educational toys for 3 year olds girl

The 14 Best Educational Toys For 3-Year-Olds & 7 Factors To Help You Choose

What kind of toys should a 3-year-old have.

Plenty of 3-year-olds love to socialize and play with new friends, but don’t be surprised if your little one prefers to play on their own. Kids develop at different rates and have varied personalities.

According to child development experts, preschoolers (3-4-year-olds) begin to develop their social skills at this age. When they notice other children playing, most are likely to readily join these other kids even if they don’t know them. (1)(2)

Toys for this age group are ideally those that can be shared and played with other children, such as jumbo building toys for little hands, simple board games, interactive toys for pretend play, and age-appropriate learning activities.

You might also notice that many developmentally friendly toys for 1-year-olds and 2-year-olds are still great for 3-year-olds.

These toys can grow with your child, and you might be surprised that they’ll find new ways to play with these old toys. Older kids (5-7-year-olds) might even find these toys interesting, especially educational toys that continue to challenge their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

Why Should You Choose Learning Toys For 3-Year-Olds?

Your child is getting ready for preschool or might already be in school at three years old. One way of encouraging them to learn is to make the experience fun.

The best learning toys can be used to develop their cognitive skills and learn basic math, science, and language concepts.

That’s why STEM toys (science, technology, engineering, and math) are among the best learning resources and toys you can pick for your child.

These will introduce them to the basic concepts and let them develop hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills as they prepare for preschool.

Our Top 14 Picks For The Best Educational Toys For Three-Year-Olds

You can find our top 14 recommendations for the best learning toys for three-year-olds and other young children, grouped based on:

• STEM & Montessori -inspired toys
• Educational building sets & blocks
• Words, ABCs, numbers, & colors
• Puzzles & matching toys
• Imaginative play & role play
• Musical toys
• Toys for learning life skills
• Creative & sensory toys for learning new skills

Continue reading to learn more about each toy below.

STEM & Montessori-inspired Toys

Melissa & doug my first daily magnetic calendar.

• Pros & best features: Magnetic calendar with 80 magnetic pieces to teach kids the basic concepts of date, weeks, months, special events, and weather
• Materials: Not disclosed on the company product page
• Type of toy: Learning materials
• Educational value: Basic math and time concepts,
• Recommended age range: 3+ years (still ideal for up to 8-year-olds or even older)
• Extra features: Fabric-hinged (sturdy cord), dry-erase boards (for the calendar template and magnet storage
• Certification: FSC, US, and EU (European Union) conformity certificates
• Product recall: None
• Cons: Some complaints on Amazon about the magnets being too weak and the pieces easily falling off the board

Skillmatics Educational Game: Search & Find

• Pros & best features: Set of learning materials (write and wipe activity mats) for different learning concepts
• Product safety: Passed US child safety tests
• Materials: Certified child-safe
• Educational value: Reflective thinking, problem-solving , reading and comprehension, writing skills, focus, and attention
• Recommended age range: 3-6 years
• Extra features: Includes duster cloth and pens
• Certification: ASTM and CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act)
• Cons: Some complaints over the product being too pricey 

Osmo Little Genius Starter Kit + Early Math Adventure

• Pros & best features: Introduces core kindergarten subjects (including shapes, counting, early literacy, language, and communication) with fun games for kids
• Materials: Silicone, plastic
• Type of toy: Learning material set designed for use with a compatible device (iPad or Fire)
• Educational value: Fine motor skills, cognitive development, social-emotional skills, and early literacy
• Recommended age range: 3-5-year-olds
• Extra features: Learn 300+ words
• Cons: The set can be pricey and requires a compatible electronic device.

Educational Building Sets & Blocks

Dado fat cube toys.

• Pros & best features: Hollow building blocks that can be connected using slits along the sides
• Materials: BPA-free plastic
• Type of toy: Building blocks set
• Educational value: Planning, engineering, visual-spatial skills, fine motor skills, creativity, experimentation, and self-esteem
• Recommended age range: 3+ years old
• Extra features: Deluxe pieces that add a twist to the classic building blocks
• Cons: Some complaints about sharp edges. It’s made of plastic.

Soyee Magnetic Blocks (100pcs)

• Pros & best features: 100 magnetic block pieces with different shapes, number blocks, and alphabet blocks
• Materials: ABS plastic
• Educational value: Architecture, STEM toys, hand-eye coordination, and physics spatial reasoning
• Recommended age range: 3-6 year-olds or even older kids
• Extra features: Ferris wheel components
• Cons: Some complaints about weak magnets and missing pieces. It’s made of plastic.

Gigi Bloks 100 XXL Building Blocks

• Pros & best features: Jumbo building blocks to create child-sized forts, castles, etc.
• Materials: Strong, durable, and finished cardboard made of unbleached softwood pulp
• Educational value: Imaginative play, architecture, engineering, gross motor skills, and spatial awareness
• Extra features: Paper-based materials that your child can draw or paint on Certification: Certified food-safe
• Cons: The blocks need adult assembly

Words, ABCs, Numbers, & Colors

Lego duplo my first alphabet truck.

• Pros & best features: Building blocks set with 36 block pieces, a toy truck, and small people
• Materials: ABS plastic (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
• Educational value: Role play, cognitive skills, and learning ABCs
• Recommended age range: 1½ years old and over
• Extra features: Small people and a bear are included in the set
• Certification: US and EU standards
• Cons: Some complaints about duplicates or missing letters. It’s made of plastic.

Inchimals by Fat Brain Toys

• Pros & best features: Blocks with 12 pieces that have exact inch segments and cute prints for the representative animals
• Materials: Wood
• Type of toy: Wooden blocks and STEM toys
• Educational value: Math and pre-algebra skills
• Extra features: Comes with a write-on-wipe-off puzzle book with 100 puzzles
• Cons: Some complaints about the wooden blocks arriving with some paint already chipping

Puzzles & Matching Toys

Thames & kosmos robot engineer (level 1) by kids first.

• Pros & best features: Multi-award toy set with 53 pieces designed for STEM learning by making non-motorized but movable robots (with a matching storybook)
• Product safety: With safety warning for choking hazards for kids under three years old
• Materials: Plastic
• Type of toy: Building set
• Educational value: Fine motor skills, visual-spatial skills, science and math skills, and reasoning and concept development skills
• Recommended age range: 3+ years old (can also be ideal for 6-year-olds or older children)
• Extra features: Storybook
• Cons: Some complaints about the pieces not staying together like they’re supposed to. It’s made of plastic.

Educational Insights Design & Drill Take-Along Toolkit

• Pros & best features: 60 big, colorful bolt pieces with three screwdriver bits to create different patterns on the board
• Product safety: With safety warning as a choking hazard for children under three years old
• Type of toy: STEM toy
• Educational value: Fine motor skills and creativity
• Extra features: The screwdriver bits have different designs (flat head, Phillips, and socket)
• Cons: The screwdriver piece requires batteries, but some parents complain on Amazon about the toy not working even with fresh batteries. It’s made of plastic.

Imaginative Play & Role Play Toys

Lovevery the storyteller play kit.

• Pros & best features: Montessori-based materials to introduce different learning concepts
• Materials: Sustainably harvested FSC-certified wood, water-based paint, and finishes
• Educational value: Engineering, problem-solving skills, imaginative play, and real-life skills
• Recommended age range: 40-42 months
• Extra features: Puppet theater set and child-sized squeeze & spray mop
• Certification: FSC
• Cons: It can be pricey.

Musical Toys

Hape learn with lights electronic ukulele.

• Pros & best features: Playable ukulele with flashing lights as a guide to teach your child how to play music
• Product safety: Passed all toy safety tests (sharp point, bite force, tensile, small parts, drop, and chemical tests)
• Materials: Solid wood, plastic toy finishes are non-toxic according to the brand’s product page
• Type of toy: Musical toy
• Educational value: Pretend play and musical learning
• Extra features: With instruction sticker, booklet, and handle for easy carrying
• Certification: ASTM
• Cons: Requires batteries

Toys For Learning Life Skills

The big dig sandbox digger excavator crane.

• Pros & best features: Working crane designed for little hands to shovel and move dirt, sand, snow, etc.
• Materials: Metal, base with capped ends
• Type of toy: Pretend play
• Educational value: Logical thinking, reasoning, imaginative play, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills
• Extra features: Seat for your little worker
• Cons: Some complaints about the metal being too soft and easily bending

Creative & Sensory Toys For Learning New Skills

Step2 flip and doodle desk with stool & easel.

• Pros & best features: Activity center with medium and large-sized bins for art supplies
• Product safety: Free from heavy metals and phthalates
• Materials: Polypropylene and/or polyethylene plastics
• Educational value: Fine motor skills, creativity and visualization, self-expression, and coordination
• Recommended age range: 2+ years but also ideal for 3-6-year-olds
• Extra features: Easel flips down to turn into a desk
• Cons: Requires assembly, made of plastic

How To Choose The Right Educational Toys For Three-Year-Olds?

Here are seven factors to consider in choosing your little one’s toys:

Recommended Age: What Does A 3-Year-Old Need?

Although kids develop at different rates, most toys tend to be ideal for different ages. Three-year-olds (or around the same age) need education toys and learning materials to introduce them to basic learning concepts while they’re having fun.

Child development experts acknowledge that kids can learn a lot through play. Your child can develop any or a combination of the following: (3)

• Social skills
• New vocabulary
• Cognitive skills
• Literacy skills
• Physical abilities

Learning Ability, Interests, & Skills

It’s good to pick toys that fit their developmental milestones, learning abilities, skills, and interests.

Developmental milestones for 3-year-olds include the following: (1)(2)

• Running and jumping easily
• Stacking 10+ blocks
• Walking upstairs unassisted
• Easily drawing straight lines or copying circles
• Concentrates on tasks for 8-9 minutes
• Say around 500-900 words
• Makes two or three-word sentences
• Names colors
• Knows some numbers and letters
• Joins other kids in play

Kids also have different interests, sometimes depending on their gender. For example, some toys for 3-year-old girls might not seem interesting to boys of the same age.

Skills Development & Benefits

Kids this age might already recognize colors, shapes, numbers, and letters more quickly than younger ones. These new skills can make them more interested in educational toys.

Note that many educational toys for 2-year-olds can still be a great option for 3-year-olds and older kids.

Safe To Play

Although most toys with small parts have warnings that indicate they’re unsafe for children under three, avoid choosing them if your child still loves to put things in their mouth even at 3+.

Choosing toys made of child-safe materials free from toxic chemicals like lead and other heavy metals, phthalates, and BPA is also good.

Engagement & Fun

It’s tempting to give “advanced” toys to help your kids learn more. However, toys that offer too much information or have many different things going on might seem too complex for your child.

They could lose interest if they don’t grasp the essential elements of a certain activity. 

Sometimes, it’s best to pick a fun and engaging toys that are simple and fit for their age but let them use their imagination.

Educational Value

Consider offering your child toys with different educational values so they can develop various learning aspects and find new ways to have fun.

Building toys, musical instruments, crafting kits, and other learning materials can let them learn without sacrificing entertainment.

Value For Your Money

Will your kids outgrow the toys after just a few months? Thankfully, that might be true for some toys for 1-year-olds , but many educational toys for older children might still be interesting as they grow older.

It’s also good to check for the toy’s quality because some toys might be cheaper but can be unsafe or easily break and get damaged.

What Can I Buy My 3-Year-Old Daughter?

Dolls and toys for imaginative play are popular for 3-year-old girls, but you can also pick building blocks, musical instruments, learning sets, cooking sets, and other unisex toys.

If unsure, you can always ask them to pick the ones they like before you checkout.

What’s The Best Gift For A 3-Year-Old Baby Girl?

The answer will usually depend on the child’s interests. But because kids this age are getting ready for preschool, you can never go wrong with picking educational toys.

Is A 3-Year-Old A Toddler Or Preschooler?

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), 3-year-olds are preschoolers. Toddlers are kids starting from 1-year-old until they turn three. (4)

Can 3-Year-Olds Write?

Although some can already write a few letters or numbers, most 3-year-olds can’t do that yet. However, many might show interest in holding a pencil or any writing material to create lines. (5)

How Far Should A 3-Year-Old Count?

Most 3-year-olds can count up to four objects, while some can reach up to 10. (2)

What Should A 3-Year-Old Draw?

Kids this age can draw straight lines and copy circles. (2)

How Do Educational Toys For 3-Year-Olds Differ From Those For 2-Year-Olds?

Many learning toys for 3-year-olds can have more numbers, letters, or features than educational toys for 2-year-olds .

Toymakers might also design these toys for sharing and socialization because 3-year-olds are developmentally ready to improve their social skills by sharing and playing with others. (1)(2)

Other Learning Toys For Different Age Groups

• Best educational toys
• Best toys for a 2 year old
• DIY Montessori toys
• Educational toys
• Educational baby toys
• Educational toys for toddlers
• Educational toys for 2-year-olds
• Educational toys for 4-year-olds
• Educational toys for 5-year-olds
• Educational toys for 6-year-olds
• Educational toys for 7- year-olds
• Educational toys for 8-year-olds
• Montessori baby toys
• Montessori climbing toys
• Montessori toys
• Montessori toys for toddlers
• Montessori toys for 1-year-olds
• Montessori toys for 3-year-olds
• Montessori toys for 4-year-olds
• Montessori wooden toys
• Outdoor toys for 1-year-olds
• Toys for 1-year-olds
• Toys for 2-year-olds
• Toys for 6-year-old boys
• Wooden educational toys

Toy Recalls To Monitor

• Calico Critters recall (2023)
• Kids Preferred recall (2023)
• Target Toy recall (2022)
• Haba recall (2022)
• Kidoozie Play Tent recall (2022)
• Monti Kids recall (2022)

REFERENCES:

(1) https://www.understood.org/en/articles/developmental-milestones-for-typical-3-year-olds

(2) https://www.choc.org/primary-care/ages-stages/3-years/

(3) https://www.unicef.org/sites/default/files/2018-12/UNICEF-Lego-Foundation-Learning-through-Play.pdf

(4) https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/childdevelopment/positiveparenting/preschoolers.html

(5) https://www.pbs.org/parents/learn-grow/age-3/literacy/writing

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The 25 Best Toys for 3-Year-Olds to Channel All That Energy and Imagination

These gifts encourage 3-year-olds to be their best social, active, hilarious selves.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Review Process and Experts

• Factors to Consider

Your Questions, Answered

Parents / Alli Waataja

Three is a truly magical age, when toddlers transform into preschoolers with wild imaginations, impressive communication skills, and more control over their bodies. Whether you’re a parent to a newly minted threenager or buying a gift for someone else’s child, the best toys for 3-year-olds help encourage their development through play . 

Pretend play strengthens problem-solving and social skills , so doctor kits, dress-up costumes, play kitchens, tools, and other role-playing toys are all great picks at this age. In addition, building toys and games can help hone critical thinking and fine motor skills, while sports equipment and other active toys allow kids to get moving and burn off energy safely. 

Parenting expert and child psychologist Reena B. Patel explains that at 3 years old, children typically experience significant improvements in their communication skills . “Their speaking and ability to communicate more words will increase. They start saying more words strung together, ask for items by name, and understand you and your instructions,” she says. "It is no secret that kids this age have a ton of energy and learn many new skills. Toys that help them learn something new are great!” 

To find the best toys for 3-year-olds, we interviewed parenting experts, surveyed more than 880 caregivers about their children’s favorite toys, and scoured the market to uncover the top-rated, best-selling toys that align with 3-year-olds’ developmental milestones. We assessed each pick based on its features, value, durability, quality, safety, materials, and engagement potential. Our list includes a variety of toy types at various price points, so we're sure there's something for everyone.

KidKraft Farm to Table Play Kitchen

It’s hardly a half-baked idea to search for the perfect kitchen set for a mini master chef. Kids can (pretend to) heat things up by stirring the pot and whipping up many make-believe meals made in this KidKraft Wooden Farm-to-Table Play Kitchen, which features lights and sounds from the stove and faucet and comes complete with wooden veggies and cooking utensils. Based on feedback from our staffers who have tested this kitchen at home, the modern design is aesthetically pleasing for the adults who have to look at it, and assembly isn’t too painful for them either.

Bluey Hammerbarn Shopping Center Mega Set

This popular playset is a delight for young Bluey lovers! For young fans ready to hit the shops, this Bluey Hammerbarn Shopping Center Mega Set offers tikes their first retail adventure with TV's popular pup. The towering hardware store stands 22 inches tall featuring four floors, a working elevator, lights, loads of stickers, 15 play pieces, and over 45 sounds activated by pressing the Paw Button. Just remember, “If your friend buys chippies, she has to pay for chippies!"  

Pottery Barn Kids Tool Box

As every handyman knows, the value of having a terrific set of tools simply can’t be measured! This Pottery Barn Kids Tool Box may not actually repair your faucet, but it will do wonders for a preschooler’s fine motor skills. It includes a wooden wrench, washer, bolts, rectangles, a screwdriver, and a hammer. You can even personalize it with the child’s name or initials for an added special touch. 

B Is for Bellies

What 3-year-old wouldn’t be thrilled to celebrate themselves from A-Z—and head to toe? Little readers will love the bouncy, rhyming text and vibrant illustrations in this delightful picture book, B Is for Bellies: A Celebration of Every Body! by Rennie Dyball. This fabulous children’s book is about loving and accepting yourself exactly as you are. Grown-ups reading aloud will appreciate the body positivity reminders for both their kiddos and themselves.

Fat Brain Toys Ladybug's Garden Memory Game

Baby geniuses can put their newly formed memory skills to the test while enjoying the thrill of playing with this family-friendly Fat Brain Toys Ladybug's Garden Memory Game. The educational wooden puzzle board game comes with five double-sided puzzle cards for picture matching and large ladybug pieces sized just right for tiny hands. It’s just as fun for kids to play on their own as with another friend or grown-up, too.

Hasbro Gaming Candy Land

There simply isn’t any need to sugarcoat it: When it comes to the sweetest board game for kids, this is a classic that can’t be beat! Preschoolers will have their first taste of victory as well as learning how to cope with defeat when moving their characters along the Candy Land board, just like most of us and generations before us. Family time playing this colorful board game is an absolute treat!

Fisher-Price Sensory Bright Light Station

Looking for an activity toy guaranteed to light up your little one’s imagination? This super cool light station provides an interactive experience that stimulates all the senses, with textures, movement, lights, and music. Kids are in complete control here, customizing the colors and sounds on the board with textured buttons, dials, and switches. A fidget spinner and goo pack enhance the sensory play even more.

Fisher-Price Pretend Doctor Playset

Is there a doctor in the house? If so, this Fisher-Price Medical Playset has everything needed to equip your mini-medic with the necessary tools to mend their patients. They can play doctor and provide the best bedside care with this seven-piece set, which includes a fabric doctor bag filled with a stethoscope, syringe, thermometer, otoscope, blood pressure cuff, and a plastic bandage to tend to any ailing dolls and stuffies. It’s also a really great way to alleviate any anxiety about upcoming real-life doctor visits.

