59 Best Christmas Gifts for Kids
It’s that time of year again—holiday shopping season! (Ho, ho, ho.) At this stage, you most likely have some experience sourcing the best holiday gifts for baby—but shopping for tots and little kids is a whole different ball game. Between the ages of one and 3, toddlers hit some major developmental milestones and begin to form a strong sense of likes and dislikes (phew, no pressure!). Overwhelmed by endless toy options? To keep the holiday cheer afloat, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you, and curated the latest and greatest toddler Christmas gifts for girls and boys. But if you have an older child, don’t worry: Big kids will have no problem telling you what they want to see under the tree on December 25. Of course, it’s always handy to have some extra options in your back pocket. That’s why we’ve selected the very best Christmas gifts for kids over the age of 3 too.
Now, finding the perfect holiday presents won’t call for making a list and checking it twice. Get ready to call your holiday shopping a wrap, so you can finally relax and be your jolly, festive self again. Shopping for the whole family? Check out our holiday gift guides for parents and grandparents to find the best grownup presents to give this year.
In this article:
Best toddler Christmas gifts for one-year-olds
Best toddler Christmas gifts for 2-year-olds
Best toddler Christmas gifts for 3-year-olds
Best kids’ Christmas gifts for 4-year-olds
Best kids’ Christmas gifts for 5-year-olds and up
Your little angel isn’t a baby anymore, but isn’t exactly a big kid either. Wondering what Christmas toys are best for this early stage of toddlerhood? At 12 months old, children can typically sit and may even start to take their first tottering steps. They’re also fine-tuning other senses, and like to look and listen simultaneously. With this in mind, musical instruments, sensory toys and baby walkers make great gifts for newly minted toddlers. Need some shopping inspiration? Here are the top Christmas gifts for kids that have hit the one-year mark.
Toy subscription for babies and toddlers

For toddler Christmas gifts that keep coming all year round, sign up for a toy subscription. KiwiCo’s bi-monthly boxes are packed with fun, educational toys and projects designed to promote the development of essential math, language and cognitive skills. Plus, each box includes tips on how to continue to use the products as your child grows. Kick things off with the Panda Crate for 0- to 2-year-olds, or advance to the Koala Crate if your child is 2 to 4 years old.
Age: 0 to 4 years
Classic kids’ book with a Christmas twist

Books make great Christmas gifts for kids of any age—but they’re particularly good for children with ever-expanding vocabularies (babies typically say their first words between 9 and 12 months). Featuring illustrations by Eric Carle, this board book offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane for parents and an exciting adventure for little readers. Lift the flaps and follow the very hungry caterpillar through a winter wonderland, filled with polar bears, penguins and even Santa Claus.
Age: One to 3 years
Baby and toddler learning bot

Composed of four individual bots that can be combined to create one big robot, this toy has multiple play options for every stage of development. Young toddlers will love the ball-popper and spinning arms, while slightly older children can sing along with over 120 songs, practice their ABC’s and practice their building skills.
Age: 6 months to 5 years
Toddler wobble board

This seemingly simple piece of wood can be a surfboard, a bridge, a slide or a mountain—there’s no limit to your little one’s imagination. When standing, sitting or sliding on the board, toddlers will improve their balance and strength too, making this one of the best Christmas gift ideas for kids working on their gross motor skills.
Age: 12 months to 6 years
Toddler stacking toy
Be prepared: This toddler Christmas gift can be as absorbing for parents as it is for kids. Each of the three wobble toys is weighted differently, so they balance, nest and spin in more ways than you might imagine. It’s a good way for your tot to work on those all-important fine motor skills and coordination.
Age: 6 months to 2 years
Book and pajama set

Searching for a special present to unwrap on Christmas eve? This adorably festive pajama and book set is just the thing. Dress your child in the jolly cotton PJs and crack open the storybook 'Twas the Night Before Christmas for guaranteed holiday cheer.
Age: 6 months to 2 years
Suction cup bath toys

This year, toddler Christmas toys are headed to the bath! These translucent jellyfish suction to the tile, tub and even each other. ‘Nuff said.
Age: One+
Macrame swing

If you want a break from the deluge of plastic Christmas toys for toddlers, consider this chic, bohemian swing. Handcrafted by artisans in India, the macrame swing can be used indoors or outdoors, and is suitable for babies and toddlers up to 40 pounds.
Age: One+
Baby bear walking toy

