Busy Down in the Woods Today – Magic Cat Publishing Nature discovery through enchanting storytelling. This beautifully illustrated woodland adventure introduces preschoolers to forest life through engaging narrative and stunning artwork. Follow woodland creatures through their natural habitat, learning about nature whilst being transported into an enchanting world. What makes it special: Gorgeous illustrations bring woodland life to vivid detail Introduces natural world and forest ecosystems Perfect length for preschool attention spans Encourages environmental awareness and love of nature Ideal for: Nature lovers, children who enjoy woodland walks, families who value environmental education. Shop Brown Bear Wood → Woodland wonder on every page. Perfect for ages 3-6 years. Gruffalo Art Activity Set – Robert Frederick Beloved characters meet creative expression. Bring the Gruffalo to life through colouring, crafting, and creating. This comprehensive art set features the beloved characters from Julia Donaldson's classic tale alongside quality art materials—perfect for preschoolers who adore the story and are ready to express themselves creatively. What makes it special: Combines favourite storybook characters with hands-on creativity Complete art supplies for immediate creative play Screen-free activity that builds concentration and fine motor skills Perfect for rainy afternoons and quiet creative time Ideal for: Gruffalo fans, children who love colouring and crafts, families seeking screen-free activities. Shop Gruffalo Art Set → Where stories inspire creativity. Perfect for ages 3+. 36-Piece Butterfly Garden Floor Puzzle – Crocodile Creek Large-scale puzzling for developing minds. This oversized floor puzzle features a vibrant butterfly garden scene with dozens of insects to discover. The 36 large, sturdy pieces are perfectly sized for preschool hands, offering an achievable challenge that builds confidence. Completed, it measures over 50cm—a satisfying accomplishment. What makes it special: Bridge between simple toddler puzzles and complex jigsaws Beautiful illustration rewards careful observation Durable pieces withstand frequent use Comes in decorative butterfly-shaped storage box Ideal for: Children building puzzle skills, nature enthusiasts, families who enjoy collaborative activities. Shop Butterfly Garden Puzzle → Big pieces, bigger satisfaction. Perfect for ages 3-5 years. Over and Under the Rainforest – Kate Messner, Chronicle Books Journey through jungle layers with stunning artwork. This Caldecott Honor book takes preschoolers on a visual journey through a rainforest—from the dark forest floor to the sunny canopy above. Dual narrative structure introduces the concept of ecosystems whilst stunning illustrations reveal hidden jungle life. The sort of nature book that inspires real-world curiosity. What makes it special: Award-winning illustration brings rainforest to vivid life Introduces ecosystem concepts through accessible storytelling Dual text layers reward multiple readings Inspires environmental awareness and wonder about nature Ideal for: Nature enthusiasts, children fascinated by jungles and animals, families who value environmental education. Shop Over and Under the Rainforest → Discover jungle secrets. Perfect for ages 4-8 years. Firehouse Wind Up and Go Playset – Petit Collage Emergency adventures in miniature. This charming wind-up fire station brings emergency rescue scenarios to preschool play. Wind the fire truck and watch it race to imaginary emergencies. The compact playset encourages narrative play, problem-solving, and understanding of community helpers—all in a beautifully designed package. What makes it special: Wind-up mechanism fascinates preschoolers learning about cause and effect Encourages storytelling about firefighters and community helpers Compact design perfect for small spaces and travel Beautiful illustration and quality construction Ideal for: Children who love fire trucks and emergency vehicles, fans of rescue scenarios, families seeking portable play. Shop Firehouse Playset → Wind-up adventure and rescue. Perfect for ages 3+. Why These Gifts Matter Preschool years are when imagination flourishes and play becomes the primary way children understand their world. The best gifts for this age invite open-ended exploration whilst supporting developing skills. Each item in this collection offers: Imaginative play that builds storytelling and creative thinking Quality materials from sustainable sources with ethical production Developmental support for fine motor skills, problem-solving, and social play Screen-free engagement that encourages hands-on discovery These are gifts that respect preschoolers' growing capabilities whilst maintaining the joy and wonder of early childhood. More Gifts for Preschoolers Shop all gifts for: 3 - 4 year olds 5-7 year olds Wooden Toys Frequently Asked Questions What age range are these gifts suitable for? This collection is curated specifically for preschoolers aged 3-5 years. We've noted specific age recommendations for each item. Are these toys safe for preschoolers? Absolutely. Every toy meets rigorous UK and EU safety standards. We prioritise non-toxic finishes, age-appropriate sizing, and durability. Many pieces carry FSC certification for sustainably sourced wood, and several are from fair-trade producers. Which gifts are best for encouraging imaginative play? The roleplay sets (Animal Vet Set, Vintage Doctor Kit), the Farm Playset, and Construction Vehicles all excel at inspiring storytelling and imaginative scenarios. Do you offer gift wrapping? Yes, our complimentary gift wrapping service ensures your gifts arrive beautifully presented. Simply select this option at checkout. When should I order for Christmas delivery? We recommend ordering by Wednesday 15th December to ensure delivery before Christmas. Orders over £65 receive free shipping. Contact our team if you need expedited delivery. Can you help me choose between options? Our team is always delighted to offer personal recommendations. Use the live chat on the website, or email hello@haliburtons.com for guidance tailored to your preschooler's interests and stage of development. Shop Thoughtfully This Christmas At Haliburtons, thoughtful giving has been our tradition since day one. Every gift in our collection is chosen for quality, meaning, and lasting value—particularly important during these formative preschool years when play shapes understanding. Ready to find the perfect gift? Browse our complete Christmas collection Contact our gift specialists