Disney Princess Dress Up Trunk

What could be more enchanting than watching a little one and their friends reign supreme in these delightful costumes inspired by Disney's most popular princesses? This Disney Princess Dress-Up Trunk is filled with a splendid 21-piece assortment of dresses and accessories, including looks from Sleeping Beauty, Belle from Beauty and the Beast , Cinderella, and Snow White that are sure to spark hours of imaginative play. “Dress up is great at this age,” notes Patel. “Costumes are wonderful to really allow them to tap into pretend play and actually BE what they are pretending to be.” The dresses in this collection are designed to fit sizes 4 to 6x.  

Klobroz Toy Building Blocks

Looking for a toy to tower above the rest? This safety-tested set of Klobroz Marble Run Building Blocks not only expands imaginations, but it also helps develop practical motor skills and problem-solving abilities. The eco-friendly, educational set also strengthens hand-eye coordination and shape recognition. It’s time to let the good times roll!

Magna-Tiles Classic 32-Piece Set

There’s hardly a question why we can’t help but be attracted to this Magna-Tiles Magnetic Construction Set. Building sets play a big role in boosting creative development, and this certified STEAM-approved collection also helps to connect your child with their imagination in open-ended play—and yeah, it’s fun for grown-ups too. This colorful kit comes with an assortment of 32 transparent geometric shapes in a palette of six vibrant colors. 

Gabby's Dollhouse Purrfect Dollhouse Playset

There’s no place like Gabby's Purrfect Dollhouse, an interactive, colorful cat-shaped abode full of lights, sounds, and super cute furniture. Your kiddo can spend hours taking Gabby and Pandy Paws on plenty of imaginative adventures inside the seven-room house, which measures 2 feet tall and comes with the coolest working “Cat-A-Vator” to elevate between each of the four floors. That’s what we call a home sweet home!

Bixe Aluminum Balance Bike

Getting on a set of wheels is a significant milestone for adventurous preschoolers. Starting with this Bixe Balance Bike means they’ll start coasting around on just two wheels in no time, with no training wheels necessary. This awesome, aluminum balance bike features an adjustable seat to help them feel comfortable and steady while beginning to ride responsibly. 

PlaSmart PlasmaCar The Original

Littles can jump in the driver’s seat and see all the sights while joyriding through the neighborhood in this popular indoor/outdoor pedal-free car.  We caution little racers to steer clear of any obstacles while taking a wild ride on this kid-friendly vehicle designed to develop balance, coordination, and motor skills while maintaining safe speeds of up to 6 miles per hour. It’s safe for kids 3 and up, and can even hold adults up to 220 pounds.

Crayola Coloring Pages

For the dinosaur-obsessed kids in your life, these Crayola Color Wonder Prehistoric Pals Mess Free Coloring Pages are a peaceful but still engaging way to pass the time. This non-toxic, creative coloring book features a set of 18 dinosaur-themed coloring pages and a collection of five color wonder markers that only work on Color Wonder pages. Mickey Mouse, Paw Patrol, and other themes are also available. These are a big hit on airplanes, in restaurants, and other trips away from the house.

Melissa & Doug PAW Patrol Adventure Pack

Looking for exceptional equipment to help a 3-year-old “ruff” it in the great outdoors? With the Melissa & Doug PAW Patrol Pup Backpack Role Play Set, mini hikers can explore imaginary and real trails with everything they need for their next big adventure. This set comes complete with a compass, working whistle, magnifier, map, binoculars, badges, and, of course, pretend treats for the rescue pups. 

Upbounders-Sports Go Fish Cards Sports Go Fish Cards

Do preschoolers have a poker face? Probably not, but that just means you’ll be able to see the glee on their faces as they play Go Fish with these cards from Black-owned business Upbounders. Youngsters will love this sports-themed card game, which features 52 sturdy, laminated playing cards made for up to six players. It even strengthens memory skills while teaching about fairness and good sportsmanship.

Just Play Qai Qai Doll by Serena Williams

Tennis champion and mother of two adorable daughters Serena Williams created quite a racket when she first started sharing posts about Qai Qai, Olympia’s favorite doll years ago. And when she launched Qai Qai as a doll others could buy, it really took off. That could be thanks, in part, to Qai Qai’s stellar social media standing (she has 341,000 followers on IG!), but it’s also because the 14-inch doll is quite affordable, has captivating features, and comes in a frustration-free box that turns into a house that kids can color themselves.

John Deere Excavator Toy

We all know the fun digging up a little dirt can be! This Fat Brain Toys 15-inch Deere Construction Excavator allows budding builders to pave new pathways—either imaginary ones indoors or real ones in the sandbox . It’s a great combination of pretend play and motor skills.

Kinetic Sand Deluxe Swirl N’ Surprise Playset, 2.5lbs of Play Sand

This Kinetic Sand Deluxe Swirl N' Surprise Playset is great for getting little hands dirty—but not really!—indoors. The kit comes with two and a half pounds of moldable sand in six cool colors. It also includes sculpting tools for shaping. Kids can swirl the colors together to create beautiful designs or just squish it all in their hands for sensory-pleasing fun.

Little Tikes 3-Foot Trampoline

What 3-year-old doesn’t have extra energy to burn off? Tiny jumping beans can hop to their heart's content while safely inside on this 3-foot trampoline. This version is a classic design, but we really appreciate that the handlebar folds down for more compact storage when jumping time is over.

Melissa & Doug Slice and Bake Cookie Set

If your precocious preschooler has a penchant for pastries, we're confident the Melissa & Doug Slice and Bake Wooden Cookie Play Food Set set will be a huge hit. The wooden cookies come in cylindrical “dough” form, which kids then play slice apart into perfect round disks and place on the cookie sheet. Then they can decorate the cookies with colorful pats of icing, using the included oven mitt and spatula for serving.

Melissa & Doug Dust, Sweep & Mop Set

We can’t come up with a better way to keep house than this Melissa & Doug Let's Play House Pretend Play Set. This colorful cleaning collection includes a mop, hand brush, broom, duster, and dustpan to promote imaginative play (and a spotless playroom) while teaching kids to be responsible as they strengthen their fine motor skills. What parents really love about this is that the brooms really do work, and for some reason, kids enjoy sweeping!

Flybar My First Foam Pogo Jumper

While traditional pogo sticks are definitely too much for a 3-year-old to handle, this version is a safer way for them to hop around and practice their balance. The soft foam squeaks with every jump, and it’s even suitable to use indoors. Just be sure to clear some space before the bouncing begins!

Fat Brain Toys Pretend & Play Makeup Station

Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the cutest of them all? With this Fat Brain Toys Pretend & Play Makeup Station, littles can role-play like the grown-ups in their lives without actually messing with real makeup. This adorable wooden set comes with a pretty pink mirrored vanity packed with a perfume bottle, nail polish, handheld mirror, eyeshadow palette, lipstick, lip gloss, makeup compact, comb, and hair ties. Everything you need to get all dolled up for a fun playdate!  

Our editors spend all year learning about the latest toy trends and the hottest new toys from popular brands and smaller independent companies. To find the best toys for 3-year-olds, we first interviewed parenting and child experts:

• Reena B. Patel , a licensed educational psychologist and board-certified behavior analyst
• Dana Oliver , CEO of Adventure Kids Playcare

We also surveyed more than 880 caregivers to find out what their children’s favorite toys are, how they interact with them, and what it is they love about them. Finally, we researched the top-rated and best-selling toys that most closely align with 3-year-olds’ developmental mile. To make our final picks for this list, we assessed each toy based on its features, value, materials, safety, durability, and engagement potential.

Factors to Consider When Buying Toys for 3-Year-Olds

• Think About Developmental Milestones: “While every child is different, by the age of 3 most children are beginning to develop emotionally and form stronger relationships with those around them and have much more energy than before,” notes Oliver. “Their memories are also getting stronger and their imaginations are running a bit wilder.” 
• Encourage Imaginative Play: “Imaginative play is when your child is creating any type of pretend scenario so there are so many toys that can be used to create this type of play,” explains Patel. “Playing dress up and having other props also helps them tap into these creative play scenarios.” 
• Encourage Associative Play: “At this age, many children are introduced to others to play, and sharing is a critical skill. Dolls, blocks, and crafts are all great toys to teach sharing,” Oliver says. “Games and sports are also great ways to have children interact with each other in a fun and friendly nature.” 
• Encourage Active Play: “Three-year-olds are very active. They have much more energy than 2-year-olds and are typically running, kicking, and playing all the time,” says Oliver. “They are working on coordination and balance, as well as depth perception. Great toys for this are kickball, balls with Velcro mitts, soft ring toss or bowling sets, and scooters or air hoppers.”
• Keep Safety in Mind: “Make sure parts are size- and age-appropriate, so there is not a choking hazard,” cautions Patel. “This also includes watching for toys that have batteries or magnets, which can be extremely harmful if consumed.” 

How much should you spend on toys for 3-year-olds?

Pricing can vary depending on the toy. The best thing to consider is the child's interest and whether the item falls within your budget. Above all, the quality and safety of the toy is what parents value most. 

What skills should toys teach 3-year-olds?

"Three-year-olds are learning many new skills and are often proud to show off those skills and try new things," notes Patel. "They will love small bikes, building toys, coloring books, and crafting activities. Make-believe is also a milestone at this age, and kids will love these activities and may even start playing with others. Any toys that promote make-believe play are great as children learn to think creatively." 

Samantha McIntyre is an experienced writer and PR professional specializing in the parenting space and self-proclaimed favorite "auntie" of two amazing nephews and a niece, who have all kept her on the top of her game when it comes to discovering the best products and toys for babies and kids.

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Home » Recommendations » Toys » 9 Best Educational Toys for 3-year-olds to Promote Development

9 Best Educational Toys for 3-year-olds to Promote Development

Preschool-aged children learn through discovery and exploration in their daily surroundings. Providing access to educational toys for 3-year-olds crates a natural teaching environment. This fosters developmentally appropriate situations where children encounter learning and discovery that promotes the development of cognitive, motor, social and emotional skills.

1. Bath Letters and Numbers by Munchkin

Turn bath time into learning time with Bath Letters and Numbers by Munchkin . Incorporate learning into your 3-year-old’s bath routine with colorful foam letters and numbers.

These foam toys float in the bath and cling to tub walls when wet. Then they come off easily when dry and leave no residue. With 26 letters and 10 numerals in six fun colors, there is plenty of opportunities for children to learn names of the colors, letters, and numbers.

Why We Recommend:

• 36 colorful, floating letters and numbers
• Sticks to bathtub walls when wet
• Made of soft, durable, non-toxic foam
• Introduce colors, letters, and numbers
• Incorporates learning into daily activity

2. Dado Cube by Fat Brain Toys

These educational toys for 3-year-olds and up are an exciting twist on classic building blocks. Dado Cubes are a set of 10 cubes scaled from 1 inch to 5 inches that nest, stack, and connect along slits in their edges. These unique blocks teach kids proportion, balance, structure, and color in a naturalistic teaching environment. Young imaginations engage with the slits in each block that interlock to create 3-dimensional structures.

You can construct vertically, horizontally, diagonally, or nest them together. Dado Cubes promote visual-spacial awareness and problem-solving skills through experimentation and play. These innovative blocks inspire art and STEM as kids explore architectural principals.

• Great STEM toy for preschool classrooms and home
• Open-ended play for individual or cooperative learning
• Improves fine motor skills, hand strength, finger dexterity, and coordination
• Encourages visual-spatial skills, creativity, experimentation, planning, self-esteem
• Nests for easy storage
• Made of durable, BPA-free plastic
• Developed, manufactured, and assembled in the U.S.A.

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3. MightyMind by LeisureLearning

The innovation of Mighty Mind makes it a singularly amazing toy for 3-year-olds at home or school. This toy promotes the development of essential skills such as creativity, spacial awareness, logic, problem-solving, fine motor, and self-confidence.

Children can learn to solve these mind boosting puzzles before they ever learn to read. The brightly colored shapes can fit onto the shape card in various ways. These educational toys for 3-year-olds and up has received many awards, including Parents Choice Honor Toy, Teachers Choice Award, Dr Toys Best Vacation Toy, and more.

The sequence of numbered patterns gets increasingly difficult as children manipulate 32 geometric shapes and build pictures. The first 20 puzzles provide prompt and clues in the picture to assist a child in selecting the correct shapes, but the last 10 are without clues and are the most challenging of them all. Children can also get creative with their own designs using the 32 vibrant Mighty Mind colored shape tiles.

• Teaches kids how to build and solve puzzles.
• Unique program designed to build a child’s confidence
• No reading or language required
• Distributed worldwide in 26 countries
• Develops essential critical analytical thinking skills
• Structured or open-play for individual or cooperative learning

4. Inchimals by Fat Brain Toys

Inchimals by Fat Brain Toys take children on a mathematical safari adventure. These precisely-sized animal blocks help with learning math concepts such as measurement, numbers, addition, subtraction, and pre-algebra. These 12 beautifully crafted wooden blocks range from 1 to 12 inches in hight. Each features a different animal, inch line segments, written numerals, and representative dots corresponding to the actual hight of the block.

These fun, colorful blocks allow for measurement exploration and visual representations of addition and subtraction. The set comes with a write-on, wipe-off puzzle book to introduce pre-algebra concepts and balancing equations. Great for use in schools or at home for early math education.

• Multiple ways to learn and explore – structured and open-play
• Introduce vocabulary – shorter, taller, hight, length, distance
• Teaches addition and subtraction concepts
• Stacking blocks promotes motor control
• Encourages creative thinking, spacial reasoning, and dramatic play
• 12 animal blocks and a write-on, wipe-off puzzle book
• Use in home or classrooms

5.Robot Engineer (Level 1) by Kids First

Level 1 Robot Engineer Kit by Kids First includes a storybook and 51 large, colorful plastic building pieces that are easy for small hands to manipulate. Children can construct robots with arms that spin while they learn about simple machines. Kids can have a blast constructing the simple, non-motorized robot models based on the robots in the included storybook.

Little Engineers can follow along with Ty and Karlie in the silly storybook as they build and repair robots and solve problems in a candy factory. The book and construction kit are a fun way to introduce simple engineering concepts to 3-year-olds.

• Introduces simple machines and gears
• Develops STEM-related skills – science, math, visual-spacial, reasoning, and problem-solving
• Engages children with simple engineering concepts
• 53-piece building set
• Durable Storage Case
• 32-page storybook

6. Rhyming Words Match & Learn Puzzle

This box set of Rhyming Words Match & Learn Puzzles make great educational toys for 3-year-olds. The self-correcting puzzles have real-life pictures with the associated word underneath. Flip the pieces over and the associated word only is on the back for more advanced gameplay for 2 games in one.

The rhyming part of each word pair is highlighted in matching colors to help early learners identify correct rhymes. Children improve fine motor skills through manipulating the puzzle pieces. Pieces are large enough for little hands to grip and manipulate.

• Introduces rhyming words
• Self-correcting puzzles
• Fine motor skills
• Real-life pictures and associated words
• 2-in-1 game

7. 2-in-1 LeapTop Touch by LeapFrog

The 2-in-1 LeapTop Touch by LeapFrog is a touch-screen learning toy for preschoolers that transforms from a laptop-style device to a tablet. The screen flips to convert from keyboard to tablet mode. This computerized toy comes loaded with 26 fun animals that teach letter recognition and letter sounds. Five learning modes include ABCs, numbers, games, music, and messages.

Children can also have a blast pretending to be mom or dad sending emails on the computer. The 2-in-1 LeapTop Touch introduces basic computer literacy skills to young children in an age-appropriate and entertaining way. Children role-play typing on a laptop and tapping on a tablet to play fun games and activities that teach letter sounds, counting, and animals.

• Teaches Letters and Numbers
• Encourages Social Skills
• Makes learning fun with music and rhyme
• Boosts basic computer literacy
• Dramatic play and role-playing

8. Wooden Latches Board by Melissa and Doug

Keep your 3-year-old busy and entertained with the Wooden Latches Board for Melissa and Doug. Children can undo locks and latches to swing open the numbered doors. Fun pictures hide behind each door. Build fine motor skills while learning colors, numbers, animals and more with this educational toy.

• Promotes fine motor development
• Introduces colors and numbers
• Encourages problem-solving
• Learning to open latches promotes self-help and daily living skills
• Promotes independence and self-confidence

9. My Magnetic Daily Calendar by Melissa and Doug

Maintaining their own calendar gives children a greater sense of independence, self-reliance, responsibility, and control. Each day your 3-year-old can help post on My Magnetic Daily Calendar by Melissa and Doug. This calendar provides a visual facilitation to talk to your child daily about the day of the week, date, weather, and special events.

There’s even a space to post their moon which encourages open communication and emotional awareness. Preprinted magnets make updating the calendar simple and fun. There are even two dry-erase magnets to make your own custom tiles.

• Promotes independence and responsibility
• Teaches calendar skills — days, dates, months
• Teaches weather, seasons, and holidays
• Promotes social-emotional wellness
• Practice fine motor skills daily by moving the calendar pieces
• Solid wood construction

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• Gifts for babies and kids

The 38 Best Gifts for 3-Year-Olds

By Caitlin Giddings and Wirecutter Staff

When kids reach the age of 3, the gift-giving game changes. Many children in this age group know what they want. Lots of them have more interests, opinions, and language to express their excitement than they had in the past. But that doesn’t negate the thrill of a good surprise.

Three-year-olds are ready for toys that foster lots of imaginative play, said Heather Singh, director of educational programs at the Thinkery , a children’s museum in Austin, Texas, at the time of our interview. So open-ended playthings that inspire storytelling and creative engagement are better than one-trick ponies. Toys and costumes that allow for role-playing and board games that encourage group interaction will nurture 3-year-olds’ developing social skills. And many kids at this age are ready for speedier, sleeker movement toys—like scooters and trikes—that reward their growing physical confidence.

We’ve included toy suggestions from Singh and other educators. And members of our staff added the kind of memory-making gifts that have gone over best with the 3-year-olds in their lives. We also offer more gift ideas for kids here .

Cooperative counting games

Count Your Chickens Board Game

In this beginner board game, all of the baby chicks need to be returned to the coop.

Buying Options

The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game

Players work together to help a hungry squirrel collect acorns.

Cooperative board games—where players work toward a common goal, instead of competing against one another—are ideal for 3-year-olds who are learning to follow directions, take turns, and work as a group. The Count Your Chickens Board Game  is a hit with preschoolers and parents at Toybrary Austin , our local toy-lending library in Texas. In this game, players team up to bring a mother hen’s chicks back to the coop. It’s simple and, just as importantly, fast (perfect for a 3-year-old’s attention span). Once you’ve all mastered the art of chicken reunions, check out The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game , another great cooperative board game for beginners. (We offer more ideas in our guide to the best board games for kids .)

