Phizz-whizzing Roald Dahl gifts for chiddlers

Last Updated on December 2, 2019

For me, it was Mr Twit tucking into that worm spaghetti. For my son, it was Veruca Salt (the little brute) disappearing down the rubbish chute. My little girl isn’t quite old enough yet. Although in a couple of years, I can’t wait to see which moment makes her gasp with delight and fall in love with Roald Dahl’s wonderful stories too.

Yes, we are big fans of this British children’s writer in this house. And it has been a particular joy to share his books with my 7-year-old over the last year. Bedtimes curled up with Fantastic Mr Fox and Danny Champion of the World have been some of our highlights, although The Giraffe, Pelly and Me was an unexpected hit with us both (I’d never discovered it as a child).

In addition to the books, Roald Dahl’s characters seem to crop up everywhere – from BFG tea towels to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-themed make up (which even comes with a golden ticket – squeal!).

But as tempting as it is to spend time ogling the lovely grown-up gifts available. No – this list is for children. Here are some things which should bring a broad grin to the faces of little Roald Dahl devotees.

Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links. This means, if you choose to buy a product by clicking on a link, I may receive a very small payment at no extra cost to you. This will help with the running of the blog. Thank you! Also, we received two complimentary tickets to Matilda the Musical for review purposes. As always, the thoughts here are honest and entirely my own.

Roald Dahl Experience

Tickets to Matilda The Musical

A gang of school kids singing a freewheeling anthem of childhood while swinging high over the audience. A fearsome Miss Trunchbull dispatching poor Amanda Thripp – by the pigtails – high into the theatre’s rafters. The jubilant face of Bruce Bogtrotter as he polishes off the whole chocolate cake. I’ve always liked the idea of giving memories rather than things. And certainly, few things compare with heading into the city (after dark!) to see a splendiferous show full of stand-out moments.

For Matilda purists, the main pillars of the plot remain intact in this Royal Shakespeare Company adaption of the book. Although, to rachet up the comedy, there are a couple of new characters and a bit of dramatic license – which slightly confused my son. But overwhelmingly, we loved this musical – stuffed full of stunning sets, clever lyrics and precociously talented kids – where kindness and smarts triumphs over nastiness and bullying.

If you are looking for a very special treat for a young Dahl fan, Matilda the Musical may well be the golden ticket. It is currently showing at the Cambridge Theatre in London. It is also touring around the UK.

Suggested age: 6 and up

Roald Dahl Related Books

George’s Marvellous Experiments

Inspired by George Kranky’s wild medicine making, this is one for eager young scientists. And, unlike George’s marvellous concoction, none of these experiments involves Grandma shooting through the roof. Perhaps disappointing for some, but probably a blessing for most parents who don’t fancy a retiling job.

From making putty to creating lightning, many of the experiments will be familiar to Pinterest aficionados. But what makes this collection worth owning are the easy-to-follow, illustrated instructions and the easy-to-understand scientific explanations. And then, of course, there is the added zing of Quentin Blake’s joyful illustrations.

As a parent, I also like that the equipment lists are not that long and don’t contain obscure items.

Suggested age: with help from parents, 5 and up

Buy at Amazon.co.uk / Book Depository

Roald Dahl’s Big Official Sticker Book

Games, word searches and mazes make this more than just a sticker book. But if your kids love stickers – there are over 500 of those as well. Great for children who know a few of his stories already.

Alternatively, for those kids with a particular favourite, there are individual sticker activity books available too. Stash them in your bag for a long journey or a restaurant trip.

Suggested age: From 5 or 6 up

Buy at Amazon.co.uk / Book Depository

Roald Dahl Whizzpopping Joke Book

Most children discover Roald Dahl at about the same age they discover the fun of a silly knock-knock joke. If you want to encourage your mini-comedian to expand their repertoire, this book has over 500 gags – some worthy of a groan, but a lot able to raise a smile.

The link with Roald Dahl is a little tenuous – he didn’t write the jokes, rather they are grouped around Dahl’s characters and themes. But as always, Quentin Blake’s illustrations bring fun to the proceedings. This was a real hit with my funny, giddy boy.

Buy at Amazon.co.uk / Book Depository

Roald Dahl Games

Top Trumps

A perfect little stocking filler – this simple, fun card game has provided us with hours of fun. Well, who doesn’t want to see who will triumph in a competition between Miss Trunchbull and a Fleshlumpeater?

Suggested age: Ideal once children can read and know their numbers up to 100. So, if your child is Matilda, at aged two. For everyone else, probably closer to 5 or 6.

Buy at Amazon.co.uk / Roald Dahl Museum Shop

Brain Box Roald Dahl

Like Top Trumps, there are many different versions of this game – but with Quentin Blake’s lively illustrations, and characters from The BFG, Matilda and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, this one is swashboggling fun.

The idea is to briefly study a card, and when the sand timer demands, turn it over and answer a question about your observations. Great for developing memory skills and whiling away a bit of family time.

Suggested age: the game maker suggests 7 and up, although I think most 6-year-olds would enjoy it too

Buy at Amazon.co.uk / Roald Dahl Museum Shop

Roald Dahl Monopoly

Yes, I know there seems to be a zillion versions of Monopoly. But, this one really does look worth investing in. Based on the original version of the game, instead of chance or community chest cards, you get to pick up golden tickets or Wonka bars. Just try to avoid landing on The Witches RSPCC.

Suggested age: 8 and up

Buy at Amazon.co.uk / Roald Dahl Museum Shop

Roald Dahl Soft Toys

The Enormous Crocodile

I’ve seen some reviewers complain that this plush version of the Enormous Crocodile isn’t, in fact, enormous. I think they may be missing the point. But, for everyone who likes a crocodile who looks full of secret plans and clever tricks, this one is a charmer.

Great for a bit of pretend play, games of crocodile chase and, of course, a cuddle.

Suggested age: Everyone!

Buy at Amazon.co.uk

Whizzpopping BFG

A beautifully-made version of The BFG which lets off audible whizzpoppers when you squeeze his tummy? Well, what young child wouldn’t love that?!

He comes complete with his trademark ginormous ears and  brown waistcoat. Just be ready for some surprised looks if you take him out in public!

Suggested age: 1 and up

Buy at the Roald Dahl Museum Shop

Roald Dahl Clothes

The Enormous Crocodile Sweatshirt

I know he wouldn’t like me saying so – but how cute is this Enormous Crocodile? This bright, bold sweatshirt looks like huge fun to wear.

Suggested age: I imagine this would go down a storm with most 4 and 5-year-olds. Which, of course, is a great age for introducing this hilarious book.

Buy at the Roald Dahl Museum Shop

Matilda Pyjamas

Could these be the perfect pyjamas for a bedtime story? I wonder if they do adult sizes…

Buy at the Roald Dahl Museum Shop

And so, I hope I’ve provided you with a little inspiration if you have your own Roald Dahl fan in your house. Please leave me a comment if you find another great Roald Dahl related gift. Or I’d love to know about your most memorable Roald Dahl moment.

Photo credits: Matilda the Musical, The Roald Dahl Museum Shop and me!

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