When it’s time for birthdays or Christmas, finding the best toys for kids can be overwhelming. We test toys year-round, focusing on safety, durability, and fun.
This year’s top gifts for kids include brain-stimulating games, puzzles, STEM sets, fidget toys, and sensory toys. Whether trendy or timeless, these picks are sure to delight.
22 Best Gifts for Kids of All Ages
1. Personalized Neon Sign
Make a kid’s room extra special with a custom neon sign featuring their name. You can choose the font, color, and size for a unique touch. No age recommendation given, suitable for any age.
2. Fisher-Price Wake Up & Learn Coffee Mug
Perfect for little ones fascinated by grown-up gadgets. This travel mug has fun features like rattle beads, sounds, songs, and clackers to entertain kids ages 6 months and up.
3. Fat Brain Toys bilibo by MOLUK
A versatile toy that sparks imagination. It can be used as a seat, doll crib, or anything else kids dream up. Recommended for ages 2 and up.
4. Crazy Forts
Take blanket forts to the next level with these building kits. Kids can construct intricate structures using rods and connectors. This version even glows in the dark for added excitement. Note: Sheets not included. Recommended for ages 5 and up.
5. Evergreen
A beloved book with beautiful illustrations, perfect for ages 2 to 5. It tells the story of a squirrel delivering soup, reminiscent of classic fairy tales.
6. Hover Soccer Ball
Bring the excitement of air hockey to your living room. This hover soccer ball glides over smooth surfaces, providing active indoor fun without damaging walls or furniture. Suitable for ages 3 and up.
7. Kanoodle
This brainteaser game, popularized by the #KanoodleChallenge on TikTok, has sold over 3 million copies. Players fit pieces to match 2D or 3D patterns. Suitable for ages 7 and up, with variations for different levels of challenge.
8. Cake Pop Maker
Kids can make their own cake pops with this easy-to-use kit. Bake 12 at a time and experiment with recipes and decorations. No age recommendation is given.
9. Squishmallows Plush Mystery Pack
Get three surprise 8″ Squishmallows in one pack. Perfect for ages 3 and up.
10. MYNT3D Super 3D Pen
Let kids explore 3D printing with this pen. No age recommendation is given, making it suitable for all ages interested in unleashing their creativity.
11. Artie 3000 Coding Robot
Start coding early with this robot that draws what kids program. Ideal for ages 7 and up.
12. Floor Pillow Lounger
Simply fill with five bed pillows (not included) for instant comfort. Great for sleepovers, reading, or napping. No age recommendation given.
13. BrainBolt Genius
Challenge minds and fingers with flashing lights patterns to repeat. Suitable for ages 7 and up, with various play modes available.
14. Moon Lamp
Bring the beauty of the night sky indoors with this 3D-printed lamp resembling the moon’s surface. It illuminates in 16 different colors and comes in four sizes. No age recommendation given.
Learn more: moon lamp review
15. Magic Mixies Magical Misting Crystal Ball
Witness the emergence of a “Mixie” from mist inside the crystal ball. Recommended for ages 5 and up.
16. Gravity Maze Marble Run
Exercise critical thinking with this STEM game. With 60 challenge cards, kids arrange towers to complete marble runs, honing their engineering skills. Recommended for ages 8 and up.
17. GeoSafari Jr. Talking Microscope
Explore wildlife up close with this educational toy. Featuring Bindi Irwin’s voice, it offers facts about plants and animals, with quiz mode for interactive learning. Suitable for ages 4 and up.
18. Hasbro Inc. Furby
Winner of the Best Toy Award, the Furby returns with upgrades including more phrases and dance moves. Also available are smaller Furblets that interact with the main toy. Recommended for ages 6 and up.
19. Air Hogs Remote Control Car
This RC car rolls over obstacles with ease and won’t damage floors. Suitable for ages 5 and up.
20. Got2Glow Fairy Finder
Discover over 30 fairies in this magical jar, with opportunities for trading and interactive play. Testers enjoyed finding hidden tricks and new additions like Baby Fairy Finder and Pet Fairy Finder. Recommended for ages 5 and up.
21. GlowCity Glow in The Dark Football
Keep the fun going after dark with this glow-in-the-dark football. Includes six batteries with 30 hours of glow time. No age recommendation given.
22. LeapFrog Rainbow Learning Lights Mixer
Kids can pretend to bake with this set featuring spinning mixer and lights. Includes recipe cards for interactive play. Recommended for ages 2 and up.
How to Choose Best Gifts for Kids of All Ages
Choosing the best gifts for kids of all ages can be a rewarding experience. Here’s a guide to help you select the perfect gift:
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Consider Their Interests: Think about what the child enjoys doing or what they’re passionate about. Whether it’s a specific hobby, activity, or character, choosing a gift related to their interests shows that you’ve put thought into it.
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Age-Appropriate: Pay attention to the recommended age range for the gift. This ensures that it’s safe and suitable for the child’s developmental stage. Gifts that are too advanced may frustrate or overwhelm them, while those that are too simple may not hold their interest.
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Educational Value: Look for gifts that provide educational benefits such as enhancing learning, creativity, problem-solving skills, or physical development. Toys and games that stimulate the mind while being enjoyable are ideal choices.
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Quality and Durability: Opt for gifts that are well-made and durable, especially for younger children who may be rough with their toys. High-quality gifts are more likely to withstand wear and tear, providing long-lasting enjoyment.
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Engagement and Interaction: Choose gifts that encourage social interaction, whether it’s playing with friends or family members. Interactive toys, games, or activities promote communication, teamwork, and bonding experiences.
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Variety and Versatility: Consider gifts that offer a range of activities or experiences to keep kids entertained and engaged. Versatile gifts that can be used in different ways or adapted to different interests are often appreciated.
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Personalization: For a special touch, consider personalized gifts that reflect the child’s name, interests, or preferences. Personalization adds a unique and meaningful element to the gift, making it more memorable.
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Safety First: Prioritize safety when choosing gifts for kids. Avoid toys with small parts that could pose a choking hazard, sharp edges, or potentially harmful materials. Always check for safety certifications and reviews before making a purchase.
By keeping these factors in mind and tailoring your gift choice to the individual child, you can select the best gifts for kids of all ages that are sure to bring joy and excitement.