—Caitlin Giddings

Dotty art supplies

Do-A-Dot Art Rainbow Dot Markers

These oversize markers create a fun trail of big, vibrant dots.

It’s hard to go wrong with a gift of novel art supplies. My son got a set of Do-A-Dot Art Rainbow Dot Markers when he was 3 (and just embarking on a now-years-long obsession with rainbows). The sticks are easy for little hands to grip, and the colors are vibrant enough to look bright both on cardboard boxes and on regular paper. I like that they have the special feel of paints but with less mess and effort. The markers also come in metallic and bright shimmer versions. You may want to pair them with a ream of paper or some add-on art supplies, like scissors and a glue stick.

—Kalee Thompson

A water whisk

Haba Bubble Bath Whisk

This hand-cranked whisk gets bath water churning—but beware, things can get a little messy.

The Haba Bubble Bath Whisk stirs up good, clean mischief. The roughly 10-inch-tall plastic gadget works like a rotary egg beater, resulting in a whirlpool of sloshing waves. (If my daughter uses the whisk a bit too exuberantly, her babysitter will emerge from bath time looking like she just visited the splash zone at SeaWorld.) But the pure glee this whisk elicits is usually worth it.

—Ingela Ratledge Amundson

A-to-Z sports

B Is for Baller: The Ultimate Basketball Alphabet

This hoops-themed alphabet book features an all-star NBA lineup.

S is for Slugger: The Ultimate Baseball Alphabet

“O” is for “October” in this baseball-themed alphabet book.

I’m not sure which my son learned first—what the alphabet is or who the NBA greats are. B Is for Baller: The Ultimate Basketball Alphabet is an ode to pro basketball. Each letter of the alphabet presents an opportunity to explore the mythology of a current or former NBA star. For example, “T is for Three” depicts the Golden State Warriors’ sharp-shooter Steph Curry firing a three-pointer from one side of the Golden Gate Bridge to the other. Since this book came out, in 2018, two more have been added to the series. G Is for Golazo: The Ultimate Soccer Alphabet features athletes from the pitch, including Brazil’s Marta Vieira da Silva. S Is for Slugger: The Ultimate Baseball Alphabet highlights Mamie “Peanut” Johnson, among other baseball figures; in this book, “P” stands for “Pioneer” because Johnson was the first woman to pitch in the Negro Leagues .

—Lara Rabinovitch

A sturdy puzzle

Melissa & Doug 100-Piece Safari Floor Puzzle

The jumbo-size pieces of this floor puzzle easily fit together to create a 4-foot long safari scene.

As a preschooler, my son loved the challenge—and reward—of a good puzzle, and the Melissa & Doug 100-Piece Safari Floor Puzzle was one of his favorites. The large, durable pieces were easy for him to manipulate on his own (and hard to lose), and the result was a grand masterpiece that stretched across the floor. My son loves wild animals, so this particular theme—with giraffes, an elephant, and a rhinoceros in the savanna—appealed to him. If a 100-piece puzzle feels too intimidating, start with one of Melissa & Doug’s 48-piece floor puzzles, instead ( dinosaurs and the solar system are two options).

Guessing game

Petit Collage What Am I? Game

In this fun take on the game 20 Questions, each player wears paper glasses holding a mystery card. Then players take turns guessing the objects on their cards.

The concept of Petit Collage’s What Am I? Game is simple: Each player dons a pair of paper glasses and takes a turn tucking a card into the slotted nose bridge, making sure they don’t look at the illustration on the card. The bespectacled person then asks a series of questions to help them guess what’s on their card—there are 50 options in all, ranging from an ice cream cone to a sailboat to a turtle. My pre-reader daughter, who got the game as a gift for her third birthday, was able to play it right out of the box. And back then, we didn’t worry ourselves over leading questions or a little peeking. (Petit Collage recommends this game for kids ages 4 to 8. But younger children can enjoy a looser version, sans timer and maybe with a few extra hints.)

—Hannah Morrill

Clever cupcakes

Learning Resources Smart Snacks Shape Sorting Cupcakes

These cupcakes aren’t just pretend treats—they also come apart and double as a shape-matching puzzle.

Toys that pull double duty are my favorite for my two kids, and these Smart Snacks Shape Sorting Cupcakes deliver learning and fun in equal measure. Each confection pulls apart to reveal a different shape, with the tops matching the bottoms and the bottoms matching corresponding divots in the pan. My younger son enjoyed the challenge of sorting shapes and identifying colors; as a preschooler, my older son worked these pastries into pretend baking games, picnic scenarios, imaginative shopping trips, and more. The set is nearly indestructible, and I found myself retrieving it during room cleanup every night.

—Ingrid Skjong

A musical book

Welcome to Jazz: A Swing-Along Celebration of America’s Music

This interactive book introduces young readers to jazz music, including the sounds of such instruments as the tuba, drums, and clarinet.

I can do without children’s books that blare sounds, but I make an exception for Welcome to Jazz: A Swing-Along Celebration of America’s Music , by Carolyn Sloan. Although I initially thought my 2-year-old might be a tad young for a jazz primer, he took to this book immediately—from the vivid illustrations featuring a trio of cats learning the genesis of jazz to the 12 buttons that, when pressed, play the different musical parts of “When the Saints Go Marching In.” (A 3-year-old might be in an even better position to enjoy it.) My son loved hearing the deep double bass, the jangly rhythm section, the free-spirited scatting—and he learned the names of jazz legends like Billie Holiday and King Oliver. This is a musical introduction we can all get behind.

Superior sand

Mad Mattr Modeling Dough

This soft dough can be molded, kneaded, and stretched. And it doesn’t dry out if it’s left out of its container.

Someone gave us a pack of Mad Mattr Modeling Dough , which has several advantages over Play-Doh for both kids and caretakers. It’s moldable like a dough and compresses into hard shapes, but it stretches out into a kind of soft sand. It’s not sticky, it doesn’t stain or get everywhere, and it doesn’t dry out, though it’s also less ductile than Play-Doh.

— Nathan Edwards

Sticky adventures

Melissa & Doug Reusable Sticker Pad: Jungle and Savanna

These reusable stickers—depicting animals including a kangaroo and a rhinoceros—can be placed in scenic habitats like the Australian Outback.

When my toddler began showing an interest in stickers, I was delighted. What’s not to like about an activity that’s nostalgic, cheap, and doesn’t hog floor space? But when she began surreptitiously applying the stickers to random surfaces throughout our home, I was less thrilled. Our solution: Melissa & Doug’s jungle-and-savanna-themed Reusable Sticker Pad . The oversize, 11-by-14-inch pad comes with 175 durable, cling-style reusable stickers that can be arranged and rearranged on five glossy scenic backdrops, as well as on your fridge, windows, or dishwasher—consequence-free. The stickers come in varying sizes, and my daughter usually needs a little help freeing them from their tightly arranged contact sheets (older kids may not have this problem). If animals aren’t your jam, Melissa & Doug makes these pads in lots of other themes, too, like this Make-a-Meal version.

— Ingela Ratledge Amundson

Petit Collage Ocean Life Floor Puzzle

In this colorful, 18-by-24-inch floor puzzle, 24 sturdy pieces click together easily. This one is great for beginners.

It may seem as if most puzzles are created equal, but some of them stand out from the rest. Petit Collage’s Ocean Life Puzzle has 24 thicker-than-normal pieces that are easy for small fingers to grasp; the pieces also provide a bit of tactile feedback ( click !) when pressed into place. Then, when it’s destruction time, they separate cleanly, without sticking together. Perhaps best of all, every Petit Collage puzzle comes in a vibrant and sturdy box complete with a rope handle for carrying (other 24-piece designs include a world map and wild rainforest ). Crocodile Creek makes similar high-quality puzzles in stackable boxes that won’t rip or flatten; they were the hottest picks (and the first to disappear) during our neighborhood puzzle swaps.

A robo-bug brigade

Hexbug Nano Nitro 5 Pack

These delightfully creepy robotic bugs scamper around on their own, but they require button cell batteries.

These thumb-sized, multi-legged robots are equal parts endearing and frenetic. Propelled by the sheer force of their (amusing) vibrations, they skitter around corners, scale small obstacles, and right themselves. They move surprisingly quickly. So if—like us—you live somewhere with actual big bugs that race across your floor (hello from Texas!), you might want to warn your family before you let a Hexbug loose. Once they’re in play, they’re a blast. For cats, the challenge is to chase them around. (Just use caution around pets who aren’t discriminating about what they swallow.) For kids, the fun is in creating obstacle courses and elaborate containment chambers out of anything you can find, like train tracks, shoes, and boxes. (Adults get to just sit back and watch the cats and kids entertain each other.) The only downside is that each critter in this Hexbug Nano Nitro 5 Pack requires an AG13/LR44 button cell battery . The first one is included, but it will need to be replaced fairly quickly if your household enjoys robot bugs as much as mine does.

A groovy board game

Pete the Cat The Missing Cupcakes Game

Featuring characters from the popular Pete the Cat series, this game challenges players to sing, act, or perform so they can collect cupcakes for Pete’s birthday party.

If your child is a fan of this cool cat , then there might be some added excitement when you break out the Pete the Cat The Missing Cupcakes Game . But you don’t have to be familiar with the groovy feline and his friends (featured in this book and more) to understand or enjoy this cooperative board game. The object: Players try to collect 14 plastic cupcakes for Pete’s birthday party by working together on preschool-level challenges. They may have to sing, perform an activity, or act out a word, à la charades. But if anybody lands on the dreaded Grumpy Toad space, a cupcake must be removed from the board. Eventually, all of the cupcakes are accounted for, everyone “wins” (there’s no way to lose), and the game ends with the group singing “Happy Birthday” to Pete. In our experience, the challenges are varied enough to keep the players engaged. And the game tests memory skills (since you can’t repeat another player’s choices) and helps young kids associate images with words (reading is not required). More importantly, it encourages silliness.

— Barbara Kimberly Seigel

Alphabet in disguise

Lakeshore Learning Alpha-Bots

These 2-inch letters can transform into individual robots.

Letters that are robots in disguise? Meet Alpha-Bots . With these 26 colorful plastic letters, kids can twist, turn, flip, and lift the moveable parts to create robots, and then maneuver them back into their letter forms (it also comes in a numbers set .) Some robots may at first take more trial and error to manipulate, but that can ultimately help a kid develop spatial and fine motor skills—and it simply adds to the fun. Each robot can be looked at as a tiny individual puzzle, though collectively the robots might inspire creative play, too. My little one got a kick out of making the robots look like they were holding hands.

Pattern play

Fat Brain Toys Bugzzle

This puzzle challenges young minds to fit colorful pieces inside a bug-shaped frame, following a series of increasingly difficult patterns.

Bugzzle is essentially a tangram (a puzzle made up of geometric pieces that can be arranged in different shapes) for toddlers. An early STEM toy that provides a soft, visual introduction to fractions, Bugzzle includes one sturdy bug frame, 18 semicircular plastic puzzle pieces, and 40 cards with increasingly difficult patterns to re-create inside the bug. Many 3-year-olds can become adept at remaking the patterns using the problem-solving skills and spatial reasoning that Bugzzle is designed to foster. For a more-traditional format, the Melissa & Doug Pattern Blocks and Boards Classic Toy encourages the same critical-thinking skills as Bugzzle, using colorful wooden shapes.

Fun by the yard

Little Tikes Gas ’N Go Mower

This toy lawn mower makes an entertaining popping sound when it’s pushed.

When my then-2-year-old son got his Little Tikes Gas ’N Go Mower —long before we had a yard of our own—I don’t think he knew about actual lawnmowers, but that’s beside the point. He loved to run through the corridors of our home, pushing it and delighting in its pop-pop-popping sound. Later, his younger sister, then 3, inherited the lawnmower, and the mysterious appeal of this toy proved to be enduring. I still don’t fully understand why kids feel compelled to mimic mowing a lawn—a task many adults actively avoid. But I love this piece of plastic because there are no batteries, assembly requires no tools, and it has provided years of imaginative play for my kids. We now live in a house that has a real lawn, and my daughter will spend hours on end “grooming” it.

— Lara Rabinovitch

A tower of buggy blocks

Lakeshore Learning Don’t Let the Bugs Fall! Game

In this stacking game, players take turns removing bug-eyed blocks until the tower comes crashing down.

At age 3, my daughter loved every part of the Don’t Let the Bugs Fall! Game (a Jenga-style stacking game for kids): the die-rolling and calling out of the color rolled, the cautious removal of each block, and the dramatic collapse that signals triumph or defeat. She even loved to exhaustively rebuild the tower setup, which is objectively the worst part of actual Jenga. Admittedly, it can be difficult to play according to the exact instructions—you’re supposed to dislodge each bug-faced block one-handed, which is no easy feat. But after you develop some loose and forgiving house rules, the game is fun, fast-paced, and engaging for all ages.

Magnetic letters

Magnatab A to Z Uppercase

This magnetic writing board encourages kids to trace the letters of the alphabet, with a stylus that pulls and clicks tiny beaded magnets into place.

At age 3, some kids begin showing interest in gripping a pencil and trying to form letters or numbers. The Magnatab A to Z Uppercase magnetic writing board is an early handwriting tool that’s fun, tactile, and even semi-addictive. Kids use the thick magnetic stylus to trace letters, pulling the tiny metal beads into place. The beads are encased, so they can’t fall out or get lost. Directional arrows help budding writers visualize where to start and end each letter. There is also a Magnatab for practicing numbers and shapes . For free-form magnetic drawing and writing, try this simple slate . (And you can purchase a replacement stylus , if yours goes missing.)

Iron chef junior

Melissa & Doug Let’s Play House! Stainless Steel Pots & Pans Play Set

This sturdy set of kitchenware provides the necessary tools to prepare a make-believe culinary feast.

My kids use this eight-piece play cooking set to make chicken soup with chocolate, grape spaghetti, and countless other pretend concoctions. Melissa & Doug Let’s Play House! Stainless Steel Pots & Pans Play Set works well as a standalone gift. But it’s also a useful addition to a toy kitchen, like the IKEA Duktig Play Kitchen (featured in our guide to the best gifts for 2-year-olds ). This play cooking set includes a colander, two wooden utensils, and its own vertical storage rack; since the pots and pans are made of stainless steel, they’ve lasted through my kids’ vigorous culinary sessions. (They’re even dishwasher-safe, but you can’t use them for actual cooking.) My son and daughter especially love that this cookware comes with a lid—once their pretend bibimbap or boeuf bourguignon is ready, they can surprise diners by removing it with a dramatic flourish.

A little big top

IKEA Cirkustält

This circus-themed play tent creates a cozy space for kids to imagine, play, or snuggle.

IKEA’s colorful polyester Cirkustält offers long-lasting fun for a low price. The littlest kids may enjoy playing hide-and-seek inside or peekaboo from behind the curtains. Three-year-olds might like loading it up with mounds of stuffed animals, using it as a private place to play or rest, or turning the tent into a rocket ship. I can attest to this tent’s durability: We had one that lasted for at least five years, and there were many catastrophic rocket crashes during that time. IKEA’s Dvärgmås Play Tunnel , which we recommend in our guide to the best gifts for 2-year-olds , pairs nicely with the circus tent and was another hit with my kids. Availability at IKEA stores varies by location.

Costume kits

Melissa & Doug Fire Chief Role Play Costume Set

Melissa & Doug’s costume sets offer an outfit and accessories for kids to fully embody their role as firefighter, construction worker, or doctor.

NuGeriAZ Superhero Capes and Mask for Kids

When they don these satin capes and matching masks, kids can easily transform into superheros and save the day.

My child’s peer group absolutely loves dramatic play and dress-up. One minute they’re doctors, the next minute they’re firefighters, and at some point they all splinter off into different versions of Spider-Man on a group mission to destroy the house. The costume sets from Melissa & Doug—like this Fire Chief Role Play Costume Set —don’t include caped-superhero options. But they do let kids take on lots of heroic, real-world career roles , like veterinarian or pediatric nurse. Each costume comes with accessories—hard hat, hammer, and saw for the construction worker; fedora, sunglasses, and decoder lens for the spy—that help set the scene for freewheeling imaginative play. If your kid is, in fact, particularly obsessed with playing a superhero, they may also love these reversible Superhero Capes and Mask for Kids , with Velcro closures and matching felt masks. And if they’re more inclined toward imitating royalty, consider these sumptuous velour ones .

A creativity station

Melissa & Doug Double-Sided Tabletop Easel

This compact easel doubles as a chalkboard and a magnetic dry-erase board, and it can be folded up for easy storage.

Melissa & Doug’s Deluxe Double-Sided Tabletop Easel gives toddlers dozens of creative options for when they’re seated at the table or on the floor. On one side, there’s a chalkboard; flip the whole thing over and you’ll find a magnetic dry-erase board. The sturdy set includes a 50-foot roll of paper for painting and drawing, five sticks of colored chalk, a dry-erase marker and felt eraser, and 36 letter and number magnets that can be stored in the wooden base tray. It all packs down easily, so you can stow it anywhere or take it on a trip. (My toddler loves to sit outside on the ground with it and paint.) If you’re looking for a full-size easel, we like the KidKraft Storage Easel or the Melissa & Doug Deluxe Wooden Standing Art Easel , both of which we recommend in our guide to the best gifts for 4-year-olds .

Instructive instruments

Eastar Kids Accordion

This kid-size accordion includes enough working buttons to play tunes like “Mary Had a Little Lamb.”

Liza Wilson, owner of the Toybrary Austin lending library in Texas, said that playing musical instruments—or even just playing with them—will help preschoolers explore sensory input in a way that’s creative and self-directed. The resulting sounds may be chaotic, but 3-year-olds can learn much more from real instruments than from simply pushing buttons or tapping screens to play pre-recorded songs. For 3-year-olds, small pianos and drums might be good choices. But Wilson said Toybrary’s Eastar Kids Accordion gets the most play. Kids love pulling on the bellows and pushing the vocal keys and buttons for harmony and bass. It’s a toy that can grow with a child as they progress from making creative sounds to learning actual songs—and, heck, even adults can have some fun fiddling with it.

Plush puppets

Folkmanis Snowy Owl Hand Puppet

Folkmanis puppets, including this snowy owl, are soft and well-made, and they inspire endless storytelling and imaginative play.

Puppets can be a great outlet for preschoolers to explore storytelling. When they were younger, my kids had a dedicated puppet basket, as well as this puppet theater . Yet I found that the individual puppets got way more use than the theater itself—my kids were more interested in private, imaginative play than in performing for an audience. Folkmanis makes a range of plush animal puppets: We were given a tiny praying mantis and a scaly three-headed dragon. But I think the Snowy Owl Hand Puppet was the most special one in our bin. It’s extra-soft and structured, with a head you can rotate using a plastic knob inside. After my older son got dive-bombed by a nesting owl—for real, and he was fine—we were able to embark on some extra-dramatic play with this thing.