Christmas 2025 Gifts for 6-8 Year Olds: Build, Create & Explore

Gifts for 6-8 Year Olds: Build, Create & Explore Six to eight is the age of capability and curiosity. They're reading independently, building with intention, and ready for gifts that respect their growing skills. We've curated exceptional gifts that challenge without overwhelming, inspire creativity, and offer the satisfaction of mastering something new—from hands-on STEM kits and robotics projects to beautiful books that unlock the mysteries of space and nature. Read the full gift guide →

Christmas 2025: Treasured Gifts for Baby's First Christmas

Baby's first Christmas is a precious milestone worth celebrating with gifts that honour the occasion. We've curated nine thoughtful gifts that combine beautiful craftsmanship with benefits—wooden toys that grow with your child, engaging board books that spark early language, and heirloom-quality pieces made to treasure. Every item celebrates quality over quantity, sustainability over disposability, and the magic of those precious early years. Sealife Wooden Shape Sorter – Lanka Kade A gentle introduction to shapes, colours, and sea creatures. This beautifully crafted wooden shape sorter introduces your little one to problem-solving through play. Each smooth, chunky sea creature—turtle, octopus, whale, fish—fits through its corresponding shaped opening, teaching spatial reasoning whilst building hand-eye coordination. What makes it special: Made from responsibly sourced rubberwood with non-toxic finishes Perfectly sized pieces for small hands to grasp and manipulate Ocean theme introduces early vocabulary and wonder about the natural world Bright colours support visual development Ideal for: Babies developing their fine motor skills, curious toddlers who love posting and sorting, families who value sustainable toys. Shop Sealife Shape Sorter → Safe, sustainable, and built to last. Perfect for ages 18 months+. Kitchen Walker – Classic World From first steps to imaginative play. This clever dual-purpose design begins as a sturdy wooden walker supporting those first wobbly steps, then transforms into a complete play kitchen as your child grows. Features turning knobs, opening cupboard doors, and storage for play food—all in beautiful sustainable wood. What makes it special: Supports physical development (walking) and cognitive development (pretend play) Adjustable resistance on wheels for different walking abilities Grows from baby gift to toddler favourite Quality construction means it lasts through multiple children Ideal for: Babies approaching their first steps, families seeking toys with longevity, grandparents choosing a statement gift for baby's first Christmas. Shop Kitchen Walker → A gift that truly grows with them. Perfect for ages 10 months+ (walker), 18 months+ (kitchen play). Wooden Mini Activity Cube – Just Bee Kids Multiple discoveries in one beautiful wooden toy. This compact activity centre offers bead mazes, shape sorters, spinning elements, and more—all crafted in sustainable wood with non-toxic finishes. It's the sort of toy that grows with your baby, revealing new challenges at every developmental stage. What makes it special: Multi-sensory engagement supports cognitive development Encourages fine motor skills and problem-solving Beautifully designed to suit any nursery or living room Made from sustainable materials with lasting quality Ideal for: Babies ready for varied play experiences, families seeking one thoughtful toy over many plastic ones, grandparents looking for a centrepiece gift. Shop Wooden Mini Activity Cube → A gift that delivers months of discovery. Perfect for ages 12 months+. Dinosaur Shape Sorter – Lanka Kade Prehistoric fun meets early learning. For families who prefer dinosaurs to dolphins, this wooden shape sorter brings the same developmental benefits with a Jurassic twist. Colourful dinosaurs introduce shapes and colours whilst building the confidence that comes from mastering achievable challenges. What makes it special: Encourages repeated play as babies discover cause and effect Sustainably made with child-safe materials Portable size perfect for play at home or grandparents' Grows with your child from simple posting to naming and storytelling Ideal for: Little ones fascinated by dinosaurs, developing problem-solvers, families building their first toy collection. Shop Dinosaur Shape Sorter → A gift that will be reached for daily. Perfect for ages 18 months+. 100 First Words – Nosy Crow Building vocabulary from the very beginning. This essential board book introduces babies to everyday words through vibrant photography and clear labels. From "apple" to "zebra," each page invites pointing, naming, and those first precious attempts at speech. What makes it special: Sturdy board book construction withstands enthusiastic page-turning Real photographs help babies connect words to their world Organised by themes (food, animals, toys) for easy learning Becomes a cherished part of bedtime and naptime rituals Ideal for: Babies beginning to babble and gesture, families building early language skills together, grandparents who love interactive reading time. Shop 100 First Words → A book that will be read hundreds of times. Perfect for ages 0-2 years. Rainbow Tunnel – Tender Leaf Toys A modern classic for open-ended play. These