{"title":"Our birthday picks for school friends","description":"\u003cp\u003eWe have a few favourites when picking a gift for a school friend, cousin or playdate and our regular customers also have their fave picks. This list brings together these easy choices for you to grab something on your way or put in the birthday cupboard stash. \u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"makedo-cardboard-construction-kit-discover-edition","title":"Makedo Cardboard Construction Kit - Discover Edition","description":"\u003cp\u003eMakedo is the most open-ended construction toy ever because the reusable tools work with cardboard; a universally available, free and unlimited building block.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat’s Inside\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBe it family or friends, young or old, solo, duo or more… this toolbox contains all the age suitable tools needed to collaborate and make just about anything from up-cycled cardboard. Imagine costumes, vehicles, forts and creatures! An immersive, hack-able world of your own making is at your finger tips. Designed for girls and boys, young and old, individuals and groups of all skill levels. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis toolbox has every tool in the Makedo arsenal so you and your crew can perfect the art of cardboard construction. This kit includes a safe (no sharp edges) steel cardboard saw and perforator for competent makers, and a safe flexible plastic cardboard saw for younger makers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIncludes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 x Safesaw\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 x Fold Roller\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 x Scru Driver\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e90 x Scru\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e30 x Scru\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 x Mini Tool\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy you will love this brand\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMakedo is an amazing catalyst for critical thinking in the way it fosters the natural inclination of the child to learn by doing. It’s a toy that children can continue to grow into as fine motor skills and capabilities develop. The minimal packaging converts into a toolbox with a sleeve that slides over it for storage. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Makedo","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41050447904931,"sku":"10703","price":69.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/0218\/1539\/files\/4.Productsquare-Jan2026_8.png?v=1769460628"},{"product_id":"magic-painting-abc-alphabet-adventure","title":"Magic Painting ABC | Alphabet Adventure","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIt can be tricky finding art activities for kids aged 1 to 3, but the Magic Painting sets are a brilliant option. This unique painting set features 26 cards with alphabet illustrations on one side and a jumbo counting puzzle on the other. Simply fill your magic paintbrush with water and brush over the illustrations to bring them to life. The colours will dry quickly and the picture will return to white, ready to be revealed again the next time you play. There's also zero mess to worry about with no paintbrushes or water glasses to knock over.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIncludes: 26 x high quality, double-sided reusable Magic Painting cards | 1 x magic paintbrush\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSuitable for children aged 12 months to 3 years \u003cbr\u003eWeight: .300 kg\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tiger Tribe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43004046344355,"sku":"13293","price":24.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/0218\/1539\/products\/5_d8e7962a-b522-47ef-b577-161aeec88242.png?v=1681047607"},{"product_id":"connetix-rainbow-mini-pack-24-piece","title":"Connetix Rainbow Mini Pack (24 Piece)","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWith the Connetix Magnetic Tiles Mini Pack, your child will be able explore a world of construction and creativity. This special collection contains 24 pieces in an array of shapes and colours. Perfect for introducing your child to the universe of magnetic tiles, this fun-filled pack will keep them engaged as they build 2D creations or challenge themselves by making 3D structures. Whether it's a classic building or something entirely original, the only limit is their imagination. Put problem solving skills in action when exploring how the pieces connect together – plus it might surprise you what interesting contraptions come from experimenting. Not only is this a great way for children to learn about colours, shapes, sizes, but it also invites imaginative play.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSuitable for children aged 3 years and older\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTES\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis product is not always held in-store - allow 5–7 business days for delivery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a bulky item. Additional \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/helloyoungster.com.au\/pages\/click-and-collect-home-delivery\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eshipping\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003erestrictions and charges may apply.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Connetix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43294549377187,"sku":"13890","price":49.