Ride the rails

Right Track Toys Wooden Train Track Set

These easy-to-connect wooden pieces are compatible with all major train brands.

Melissa & Doug Wooden Train Cars

Eight colorful train cars can ride solo, or attach together via magnets.

When my son was 2 years old, a cousin gave us a bag of assorted train tracks. Over the following months, he enjoyed them enough that we upgraded to a full set of the Right Track Toys Wooden Train Tracks , to pair with his Melissa & Doug Wooden Train Cars . The 52 pieces of track allow for a sprawling setup, or you can keep the route more simple if space is tight. And the eight colorful train cars, which include a steam engine, caboose, and passenger car, can chug-a-chug separately or be linked together via magnets at the front and back. My son loved pushing the trains along the path he created.

—Amy Miller Kravetz

Creepy-crawly competition

Snug as a Bug in a Rug!

Players practice counting and identifying shapes and colors as they work together to help all the bugs hide from three stink bugs.

This cooperative board game was my kiddo’s favorite at 3½, since it paired her two most beloved elements of play—matching and talking about stinky things. The object of the game is always the same: Help an assortment of bright, friendly faced bugs get tucked safely beneath the rug (the game board) before they’re encroached upon by three invading stink bugs. Snug as a Bug in a Rug! has three levels of play to choose from, with escalating degrees of difficulty (we usually played the middle version), so it can grow with the player. The whole game takes only about 15 minutes to complete, unless (as we did) you feel compelled to lovingly tuck each bug in with gentle words of reassurance about how safe and protected they’ll now be under the rug. We also liked to feign outsize horror in response to the stink bugs’ hideousness and odor ... which takes some of the sting out of the fact that we lost to them so often.

We scream for ice cream

Melissa & Doug Scoop & Stack Ice Cream Cone Playset

Built-in magnets make it easy to scoop and serve these pretend ice cream cones.

According to the International Dairy Foods Association , the average American devours 20 pounds of ice cream a year. Love for the stuff starts early, as illustrated by Melissa & Doug’s Scoop & Stack Ice Cream Cone Playset . Kids can spoon and serve with two magnetized scoopers, which have a satisfyingly realistic feel when you are doling out one of the four scoops of ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and mint chocolate chip) to top off the two wooden cones. The flavors may be well edited, but the playful possibilities are nearly endless.

Tools for toddlers

Black+Decker Junior Power Tool Workshop

This kid-size workbench introduces children to the joy of power tools, including a hand saw.

Play kitchens are all the rage due to their encouragement of imaginative play and social-development skills. (See our guide to the best gifts for 2-year-olds for our favorite one.) But play workbenches deserve the same amount of love. My daughter couldn’t get enough of the Black+Decker Junior Power Tool Workshop . She would collect all of the small accessories, such as nuts, screws, and bolts, and load them into the toolbox. But the coolest part was the attention to detail on the power tools: In addition to a working vise, the workshop comes with a miter saw and a drill, which function realistically and emit battery-powered sounds. The entire thing has more than 50 parts, including a flashlight, a phone, and everything else a kid needs to fall in love with home repair.

A doll for all

Miniland Dolls

These award-winning dolls come in several skin and hair colors, as well as with inclusive features, such as a hearing aid.

For preschoolers, dolls can be an important tool for early social and emotional learning. The right doll can also help children build self-esteem and empathy by mirroring identity differences back to them in a positive light. Miniland (an award-winning toy and doll maker based in Spain, and a favorite among preschool educators) has made inclusivity a priority, and its dolls are a pick in our guide to the best dolls . The collection includes infant and toddler dolls with a range of skin colors and features, including dolls with glasses , with a hearing aid , and an award-winning doll with facial features common in children with Down syndrome . My daughter loves this Miniland doll , which has Asian features; with a bob and blunt bangs, the doll even resembles her. The anatomically correct dolls come dressed in simple one- or two-piece white cotton undies. To add to their wardrobe, you can choose from accessories including shoes, sweaters and overalls.

The swiftest scooter

This introductory scooter provides a stable, smooth ride, and it has an adjustable-height handlebar so it can grow with a child.

When she was 3, my second daughter received a Micro Mini scooter for Hanukkah. It’s Wirecutter’s pick for the best scooter for kids under 5 . And any doubts I had about giving such a pricey scooter to a preschooler were blown away once I saw how my daughter handled this one, compared with the cheaper models she’d borrowed from friends at the park. Other scooters were wobbly, clanky, difficult to steer, and laborious to propel. On this scooter, my daughter could zip and glide around with ease, deftly navigating turns by shifting her weight, and using the foot brake on the back wheel to slow down and stop. It comfortably fits kids up to age 5, so multiple children can use it. (Tip: Extending the scooter’s handlebar to full height makes it convenient for an adult towing a tuckered-out kid home.) When the time does come to graduate to the next size up, we recommend the Micro Maxi , as described in this article .

—Courtney Schley

A modern dollhouse

Hape All Seasons Kids Wooden Dollhouse

This modern-looking, multilevel dollhouse has six rooms and plenty of space for imaginary play.

Hape’s three-story All Seasons Kids Wooden Dollhouse is bright, gender-neutral, and open on all sides. My daughter loved that she could reach into any room from almost any spot to adjust the furniture and play with the wooden people (sold separately). I liked the extra furniture sets and accessories we could buy (including these pets ). This was a staple toy during her toddler and preschool years—until we got a puppy, who eventually devoured everything in the dollhouse, including the two families who lived there. (Note: The price of this dollhouse can jump as high as $200; you may want to look on Facebook Marketplace or in a local online parents’ group to see whether anyone in your area is selling a lightly used, pre-owned dollhouse.)

—Jackie Reeve

A classic red trike

Schwinn Roadster Tricycle 12-Inch

This low-to-the-ground tricycle has air-filled tires that make it fast and fun to ride.

The Schwinn Roadster Tricycle , Wirecutter’s recommendation for the best low-rider tricycle , is built for confident pedalers who are ready to tear up some ground. Unlike other trikes’ plastic or foam tires, the Roadster Tricycle’s tires are air-filled, like a bicycle’s, making this a grippier and faster ride. The heftier build and low center of gravity (a riff on the classic Big Wheel ) give this tricycle the stability needed to handle faster, tighter turns, so it’s a thrilling ride for a 3-year-old. And with its shiny metal body, tassels on the handlebars, a bell, and a wooden deck in back (where a friend can hitch a ride), the Roadster Tricycle cannot be beaten for style.

—Kate Gammon

Pedal bike perfection

Woom 2 Pedal Bike 14"

This lightweight pedal bike is proportioned just right for new, young bike riders.

After mastering the art of gliding on a Woom 1 balance bike (the upgrade pick in our guide to the best balance bikes , and a recommendation in our gift guide for 1-year-olds ), my 3½-year-old leveled up to this model—a real bike with pedals! The Woom 2 Pedal Bike is thoughtfully designed for the needs of the youngest riders (the slightly larger Woom 3, with 16-inch wheels, is the upgrade pick in our guide to the best pedal bikes). This bike has a low standover height and weighs just over 12 pounds, so a small human can easily mount and operate it. The BMX -style riser handlebar puts kids in a comfortable upright position, so they can look around while cruising the neighborhood streets. Two hand brakes are suitably sized for little fingers. When my daughter was first getting started on the Woom 2, we removed the pedals and let her continue to push off with her feet and glide on the bike until she got used to steering and braking. Then we raised the quick-release adjustable saddle an inch or so and added the pedals. She soon had the basics down. It’s cool to see what kids can do when they have a bike that’s designed for them.

Note: In July 2023, Woom bikes announced a recall following 77 incidents of handlebar stems malfunctioning, causing cuts, bruising, and abrasions. New Woom bikes, and those made after 2021, are not affected. Do not use an older bike until you’ve checked to see whether it was part of the recall. If so, it can be repaired with a free kit provided by Woom.

Adoptable animals

World Wildlife Fund Symbolic Species Adoptions

Through a donation to the World Wildlife Fund, you can “adopt” one of 135 animals, from an orangutan to a hippopotamus. The adoption kit includes a soft, plush stuffed animal.

Like many kids, my second daughter developed a full-blown fascination with animals at around age 3. In her case, it was monkeys, monkeys, and more monkeys. After amassing a sizable collection of monkey stuffed animals, a monkey necklace, and other monkey swag, she informed me that she was ready for a real, live one. Instead, with a $60 sponsorship, we “adopted” a squirrel monkey named Chestnut at our local zoo in Philadelphia . We printed and framed the accompanying adoption certificate, which states that my daughter is now Chestnut’s “zoo parent.” And we paired it with a stuffed squirrel monkey from Wild Republic , which offers dozens of stuffed creatures in both small and extra-large sizes. (It also has these beautiful birds , which make authentic bird calls and were produced in partnership with the National Audubon Society.) If you don’t have a similar program at your local zoo, the World Wildlife Fund’s Symbolic Species Adoptions kit provides adoptions for more than a hundred species. So it’s likely you’ll find whatever animal your kid adores, whether it’s a three-toed sloth or a pangolin . Each adoption comes with a stuffed animal, an adoption certificate, a photo, an information card about the species, and a reusable WWF tote bag.

Additional reporting by Julie Kim. This article was edited by Ellen Lee and Kalee Thompson.

Meet your guides

Caitlin Giddings

Caitlin Giddings is a freelance writer based in Austin, Texas. Her work has appeared in Bicycling, Runner’s World, Lonely Planet, Outside magazine, and more.

Wirecutter Staff

Mentioned above

• We spent 20 hours researching nearly 50 board games for kids. Read on to find out our favorite games for preschoolers, elementary-school kids, and families. Board Games We Love for Kids and Families  
• We love a good pair of standard scissors for multiple uses, but we also have favorite shears for when you need a special pair for a special project. The Best Scissors for Every Task  
• For some children, a doll will be the most treasured toy they own. We tested 25 dolls to help you find one that feels just right for the kid in your life. The Best Dolls  
• We’ve compared 19 kids scooters over the past six years, and we’re confident that the popular Micro Maxi is a worthwhile investment in longtime fun. The Best Kids Scooters  
• The Micro Maxi Deluxe provides a smoother, faster, and more satisfying ride than any other kids scooter. The Micro Maxi Deluxe Scooter is More Than a Toy. It’s Smooth, Efficient Transportation for Kids.  
• Over the past six years, we’ve enlisted dozens of kids to try out 21 three-wheelers, and we have four top trikes to recommend. The Best Tricycles  

Further reading

The 33 Best Gifts for 5-Year-Olds

by Kelly Glass, Caitlin Giddings, and Wirecutter Staff

Gifts that tap into art, science, sports, or construction are often great choices for 5-year-olds, since many of them are developing personal interests.

The 27 Best Gifts for 10-Year-Olds

by Ellen Lee and Wirecutter Staff

Many 10-year-olds are on the brink of teenage-dom, and value their friendships, independence, and personal passions.

The 33 Best Gifts for 4-Year-Olds

Toys that encourage building, puzzling, role-playing, and creating will engage curious 4-year-olds.

The 34 Best Gifts for 6-Year-Olds

by Kelly Glass and Wirecutter Staff

DIY kits, craft activities, and board games make great gifts for 6-year-olds who are ready to tackle projects and follow more-complicated instructions.

• Mattress & Sleep
• Kids & Baby Gear
• Beauty & Grooming
• Tech & Electronics

The 45 Best Toys For 3-Year-Olds That Are Sure To Entertain Them

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At age 3 a whole new suite of toys open up to kids. These older toddlers and early preschoolers are less likely to put everything into their mouths, and they’ve often developed their motor skills to a point where they can play with smaller pieces, as well as more active items. That’s why the best toys for 3-year-olds keep these burgeoning skills sharp and the curious tots engaged. Kids this age are also a whole lot of fun to shop for as they’re full of energy, creativity and motion.

Foster those imaginations by gifting one of the best toys for 3-year-olds.

“It’s really important to provide toys that promote imaginative play, as this encourages interacting or playing beside their peers and will help them develop their language skills, problem solving, and social and emotional skills,” says Emma Hubbard, pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Brightest Beginning .

Our parenting editors relied on their years of experience covering kids’ toys, as well as insights from parents and guidance from child development experts, to assemble this list of the best toys and gifts for 3-year-olds. These include open-ended toys that promote creativity and learning, as well as items that test their coordination and balance. Ahead, find our curated—and tried and tested list—of the perfect playthings for 3-year-old boys and girls. You might also want to peruse our stories on the Best Play Kitchens and Best Playhouses , which are both great to introduce at this age.

The Best Twin Mattresses For Kids, Tested By Our Families

The best diaper pails, according to extensive testing, best toys and gifts for 3-year-olds at a glance.

• Best Building Toys For 3-Year-Olds: Magna-Tiles Safari Animals Set , Lego Duplo Town Truck And Tracked Excavator , Learning Resources 1-2-3 Build It! Robot Factory , Fat Brain Toys Squigz Starter Set
• Best Pretend Play Toys For 3-Year-Olds: Melissa & Doug Examine and Treat Pet Vet Play Set , Toiijoy Dress-Up Trunk , Hape Master Workbench
• Best Active Toys For 3-Year-Olds: Eezy Peezy Monkey Bars Climbing Tower , Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set , Blast Zone Magic Castle
• Best Educational Toys For 3-Year-Olds: Montessori Mama Wooden Toddler Puzzles , Mix It Up , Skillmatics Search And Find Activity Mats
• Best Arts And Crafts Toys For 3-Year-Olds: Sgile Magnetic Drawing Board , Ooly Lil’ Pods Watercolor Set , Melissa & Doug Deluxe Standing Easel
• More Fun Gifts For 3-Year-Olds: Toniebox Starter Set With Paw Patrol , Melissa & Doug Fire Truck Play Tent , Step2 Up And Down Roller Coaster

Best Building Toys For 3-Year-Olds

Magnetic tiles to encourage creative play, magna-tiles safari animals set.

I'm a freelance parenting and lifestyle writer who lives on Long Island with my husband and two daughters. I started my writing career as the editor at the now-defunct Gurl.com, where I worked for almost 8 years. I made freelancing my full time career in 2017 and have since written for a wide variety of outlets, including Parents, What to Expect, The Bump, Brides, People, Bustle, Romper, The Daily Beast, Food & Wine and more. When I'm not writing, I'm either chasing after my toddlers, spending as much time as possible at the beach, or staying up late watching Bravo shows.

For product reviews, gift ideas, and latest deals, Subscribe to the Forbes Finds newsletter .

As a deputy editor at Forbes Vetted, I oversee the baby and kids gear and consumer tech teams. I edit, assign and write about everything related to kids, from toys and tablets to strollers and maternity clothes. I'm a mom to three young children and have covered parenting for about 10 years but have been a journalist for longer, reporting on topics ranging from pets to politics. 

I was a senior editor at MSNBC, and my byline has appeared on Today.com, in the New York Post, on Mom.com and elsewhere. I earned a degree in literature and journalism at American University in Washington, D.C., and now reside in the greater New York City area with my family.

The Magna-Tiles brand offers magnetic building blocks and sets that have exploded in popularity—and age 3 is typically when these blocks suddenly become safe for playtime. The concept is simple: Kids can build 3D structures with various geometric shapes that snap together thanks to the magnetic sides. It leads to tons of open-ended play as kids add on sets and characters. This animal-themed set is the perfect Magna-Tiles introduction for little ones, but there are plenty more to choose from, including dinosaurs or mega block bundles .

A Toolkit And Power Drill That’s Safe For Tots

Educational insights design and drill take-along toolkit.

One thing 3-year-olds love is taking part in all those mundane adult chores—at least for a few minutes. Let them practice their fix-it skills with this mini drill kit. It comes with 60 colorful bolts and a kid-friendly power drill. Kids can put the bolts into the grid any way they want, creating their own fun designs with the electronic screwdriver.

They’re Just The Right Age For Duplo

Lego duplo construction truck and tracked excavator.

This 20-piece Duplo set is just right for beginning builders with minimal parts and a fun theme. Kids will be thrilled to play with the two trucks and figures after building the set. The blocks are compatible with other Duplo sets, too, so you can add to their collection with this pick.

Wooden Dress-Up Dolls For 3D Fun

Melissa & doug magnetic dress-up set.

These magnetic dress-up dolls are wooden, so they feel sturdy and durable. The larger pieces aren’t likely to get lost and everything can stay in the box it comes in when not in use. They work well at home or while on the go with kids. Melissa & Doug makes many different versions of this, from Disney characters to heroes , so they’re fun to collect and mix and match.

Their First Robot

Learning Resources

Learning Resources 1-2-3 Build It! Robot Factory

This toddler friendly STEM toy lets them try out building a robot for the first time. They can mix and match the pieces, snapping the parts in to design their perfect model—or take it apart and start over. No batteries required—and the pieces are chunky enough for small hands.

A Buildable Indoor Garden

Cenove flower garden building toy.

This 130-piece kit includes everything your toddler needs to create a colorful garden in their own home. Not only is this a way to stretch their fine motor skills by putting pieces together correctly to build a flower, it’s also a great way to learn more about plants. As a bonus, everything comes packaged in a handy bucket for easy cleanup and storage. My daughter received this toy as a gift, and I was surprised to find that my twin boys play with it just as much as she does.

Stick 'Em Anywhere For Impromptu Build Sessions

Fat brain toys squigz starter set (24 pieces).

Squigz are an incredibly versatile toy with an incredible following. You can use them anywhere, and we’ve pulled our Squigz out for platytime on the airplane, at a restaurant and in the waiting room. The suction cup bottoms mean you can stick them to pretty much anything, including each other, allowing kids to build wherever they like. The surface is easy to clean, and some parents use them as bath toys.

Best Pretend Play Toys For 3-Year-Olds

A vet play set with stuffed animals, melissa & doug examine and treat pet vet play set.

This Melissa & Doug vet kit is a favorite among kids and parents alike for its attention to detail and commitment to pretend play. The 24-piece set includes a stuffed cat and dog and vet tools to treat any injury or illness imaginable. The small bag is a good place to store all the items.

A Realistic-Looking Workbench

Hape master workbench.

This award-winning pretend workbench lets your little builder get super hands-on. It comes with 35 pieces, including realistic looking fake tools, such as a hammer, screwdriver and wrench. The height-adjustable workbench grows with your little one and makes an adorable gift for a 3-year-old’s playroom.

A Trunk Full Of Fun Accessories

Toiijoy dress-up trunk.

This Toiijoy Dress-Up Trunk is full of options. It includes 22 pieces, including outfits and accessories to dress as a mermaid, princess, fairy or ballerina (or something completely made up). This versatile kit allows them to pick and choose how they want to pair pieces and lets them add these fun accessories to otherwise practical outfits, so you both win.