Steady your little walker with this unique push toy. It’s tricked out with colorful blocks and has a sturdy wooden handle that your tot can lean on for support. Plus, the polar-bear design makes it a perfect Christmas gift for kids.
Age: One+
Interactive music toy

Next up is one of the hottest toddler Christmas toys of 2022, as chosen by Toy Insider. Tots will love bopping along with the beat as the DJ toy lights up and bounces in time to the music. It has three play modes and is programmed with fun phrases, songs, numbers and the alphabet.
Age: 9 months to 3 years
Toddler ball pit

If you’re stuck inside and searching for Christmas gifts for kids they’ll play with daily, look no further than a ball pit. We love the soft, organic fabric and neutral color scheme of this one (you can choose the ball colors!), so that it doesn’t look completely out of place in your living room.
Age: 7 months+
Building block set

These may look like traditional blocks, but small magnets are safely hidden inside, so they click together seamlessly. This 42-piece set has columns, short and long planks, cubes, parallelograms and even wheels. It’s age-graded for the youngest of toddlers, but is sure to be played with for years to come, making it one of the best Christmas gift ideas for kids of all ages.
Age: One+
Ride-on toy

The coolest Christmas gifts for toddlers? Classic ride-on toys topped off with big red bows. This option by Radio Flyer is the perfect vehicle to transport your little tyke from point A to B in style. It’s easy to steer, has wide-set front wheels for safety and includes built-in storage under the seat. Score!
Age: One to 3
Busy 2-year-olds are vocal about their likes and dislikes—but these temperamental tots can change their mind at the drop of a hat. Avoid a meltdown on Christmas morning with gifts that help them practice their motor skills and engage in open-ended play. The best Christmas presents for kids age 2 and up include crayons, blocks and plush toys that encourage creativity.
Christmas book and stuffed animal

This personalized storybook is a lyrical lullaby that features a magical sugarplum fairy who waves her wand to spread festive cheer. Better yet, this set includes a cute, plush polar bear for your kiddo to cuddle.
Age: 0 to 6 years
Vehicle building set

Sure, kids love playing with cars, boats and planes. But it’s even better when they can build the vehicles themselves. These toddler Christmas toys are perfect for budding engineers, who can mix and match the pieces with the help of an included play screwdriver.
Age: 2+
Convertible jacket

Looking for unique Christmas gift ideas for kids? This pick is actually two presents in one—a cute character hoodie and a cuddly plush toy. The lightweight jacket folds up into a zippered pouch to form a fuzzy friend they’re sure to love long after they outgrow the sweatshirt. Plus, with a huge selection of designs featuring adorable animals and popular characters from Star Wars, Disney and more, you’re sure to find one your tot will adore.
Age: 2+
Toy wagon

If you have a few small Christmas toys stashed away, but are still looking for a big present to place under the tree, this may well be the one. The wagon is the perfect size and shape for toddlers and preschoolers to pull along by the rope handle. Plus, it’s supremely sturdy.
Age: 18 months+
Gaming chair

Another trending toy for the holiday season is this pick by VTech. Your little one can be just like the big-kid gamers with a swivel chair complete with a joystick and headphones. It also boasts an interactive tablet that teaches letters, numbers and more with fun sound effects. Worried about your child’s online security? Don’t fret, this gaming chair doesn’t actually have a WiFi connection.
Age: 18 months to 4 years
Interactive book

Learning new words has never been more fun. Guided by pals Turtle, Tiger and Monkey, kids can broaden their vocabulary by touching the words on the pages to hear them spoken aloud, along with exciting sound effects and fun facts. Bonus: The words and songs can be heard in both English and Spanish, making it one of the best toddler Christmas gifts for bilingual families.
Age: 18 months to 4 years
CoComelon plush doll

It’s JJ! CoComelon mega-fans will be delighted to receive this interactive doll from the hit children’s show. Tots can press JJ’s tummy to hear him sing or tend to his boo boos with the included medical bag. This trendy Christmas gift for toddlers is sure to sell out fast—so don’t miss out.
Age: 2+
Musical instrument set

