This time of year it is always good to have a few little gifts set aside for open house invites or unexpected pop-ins. But what if your friends bring their kids? And those kids bring gifts? You can't give a child a scented candle, festive tea towels or the box of chocolates you have set aside for adults. So here are five last-minute Christmas gifts, one for each age group, that you can still get in stores now. Just in case.   Toddlers (ages 1–2)   Pal around This three-pack of pals are up for any adventure. Mega Blox First Builders Block Buddies, $9, walmart.ca and national retailers.   Preschoolers (ages 3–5)

Potato heads

Introduce this silly spud to other Mr. Potato friends for mix-and-match fun. Playskool Mr. Potato Little Taters Big Adventures Soccer Spud, $9,  Hasbro.com and national toy retailers.

 

School aged (ages 6–8)

Metallic pencils Budding artists can add sparkle and shine to their latest masterpiece with these coloured pencils. Eeboo Silver Robots Metallic Pencils, $8,  Mastermindtoys.com.   Preteen (ages 9–12)

 

Ball puzzle

Keep minds sharp during the school break. The goal: disassemble then reassemble the ball without looking at the solution. 3-D Bamboo Diamond Ball Puzzle, $6,  Mastermindtoys.com.   Teens

iPhone case

A lightweight, colourful case will help teens protect one of their most valuable items. J +/- iPhone case, $9,  RealCanadianSuperstore.ca.