Choosing presents is a delicate dance. With these ideas, you’re sure to get applause from your little character.

Nutcracker
Big kids crack up over Magnetic Marvels, a science kit for at-home experiments. Tinier fingers can finesse the Yookidoo Stack ’N’ Stream tub fountain (Barstons Child’s Play, 5536 Connecticut Avenue NW; 202-244-3602; 1661 Rockville Pike, Rockville; 301-230-9040).

Sugar Plum Fairy
For wee sweethearts, pick up Rosie Flo’s coloring books; they’re packed with illustrations of dresses and costumes (she’ll draw in the heads, arms, and legs). Top it off with Zoe’s Chocolates’s hand-pulled candy canes in anise, cinnamon, and peppermint flavors (Periwinkle, 3815 Livingston Street NW; 202-364-3076).

Mouse King
Cute creatures scurry around with the Pom Pom Train pull toy by Maya Organics, a company working to eradicate child labor in India. They’ll also squeal with delight at Lindenwood blocks, which crawl with ant patterns (The Pajama Squid, 7320 Carroll Avenue, Takoma Park; 301-560-7956).

Now take a bow.

SNAP
Holiday Card Photo Shoot
What: Portrait photographer Allison Beuker offers one-hour sessions for kids or the whole family, plus edited pics for $150.
Why: Say “ease.”
When: Thru Jan. 1.
Where: Your choice. For an appointment, e-mail allison@abeukerphoto.com.

SEE
The Adventures of Alice
What: Take your mad hatters to Centre de Danse’s presentation of the children’s classic, starring student-dancer cast members.
Why: It’s a holiday Carroll.
When: Sat., 7 p.m.
Where: Trinity Theater, 36th & O Sts. NW (202-337-0268).

ATTEND
Russian Winter Festival
What: Celebrate winter with visits from Grandfather Frost and the Snow Maiden, traditional headdress and hat making, and live music.
Why: It’ll be chill.
When: Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m.
Where: Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens, 4155 Linnean Ave. NW (202-686-5807). For reservations e-mail, reservations@hillwoodmuseum.org.

Photos:  Courtesy of Periwinkle