Toddler Christmas gifts that are music to their ears? Found! Your little one’s first music class is in session. This all-in-one crocodile instrument includes a drum, metallophone, guiro wooden block and bell. It comes with two mallets, making it perfect for play date duets.
Age: 2+
LEGO block set

When it comes to choosing the perfect Christmas gifts for toddler boys or girls, you can’t go wrong with a classic block set. Designed specifically for tiny hands, this building kit from LEGO lets little ones build to their heart’s content. They’ll have so much fun building, they won’t suspect they’re honing their motor skills and critical thinking while they’re at it.
Age: 18 months+
Plush doll

One of the sweetest Christmas gifts for a toddler girl or boy: these classic soft dolls sport chenille hair, embroidered features and clothing that’s easy to take on and off. The durable dolls have a weighted bottom, allowing them to sit on their own and withstand rough play. The best part? They’re machine-washable.
Age: 18 months+
Mr. Potato head

This retro toy is sure to bring a smile to the faces of kids and adults alike. Toddlers can get creative and come up with new, wacky ways to accessorize the Potato Head family, while parents will enjoy the trip down memory lane as they get in on the playtime fun. (Plus, mini-fans of the classic movie Toy Story will be delighted to see their favorite characters come to life!)
Age: 2+
Kid-friendly crayons

Most kids are happy to scribble away, but classic crayons can be hard to grip. That’s why we’re so excited about Crayola’s Palm Grasp Crayons. These egg-shaped colors are perfectly sized for little hands, meaning kiddos can let the creativity flow. Better yet, these long-lasting crayons have a washable formula, so parents don’t need to stress if their little one goes off-page.
Age: One+
At 3 years old your little one is a fully-fledged toddler and is likely starting to voice plenty of ideas (read: opinions) about the Christmas toys that show up under the tree. No worries, we’ve put together a list of good Christmas gifts for kids that won’t disappoint your little elf. From dress-up outfits and plushies to interactive toys that’ll keep your kiddo entertained during the festivities.
Snuggler and storybook

Looking for kid’s Christmas gifts with purpose? Slumberkins toys help young children to develop social-emotional skills. This winter-themed book and stuffed animal set is all about celebrating your authentic self. Talk about a sweet message for the holidays!
Age: 3 to 8
Engineer kit

For Christmas gifts for kids who are into robots, pick up this engineering kit that comes with a companion storybook. First, read the funny tale of two kids on an adventure in a candy factory, and then build the robot models.
Age: 3+
Ice cream truck playset

All the kids will be screaming for ice cream this holiday season, thanks to this sweet play cart. Toddlers can use the soft-serve machine and scooping station to create tasty PlayDoh sundaes, before topping them off with the sprinkle maker. Built-in sound effects and a toy cash register add to the fun. Hooray for creative Christmas toys for toddlers!
Age: 2 to 5
Festive magna-tiles set

Magnatiles were chosen as one of our top toys for children ages 3 and up, which means they’re also one of the best Christmas gift ideas for kids who are a bit older. These nifty magnetic tiles let your kid’s imagination run wild—there’s an endless combination of things to create and build. Bonus: They’re also surprisingly chic. Pick up a classic set, or opt for a seasonal building kit like this jolly gingerbread house. The tiles reverse between multiple floors, roofs and walls, allowing children to build infinite creations.
Age: 3+
Wooden train set

Take a ride through a mountain trail with this toy by Tender Leaf Toys. Crafted from sustainable rubber wood, the set comes with interlocking train tracks, two carriages, animal figurines, fir trees and a cozy alpine chalet. Your little one will have a blast as they load and unload the carriages and disconnect and re-build the track pieces, building fine motor skills and encouraging imaginative play along the way!
Age: 3+
Wooden play food

It’s the classic preschool pretend game: serving up a tasty snack to family and friends. This wooden toy set includes a wooden crate, utensils and delicious fruit ready to be sliced and diced. Your little chef will love serving up this healthy treat again and again.
Age: 3+
Educational globe

When it comes to good Christmas gifts for kids, you’ll want to pick things that are both fun and educational. That’s where this puzzle globe comes in. It’ll teach your child to identify continents, oceans and some famous landmarks, but makes learning fun with an engaging puzzle concept.
Age: 3+
Christmas tree costume

