This may be my favorite year yet for a kids’ gift guide. With a newly turned two-year-old and an almost five-year-old, I feel confident about the toys and items my kids truly love and play with most. Below are tried-and-true favorites we reach for again and again. I’d love to hear what you would add to this list!
2019 Kids Gift Guide
Globe 3D Puzzle. Max has been asking for a globe for months—this 3D puzzle globe is a fun, educational place to start.
Road Tape. A big roll of road-pattern tape kept my niece and nephew entertained for hours this summer. I’ll tape lanes across our foyer and the kids love driving cars on it for ages.
Magnetic Map Puzzle. A magnetic map puzzle is a great way to introduce geography in a hands-on, engaging way. I’ve been meaning to get this for Max for years.
Shark Slippers. Max is obsessed with sharks, so these shark slippers are a perfect, playful gift. They’re silly and cozy—kids love stuff like this.
LeapFrog Ice Cream Truck. Emilia received this for her birthday and the kids have barely stopped playing with it. It’s interactive, cute, and very well loved in our house.
Marshmallow Fleece. One of the warmest yet lightest coats we’ve owned. Cozy without the bulk, it’s become a go-to for chilly days.
Craft Play Table. I recommend this every year: it’s our most-used kids’ table. We’ve had a toddler version since Max was one and it’s still covered in stickers—and used daily.
Big Wimmelbooks – Fire Truck Book. These big, detailed picture books capture kids’ attention for long stretches. Max can look at the scenes and spot things for a very long time.
Jellycat Animal + Matching Book. Soft, high-quality plush animals paired with sweet books—these have been favorites since Max’s infancy. The textures and illustrations are delightful.
Construction Plate and Utensils. Play-themed mealtime gear is a hit here—anything with trucks or construction usually thrills Max.
Latches Board. A busy board with latches, chains, and closures is perfect for curious hands. Emilia loves it, and Max ends up using it too.
Buckle Book. These quiet, interactive fabric books are excellent for travel and everyday play. My kids reach for them nearly every day.
Name Stool. Personalized name stools are a new favorite in our house. We already own a name puzzle and train, so these stools fit right in and help solve the “who gets the seat” battle.
One Stop Shop Playset. The most-played-with toy in our house. The kids received this last year and it’s still used daily. Durable, versatile, and endlessly entertaining.
Hanna Andersson PJs. Our go-to pajamas for years—comfortable, well-made, and a repeat favorite in our household.
3-in-1 Scooter. A versatile scooter that converts as kids grow: pull-along, ride-on, and scooter modes make it a great birthday or holiday gift for toddlers.
Sorel Kids Boots. High-quality winter boots that last. If you live in a snowy climate, these are worth the investment—the durability and warmth are impressive.
Piano Dance Mat. A playful, musical activity mat that encourages movement and creativity. Fun for kids who love music and active play.
Sticker Puzzles. Compact and endlessly useful—sticker puzzles are my go-to for keeping kids occupied when we’re out and about. Max always has a set in my bag.
Toy Shopping Cart. A classic pretend-play item that fosters role-play and cooperation. Both kids have wanted one and are excited to play with theirs together.
A is for Awesome. One of our must-have books. We turn to these favorites often for cozy reading time and to build early literacy and letter recognition.
[This is not a sponsored post. Items mentioned that I own were purchased by me or gifted by friends and family. Some links referenced may be affiliate links. Thank you for reading! xo]