A Scoop Shop

Melissa & doug wooden scoop and serve ice cream counter.

Everything they need to open their own ice cream shop is right here in this Melissa & Doug pretend food set with its eight scoops, six toppings and plenty of serving utensils. Kids can delight in offering friends and family their creations. The set comes with a bit of play money, so don’t expect free cones.

A Sink Of Their Own For Water Play

Cute stone color changing kitchen sink.

The automatic water cycle system in this mini sink allows it to function as an actual sink, making it perfect for toddlers who love water play. It comes with dishes and utensils that turn white if the water is too hot and a little dish rack for drying. This is cute for indoor or outdoor play.

The Classic Dump Truck

Tonka steel classics mighty dump truck.

At age 2, they’re too young to play with a big, real steel dump truck like this one from Tonka—but at age 3, they’ll thrill to fill the giant flatbed up with sand, toys and other fun. It’s 17-inches long and offers a movable dump and mighty tires.

A Pretend Cleanup Set

Melissa & doug let's play house play set.

Toddlers love to be part of family activities and to try out all the activities their parents and caretakers do, including cleaning the house. We may find it a tedious task, but tots really just want to join in, and this Melissa & Doug Let’s Play House set is just their size. I bought this set many years ago, and my three kids still use it almost daily to sweep and tidy up around the house.

Comes With A Matching Crown For Kids

Purpose toys littlelistas baby doll.

With curly C3 textured hair, this Black doll from Purpose Toys offers tots a huggable friend and an opportunity to select a doll with hair and a skin tone that mirrors her own if she prefers. The Littlelistas dolls come in a variety of sizes, skin tones and natural hair styles. This one comes with an extra crown for your 3-year-old to wear. Dolls can help kids practice everyday activities like getting dressed and brushing teeth, and they also often serve as a comfort object.

Dress-Up Clothes To Make Them Feel Like A Hero

Great pretenders firefighter set.

This is often the age when kids suddenly become very interested in playing dress-up, pulling on all sorts of costumes, masks, wings and dresses. This Great Pretenders Firefighter Set lets them pretend to be the ultimate hero, a firefighter. We suspect your tot might want to wear this jacket daily. It comes with all of the right accessories for a day of firefighting heroics.

Sliceable Fruit With Their Own Knife

Melissa & doug cutting fruit set.

Pretend food is a hot commodity for toddlers, and this Melissa & Doug Cutting Fruit Set takes it to the next level by handing them their own faux knife. I bet you’ve probably started to hear a lot of: “I can do it myself!” Well, this set lets them act out those “do it myself” food prep scenarios. It includes sliced pieces of fruit held together with self-stick tabs, as well as a wooden tray and knife. Kids can use the knife to “cut” the wooden fruit into pieces, something that helps with motor skills and introduces the concepts of part, whole and fractions.

Best Active Toys For 3-Year-Olds

A portable balancing game, national geographic balance stepping stones.

These soft, foam stepping stones are simple but entertaining for a range of ages. Kids can use them to create mini obstacle courses indoors or outdoors. They’re great for practicing balancing and working on jumping and hopping, and they’re portable and easy to store.

A Climbing Tower For Little Adventurers

Eezy peezy monkey bars climbing tower.

My toddler is willing to climb anything and everything. This Eezy Peezy Monkey Bars Climbing Tower is great for keeping them off your couch, at least for a little bit. It's easy to assemble and surprisingly lightweight, so if you have the space, you can move it indoors for the winter. Kids can climb to their heart’s content, and it allows them to explore their limits. It holds up to 150 pounds.

A Play Seat That Encourages Active, Creative Play

Fat Brain Toys

Bilibo By Moluk

Bilibos come in a rainbow of bright colors and might just be the ultimate open-ended toy for active kids. They can sit in them and spin or rock, flip them over or fill them with treasures. My kids have used their Bilibo for years and in all sorts of games. They’re durable, easy to wipe clean and BPA-free, PVC-free and phthalate-free.

Shoot Hoops Together

Little tikes easy score basketball set.

This classic toddler basketball hoop lets your little one get in on the big kid sports action. Opt for the adjustable version, and it grows with them. I like that this set comes with three balls.

A Portable Climbing Set

Tiny land 5-in-1 rainbow pikler triangle set.

This wooden indoor climbing set from Tiny Land offers multiple active play options, including the Pikler Triangle, a reversible rock wall/slide and a rocker. It holds up to 132 pounds, meaning it could last your kids well into their childhoods. The climber is foldable, so you can tuck it away for storage as needed.

A Way To Get All Of Their Energy Out

Flybar my first foam pogo jumper.

This is the perfect budget-friendly toy if you feel like your 3-year-old never stops moving. The soft, toddler version of a pogo stick allows them to bounce around as much as they want while practicing their balance. Use it indoors or outdoors whenever they need to burn off a little extra energy.

A Modular Play Couch

If you don’t have a play couch for your active tot yet, you can’t go wrong with The Nugget, one of the first play couches. Kids can arrange the pieces into a fort or pile them up for a cozy hangout space. Parents tend to appreciate the removable and washable covers, along with the Greenguard Gold certification and multitude of colorways.

A Mini Bowling Set For Indoor Play

Melissa & doug k's bowling friends play set.

Three-year-olds might still be a little young for the actual bowling alley, but this Melissa & Doug set can prepare them at home. The lightweight pins are easy for them to knock down, and the carrying case makes storage simple and convenient. It’s the perfect rainy day boredom buster at home—and it makes a cute gift.

A Mini Motorcycle To Get Pedaling

Fisher-price harley-davidson tricycle.

Some 3-year-olds aren’t quite ready for a big kid bike, but this Harley-Davidson trike might make them feel just as cool as their older siblings. The large pedals and easy-grip handlebars make navigating easier, while the cool biker theme might just encourage them to hop on. A handy secret compartment is perfect for stowing toys.

Bounce It Out

Blast zone magic castle.

Inflatables offer big fun and plenty of allure for kids of all ages. This Blast Zone castle-themed bounce house works indoors with its lower height or outdoors for your toddler’s entertainment zone during their birthday party. It’s durable and comes with the necessary blower and ground stakes. Host up to three kids or up to 300 pounds with this inflatable. It measures 9 x 11 x 7 feet and folds into a backpack-size case. If that’s not enough room for your needs, size up to the Blast Zone Magic Castle XL that can hold up to five kids or the Blast Zone Magic Castle Ultra for even more bouncing space.

Best Educational Toys For 3-Year-Olds

Colorful wooden puzzles to solve, montessori mama wooden toddler puzzles (4-pack).

These sweet wooden puzzles are just challenging enough for a new puzzler with chunky pieces that are easy for little hands to grip. They’re made of eco-friendly wood in colorful primary colors and come in fun animal themes to intrigue your little one. Each one is small, but the four pack provides enough variety to keep them busy.

An Interactive Book That Teaches Color Play

This darling interactive book from artist Hervé Tullet sneakily teaches kids their colors while they’re having a blast pretending to smear, press and mix the paint color on the pages. Tullet also wrote another of my favorite books for this age group: Press Here .

Movable Gears Get Them Thinking

Learning resources gears gears gears deluxe building set.

Introduce them to problem solving and basic mechanics early on with this Gears! Gears! Gears! building set. They can color sort, think critically and flex their creativity with this STEM toy as they build their creations. I’ve watched young kids build independently with this set, but it’ll certainly be a new challenge for a 3-year-old.

A Puzzle To Build Frustration Tolerance

Mudpuppy dinosaur park 25-piece floor puzzle.

Floor puzzles are a favorite for 3-year-olds. These oversize but chunky puzzle pieces make it easier for them to see the design, for example, and they’re just a bit different and special compared to the usual jigsaw. This dinosaur puzzle has 25 pieces, including some that are shaped like dinosaurs. The pieces are nice and thick, and it always holds up to my kids stomping on the puzzle after it’s complete.

Activity Mats Filled With Fun Challenges

Skillmatics search and find reusable activity mats.

This educational tool is disguised as a game to keep little ones busy. They have to find specific items and circle them on the page. These all easily wipe clean to play with again later. It’s perfect for dinner at the restaurant or on the tray table on the airplane.

A Colorful Introduction To The Concept Of Time

Melissa & doug shape sorting clock.

This Shape Sorting Clock is excellent for teaching little ones more about time, clocks and numbers—and it’s also just a lot of fun for them. It’s like a puzzle with number pieces that fit into recessed wells. Kids can move the hour and minute hand to show different times. Let them play with this on their own or use it as part of a larger lesson.

Best Arts And Crafts Toys For 3-Year-Olds

A play-doh table for storing and playing, play-doh play 'n store kids play table.

Play-Doh is a classic for a reason: It keeps kids occupied without making too much of a mess (usually). This play table set makes it easier to store all the Play-Doh and accessories while also offering a pop-up crafting table, so you can keep the sticky dough off your better furniture and rugs. It also comes with a lot of fun molds and shapes they’ll love.

Washable Paint In A Wide Variety Of Colors

Ooly lil' watercolor paint pods.

Painting finally starts to get a bit fun around 3 years old. This watercolor set from Ooly comes with 36 beautiful colors, so they’ll have plenty of options to find the perfect shade for their creations. This paint is completely washable, so there won’t be too much worrying about clothes, the table or the walls.

A Standing Easel For Painting And Coloring

Melissa & doug deluxe standing art easel.

With a dry erase board, chalkboard and room for a paper roller, this dual-sided easel has it all. There are clips to hold the paper in place, spots to store crayons, paint and paint brushes and enough room for more than one toddler to play at a time. It’s sturdy and folds nearly flat for storage. Plus, working on a vertical surface can help strengthen muscles and improve motor skills.

A Must-Have Doodle Distraction

Sgile magnetic drawing board.

A magnetic doodle board might seem too simple to engage a busy toddler, but I’ve found it to be an impressive distraction on car rides, at restaurants and in the airport. Given that it’s all magnetic (no glitter or melty crayons here), it also keeps things pretty mess-free. The slide eraser is easy enough for kids to use.

This Craft Kit Is Great For Sensory Play

Pom pom pictures.

For parents who would rather not clean up the inevitable mess of crayons and paint, this fun arts and crafts kit is the perfect pick. Kids can insert pom-poms into pre-punched felt to create cool designs, from dinosaurs to rainbows. It’s an easy craft to master, won’t create much mess and is something they can do on their own, so it’s a win all around.

All The Art Supplies In One Box

Kids Made Modern

Kid Made Modern My First Arts And Crafts Library Kit

Have your toddler take a break from coloring and painting to make some crafts. This kit comes with everything they need to get creative, like fuzzy sticks, paper straws, foam stickers, googly eyes and so much more. This could lead to hours of creative, independent play. There’s no wrong way to create with this kit, so feel free to step back and let them go to town.

A Mess-Free And Reusable Toy

Melissa & doug on the go water wow (2-pack).

These Water Wow books are my go-to toy whenever my toddler will need to sit for an extended period of time, like while traveling or during an older sibling’s sporting event. Once you fill the pen with water, they can use it to color the pages. After the pages dry, they can do it all over again, so one book can last for a long time.

More Fun Gifts For 3-Year-Olds

An on-demand audio storyteller just for them, toniebox starter set with paw patrol.

This screen-free audio player offers kids stories, songs, podcasts and more. Each topper comes with a new batch of stories. Nab a bundle kit with your child’s favorite characters, from the Paw Patrol featured here to Disney princess characters , so they can enjoy story time whenever they want.

A Cuddly Story Time Companion

Aurora world plush tubbie wubbie cuddly lion gift set.

A plush pal is always a hit at this age, and this gift set offers kids both a snuggly stuffed animal and a story for the perfect duo. The 12-inch stuffed animal is sized just right for tots. Choose from among the lion, a cow or a penguin.

An Exciting Play Tent To Transform Their Day

Melissa & doug fire truck play tent.

Pop-up and play tents offer young kids an exciting escape from their daily play routines by instantly transforming your living room into a magical scene. This fire truck play tent from Melissa & Doug is extra fun with its realistic graphics and enough space for several kids to play make-believe at once.

A Kid-Friendly Gardening Set

Kinderific gardening set.

Toddlers often naturally love to garden and play in the dirt outside, and this sweet gardening set might help to keep them organized. It comes with kid-friendly tools, so they can dig and plant all they want. The adorable case comes in a variety of colors. I’m sure they’ll love watching everything they planted grow as the months go on.

A Ride That's Just Thrilling Enough

Step2 up & down roller coaster.

Offer kiddos a mild thrill with this outdoor roller coaster toy. Kids can ride the car to the end of the ramp at a safe speed while getting a glimpse into what it might feel like to ride a bike one day.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

• Forbes Vetted’s kids and baby gear section includes extensive reporting on everything from parenting must-haves to toy and book guides for kids of all ages.
• Many of us also have firsthand experience as parents. I started writing this story when I was parenting a 3-year-old, and deputy editor Rose Gordon Sala , who oversees this story and all subsequent updates, has three young children.
• We prioritize safety in our coverage of baby and kids gear, taking into consideration any recalls, health and federal guidelines, and potential hazards before recommending an item.
• We consulted two experts in the field of child development: Emma Hubbard , pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Brightest Beginning, and Dr. Jody LeVos , early childhood development expert and chief learning officer of Begin.
• We frequently review and revise this article. It was last updated by Sala in April 2024.

What Do 3-Year-Olds Like To Play With?

At this age, toddlers are getting more into imaginative play and are learning how to play with their peers instead of alongside them. “Three-year-olds often display what is known as ‘deep conceptual interests’ that go beyond a casual interest in things like dinosaurs and princesses,” explains Dr. LeVos. “That is, many children in this age range express a very strong interest and fascination with specific topics, such as trains, garbage trucks or ponies, and this will drive a lot of their play and toy preferences.”

They also love acting out things that happen throughout their day, like shopping or putting a baby to bed. “Between 3 and 3-and-a-half, their play themes expand to include events which happen beyond personal experience, like pretending to be a fireman/woman or a police officer,” Hubbard says.

What Kinds Of Toys Should 3-Year-Olds Have?

Toys that encourage imaginative play and creativity and that help with the development of motor skills are ideal for 3-year-olds. Hubbard recommends toys like blocks, magnetic tiles, play dough or train sets to help further the development of fine motor skills and problem solving tactics. Boost creativity with craft sets that encourage them to paint and draw. She recommends imaginative toys like toy kitchens, doctor kits, dress-up clothes and baby dolls to promote imaginative play to develop fine motor, cognitive and social skills. For gross motor skills, she likes active toys like scooters, bikes and balls.

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Rookie Moms

Pregnancy > Parenthood

The Best Toys for 3 Year Olds – 27 Spectacular Picks for 2023

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What are 3-year-olds into? Bluey, snacks, and saying no—often with more gusto than a diva refusing to perform. As a mother of six (yes, you read that right!), I’ve been through the toy trenches more times than I’d like to count. I’ve witnessed the best, the worst, and the utterly baffling in the world of toddler toys. So, if you’re on the hunt for the next best thing to captivate your little one, or simply something that won’t end up as junk in a week, read on! Because, let’s face it, the only thing tougher than a 3-year-old’s negotiating skills is their discerning toy taste.

Finding the best toys for 3 year olds can be overwhelming because of the vast amount of choices out there, so we have narrowed it down for you. The following are 20 of the best toys to keep your little one entertained and help them develop new skills!

You will find the list is divided into my top picks, the best educational toys, and the best creative toys. Here are my favorites in every category for easy shopping!

For Interactive Play
For Developing Motor Skills
For Creative Play
For Bathtime Fun
For Sensory Play

If you’re looking for gift ideas in other age groups, we have guides for 1 year olds , 2 year olds , 4 year olds , 5 year olds , and more straight from mamas who have been there and done that!

Best Toys for 3-Year-Olds – My Picks!

Indoor wall playground.

This indoor playground is tons of fun and will entertain your little ones for years to come.

When our toddler started to climb on everything in the house, we knew we needed to come up with a safe solution ASAP. We added one of these climbing play gyms to our playroom so that every time she wants to climb we can direct her to the play gym where it is safe.

There are many different options, we just prefer this style as it does not take up too much space in a room.

Find the perfect indoor playground for your space!

Talking Bluey Plush Toy

Ever catch yourself watching Bluey even after your toddler has moved on to doing something else? Yeah, me too! I guess you could say we both have a lot of love for the show. I was excited to see this new plush toy come out and I think it is going to be one of the hottest toys this year.

Bluey recites one of 9 memorable phrases from the series when you press her belly. She will also invite your little one to sing along to her signature theme song. On top of that, this plush is perfectly cuddly.

Kinetic Sand Kit

We probably already lost you when you saw that the first thing we are recommending is a Sand Kit. But hold on for a second. This is not your ordinary sand. Kinetic Sand does not make a mess like regular sand, in fact, it clumps nicely together.

This is one of the best toys for sensory development and for fine motor strengthening. Plus, it is surprisingly good fun for us adults too, so you can enjoy playing this with your little toddler.

Fisher-Price 4-in-1 Learning Bot

The Fisher-Price 4-in-1 Learning Bot is the ultimate sidekick for kids. It’s not just a toy – it’s a whole adventure. This thing grows with your kid, which is pretty cool. First, it’s all about colors and textures, helping babies figure out the world. Then, it gets into counting and numbers – early math whiz, here we come!

But wait, there’s more! Next up, it’s all about letters and words. Who knew learning ABCs could be so much fun? And guess what? This bot isn’t just brainy; it’s a problem-solving guru too. It’s like having a buddy to play interactive games that sneakily make you smarter. Plus, it’s got lights, sounds, and textures to keep your baby’s senses engaged.

Crayola Color and Erase Mat

The Crayola Color and Erase Mat is a Toy of the Year Awards 2022 winner! It is basically a giant, reusable drawing space that allows your little one’s creativity to blossom. When your artist is done with their masterpiece, you simply wipe the mat down with a wet cloth and it will once again be a blank slate. It actually wipes all the way down and doesn’t leave smudges like some of the other doodle mats we’ve tried out. 

The set comes with a 32″x 23″ Reusable Drawing Mat, 6 Washable Markers, and 1 Wipe Cloth. Best of all, the mat rolls up easily and has a spot for each marker making it easy to store or take on the go.

Balance Bike

Training your little one to ride a bike can be a harrowing adventure. After several kids, I can say this with absolute confidence. All my kids who had a balance bike first learned to ride a bike much easier. It’s a metal-framed balance bike without pedals so your little one can scoot with his feet and then balance as they ride.

Balanced bikes are one of the perfect toys for little ones who are adventurous, who are active, and ready to feel a tiny bit more independent. This toy is a significant hit with children and parents simply because it teaches them coordination and kids absolutely love it. 