Thought dressing up was just for Halloween? Think again. This adorably festive Christmas tree cape will make your little one’s eyes light up in delight. Crafted from layers of soft tulle and embellished with candy canes, baubles and stars, this Christmas gift for kids is sure to be the highlight of your holiday season.
Age: 3 to 6
Doll house

Dollhouses make great Christmas gifts for girls and boys, as they encourage imaginative play and emotional intelligence. This stylish wood design has three floors and open sides meaning it’s a great gift for siblings who love playing make-believe together. Plus, it comes fully furnished, so your kids’ dolls or figurines are ready to move right in.
Age: 3+
Dinosaur playset

Dinosaur-related gear usually makes good Christmas gifts for boys and girls. We love this prehistoric playset that’ll transport your child to the land that time forgot. It comes with eight figurines, a waterfall, a freestanding tree and a nest complete with dinosaur eggs. Simply slot the wooden pieces together, and get ready for some seriously roar-some play!
Age: 3+
Play tent

This play tent is the perfect place for your little one to retreat to if they need a little downtime amid family festivities. During the day, it boasts a cool constellation pattern, but when you turn out the lights the stars emit a soft, twinkling glow. How magical!
Age: 3+
Shopping for preschoolers? At this age, children will have no problem telling you what they want for the holidays. But if you’re not privy to their wishlist or need a helping hand sourcing some surprise presents, we’ve gathered the best Christmas gifts for kids ages 4 and up.
Toy camera

Let your child capture precious memories with this cool camera by VTech. The kid-friendly camera snaps and prints pictures as quick as a flash. Plus, the print-outs can be turned into stickers or drawings that your little one can color in. Talk about clever Christmas gifts for kids!
Age: 4+
Night light

Celebrate the season of love and light with this super-sweet handmade nightlight. It’s made from safe, non-toxic materials with an LED light to scare off any monsters lurking under the bed. The wooden deer version is lovely and festive, but there are plenty more options to choose from, including a dinosaur light. Older kids will also appreciate the fact that it’s personalized with their name.
Age: 0+
Advent calendar and puzzle pack

Looking for a little something to get kids hyped for the holidays? Check out this advent calendar and puzzle gift set. Kids can start the day with the peel-and-stick advent calendar and then spend some time working on a festive jigsaw puzzle, featuring Santa and his helpers.
Age: 4 to 6
Reindeer toy

Here’s a suggestion for those family members clamoring for your wishlist of kids’ Christmas gifts. A soft, snuggly stuffed animal. This friendly reindeer is ready to be cuddled throughout the season and beyond. While it’s pegged as safe from birth onwards, this toy has beaded eyes, so it’s best suited for children over the age of 3.
Age: 0+
Wooden sled

A sled is a classic Christmas gift for kids, and we can see why. Sledding is a fun outdoor activity the whole family can enjoy (as long as you get the weather for it!). Built to last for generations, this model is made from kiln-dried northern hardwood and boasts a water-repellent cushioned seat.
Age: 3+
Color-change pets

Take kids on a colorful adventure with Crayola’s Arctic Snow Explorer set. Budding artists can scribble all over the cute polar bear, walrus and snowy owl—then brush them clean and start all over again. Better yet, these pets change color in the cold! Simply stick them in the freezer, or take them outside on a cold winter day, and watch them transform. How cool is that?
Age: 3+
Light-up scooter

If you put this on your little one’s list, be prepared for the grandparents to duke it out over who gets to buy your kiddo’s first scooter. The three-wheel scooter has a colorful glow-stick column that lights up as kids ride faster and rewards them with a special light show when they reach maximum speed. Plus, the lean-to-turn steering helps kids develop their motor skills, and the lightweight frame makes it easy to carry and store. Just make sure you pick up a helmet to go with it!
Age: 2 to 5
Kid’s guitar

With this rockstar of Christmas toys, children will be super-keen to practice their guitar skills. The electric guitar has a built-in amp, and the accompanying app helps kids learn to play songs—not just scales or exercises—in as little as one day. Wow!
Age: 3+
Croquet set

Another wooden stunner, this well-made Christmas gift for kids teaches them a simplified version of croquet. Get the whole family involved and take turns knocking balls through each holiday-themed hoop. This classic game encourages hand-eye coordination and helps children blow off a little steam.
Age: 3+
Audio player

