Welcome to part seven in our ‘Christmas gift guide’ series. How is the Christmas shopping going? How far have you got?

What sorts of things are you thinking of getting for the children this Christmas?  I always like to get a few gifts that involve the children making things as they love to craft and cook.

One of the brands I’ve come to really love over the years is ‘Cool Create’ by Flair. They make some fantastic things that involve making a range of things from lights and keepsake boxes, to chocolate bars and fun cards to give out to friends.

One of the new products they have which would make a great Christmas gift is the Shopkins Cool Cardz Design Studio – aimed at girls from the age of 7 and up this is a really cute gift.

• No heat, no mess.

• Portable handbag carry case with storage unit.

• Featuring an integrated laminating gadget to give your cards that professional edge.

• Perfect for making invitations, gift tags, bookmarks and cards in a Shopkins theme to trade and swap with friends.

If you know a little girl who likes making things and giving them to her friends and family then this is super. I love the little carry case it all comes with, like a handbag. The cards look so impressive and making them will offer hours of fun.

If your children love making things in the kitchen like mine do, then they will love this funky Chocolate Bar Maker. You do need to add the chocolate and the fillings however though so I’d advise wrapping these up with the kit to avoid any disappointment on Christmas Day! I have learnt from buying things where we didn’t have the right batteries etc that this can cause lots of upset on Christmas Day, as children like to play with their gifts straight away – you have been warned, be prepared!

Just think about all the possibilities for creations and the things your children could make – what’s more, you can offer to be their chief taste testers! Easy to use, so children can get going without help but also a fun activity to do together. I think I’m going to request something with marshmallows in!

Such a simple idea but perfect!