Personalized Name Crayons

You’ve probably seen the personalized name puzzles, but have you seen these personalized crayon name sets yet? This year, they are all the rage and make for a vibrant stocking stuffer! Because of their oversized shape, they are perfect for little hands. Best of all, they come in a box with the name printed on the front and a yarn bow so this is one gift you won’t have to wrap. 

This Etsy shop is the original creator of crayon name sets and quality is of utmost importance to them. They have been featured in Forbes, Buzzfeed, and they were an Etsy Design Awards Finalist in the Kids Category.

Step2 Up and Down Roller Coaster Ride On

This is another toy my nephew has that we all love and think is super cool! It is quite literally their own little roller coaster. It is 10 ft long with a little car on top. The car stays in place while your little one climbs onto it, which is great for safety!

Once the track is set up, it is completely safe and easy for your 3-year-old to play without needing extra help. 

Toy Vacuum- Dyson Ball Vacuum With Real Suction and Sounds

Despite your little one demanding independence, they still love it when they can act just like mom or dad. This mini Dyson Vacuum lets them do just that. It’s a scaled-down replica of the Dyson Ball Cleaner with sound effects. The sucking and cyclone action makes the beads inside it SPIN. And, it twists and turns motions like the real thing. There is also a removal dustbin at the back to clear debris – yes, it vacuums actually! It stands 63cm tall and works on 4C batteries.

Sure it doesn’t do any actual vacuuming, but it does let your 3-year-old suck things up. It also has a removable bin and offers real fun. It might even someday convince them that real-life chores are actually fun (we can dream, right?). For once, we can only live in hope.

Best Educational and Developmental Toys for 3 Year Olds

Let’s keep it real here. 3-year-olds can be exhausting at times. As much as they bring so much joy to your life, their endless energy can drain us parents. Here are our favorite toys to keep a 3-year-old busy. 

Lovevery Play Kits

During the holiday season, our kids often end up with a whole slew of random toys that they will hardly touch. Finding really good toys is hard, which is why I have fallen in love with Lovevery Play Kits. They take all the guesswork out and deliver a box of toys perfect for your child’s developmental stage.

Skip Hop Zoo Crew Toddler Memory Game

Crafted especially for little hands, these large, sturdy cards showcase 24 endearing Skip Hop Zoo characters. This game is made for 1 to 4 players. It invites kids to pair up colorful critters, honing their memory, matching, and turn-taking skills in the process. Memory games are so great at this age!

With 48 vivid and durable cards to shuffle and match, children not only enhance their memory and hand-eye coordination but also delight in the fun of discovering their favorite Zoo characters.

Magnetic Blocks

Magnetic Blocks are one of my absolute favorite toys for my 3-year-old. I love it because not only does it entertain the little guy for quite a while, all my kids enjoy playing with them. Even I find myself sitting down with my little one for a long time playing with these magnetic blocks. You can check out our full review here !

They are a ton of fun. In addition, it is a great way to teach your little one about shapes and colors.

Blockaroo Magnetic Foam Building Blocks

Looking for a fun, cutting-edge STEM gift for your little one? These new magnetic foam blocks are quite popular. Stacking them is simple because of the way they click together. I swear it is almost magical! With these blocks, your child will be able to construct magnificent structures while also learning about shapes and colors.

Are you ready for the best part of all? They can be used as bath toys also!

Pinkfong Baby Shark Melody Pad

Sorry parents, but Baby Shark is not going anywhere and we just have to accept it. Kids love this song and this toy will be taken everywhere by your little one. It is lightweight and ours has been used extensively. Your child will truly love this toy.

Wiwiurka Climbing Foldable Triangle – Rookie Mom Tested by Karissa!

This Foldable Climbing Triangle from Wiwiurka is perfect for your curious little explorer. Not only is it fun, but it promotes gross motor development and purposeful play. It is a great way to help get your little one’s energy out, and when we tested it out these boys could not get enough! They got hours of playtime out of their triangle.

It is also super easy to assemble, so once it arrives you will be playing in no time.

Count Your Chickens Board Game

Dive into a feathery adventure where players unite to help the mother hen round up her runaway chicks and return them to the safety of the coop. As you spin and move, you’ll count spaces and gather the corresponding number of chicks—a delightful way for kids to hone their counting skills!

But here’s the twist: In “Count Your Chickens!”, everyone works together. There’s no competition; instead, the goal is collective success. By collecting all the chicks as a team, players win together, promoting a sense of cooperation and shared achievement.

Beyond counting, children learn the invaluable lesson of cooperation which is why I love this game. so much.

Leapfrog My Own Laptop

Leapfrog is one of my favorite brands because they make teaching my kiddos the basics like letters and numbers. With all the buttons and different noises this little play laptop can make, your child will have so much fun. In fact, they won’t even realize they are actually learning something. They also get excited thinking they are getting a “laptop,” just like mom and dad.

This is one of my little girl’s favorite toys! It’s like Play-Doh’s crazy cousin; stretchy, squishy, and oh-so-moldable. You can twist, shape, and sculpt this magical dough into all sorts of crazy creations.

It is much better than Kinetic sand and NEVER DRIES OUT. This is a great sensory toy and our kids absolutely love it.

Rainbow Counting Bears and Sorting Cups

3-year-olds don’t actually need something too extravagant to keep them entertained. This bears and sorting cup set will keep them busy for a while and will help to teach them basic math and sorting skills.

Rookie Mom Tip: Keep them around because they will come in handy again for elementary school math homework. Giving kids something to physically hold is super helpful for their addition and subtraction skills.

Best Creative and Artistic Toys for 3 Year Olds

Kidkraft ultimate corner play kitchen set.

If there is one toy that gets used over and over and over by toddlers, it’s a play kitchen. All of our boys and girls have loved playing kitchen in the house. Serving us fake pizza, apples, or even coffee. Toddlers simply love this toy and will use it for a few years without fail.

This KidKraft model is definitely one of the better models out there and is simply adorable (I mean check out the kitchen backsplash)! Here is a list of some other great play kitchens !

Barbie Dreamhouse

I can think of no better gift, it is the year of Barbie after all! With this house, your little one’s imagination will have their Barbies diving into pool parties, flying down the slide, hosting magical sleepovers – you name it. With over 75 accessories, kids can endlessly customize and interact, ensuring the narrative is fresh with every play.

I especially love that it has tons of pet features and even comes with a puppy! Plus, with inclusive features like a wheelchair-accessible elevator, it subtly instills values of inclusivity.

This ultimate Barbie Dreamhouse is made for ages 3+.

LCD Writing Tablet 10 Inch Doodle Board

If you need a toy to entertain your little one while traveling, dining in a restaurant, or just to give Mama a break for a minute, this LCD Writing Tablet Doodle Board is a great option. It looks like an iPad, but rather than your child going from app to app or watching loud Youtube videos this toy will encourage them to exercise their creativity. It’s a whole lot easier to take on the go than paper and crayons and markers as well! 

If you take a quick glance at the reviews you will see that parents absolutely love this thing! Tons of them claim their child uses it way more than they ever could have imagined.

Play-Doh Kitchen Creations

You can’t really go wrong with Play-Doh. The Play-Doh ‘baking’ toy set comes with a cake stand, cutters, stampers, plates, cutlery, and a special icing tool.

Why we love it? You can roll out crazy treats with the mini rolling pin, and use the molds to create tiny Play-Doh cookies and other sweet stuff. It’s like being a master chef but with squishy, colorful ingredients. And guess what? No baking required! Just a sprinkle of imagination and a whole lot of Play-Doh fun.

Kaloo Rouge Rabbit Plush, Pink, Large

Let’s not forget baby dolls and stuffed animals, which kids love because they can use their imagination with them. Pretend play is important for our children’s development. When they play, pretend they’re putting themselves into someone else’s shoes, mommy or daddy or anything.

What an incredible thing for a child to imagine an alternate reality! This means they are no longer locked to the here and now. And, this also means that they can come to understand abstract ideas. Plus, they are just soooo cute.

Rookie Mom Tip:

No matter what you choose for your 3-year-old the most important thing to remember is to sit down and enjoy playing these toys with them. So, make sure to take some time out of your day and have fun with the little one.

Are you planning your next trip? Before you go, we want you to take a look at this ultimate list of travel toys you can carry on your next journey to keep your kids engaged and happy. Anything to keep your kiddo entertained on that long journey, wherever you are going!

STEP2 ADVENTURE CAMPER PLAYHOUSE  

The Step2 Adventure Camper is so much fun! My two and four-year-old children like using their very own grill to prepare loaded hotdogs and hamburgers.

Step 2 really gets the little touches right, from the skylight to the food with all the toppings. There is even a functional doorbell!

Additionally, like all the Step2 products we have used in my home, it is made of high-quality materials so your children can play with it nonstop without it showing any signs of wear.

Crayola Color Bath Dropz

It is hard to believe that something as fun as a bath bomb actually contributes to STEM learning! Yes, you heard us right. Watching these color drops dissolve into the water teaches your little one about science.

These actually turn the bath really bright colors, which is helpful in catching a 3-year-old’s attention. Not to mention, these just make bathtime a whole lot more fun.

Melissa & Doug’s Catch and Count Wooden Fishing Game

My little nephew has these and they are his absolute favorite. For starters, he feels so proud of himself when he is able to magnetically hook one of the fish. They have also helped out with his vocabulary of sea creatures and colors.

Along with all that, this game is great for fine motor skill development and hand-eye coordination. This game can be played solo, but is also really fun to play as a duo.

Water Drawing Mat

It’s okay to let your kiddo make a big old mess on occasion in the name of expressing themselves, but sometimes you might just not want to deal with that. This is when a water drawing mat comes in clutch. You just place the soft mat on the ground and fill the pen with water.

The marks take 3-10 minutes to appear so it’s like creating a fun surprise! It also comes with stencils and cutouts making it easy to create even for little ones. 

Remember, while the world of toddler toys might seem infinite, with the right pointers, you can find those treasures that won’t just end up in the back of a closet.

Be it for education, creativity, or sheer fun, these top picks are bound to hold the interest of even the pickiest 3 year old. After all, as a mom of six, I’ve seen it all—and these toys have passed the ultimate toddler test!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best toys for a 3 year old boy?

Wallbars Nets Indoor Playground KidKraft Ultimate Corner Play Kitchen Set Kinetic Sand Kit Step2 Up and Down Roller Coaster Ride On Lovevery Play Kits

What to buy a 3 year old boy who has everything?

Here are some unique options for 3 years olds who seem to have everything! 1. Wallbars Nets Indoor Playground 2. Kidkraft Ultimate Corner Play Kitchen Set 3. Step2 Up and Down Roller Coaster Ride On

What is the best gift for 3 years old girl?

1. Melissa & Doug Take-Along Show-Horse Stable Play Set 2. Doll Puppy Set and Accessories 3. Crate & Kids Treehouse Play Set

About the Author

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Pin for Later -The Best Toys for 3-Year-Olds – Top Picks for 2023

We meticulously curate our toy lists and include the items we’d tell our own friends about. If you choose to buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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28 Educational Toys That 2 to 3-Year-Olds Will Love

June 16, 2022 · In: Learning Environments , Toys & Gift ideas for Kids

Finding the best educational toys for toddlers (2 to 3-year-olds) that are both fun and beneficial can be tough. Most toddler toys are either too noisy and distracting or not very educational. And many of the so-called “educational” toys are nothing more than just glorified plastic toys. I've done the research for you and compiled a list of 28 of the best educational toddler toys. These toys promote growth and development while being fun and enriching.

Related Articles:

• Lovevery Play Kits: What You Need To Know (Complete Review)
• 8 Best Math Toys to Help Your Child Love Learning

What Are the Benefits of Educational Toys for 2 to 3-Year-Olds?

Educational toys help toddlers learn new skills and concepts.

They provide a fun way for 2 to 3-year-olds to explore the world around them while teaching them essential skills like counting, colors, letters, and more.

Educational toys can also help toddlers develop their fine motor and problem-solving skills. And last but not least, educational toys are more fun for toddlers than non-educational toys!

That's why every toddler should have at least one educational toy.

How to Pick the Right Educational Toys for 2 to 3-Year-Olds?

When choosing an educational toy for 2 to 3-year-olds, it's essential to consider their interests and what they're currently working on developmentally.

If your children are interested in animals, you might want to choose a wooden puzzle with animal shapes.

If your children are working on learning their colors, you might want to select a shape sorter with colored shapes.

The most important thing is that the toy is developmentally appropriate and that your children will enjoy playing with it.

Here are a few more tips for choosing the right educational toy for 2 to 3-year-olds:

• Choose toys that are made of natural materials whenever possible. Wooden puzzles, shape sorters, and nesting blocks are all great choices. They're durable, safe, and environmental friendly.
• Avoid toys with small pieces. Choose toys with larger pieces that are easy for toddlers to grasp. You don't want your toddlers putting small parts in their mouths and choking on them.
• Look for toys that can grow with your children. They can start out simple and add more pieces or challenges as they age. Some educational toys, such as building sets and magnetic tiles, can be used differently as your children grow.
• Avoid toys with a lot of battery-operated lights and sounds. These types of toys are often very distracting and not educational. Choose toys that are quiet and have a limited number of moving parts.

If you're not sure which educational toys are right for your 2 to 3-year-olds, ask your children's doctor or a developmental therapist. They can give you specific recommendations based on your children's needs.

28 Best Educational Toys for 2 to 3-Year-Olds That Will Make Learning Fun!

There are a variety of toys to teach your 2 to 3-year-olds. After that, I'll go through 28 toys that will encourage development while adding attractiveness to the room.

Best Building Blocks

1. educational building blocks for 2 to 3-year-olds.

Wooden blocks are a staple of early childhood education because they're versatile, durable, and perfect for little hands. Plus, they offer endless opportunities for creative play. Children can build towers, houses, pets, and more with wooden blocks. Your 2 to 3-year-olds can learn shapes, colors, and numbers using this educational toy set.

Best Posting Toy

2. learning play kit for 2 to 3-year-olds.

The 4-for-1 play kit includes Object Permanence Box, Montessori Coin Box, Carrot Harvest Game, and Matchstick Color Drop Game. These educational toys are also good for 2 to 3-year-olds.

Best Threading Toy

3. learning lacing beads for 2 to 3-year-olds.

Educational toys for 2 to 3-year-olds don't have to be boring! These lacing beads are great for helping toddlers with their fine motor skills. The bright colors and different shapes also help with shape and color recognition.

Tracing Boards

4. wooden alphabet & number tracing boards for 2 to 3-year-olds.

These educational toys for 2 to 3-year-olds are great for learning the alphabet and numbers. They come with a stylus and are wipe-clean, so your children can use them continuously. Your toddler will love tracing the letters and numbers, and you'll love watching them learn! These educational toys for toddlers are sure to become a favorite in your home.

Pegboard and Elastics

5. wooden geoboard material.

2 to 3-year-olds toddlers will love the challenge of getting the elastic through the tiny hole on the board. This educational toy is excellent for motor practice!

Sorting Toy

6. stack and sort board.

This educational toy is a great way to teach your 2 to 3-year-olds about shapes, colors, and matching. It is also great for developing fine motor skills.

Your toddler will love stacking the wooden pieces on the sorting board. They can also use the sorting board to sort other objects, such as toy cars or blocks. This educational toy is a great way to encourage your toddler's creativity and imagination.

Matching Cards & Objects

7. farm animal toy figurines with matching cards.

This educational toy for 2 to 3-year-olds is perfect for helping them learn about animals. The Montessori Animal Match comes with 24 miniature farm animal figurines and matching cards. It's an excellent way for toddlers to learn about animals while having fun.

Balance Bike Toy

8. strider balance bike for 2 to 3-year-olds.

This balance bike helps 2 to 3-year-olds learn how to balance and ride a bike. It is also a great way to get them active and moving. The bike has a sturdy frame, adjustable seat, and foam tires. The padded seat and handlebars make it comfortable to ride. Remember to always wear a helmet!

Best Movement Gym

9. triangle climbing ladder with ramp.

This educational toy is perfect for your 2 to 3-year-olds who loves to climb. The triangle climbing ladder with the ramp is a great way to encourage gross motor skills and improve coordination.

Your toddler will have hours of fun climbing up and down the ladder, and they will also be improving their physical development.

The ladder is also great for developing problem-solving skills as your toddler tries to figure out how to get to the top.

Balance Toy

10. wooden balance board.

This educational toy for 2 to 3-year-olds is perfect for helping them develop their sense of balance and coordination. The wooden balance board is also a great way to encourage active play.

11. Pack of 4 Sports Balls

These balls are soft, safe, and perfect for toddlers to play with indoors and outdoors. I would recommend using the balls outside to have enough space to play. Taking different balls out encourages rolling, strength, coordination, kicking, and fun.

Art Supplies

12. pure beeswax crayons.

These eco-friendly and non-toxic crayons are 100% pure beeswax. They're perfect for toddlers just starting to explore their artistic side.

13. Sidewalk Chalk

These non-toxic chalk sticks are perfect for your toddler to draw on the driveway or sidewalk. The chunky chalks can fit easily in your toddler's hands and provide a large surface like the sidewalk. A large surface can involve movement of the whole arm as they practice using the chalk.

Nuts & Bolts Toy

14. montessori screw driver board.

The Montessori Screw Driver Board is a great educational toy for 2 to 3-year-olds. It teaches them about screws and how to use a screwdriver.

Loose Parts

15. rainbow color wooden loose parts.

Loose parts are significant for 2 to 3-year-olds. Toddlers can use them to build towers, sort by size or shape, or play with them in whatever way they want. There are no rules with loose parts, which is why they're so perfect for educational purposes.

Building & Problem-Solving Toy

16. learning wooden train set for 2 to 3-year-olds.

This is a great way to teach 2 to 3-year-olds about colors, shapes, and numbers. The Tiny Land Wooden Train Set includes a locomotive, three cars, thirty-six track pieces, and seventy-five wooden blocks. Your 2 to 3-year-olds will love building the tracks and watching the trains go around. This educational toy is also great for developing fine motor skills.

Construction Toy

17. connetix tiles.

Connectix tiles are a fun and educational toy for 2 to 3-year-olds. They help to teach children about colors, shapes, and sizes. Plus, they're a great way to promote hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills.

Best Puzzle Set

18. wooden peg puzzle – 6 pack.

These educational puzzles are perfect for 2 to 3-year-olds! The Melissa & Doug wooden peg puzzles are great for helping little ones develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. The six themes include animals, transportation, numbers, shapes, and more. Each puzzle consists of high-quality wood, and the pegs are sturdy and easy to grip.

19. Sensory Bin Tools

Transfer, Scoop, and Play! This set of toddler-sized wooden kitchen tools makes a perfect addition to any toddler's sensory box. Play with these wooden toys, and your sensory bin favorites like beans and colorful rice support the development of hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and a child's confidence.