Another must-have taking the world by storm is the Toniebox. Designed with kids in mind, this audio system plays stories, songs and more. Simply turn it on, pop a Tonie character on top and let the listening adventure begin! The starter set includes the device and a Tonie compilation to get the story started.
Age: 3 to 6
Art easel

For emerging artists, this multi-use easel is a must-have among our picks of Christmas gifts for kids. It includes a chalkboard, a white magnetic board, chalk, paint, a paint brush and an eraser. All that’s left is for you to stand back and watch your little painter get to work!
Age: 3+
Ride-on train set

Another Christmas toy we predict will be a runaway success is this ride-on train by FAO Schwarz. Yep, that’s right your kiddo can actually climb aboard and operate the train themselves! Bonus features like built-in sound effects and a working headlight ensure your kiddo gets the full locomotive experience.
Age: 3+
Let’s round out our list of the best Christmas gifts for kids with a few options for 5-year-olds. At this age, children are honing their problem-solving skills and looking for creative outlets. With this in mind, we’ve gathered a collection of books, games and toys that are age-appropriate and endlessly fun.
Personalized book

How about a personalized Christmas tale starring your family? This book by Wonderbly can be customized with up to five characters based on members of your family. You can also choose from four jolly covers, add your surname to the title and write a dedication message to go inside the front cover.
Age: 0 to 8
Fluffy headphones

Looking for a Christmas gift for kids that are too cool for school? This fluffy pair of unicorn-themed headphones might just do the trick. Your child can rock out to their favorite tunes or watch YouTube without disturbing the rest of the family. Anything for a bit of peace and quiet!
Age: 5+
Karaoke machine

Looking for Christmas gift ideas for kids with a penchant for performance? Look no further than this stand-up karaoke machine and microphone. Your child can take center stage (with you as their rapt audience, of course) and sing along to eight original songs. They can also record their own musical masterpieces for up to five minutes.
Age: 5 to 9
Reversible octopus plushie

This cute little octopus has taken TikTok by storm—and we’re here for it. Not only is it super-soft and cuddly, it actually flips inside out to reveal a cranky alter-ego. It’s a great Christmas gift for kids that find it hard to communicate their emotions.
Age: 3+
Magical crystal ball

Add a sprinkle of fairy dust to Christmas morning with Magic Mixies Crystal Ball. This super-trendy Christmas gift for girls and boys is brand new to the market and featured on Toy Insider’s hot list. Wave the magic wand, say the magic words and watch as the mist clears and your kid's new furry friend appears quicker than you can say “abracadabra!”
Age: 5+
Pokemon game

The Pokemon Trainer Mission Game will keep kids entertained long after the festivities wrap up. The handheld device is screen-free and encourages kids to run, jump, crawl and hop in their pursuit of rare pokemon.
Age: 5+
Play makeup

Let kids express their individuality with this play makeup set by Klee. It’s made from child-safe ingredients and is free from artificial dyes, fragrances, heavy mineral oils and other petrochemical ingredients. Plus, this set has a holiday theme, making it a perfect Christmas gift for kids.
Age: 3+
Board game

Nothing beats a board game for family fun. We like this penguin-themed pick by eeBoo. Based on the nesting habits of Gentoo penguins, kids and adults take turns collecting stones and building a comfortable nest for the baby chicks.
Age: 5+
Color-in pajamas

Cute pajamas are one of the best Christmas gift ideas for kids (and adults!). But this set is extra-special because children get to color in the Christmas-themed design themselves. Believe it or not, the marker ink will withstand the washing machine too, so they can wear their artwork over and over again.
Age: 3 to 8
Storybook projector

Calling all bookworms! Check out the Moonlite story projector. This pint-size projector clips onto your smartphone, and using its flashlight casts amazing illustrations from classic books onto the wall or ceiling. It’s a sweet addition to any kid’s bedtime routine.
Age: 3 to 7
Coding robot

Did you know that you can buy Christmas gifts for kids that teach them how to code? Yes, really! This tech-savvy robot arrives fully charged and responds to voice commands from the get-go. With the help of five free apps (and the real mastermind: your kid), Dash will explore loops, events and sequences that involve problem-solving and storytelling. The possibilities are truly endless. (One thing to note is that this toy skews a little older.)
Age: 6 years
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