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Photo Courtesy of Michael Young
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Emmy-award winning journalist and TV host Tamron Hall is a seasoned traveler, and so is her 5-year-old son, Moses. But, early on she noticed that Moses was very confident and outgoing at home, but outside he “didn’t show up as his confident self,” Tamron noted. That’s when she decided to use their story to help other shy kids out there and wrote the children’s book “Harlem Honey” (dropping March 2025).
“This book is a reminder to me, and I want it to be a reminder to all adults, to embrace children’s curiosity,” Tamron reports and she even dedicated the book to “the child who asks every question that comes to mind and to the patient adult who understands why.”
Because the host’s adorable children’s book is all about travel, which helped Moses “blossom into a more independent and confident child,” we asked Tamron all about her travel essentials, advice for shy kids, must-have gift picks (for kids, stocking stuffers, and white elephants), and holiday traditions. So keep on scrolling for Tamron Hall’s gift guide that’s sure to get everyone feeling festive.
Photo Credit: Jacket art © 2025 by TamronHall
E!: Do you have advice for parents with shy kids?
TH: "My advice for someone with a shy kid is to don't take it for granted how confidence can be transferred from us to them through patience, through love, and also by giving them time. I recently had a conversation with my son who was a little afraid to get on a ride and I said, fear is okay. It's okay not to be ready to do something. When you're ready, I'm there to support you. He didn't say a word, but I know those words resonated."
Harlem Honey: The Adventures of a Curious Kid, by Tamron Hall
Through the eyes of a homesick boy in Harlem, Hall's book is all about friendship, exploration, and keeping an open mind. Pre-order before it's released on March 25, 2025.
Your book is so full of curiosity and travel, do you have any travel essentials/must-haves?
Hieoby Magnetic Puzzles, Two-Book Set
When Tamron travels with Moses, she looks for "games that are great learning tools and seem very fun from a child's perspective." She also loves magnetic puzzles. "They're fun to do on the plane and you don't have to worry about pieces falling everywhere."
Any essentials for traveling with kids?
Micro Kickboard Scooter Luggage Junior
"We have a really cool suitcase with wheels for my son. The Micro Scooter Luggage Junior LED. It’s great to pack all of his books and snacks, but also keep him entertained and keep his little legs moving through the airport."
What's a great gift under $50?
First Sticker Book Airport, by Sam Smith on Amazon
"I am a fan of sticker books," Tamron says. "It's a great way to distract them on the plane. They're easy to carry once you find what they like." This sticker book is all about the airport, which can make it fun for kids to get on planes -- or you can choose from trains and more.
What's a gift you've received that you get so much use out of?
Nanit Pro Baby Monitor
"The Nanit camera. Even though my son is now older, it’s the best. We travel will the Nanit camera and it is a lifesaver."
What’s a good host gift you can give to anybody?
Apotheke Sea Salt Grapefruit Classic Candle
"I'm still a fan of a good candle. I know people have very specific things that they like as far as scents, but I think anything light, and refreshing will be appreciated. And if they want to regift it, it's not so hard to regift." We love this bright candle with a light citrus scent.
What’s a great white elephant gift under $25?
SUNEE 2025 Pocket Weekly Planner
"I am giving them a little calendar notebook. I am still an old school person. I love my phone. I keep my phone glued in my hand at all times, but I love a little calendar journal that you can jot things down and it's something that anyone can find a reason to use." This handy 2025 calendar comes in 8 colorways.
What is your go-to stocking stuffer?
Sugarfina Strawberry Champagne Bears Gummy - Small Candy Cube
"I love giving out Sugarfina gummy candies."
Do you have a go-to gift for kids?
Orba by Artiphon, Portable synth, looper, and MIDI controller
"It’s this little round music box player." The Orba allows anyone to make music right from the palm of their hand. You can create beats, loops, and layer drums, bass, and more, plus play it all through the built-in speaker or pair it with the app.
What is your favorite part about celebrating the holidays?
A Confident Cook: Recipes for Joyous, No-Pressure Fun in the Kitchen, by Tamron Hall & Lish Steiling
"My favorite part is of course, being with my family and friends. I enjoy cooking dinners at my home, I just released a cookbook, and putting on a movie after. I love it when guests stay hours and hours."
Does your family have a yearly holiday tradition?
Classic Blue Spruce Trees, 4.5 feet
"Themed Christmas trees are a big tradition in my house. We are really invested in our Christmas tree. We do pretty elaborate Christmas trees. I've had Paw Patrol theme. I've had Sesame Street theme. Last year was Disney Pixar cars theme." There are some great Black Friday deals on fake trees right now -- take a look at this realistic spruce with clear lights.
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—Originally published November 21, 2024, at 10:47 AM PT.
English (US) ·