Playdough Tools

20. playdough tools for 2 to 3-year-olds.

Complete Play Dough Kit Comes With Craft Board: No messy colored dough all over tables & floors. This Tools Set includes its wooden board – perfect for Playdough, cutting, rolling, stamping, etc.

Best Piano Toy

21. hape playful piano.

This educational toy for 2 to 3-year-olds is a great way to get them interested in music. It is made of wood and has a beautiful multicolor finish. It is also a great size for toddlers to play with.

Best Musical Instruments Set

22. music instruments.

This musical instrument set includes striking, shaking, and blowing! It is a great way to teach your toddler rhythm, melodies, and sound.

Pretend Play & Imagination Toy

23. sarah's silks enchanted playsilks.

Playsilks are inspiring toys that children will play with again and again. There are many purposes when playing with play silks, from dressing up and playacting to building forts and tents to creating beautiful art. The possibilities are endless!

Pretend Play Toy

24. kitchen sink play set with running water.

This educational toy for 2 to 3-year-olds keeps them entertained while they learn. The running water feature is especially great for teaching cause and effect. Plus, it's just plain fun!

25. Hape Kitchen Toy

This educational toy for 2 to 3-year-olds is perfect for the budding chef in your life. The Hape Gourmet Kitchen Toy features an oven, stovetop, sink, and cupboards that open and close. It also comes with play food and utensils.

26. Folkmanis Puppets

This Raccoon in a Garbage Can hand puppet is made with high-quality materials designed for 2 to 3-year-olds. It's perfect for stage and puppet theater, storytelling, teaching, daycare, pre-school playtime, or gifts! Your little one will love making this cute raccoon pop out of the trash can and wave its paws around.

Cleaning Set

27. toy cleaning set.

The 6-piece cleaning set is perfect for hours of pretend play housekeeping. It includes a broom, mop, duster, dustpan, brush, and storage stand. All pieces are durably made and sized for kids. The dust pan snaps onto all handles for easy storage. It is made from sturdy wooden construction.

Read more: Lovevery Play Kits: What You Need To Know (Complete Review)

Best Subscription Kit

28. lovevery play kits.

Lovevery Play Kits are right for parents who are looking for a way to make playtime more educational and fun for their children (including 2 to 3-year-olds). Lovevery kits come with a variety of age-appropriate toys, books, and play guides that will help your child learn about the world around them. Lovevery Play Kits are also made with high-quality, sustainable materials

FAQ on Educational Toys for 2 to 3-Year-Olds

Having a wide range of toys that will assist your child in developing multiple skills is an excellent idea, but having too many toys might result in overwhelm—and children with fewer toys play with them more creatively, according to research.

To keep your playroom, store or give away toys your child has outgrown, put toys on display (and encourage little ones to put them away at the end of playtime), and make books and educational toys the most accessible.

Education and developmental toys  boost your children's IQ levels by better memory retention, coordination, and increased literacy . Learning toys and games aid 2 to 3-year-olds in challenging their minds. For instance, when the child stacks the blocks but misses to balance them, he sees them all falling into pieces.

There is no definitive answer to this question as wooden and plastic toys have their own benefits and drawbacks. Wooden toys are often more expensive than their plastic counterparts, but they can last many years if well-cared for. They are also generally more durable and harder to break. Plastic toys, on the other hand, are cheaper and often more colorful and fun-looking. They might not last as long as wooden toys, but they are often more lightweight and effortless for toddlers.

I'll try to keep our natural-materials toy collection neat since it's beautiful. However, I will not impose a stringent ban on plastic toys because I believe in certain toys, such as magnetic tiles, lego bricks, etc.

Conclusion: What You Need to Know About Educational Toys for 2 to 3-Year-Olds

We have listed 28 of the best educational toys for 2 to 3-year-olds.

While this list is certainly not comprehensive, it should give you a good starting point when looking for the perfect toy to help your little one learn and grow. And remember, the benefits of educational toys go beyond academics.

In addition, they can help promote social and emotional development, creativity, and imagination.

How do you pick a suitable educational toy for your toddler? It depends on their interests and what stage of development they are in. Overall, you can look for age-appropriate toys, encourage exploration and play, and offer lots of opportunities for learning through trial and error.

Do you have any personal recommendations to add? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

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28 Smart STEM Toys for the Techie Kids in Your Life

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Colorful Construction Clixo Rainbow Pack Read more

Marble-Powered Computer Turing Tumble Read more

Coding Car QUBS Cody Block Read more

Lego Robots Lego Spike Prime Robot Read more

Anyone who has ever watched a toddler methodically take apart a Tupperware drawer should know that many children are natural-born engineers. Your only job as a parent is to nurture their creativity … and clean up the mess afterward. Between us—product reviewer Scott Gilbertson, editor Adrienne So, and I—we have seven kids. This, honestly, is the most fun part of my job—calling in STEM toys for my kids and I to test together and recommend to you. It hardly feels like work at all.

Wrap up a few of these STEM toys (also called STEAM toys; we love you too, Arts!) and books for your future scientist to blow up, burn up, or dismantle. Hopefully, they'll thank you for the early encouragement when they're older. Be sure to check out our many other buying guides , including Our Favorite Subscription Boxes for Kids and How to Build the Lego Collection of Your Dreams .

Updated November 2023: We added Clixo Kits and Kanoodle Pyramid, and updated prices throughout.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get WIRED for just $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED.com , full Gear coverage, and subscriber-only newsletters. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

Colorful Construction

Construction kits are compelling no matter your age, and my entire family found Clixo’s colorful, versatile, snap-together magnetic pieces irresistible. You can build three-dimensional shapes from these flexible pieces by connecting the magnetic ends and bending them the way you want (my youngest made a cat, my teen made a crown). These durable and washable pieces stack neatly to pack away. We love that you don’t need a flat surface to build because it means you can play with these kits anywhere. If you prefer a themed pack, we also liked the Mars Rover Pack ($45) and the Ocean Creatures Pack ($45) , and both sets feature glow-in-the-dark pieces. The kits are recommended for kids aged 4 and up. —Simon Hill

Marble-Powered Computer

Turing Tumble is a wonderful way to teach kids coding fundamentals. It combines the simple pleasure of marble runs with a beautifully illustrated sci-fi comic book packed with challenging puzzles. The board resembles a pachinko game, and you have to slot in different pieces to divert the blue and red balls and get the required pattern at the bottom. My 9-year-old spent hours working through the puzzles, reconfiguring this marble-powered computer. As the challenges grew tougher, the whole family joined in to find solutions. Well-designed, satisfying, and rewarding, this is a good pick for kids 8 and up. —Simon Hill

Teaching basic coding concepts to young kids is a challenge. To do it without a screen is even tougher. But QUBS has come up with an elegant solution. These beech wood blocks look like buildings, but each has a symbol relating to a command (turn left, turn right, U-turn, repeat the last command, stop, record path, play path). When kids put the magnetic top on the red car, it begins to drive. Using radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology, the car reads the commands on the blocks. There’s a lovely guidebook that includes stories and activities, but the best thing about this Montessori-inspired wooden toy is that kids can dive in and learn how it works through play. —Simon Hill

Lego Robots

Lego Education's Spike Prime building set is a complete DIY robot-building classroom in a box. Literally. Prior to the abrupt rise in distance learning several years ago, Lego marketed this primarily to schools. It comes with its own lesson plans, but don't let the seriousness fool you—my kids love this set and went from never having used it to programming their own robots (using the drag-and-drop Scratch programming language) in a couple of afternoons.

Lego keeps updating Spike Prime too. Recently it released a new series of plans for bots that track exercise and help kids learn about motion and energy transfer. —Scott Gilbertson

Make Music From Colors

Sphero acquired STEAM toy company LittleBits in 2019. Sphero's toys are always so cute, I want to eat them whole; I particularly liked the Sphero RVR ($279) . But for sheer aesthetic pleasure, it's hard to compete with the Specdrums.

These tiny, pocketable rings turn all the colored surfaces around you into a potential musical instrument, and turn anyone into an amateur DJ. Use the app to assign sounds to colors or vice versa. When you tap on different colors, you can hear the different tones. Anyone from toddlers on up can play with these and find them vastly entertaining. You can also buy a one-ring set for $25 . —Adrienne So

Coding Ball

The Sphero Edu app is packed with computer science lessons and activities for different age groups. Bolt has an 8 x 8 LED board on top, various sensors inside (compass, light sensor, gyroscope, accelerometer), and supports infrared communication. My wife is a teacher and uses this in the classroom to teach basic coding skills, giving students (9 year old and up) challenges like navigating a maze. She says many kids grasp the concepts much faster than they might with a book or screen, because they can see the Bolt moving in physical space. —Simon Hill

Endless Building Fun

The return on investment with Magna-Tiles staggers me. It's been years , and at 6 and 8 years old, my children can still occupy themselves with these for hours. Translucent Magna-Tiles click together to form both two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional objects. Younger kids can make a house with a backyard and fences, or ice cream cones. With an older kid, the sky is the limit—or, rather, your credit card is, since there are wheelbarrows full of expansion sets you can buy. My daughter can currently build a full village in an afternoon for her stuffed animals.

If these are too pricey, there are alternatives that work just as well, like Picasso Tiles, which are $20 for 60 pieces . —Adrienne So

Tacto uses physical pieces to turn your iPad, Android, or Fire tablet into a game board. Tacto Chess teaches the basics, from how the pieces move to strategies for victory. The animated app boasts friendly voice acting and stories to draw kids in. There are also chess puzzles to solve and a move predictor, and your child can play against AI or another person. Both my kids (9 and 12) have enjoyed some time with this, so it works well for different ages and abilities, but it was a little fiddly to get pieces to register on the iPad Mini, so a larger tablet is advisable. Other Tacto packs cover dinosaurs , classic board games , coding , lasers , and electronics . —Simon Hill

Underwater Vistas

Chronicle Books' gorgeous picture book tells the story of Ken Nedimyer, an environmental scientist, live rock farmer, and fish collector who founded the Coral Restoration Foundation .

The book weaves together details of Nedimyer's biography with facts about coral reefs—I did not know that corals spawn like fish do—and luminous underwater landscapes and depictions of scuba diving. It makes environmental preservation and following your passions look both doable and fun. —Adrienne So

Table Tiles

The Osmo tablet accessory and gaming platform for kids merges the physical and digital worlds in a way few toys manage. Your kids can tackle solving puzzles and playing word games with blocks and tiles you move around on the table in front of them. The Osmo hardware captures what they're doing and translates it into actions on the screen.

Osmo recently launched several new titles, including a math-related dragon game that's been a hit in our house. Give the hardware requirements a close look to be sure your iPad or Fire tablet is compatible. —Scott Gilbertson

Construction Capers

My entire household found this magnetic construction set irresistible, and there has been a new 3D structure on the coffee table every morning. The kit comprises glow-in-the-dark magnetic rods (crafted from recycled plastic), steel spheres, and plastic bases in different shapes. You also get storage boxes to put everything away in. There’s a guide in the box with a few suggested structures, but creating your own is a big part of the appeal. There are sets of various sizes suitable for kids 3 and up. —Simon Hill

Women in STEM

These beautifully illustrated cards depict legendary women who made significant contributions to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. There’s a focus on Black and Indigenous women of color, because they are woefully underrepresented in most STEM discussions. Stylized portraits are combined with interesting brief biographies that recount their journeys and highlight their achievements. There are also thoughtful questions to provoke conversation and debate, which makes the deck a useful teaching resource for teens. But it is on the pricey side.

The makers, the Represented Collective, also offer puzzles for younger kids. We tried Nakira’s World Nature Hike ($24) , a jigsaw with two pairs of decoder glasses and a puzzle book. Youngsters will enjoy examining the nature scene, and the booklet has links to culturally relevant reading and offers an introduction to Ojibwe vocabulary. —Simon Hill

Color Chemistry

Everyone who has come across a Crayola crayon has probably melted one, whether accidentally or on purpose. Crayola's Color Chemistry set includes enough brightly colored Crayola ingredients for 16 activities out of the box, and up to 50 with common household ingredients. Exploding volcanoes and colorful quicksand are just a few of the eye-catching experiments that you can look forward to trying. —Adrienne So

Remote-Controlled Robot

This super-cute robot looks like it rolled straight out of a Pixar movie. With a big, expressive eye atop three balls, it zips around with real personality, which helps it successfully combine play and learning in a way that every STEM toy aims for but many fall short of. Dash has lived with us for several years now. It’s a durable toy that works on a simple level like a remote-controlled car, but it also ties in with various apps to play games, solve puzzles, and create programs. Lego connectors for Dash’s head add to the creative possibilities. Wonder Workshop also offers some optional accessories. —Simon Hill

A Twist on a Classic

No one needs a Bluetooth-enabled Rubik's Cube, but once you get your hands on a GoCube you probably won't be able to put it down. Smart sensors inside the beautiful, glowing cube connect to a companion app on your phone and sense where each block is positioned. You can learn algorithms and strategies that will help you get your solve-time down. And if you give everyone you know a GoCube, you can also stage live competitions with friends and family! —Adrienne So

Sand Castles

My kids love this moldable sand and have happily spent countless hours over the years making tabletop structures. It behaves like wet sand and never dries out, so you can shape it with your hands or use tools and molds to make castles. It comes in many colors and clumps together easily but doesn’t stick to your hands or surfaces. While it’s generally easy to clean up, it’s a good idea to confine play to a tray or table and supervise your kids, or you may end up picking tiny bits of pink sand out of your carpet. —Simon Hill

Unlimited Books

No parent has ever complained that their child was reading too much. You might think that Amazon's Kindle Kids a regular Kindle Paperwhite , but it includes a year's subscription to Amazon Kids+ (formerly FreeTime Unlimited), a two-year replacement guarantee, and, yes, a cute cover.

Not only does Amazon Kids+ give your child access to more than a thousand kid-friendly books in both English and Spanish, as well as Audible titles, I found it easy to whitelist even more free titles (free books!) from my local library using Amazon's parent dashboard. You can also highlight or look up difficult words, or add them to a Vocabulary Builder tool. Testing this Kindle is the first time I've gotten my 5-year-old interested in longer chapter books, so I'd give it a ringing endorsement based on that alone. —Adrienne So

Real Coding

Many STEM toys dumb down programming tasks, and that can limit their usefulness. The kits from Let’s Start Coding reject that approach, offering hands-on time with electronic components and challenging kids to dive straight in and create programs in C++. The Ultimate Kit includes 23 separate parts, including an LCD screen, speaker, LED strip, various sensors, and more. There are more than 100 projects to embark on, with example code that kids can tweak and helpful, if somewhat dry, walkthrough videos.

My kids required some encouragement and supervision with this, and I think the suggested age of 8 years and up is low. Perhaps more important than age is a genuine interest in hardware and coding. But there’s satisfaction in successfully controlling hardware components. A Windows, Mac, or Chromebook desktop or laptop is required to use the free software. Younger kids may be better starting with a smaller, more focused kit like Code Rocket ($70) . —Simon Hill

Unlock the Rocks

The best toys are the ones that aren't toys at all. This year, my children became extremely interested in fossils and geology. We've been taking walks in the woods or at the beach, putting promising specimens in our pockets. We often keep the rock tumbler running for weeks (outside, because it's a little noisy), changing out the grit and watching as rough rubble eventually reveals itself as sparkly quartz or agate. If you're feeling ambitious, you can also throw in a rock guide and plan a rock-hunting trip. —Adrienne So

Colorful Clay

Part of exploring the world is feeling the world, digging in the dirt as it were, but if you don't have a yard or live near a park, you can bring some of that same spirit of exploration inside with polymer clay.

This is the mold-and-bake clay you might have used growing up. It just has a fancy new name. The things your kids create might not always hold up, but that too is a learning process—after her doll's table fell apart several times, my daughter asked if I could reinforce the legs with wire.

Other fun sculpting options include modeling clay ($10) and good old-fashioned Play-Doh ($21) . —Scott Gilbertson

Odds and Ends

Most kids love construction kits, and the OffBits combine special components with standard hardware bits you might have lying around the house, like nuts and screws. Each kit boasts a special assembly tool and a robot, creature, or vehicle to build. My daughter enjoyed putting the UnicornBit together, and kids are encouraged to get creative in their approach and adapt designs to suit them. The only roadblock we ran into was that some pieces were tough to connect, requiring some adult muscle, and others felt loose, but the end result was charming. OffBits offers various kits (mostly for kids ages 6 and up), but with small pieces and tricky assembly, we advise adult supervision. —Simon Hill

Fantastic Stickers

I know what you're thinking: Painting with stickers sounds kind of lame. But trust me, kids love these books. There's something about the balance of fun and meticulous concentration that draws children in. These are also a fun and mess-free activity for traveling with younger children. If your child isn't a dinosaur fan, there are plenty of other options, including unicorns , undersea animals , bugs , and more. —Adrienne So

Creative Cardboard

If you already have a Nintendo Switch, you must try Nintendo Labo ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ). These clever kits composed of corrugated cardboard sheets and stickers must be assembled so you can play related games with your creations on the Switch console. Beyond the challenges and mini-games, you can dip into the software and learn how each kit works. You can even set up your own rules, reprogramming your creations in the Toy-Con Garage by dragging and dropping blocks to create simple inputs and outputs. We like the Vehicle Kit best, but there are several alternatives. —Simon Hill

Yeasty Goodness

We've tested many gift subscription kits , but my 5-year-old declared this baking kit to be the most fun of all. We've talked about yeast, watched carbon dioxide fill up balloons ("We're eating fungi farts!"), talked about the different states of matter while making butter, kneaded dough, and finally, had cinnamon toast for a snack. It requires a lot of parental supervision over a lengthy period of time, but I also liked that she now has her own separate measuring cups and tools and can quit stealing mine. —Adrienne So

Tetris-Style Teaser

Can you fit these Tetris-pieces into a three-dimensional puzzle board? My 11-year-old loved this logic puzzle, though she found the 2D puzzles too easy. Luckily, there are 100 3D puzzles that require spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills to beat. They get tougher as you progress, but never too hard. This puzzle kit is recommended for kids aged 8 and up, but some younger kids could have fun with it, too. Kanoodle does also offer a bunch of other brain teasing puzzles specifically for younger kids. —Simon Hill

A Crayon Replacement

Tempera paint sticks are like oversized crayons, but instead of wax, your kids smear tempera paint around. Don't worry, it dries quickly (in about a minute and a half), and it's easy to clean off most surfaces. It's all the fun of painting, but there are no brushes or other mess to clean when your kids are done. There are sets of all sizes. We started with this 12-piece set but have since expanded to a 32-color set ($28) . —Scott Gilbertson

World of Learning

Budding adventurers can learn about countries around the world with this interactive globe. Using a companion app on a tablet, your child can scan the included globe and get augmented reality pop-ups that trigger fact files on famous monuments, animals, cuisines, and more. My 9-year-old had some fun with this but felt the goofy voices were more suitable for younger kids. (PlayShifu recommends it for ages 4 to 10.) The globe feels cheap, and the AR pop-ups tend to clip through it, but this is a novel way to learn more about the world. Shifu offers two alternative globes covering dinosaurs and the planet Mars . —Simon Hill

Coding Cutie

It’s amazing how bleeps and bloops, colored LEDs, and cute animations lend personality to a tiny robot. The Ozobot Evo is like a mini R2D2 your kids can control. There are a couple of ways to program the Ozobot Evo. It follows black lines drawn on paper and changes the color of its lights to match the colors drawn. Blocks of varied colors also act as codes to trigger animations, change speed, or perform another action (a workbook explains). Ozobot is an easy, screen-free introduction to coding principles for younger kids. Older kids can try Ozobot Blockly, a typical drag-and-drop coding language that lets them build simple programs quickly.