graduated wooden arches in a gentle rainbow gradient invite endless creativity. Babies stack and nest them, toddlers build bridges and tunnels, preschoolers incorporate them into imaginative worlds. It's the sort of toy that never gets relegated to the back of the cupboard. What makes it special: Open-ended design means years of varied play Beautiful natural wood with water-based stains Introduces colour, size, and spatial concepts naturally Becomes a cherished keepsake that can be passed down Ideal for: Babies developing hand-eye coordination, toddlers building and creating, families who value toys with longevity. Shop Rainbow Tunnel → Simple, beautiful, endlessly engaging. Perfect for ages 12 months+. Nursery Rhyme Blocks – Uncle Goose Heirloom wooden blocks printed with beloved rhymes. These aren't ordinary building blocks. Made in the USA from sustainable Midwestern basswood, each block features whimsical illustrations and snippets of classic nursery rhymes. They're perfectly weighted for small hands, beautifully printed, and built to last generations. What makes it special: Combines physical play with language development Non-toxic inks meet the highest safety standards Quality that makes them genuine keepsakes Introduces beloved rhymes and characters Ideal for: Families building traditions, grandparents choosing a meaningful first Christmas gift, anyone who values toys that become treasured possessions. Shop Nursery Rhyme Blocks → A gift to be treasured for years. Perfect for ages 2 years+. Stripe Wooden Guitar Toy – Just Bee Kids First melodies for little musicians. This beautifully designed wooden guitar introduces musical exploration through gentle strumming. The authentic sound encourages babies and toddlers to experiment with rhythm, volume, and cause-and-effect—all whilst looking lovely in the nursery. What makes it special: Produces pleasant, genuine guitar tones Light enough for small hands to hold and carry Encourages auditory development and rhythm Screen-free music exploration Ideal for: Musical families, babies who respond to sound and rhythm, toddlers beginning to move and dance to music. Shop Wooden Guitar → Where musical discovery begins. Perfect for ages 18 months+. Dinosaur Xylophone – Classic World Colourful keys that teach cause and effect. This wooden xylophone combines prehistoric charm with genuine musical learning. The smooth, easy-to-strike bars produce clear tones that help develop auditory discrimination and fine motor control—all whilst looking delightful in its dinosaur form. What makes it special: Produces accurate musical notes for ear training Sturdy construction withstands enthusiastic playing Bright colours support visual development Introduces first concepts of melody and rhythm Ideal for: Babies discovering the joy of making sounds, toddlers developing coordination, families who appreciate quality musical toys. Shop Dinosaur Xylophone → Musical fun that lasts. Perfect for ages 18 months+. Why These Gifts Matter Baby's first Christmas deserves gifts that honour the milestone—not plastic that will break by January. Each item in this collection offers: Sustainable materials from responsibly managed forests Safety-first design with non-toxic finishes and age-appropriate sizing Developmental benefits that support growing minds and bodies Lasting quality that sees them through toddlerhood and beyond These are gifts chosen with care, built to last, and made to treasure. More Gifts for Babies & Toddlers Shop all gifts for: Toddlers (18 months - 3 years) First Birthday Treasures Wooden Wonders Frequently Asked Questions What age range are these gifts suitable for? These gifts are curated for babies from birth through to around 2 years, with many pieces lasting well into the preschool years. We've noted specific age recommendations for each item based on developmental appropriateness and safety. Are these toys safe for babies? Absolutely. Every toy meets rigorous UK and EU safety standards. We prioritise non-toxic finishes, appropriate sizing (no small parts for babies under 3), and durability. Many pieces carry FSC certification, indicating sustainably sourced materials. Will these toys really last? Yes. We select wooden toys built to withstand daily play and last through multiple children. Many of our customers tell us these become family heirlooms passed down to grandchildren. Do you offer gift wrapping? Yes, our complimentary gift wrapping service ensures baby's first Christmas presents arrive beautifully presented. Simply select this option at checkout. When should I order for Christmas delivery? We recommend ordering by Wednesday 15th December to ensure delivery before Christmas. Orders over £65 receive free shipping. Contact our team if you need expedited delivery. Can you help me choose the right gift? Our team is always delighted to offer personal recommendations. Use the live chat on the website, or email hello@haliburtons.com for guidance tailored to baby's age and interests. Shop Thoughtfully This Christmas At Haliburtons, thoughtful giving has been our tradition since day one. Every gift in our collection is chosen for quality, meaning, and lasting value—particularly important for baby's milestone first Christmas. Ready to find the perfect gift? Browse our complete Christmas collection Contact our gift specialists