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/0218\/1539\/products\/PhotoRoom-20230314_205529.png?v=1678787753"},{"product_id":"classic-floor-puzzle-36-pc-dino-land","title":"Classic Floor Puzzle 36 pc - Dino Land","description":"\u003cp\u003eLittle dinosaur enthusiasts can brush up on their dino-identification in this beautifully illustrated 36-piece floor puzzle. All wrapped up in its unique contour-shaped storage box, the jumbo, sturdy pieces of this high-quality puzzle are ideal for little hands. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePuzzle and box greyboard are made of up to 70% recycled post-consumer content.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e36 jumbo puzzle pieces perfectly sized for little hands\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBeautifully illustrated dinosaurs design\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIdeal for gifting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEncourages hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, problem solving and confidence building\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompleted puzzle is 68cm W x 50cm H, box is approx 27cm W x 30cm H x 8.5cm D\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuitable for ages 3+\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eCrocodile Creek products conform to all of the appropriate safety standards.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Crocodile Creek","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45398635643043,"sku":"15006","price":30.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/0218\/1539\/files\/DinoLand36PCPuzzle_2_896x896_4d225bdd-e912-4a16-b016-d1430edb032c.jpg?v=1731660797"},{"product_id":"flipbook-kit-animation-action","title":"Flipbook Kit - Animation Action","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe adventure into animation starts with this clever and comprehensive animation kit. Neatly packaged in a sturdy, magnetic-sealed storage box, kids can make six completed Flip Book stories and create one original story of their own. Tiger Tribe have made sure that every child will have everything needed to bring their ideas to life, complete with a detailed guide book, tracing paper, stickers, double sided flip books, coloured pencils and even a mechanical pencil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSuitable for children aged 8 years and older\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tiger Tribe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45417856270499,"sku":"14284","price":30.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/0218\/1539\/files\/4._Product_square-Jan_2026_1.png?v=1769459669"},{"product_id":"diy-playdough-mix-yellow","title":"DIY Playdough Mix - Yellow","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIntroducing our Wild Dough Playdough Mix: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003ethe gateway to at-home creativity. Crafted for families who relish the joy of creating together, this mix makes playtime personal.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Simply add water and oil from your pantry, then invite both little and big hands to stir, knead, and explore. Within moments, watch as this mix transforms into our signature cloudlike playdough. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis is more than just playdough—it's a cherished memory in the making, guaranteeing hours of imaginative fun. Dive deep into the hands-on magic with our Playdough Mix. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThere's loads to love: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEasy and fast to make homemade playdough \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Engaging activity and playdough fun all in one \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Quality ingredients ensuring signature Wild Dough softness \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Rehydratable, long lasting and brightly coloured \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Australian made \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Environmentally friendly reusable packaging \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Wild Dough","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45422507262115,"sku":"15085","price":15.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/0218\/1539\/files\/a9ac578490fb8afd4857e60303d3144e53da73b62558ddd59167d273fc4dde1f.jpg?v=1732766497"},{"product_id":"diy-steam-journey","title":"Rolife DIY Steam Journey - Wooden Model","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRolife Steam Journey – 3D Wooden Train Puzzle for Display and Discovery\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake a trip back in time with the Rolife Steam Journey, a beautifully detailed 3D wooden puzzle inspired by classic European steam locomotives. This engaging DIY kit blends the charm of vintage travel with hands-on creativity, making it a standout piece for collectors, hobbyists and curious minds alike.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElegant vintage design:\u003c\/strong\u003e Build a complete steam train scene, including an intricately crafted locomotive, passenger carriage and a station platform with stunning architectural features.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e405 laser-cut wooden pieces:\u003c\/strong\u003e Precision-cut components ensure a smooth assembly experience and a durable final model that’s built to last.