As two SLPs and moms of young children, we try to be intentional about the gifts we buy for our kids. We know that sometimes less is more, so when shopping for Christmas, holidays, and other special occasions, we look for gifts that are high-quality, built to last, and offer plenty of opportunities for play and learning. Before we get into our recommendations, here's a little more about what we consider when choosing gifts for our own kids.
What We Look for When Choosing Gifts for Kids
When choosing gifts or making suggestions for family members, we think about these things:
- Longevity: Can I picture my child playing with this toy for months or even years?
- Versatility: Is this toy only good for one purpose, or can it be used in a variety of ways?
- Durability and maintenance: Is it durable, easy to maintain, and unlikely to lose essential pieces?
- Opportunities for connection: Does this gift create opportunities for us to play, connect, and learn together?
Note: There is always that random small toy that ends up being a favorite by far (looking at you, pop toys). Don’t give yourself analysis paralysis when shopping!
Best Gifts for Kids: Our Picks
Every gift on this list is something we've either purchased ourselves or received for our own children. These are the toys and products that have become favorites in our households! We've organized our recommendations by gift category and approximate age range to make browsing a little easier.
Age ranges are approximate. Always check manufacturer recommendations and consider your child's individual abilities and interests when selecting gifts.
Everyday Toys & Mid-Sized Gifts
- Babies (0-12 months): Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker, Kick & Play Piano Gym, Baby Gym Play Mat
- Toddlers (1-3 years): Little People Farm Set, Toy Piano, Dinosaur Building Block Set, Toddler Tower, Stepping Stones
- Preschool & up (4+ years): LeapFrog Globe, LEGO Classic Set, Marble Run
The LeapFrog Globe is a favorite for kids and parents alike. It makes learning about different countries and the world accessible and fun. We also love that the stylus is attached to the globe, so it's one less piece to worry about losing!
Stocking Stuffers & Small Gifts
- Babies (0-12 months): Finger puppet book, Baby Squishy Alligator, Teether ball and rattle, Hedgehog teething mitten
- Toddlers (1-3 years): Water Wow book, reusable sticker books, pop tubes, handheld cars
- Preschool & up (4+ years): Kinetic Sand, LCD Writing Tablet, Walkie Talkies
As mentioned earlier, pop tubes have become an unexpected favorite in our home. Stretching and shrinking them, making sounds, rolling them around, and connecting the ends to create circles or even crowns are just some of the ways we use them!
Big Ticket Gifts for Kids
- Babies (0-12 months): Skip Hop Baby Activity Center, Lovevery Play Kits, Baby Bjorn Bouncer
- Toddlers (1-3 years): Toniebox, Nugget Couch, Toddler Indoor Climbing Toy
- Preschool & up (4+ years): Yoto, Mini 3D Printer, 100 Piece Magna-Tiles
I received a Lovevery Play Kit subscription as a group baby shower gift and I am so grateful. While the play kits are pricier than other toys, they are high quality, durable, and still in regular rotation in our home.
Practical Gifts for Kids
- Babies (0-12 months): Squeeze and Sip Straw Cup, silicone bibs, baby bunting suit, blackout tent for pack and play
- Toddlers (1-3 years): Owala Water Bottle, stainless steel silverware, Ten Little first walker shoes
- Preschool & up (4+ years): Bentgo lunchbox, early reading skills kit, magnetic calendar and responsibility chart
The Squeeze and Sip Straw Cup, silicone bibs, and Ten Little shoes are used daily in our home! They are true staples that we love. We especially love the design of the Ten Little shoes and how easy they are to put on and take off, which is an added win!
More Gift Ideas for Kids: Books, Games, and Toys
Looking for even more gift ideas? We have additional lists of the books, games, and other toys we also love! Check them out:
- 20+ Best Books for Speech and Language
- Best Board Games for Speech Therapy (and home)
- Best Toys for Speech and Language Development
Why Play Matters: An SLP Perspective
Play is an essential part of early childhood, and it's one of the primary ways young children learn about the world around them. Through play, children naturally develop important skills, including communication, problem-solving, fine and gross motor coordination, and social interaction. The gifts we've included in this guide offer opportunities to support one or more of these skills, and they're all items you would find in our homes today!
Closing Thoughts
At the end of the day, the best gift a child can have is the presence and love of their parents and caregivers. They don’t need the “best” or most expensive toy; they need love, support, and a safe environment. Whether your holiday includes a pile of presents or just a few small surprises, remember that the time, attention, and love you share with your children matter far more than what's under the tree.
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