Christmas 2025: Creative Gifts for Older Children

Finding meaningful Christmas gifts for older children means thinking beyond toys. Our curated collection of eight creative gifts—including Andy Warhol paint-by-numbers, Studio Roof wall art, and Faber-Castell art supplies—celebrates quality craftsmanship and inspires artistic expression. Perfect for ages 8-14.

Unlocking the Past: Fascinating History Books for Children Age 8-12

There's a particular kind of history book that changes how children see the past – not through gimmicks, but by treating both subject and reader with intelligence. These books trust that genuinely interesting material will engage children on their own terms. From Dr. Hattie Hearn's hidden World War II stories to Daniel Nesquens's handbook on actual intelligence techniques, from Tracey Turner's journey through 25 cities to the Golden Age illustrations in The Macmillan Collection of Myths and Legends – each of these seven books demonstrates what happens when careful research meets thoughtful curation. For children aged 8-12 developing their understanding of ethics, complexity, and how the world works, these are volumes designed for keeping rather than outgrowing. Books that spark conversations, answer questions, and become part of how a child builds their understanding of history.

The Best Screen-Free Gifts for 4-8 Year Olds

Screens will always be part of childhood, but when children have access to activities that truly engage their hands and minds, they often choose them. Making something, building something, figuring something out – these offer a different kind of satisfaction. From wooden planes that children paint and fly themselves, to intricate origami boxes folded with Liberty florals, to 500-piece puzzles that reveal the fascinating world of insects – these aren't gifts that provide instant entertainment then get forgotten. They're the ones children return to repeatedly, the projects they actually finish because they're genuinely invested. Discover thoughtful screen-free alternatives for 4-8 year olds that develop real skills, reward sustained attention, and create those satisfying moments when a child holds something they've truly made themselves.