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDisplay-worthy dimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Measuring approximately 39cm long when assembled, it’s a striking centrepiece for desks, bookshelves or hobby displays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSkill-building fun:\u003c\/strong\u003e Encourages concentration, fine motor skills and problem-solving as builders enjoy 3–4 hours of mindful construction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePerfect gift for adults and teens:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ideal for model train lovers, puzzle fans or anyone who appreciates timeless craftsmanship and vintage aesthetics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEco-friendly materials:\u003c\/strong\u003e Made from sustainable, non-toxic wood – no glue required for assembly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you're gifting it or building it for yourself, the Rolife Steam Journey offers a rewarding and nostalgic escape into the golden age of rail travel - one elegant piece at a time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNOTE: Currently available on back-order\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rolife","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45761222377635,"sku":"16511","price":67.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/0218\/1539\/files\/Product_square.png?v=1744241801"},{"product_id":"dragon-odyssey-card-game","title":"Dragon Odyssey – Strategic Fantasy Card Game","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"581\" data-end=\"638\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"581\" data-end=\"638\"\u003eA fast-paced fantasy card game with serious strategy.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"640\" data-end=\"960\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"640\" data-end=\"664\"\u003eDragon Odyssey\u003c\/strong\u003e is an epic card battle game that blends tactical decision-making, collectible-style gameplay and the thrill of mythical creatures. Designed for kids 8+ and teens who love dragons, magic and games with depth, it’s a sharp, engaging experience that holds its own against big-name fantasy titles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"962\" data-end=\"1197\"\u003ePlayers summon creatures, cast spells and battle their way to victory - balancing risk, strategy and surprise in every round. With vibrant artwork and a dynamic ruleset, Dragon Odyssey invites repeat play and rewards clever thinking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1199\" data-end=\"1470\"\u003eAnd here's the kicker - it was created by a brilliant young game designer right here in our local community. Supporting this game means backing a next-gen maker with serious talent, not just a good idea. We're proud to stock it and even prouder to say: this one’s local.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1472\" data-end=\"1475\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1477\" data-end=\"1494\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1477\" data-end=\"1494\"\u003eWhy it works\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1497\" data-end=\"1570\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1497\" data-end=\"1527\"\u003eStrategic fantasy gameplay\u003c\/strong\u003e – build your hand, outplay your opponent\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1573\" data-end=\"1650\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1573\" data-end=\"1602\"\u003ePerfect for dragon lovers\u003c\/strong\u003e – magical creatures, powers and epic battles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1653\" data-end=\"1719\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1653\" data-end=\"1674\"\u003eHigh replay value\u003c\/strong\u003e – layered tactics and evolving play styles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1722\" data-end=\"1798\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1722\" data-end=\"1741\"\u003eCreated locally\u003c\/strong\u003e – made by a talented young designer from our community\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1801\" data-end=\"1901\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1801\" data-end=\"1837\"\u003eIdeal for ages 8+ to early teens\u003c\/strong\u003e – sharp enough for older players, accessible for younger ones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1903\" data-end=\"1906\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1908\" data-end=\"2079\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1908\" data-end=\"1928\"\u003eRecommended age:\u003c\/strong\u003e 8+\u003cbr data-start=\"1931\" data-end=\"1934\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1934\" data-end=\"1946\"\u003ePlayers:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2–4\u003cbr data-start=\"1950\" data-end=\"1953\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1953\" data-end=\"1967\"\u003ePlay time:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approx. 20–30 mins\u003cbr data-start=\"1986\" data-end=\"1989\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1989\" data-end=\"2002\"\u003eIncludes:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full illustrated card deck + game rules\u003cbr data-start=\"2042\" data-end=\"2045\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2045\" data-end=\"2079\"\u003eDesigned and made in Australia\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2081\" data-end=\"2084\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2086\" data-end=\"2228\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2086\" data-end=\"2118\"\u003eA note from Hello Youngster\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2118\" data-end=\"2121\"\u003eThis is what the future of play looks like - clever, cool and created by the next generation of thinkers.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heylo","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46010774782115,"sku":"16359","price":33.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0535\/0218\/1539\/files\/4.Productsquare-Jan2026_3.png?v=1769320472"}],"url":"https:\/\/helloyoungster.com.au\/collections\/our-school-friend-birthday-picks.oembed","provider":"Hello Youngster","version":"1.0","type":"link"}