I spy some popular invisible ink pens that belong in the kids' stockings this year — get a pack on sale for $9

Still need some gifts for your kids, grandkids, nieces and nephews? More specifically, gifts they won't toss aside as soon as they open them? We've got the goods: Maleden Invisible Ink Pens. These top-sellers are super popular among Yahoo readers this year, and for good reason. Creating cryptic messages is loads of fun for both kids and the — ahem — young at heart, they don't make a mess and they're affordable to boot. Plus, revealing what you've jotted down using the cap's built-in UV light is ridiculously satisfying. Get a pack (or five!) while they're on sale at Amazon.

Oh, and for even more gift ideas for the whole family, be sure to check out our roundup of the best stocking stuffers.

Amazon

Maleden Invisible Ink Pens, 6-Pack

$9

These popular pens are designed for children 3 and up, but don't be surprised if you find yourself having fun with them, too!

$9 at Amazon

Why is this a good holiday deal?

Stocking stuffers should ideally cost well below $30, so at just $9 for a six-pack, this set fits the bill. And not only that, this is also one of the lowest prices we've seen all year, so we recommend snagging them while they're 40% off!

Why do I need this?

Trending gifts for kids seem to change by the minute, but invisible ink? That magic will stand the test of time. What's great about the Maleden Invisible Ink Pens is that they come with batteries, so the little ones will be able to start playing with them right out of the package. Plus, they come in different colors, so each child can have their own should you decide to divvy them up. (Just note, the ink color is the same across the board.) Best of all, they allow kids to use their imaginations, keeping them entertained free of any screen time.

According to the brand, the ink can be used on practically any surface, from paper to clothing and beyond. And while it is permanent, it's also washable. We'll take invisible ink scribbles on our walls over purple Sharpie any day!

What reviewers say

With over 6,000 perfect ratings from Amazon customers, the Maleden Invisible Ink Pens are a huge hit among gift givers and recipients alike.

"Fun, fun and more fun for kids!" exclaimed one excited shopper. "I used these pens on Christmas gift tags. [My] grandkids needed the secret light to see the names on [the] tags. They had a blast!"

And they're not just for kids. "I bought the Maleden Invisible Ink Pens for my four grandkids and they all love to use them to write secret messages," wrote another five-star reviewer. "I have to admit, at 66 years old I kinda like using them too."

"The pen set has brought a whole new level of fun and excitement to our family's games and activities," raved a final fan. "My kids and I have been enjoying endless hours of spy-themed adventures and mystery-solving missions. ... It's been a fantastic way to keep them engaged and entertained, especially during playdates and rainy days indoors" Their one note? "The invisible ink works best on plain white paper or light-colored surfaces. When used on dark or heavily textured paper, the writing may not be as clear or visible under the UV light."

Amazon

Maleden Invisible Ink Pens, 6-Pack

$9

At this price, snag a few backup sets to have on hand when the kids inevitably lose theirs. 

$9 at Amazon

Another affordable classic? The Original Slinky!

Amazon

The Original Slinky

$4$5Save $1

On sale for just two bucks (60% off), this stretchy plaything is a no-brainer. Appropriate for kids 5 and up. 

$4 at Amazon

Explore More Buying Options

$4 at Walmart$4 at Kohl's

If you have Amazon Prime, you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.)

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

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