This is based on what I’ve seen already sell out several times, what my 3 year old and 1 year old are interested in, and what I see trending! **This post may contain affiliate links. A small commission may be earned.**
As I’ve been researching for the best toys to get my toddler this Christmas season, I’ve seen a lot of toys already come in and sell out. I also know what my toddler loves and has continued to play with throughout the year. This list is purely based on what I think the coolest gifts are this year for toddlers!
- Light Box
This has sold out several times already (and it’s under $25?!). My toddler hasn’t played with hers yet (it’s wrapped up for Christmas, but I know she is going to love it! It comes with three transparencies that have pictures on it that your toddler can fill in with the transparent shapes. It’s sort of light a color by numbers!
Sensory Light Box
There is another version of this light box that transforms it into a sensory box as well! You can shine the light through water and have a fun interactive time.
**UPDATE** We tested out this version finally and if it is in stock it is the WINNER. My toddler played with it for almost 3 hours the first day we opened it up. What I really love about it how much it comes with to encourage the play and of course the sensory top.
I’ll write a full review soon with all the ways we are playing with it, but if it’s in stock – it’ the one to buy! The other light box is cool, but if you have a 2, 3, or 4 year old the sensory option and educational cues are really awesome.
2. Balance Beams
First let me start by saying these all stack into each other for EASY STORAGE. Yupp, you read that correctly. They’re great for indoor or outdoor play and help your little on to work on their balance in a fun way!
3. Spiderman Car and Friends
My 3 year old is currently obsessed with Spiderman and this set is so cool. It starts as one big car they all ride in and then you can shoot off the two side motorcycles. This will make for some awesome imaginative play for your toddler.
4. Bluey Playset
I really wanted to say the Hammerbarn one because that one is truly the best (but every time I’ve checked it’s been sold out). I’ll still link it in case it comes back in stock, but there are 2 other fun sets that I think are going to be awesome alternatives.
Bluey’s House with Socks and Muffin
5. VTech Wagon
This one is great if you have a younger toddler (though I know my three year old will love it too, it will last years with my 1 year old). It is interactive, but still functions as a wagon. Great for play and learning!
6. Play Kitchen
If you don’t already have a play kitchen, it is a must in my opinion. My two toddlers play in their play kitchen daily! I have a whole list of beautiful kitchens that would make a perfect addition to your home.
Toy Kitchens Under $150
Beautiful Toy Kitchens
If you already have a toy kitchen – here are some adorable wooden accessories you can add to your kitchen this holiday season!
7. Magnatiles Kits
I’ll list a couple of our favorites, but you really can’t go wrong with any of them! They come with all the pieces you need to create the item and are so fun.
Space Shuttle
Downhill Duo
Castle
Builder
You should also check out the Micro Magnatiles – they make a great stocking stuffer!
You can check all of these out and more here!
8. Vida the Vet
This toy is super simple but super cute. This doctor’s set is also super cute! I know at this age my daughter is constantly pretending to fix boo-boos, listen to our heartbeats, and check our temperatures.
9. Cloud Castle
The Cloud Castle Set has been so much fun for our toddlers. They are constantly building forts, chairs, and slides. We also have a couple of other foam sets to go with it to make even more fun.
10. Yoto Player
Another popular option is the Tonies Player. I think the Yoto has more potential to grow with your kid – you can get my full review of the Yoto Player here! If you don’t know what a Yoto Player is, there is a full player (shown in the picture) and a mini (great for travel). You purchase cards for the players that have various stories, educational lessons, music, etc. They are really fun to have around for some screen free play and learning. I love that the Yoto Cards are small and store so easily in a case – it makes it very easy to travel with them.
The players (both full and mini) can be played aloud or using headphones and both hold a good charge. Overall I would definitely recommend them, especially for older toddlers!
AMAZON YOTO FAVORITES
Honorable Mentions:
Sensory Table
If you don’t already have one, I would strongly suggest grabbing one! This most popular one (I do love that it has the paper roll holder, but you have to purchase chairs seperately) or the dupe (less than $50 and comes with two chairs) are both great options for play! You can have them as a regular table to color on or you can take the tops off to be able to add Kinetic Sand, Water, etc for great sensory play!
Magnetic Puzzle
My toddler will be getting this for Christmas. I think it is the perfect puzzle to have for her during car rides or in restaurants! She has a couple other magnetic puzzles but I love that this one is art too.
Easel
This is another gift that has lasted us years and we still use. I love being able to set up different crafts or activities with my toddler on it.
I hope this list is helpful in your Christmas shopping! Feel free to browse all my other Christmas Gift Guides including Toddler on a Budget, For the Grill Master, For the Sports Fanatic, For Her – Outdoorsy, and many more!