My 10-year-old enjoyed playing with this for a while, but I agree with  our original review that the Ozobot Evo would work best in the classroom. Ozobot offers handy teaching resources, and the Evo makes for an engaging problem-solving activity for small groups. —Simon Hill

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30 Best STEM Toys for All Ages, As Recommended by Teachers

Robots, building kits, and more to build kids’ STEM skills.

Looking for fun ways to encourage a love of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)? These STEM toys are the perfect solution. Whether you want them for your classroom, use them as enrichment play at home, or give them as gifts, there are STEM toys for every age, from the littlest learners to teens and adults. We’ve rounded up our favorites picks, which all have the teacher stamp of approval. Get ready to learn while you play!

• Preschool STEM Toys
• Elementary School STEM Toys
• Middle School and High School STEM Toys

Best STEM Toys for Preschool

Educational insights design and drill activity center.

This is a great toy for all the little builders in your life. They will enjoy using the drill to screw in the colorful bolts to the board, and can color-coordinate and count as they build. A great way to work on fine motor and math skills, your child will love the freedom of creating their own design.

Real Teacher Review: “I didn’t know what to expect with this set. I didn’t know if my four-year-old daughter would have trouble getting the screws in or get frustrated because she couldn’t do it, but my girl LOVED this set. … Educational Insights always has such great products. I use them in my home for my kids and in my classroom for my students. Keep up the great work!”

Buy it: Educational Insights Design and Drill Activity Center at Amazon

Playmags 3D Magnetic Tile Building Blocks

This set of 100 colorful blocks will keep your young STEM lover busy for hours. These blocks are strong and sturdy so your builder can build any structure they desire. This kit comes with a one-year warranty and will encourage creativity and learning.

Real Teacher Review: “I love love LOVE this product! I have similar toys in my preschool classroom and they are a huge hit. I was worried this brand would be less reliable and ‘cheap’ compared to the ones in my classroom but they hold their own!! Very pleased!!”

Buy it: PlayMags 3-D Magnetic Tiles at Amazon

CozyBomb Monkey Balance Counting Game

This adorable monkey scale can help kids master concepts like cardinality, math facts, weight measurement, comparing numbers, and so much more!

Real Teacher Review: “I’m a math educator and I appreciate the design of this toy to support creative investigation of numbers and quantities. The balance is sensitive enough and the monkeys and numerals are calibrated well to read out equivalence of equations through 20. I’m surprised by how great the quality is for the price!”

Buy it: CozyBomb Monkey Balance Counting Game at Amazon ADVERTISEMENT

ZozoPlay Tube Design Challenge

There are lots of terrific STEM building toys out there, but we love the unique twist this one offers. Kids can design their own Seuss-like musical instruments, experimenting to find different sounds as they make changes. This is sure to be a hit with older kids too.

Real Teacher Review: “I got this for my preschool class. I was looking for something new and different that would interest them. They absolutely love playing, building, and creating. The pieces are sturdy and easy for little hands to use. I also love the sturdy case that comes with them!”

Buy it: ZozoPlay Tube Design Challenge at Amazon

GeoSafari Jr. My First Kids Microscope

Though the magnification isn’t high, the setup of this STEM toy will make kids feel like real scientists. There’s room for all sorts of items beneath the binocular-style scope, so little ones can take an up-close look at the world around them.

Real Teacher Review: “We LOVE this microscope for our classroom (pre-K, 4-year-olds). The magnification is similar to that of a magnifying glass, but the two-eye viewer and focus nob allow the students a different experience that a magnifying glass cannot give. I personally love that it is easy to clean, easy to store, and pretty durable! Highly recommend this product.”

Buy it: GeoSafari Jr. My First Kids Microscope at Amazon

PicassoTiles Bristle Blocks

These retro blocks have been around for years, and they’re especially terrific for little ones who can’t quite manage DUPLO or LEGO blocks yet. They stick together and come apart easily, and texture is a fun sensory experience.

Real Teacher Review: “I bought two sets for my preschool and I was impressed with sturdiness and quality of the pieces. The students love to play with them and I would purchase these again. I’m delighted with them and that kids have used their imagination to build everything from robots, houses and zoo cages to aliens.”

Buy it: PicassoTiles Bristle Blocks at Amazon

Nuby Wacky Waterworks and Splish Splash Cups

At home, you can use these in the tub. In the classroom, make them part of your water table or play station. Kids adore water toys, and this is bound to be a popular pick.

Real Teacher Review: “I’ve been using these and washing them every day in my toddler class for about 2 weeks and they are perfect. Definitely a buy again. I already have 2 sets.”

Buy it: Nuby Wacky Waterworks and Splish Splash Cups at Amazon

Yeebay Flower Garden Building Kit

Combine the engineering fun of building blocks with the creative imagination of growing a flower garden, and you get this cool STEM toy. It’s terrific for toddlers, but older students enjoy it too, so it’s a toy that kids will play with for years to come.

Real Teacher Review: “I’m a preschool teacher, and I was looking for a fun interactive toy to introduce to my class for spring. When it came, I played with it myself for half an hour. I brought it to school the next day and it was a big hit.”

Buy it: Yeebay Flower Garden Building Toy at Amazon

Stomp Rocket Original Jr.

This is a classic kids toy, with science fun built right in! One of our favorite features is that you can buy replacement rockets if you lose or play the original ones past their prime.

Real Teacher Review: “Who knew such a simple design could provide hours of fun and entertainment! Put together in no time, the stomp rocket junior had my little ones enjoying and giggling instantly. What’s more, as a science teacher I love the physics lesson this provides. The rockets are more robust than some I have seen and are cut from one continuous piece of foam—others I have tried with a plastic body and red foam head become useless when the glue keeping the foam head on disintegrates and re-gluing proves fruitless. These do not suffer from that effect and what’s more—they glow in the dark! Who wouldn’t like that? I would thoroughly recommend these stomp rockets.”

Buy it: Stomp Rocket Original Jr. at Amazon

Curious 2 Learn Building Blocks

The unusual design of these building toys draws kids in, and they can get really creative when assembling patterns and other structures. This is another one of those STEM toys that older kids will want to get in on too.

Real Teacher Review: “I was a STEM teacher for a year and a half, and I still have a children’s STEM event at my current place of work. I use LEGO-style blocks, big-blocks, marble-runs, and all kinds of assorted building blocks and toys at the events. These went over very well. In fact, one table of children pushed the LEGO-style blocks aside in favor of these. They are very easy to construct 3D shapes with. The pieces also hold together well, so kids are less likely to become frustrated when creating a structure.”

Buy it: Curious 2 Learn Building Blocks at Amazon

Best STEM Toys for Elementary Kids

 thinkfun gravity maze marble run.

STEM toys that help kids think ahead are always a good idea. This marble run has lots of built-in puzzle challenges, and they can be a lot more challenging than you think!

Real Teacher Review: “Fourth graders and engineers love this toy. Follow the cards, create your own, make it big, make it long—it’s all fun. It is the most sought-after game in my classroom and it engaged two very serious young adults until they were told to put it away.”

Buy it: ThinkFun Gravity Maze Marble Run at Amazon

Snap Circuits Jr. 100

Your little engineer will stay busy while trying out all 100 projects they can build with components that simply snap together to make working circuit boards—no tools required. Each piece is color-coded and numbered, so your child can feel independent as they build away.

Real Teacher Review: “I use Snap Circuits Jr SC-100 in my K–6 technology classroom in a public school. My students absolutely LOVE them! The directions are simple enough for my first graders to follow after a short demonstration, and the projects range in difficulty to keep even the sixth graders excited.”

Buy it: Snap Circuits Jr. 100 at Amazon

SmartsToy Solar-Powered Wooden Car

Your child can build (and paint) their own car without tools or batteries (yes!) and watch it zip away in the sun. Have peace of mind knowing your child is developing their fine motor skills with toxic-free material and real wood. And did we mention no batteries required?

Real Teacher Review: “So many of my kids were building these and bringing them into school, I decided to buy a couple for the classroom. The instructions are easy to follow, there are no tiny tools or plastic pieces to worry about. I found I liked building them even more than my students did.”

Buy it: Wooden Model Solar Car Kit at Amazon

Klutz LEGO Gadget Science Activity Kit

Your child will be deep in concentration while playing with this LEGO set. They can build their own powered car, robot, and nine other machines, not to mention all of their own creations.

Real Teacher Review: “I love all the LEGO products as I grew up playing with them. Now, I love buying them for my 3rd grade classroom. They are always the most popular toy and the kids enjoy this one especially.”

Buy it: Klutz LEGO Gadget Science Activity Kit at Amazon

Aokesi Remote-Control Robot Building Blocks

For kids ready for a bigger challenge, this 350-piece set of building blocks to create their own 360-degree rotating robot will keep them busy. It’s a great project that will hone problem-solving skills and help with hand-eye coordination. The kit comes with rechargeable batteries that last for 40 minutes of playing time.

Real Teacher Review: “This is adorable! I actually got this to use in my classroom and we were able to use it today. It was a lot of fun to put together and easy to use.”

Buy it: Aokesi Remote Control Robot Building Blocks at Amazon

ThinkFun Rush Hour Traffic Jam Logic Game

This is quoted as being “one of the most popular logic games ever made” with over 10 million being sold. Your kids will love it, and you might get hooked too, as there are many challenges in this game, ranging from beginner to expert. It even comes with a great storage bag, which makes it an easy game to travel with.

Real Teacher Review: “One of the best logic games I have ever played. I use this game in my class to get their brains thinking. It’s such a popular game in my classroom that I needed to set up a checkout for it. Also, this game is not just for children, even adults will get hooked!”

Buy it: ThinkFun Rush Hour Traffic Jam Logic Game at Amazon

Playz My First Coding and Computer Science Kit

This kit is great for younger and older kids alike, allowing them to learn about coding without actually needing a computer. The logical-thinking activities included build preliminary coding skills kids can build on as they grow.

Real Teacher Review: “I will be using this in my middle school computer classes. I love that my students who are a little more intimidated doing coding on computers can begin learning the concepts of coding in meaningful ways that are more familiar to them.”

Buy it: Playz My First Coding and Computer Science Kit at Amazon

Osmo Genius Starter Kit

Osmo’s coding activities are among the top STEM toys on the market today. This starter kit is available for iPhone and iPad as well as Kindle Fire. Once you have the starter kit, you can add on all kinds of other coding games and toys, expanding the learning opportunities.

Real Teacher Review: “I can’t explain how amazing Osmo is! I have used the Osmo system in my classroom for three years. The kids in my class never get tired of it and it makes an amazing center. Anyone who comes into my classroom and has never seen how it works is amazed!”

Buy it: Osmo Genius Starter Kit at Amazon

Yellow Scope Foundation Chemistry Kit

This award-winning kit comes with a 32-page book that explains chemical reactions, temperature, and molecular motion. With 19 experiments, this kit will keep young scientists busy (but also safe!).

Real Teacher Review: “As a former teacher turned stay-at-home mom, I love this kit … I have two girls who love nature, asking questions, and are little scientists. This is a great kit to fill the gaps in of their passion and what is lacking at school.”

Buy it: Yellow Scope Foundation Chemistry Kit at Amazon

National Geographic Break Open Geodes Kit

There’s nothing like the magic of cracking open a dull rock to find sparkling crystals inside. This set comes with 10 stones, so classroom kids can work in groups and get a piece to keep. It’s such a fun intro to geology (and adults love it too!).

Real Teacher Review: “I bought this for … a special education teacher. She wanted something fun for her class to help them learn earth science. They each got to take a piece home to show the family. HUGE HIT. Good for young and old alike.”

Buy it National Geographic Break Open Geodes Kit at Amazon

Best STEM Toys for Middle School and High School

National geographic dual led microscope.

Older kids are ready to step up to a more powerful microscope, but they still need one that’s easy to use. This one has two sets of lenses to provide multiple levels of magnification. Plus, it comes with tools like prepared slides, a petri dish, and more.

Real Teacher Review: “I am a science teacher and purchased this for my granddaughter to inspire her curiosity. Quality is excellent and perfect for a beginner scientist. Great selection of slides and very user-friendly. Super happy with this purchase.”

Buy it: National Geographic Dual LED Microscope at Amazon

Happy Atoms Magnetic Molecular Modeling Set

Teens who are fascinated by chemistry and physics will enjoy this molecular modeling set. After they build models, they can scan them using an app on their tablet or phone to learn more about the molecule they’ve created.

Real Teacher Review: “This product worked great for my students. They really enjoyed synthesizing molecules. Really enjoyed the product and wrote a grant hoping to get more for the classroom.”

Buy it: Happy Atoms Magnetic Molecular Modeling Set at Amazon

Snap Circuits Pro Electronics Exploration Kit

Snap Circuits kits are perfect for kids who love electronics and tinkering with new creations. This set gives them lots of pieces and parts they can use to make just about anything they can dream up. The project manual offers multiple ideas, but this set is really meant to encourage teens to experiment and explore the world of electronics on their own.

Real Teacher Review: “As a former teacher, I really notice when products have actual educational value. A lot of products try, but fail, because they are flawed or because they are not interesting enough to attract or keep the attention of the user. This is not one of those products. We ordered this for my nephew (whom I was homeschooling), as part of the hands-on science program I designed for him. He absolutely loved it & learned from it. It also helped him to realize the importance of science & that it could be fun.”

Buy it: Snap Circuits Pro Kit at Amazon

ToyerBee 70mm Aperture Astronomical Refractor Telescope

Gaze at the stars without breaking the bank! This beginner-level telescope is high quality but easy to use, perfect for amateurs. It comes with its own tripod, as well as a smartphone adapter and wireless remote to make it easier to see what’s visible.

Real Teacher Review: “As a former science school teacher, I have had my share of dealing with telescopes. This one really delivers on ease of setting it up and its use. The assembly directions are very straightforward. I wish I had had one of these for the last 35 years.”

Buy it: ToyerBee 70mm Aperture Astronomical Refractor Telescope at Amazon

Dan&Darci Professional Rock Tumbler Kit

Future geologists, take note: This rock tumbler turns rough rocks into polished gems worthy of display. You’ll need patience, as it usually takes many weeks for the tumbler to do its work, but that just gives you time to research the various rocks and minerals included in this set. (The tumbler can be a little noisy, so plan to keep it in a garage or basement. Teachers can run it at night if they’re using it in the classroom.)

Real Teacher Review: “This unit was purchased for a classroom experience. Thus far, it has stood up well to curious minds and hands. The instructions are clear and specific—well written so that classroom use was smooth and efficient.”

Buy it: Dan&Darci Professional Rock Tumbler Kit at Amazon

National Geographic Mega Science Lab Chemistry Set

For many kids, experiments are the best part of science. That’s why STEM toys like chemistry sets have been popular for so long. This one is ideal for younger teens who are just dipping their toe in the water. It includes 75 experiments to try, with lots of lab equipment and supplies.

Real Teacher Review: “I’m a teacher and I always like to get fun and educational gifts for my nephews. This was perfect! They absolutely loved it and they were so excited when they first opened it they wanted to get started right away. I especially like that it includes nonfiction texts for them to read along with the experiments.”

Buy it: National Geographic Mega Science Lab Chemistry Set at Amazon

Discovering STEM Physics Laws Set

Learn about important physics concepts like inertia, friction, circular motion, and energy conversion with this physics set. Kids can build six working models including a rocket launcher and a crash test rig. The instruction book provides lots of information on each project, and even has a quiz at the end for those who like to test themselves.

Real Teacher Review: “I bought this for my STEM middle school students. … They really enjoyed putting the sets together, the activities, and I liked the quiz at the end. Overall great value for the money and one of the more fun things I’ve purchased for my STEM class.”

Buy it: Discovering STEM Physics Laws Set at Amazon

4M Clean Water Science Kit

Teens with an interest in ecology or environmental science can use this kit to learn more about creating clean water solutions. After building the mini water filtration plant, they can come up with more ideas for helping to clean up the planet.

Real Teacher Review: “I’m a science teacher and got this to show my class, but when a group of students did not have a project for the science fair, I gave this to them. The group did their research well and used the product individually and then put it all together to show how one item works independently and how well they all work together.”

Buy it: 4M Clean Water Science Kit at Amazon

Organ Attack! Card Game

Using the same hilarious organs featured in his clever comics, author and artist Nick Seluk (“The Awkward Yeti”) invented this raucous organ-harvesting game. Fun as it is, it’s actually full of useful anatomical information, so you can’t help but learn while you play.

Real Teacher Review: “A teacher I know has this game for her MS/HS science classroom and the kids love it! It’s a fun way to learn about different organs of the body as well as diseases and sickness they can end up with. It’s a great way for students to interact with each other while learning. Also a fun game for home!”

Buy it: Organ Attack! Card Game at Amazon

Cytosis: A Cell Biology Board Game

Kids who love strategic board games will really get into this one, working to collect the resources and complete the tasks they need to make their human cell stronger than all the rest. Those fascinated by human biology can spend time reading the informational booklet that explains all the science behind the strategy.

Real Teacher Review: “As a biologist and a teacher, I love this game as a teaching tool. The processes are spot-on for an introductory level to cell biology. The currency used in the game is the same chemical used in the cell to transfer energy from site to site, and as an added design bonus, a simplified version of the chemical structure is on each of the currency pieces, a great primer for further learning.”

Buy it: Cytosis: A Cell Biology Board Game at Amazon

If you love these top STEM toys, check out the Most Loved Educational Board Games .

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Best Toys for Your 3-Year-Olds - Discovering the Montessori Method

When your child turns three, they become much more curious, and everything seems like an adventure to them. Not to mention the emotional rollercoaster they experience with each new challenge they face. But, most of all, their imagination and creativity skyrocket.

So, in the center of this curiosity, play becomes a powerful tool for learning. That’s why channeling all that energy into purposeful playtime seems like a good idea. And what better way to do so than with a little help from the Montessori method - an approach that lets kids learn through play?

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It’s official – your little one is now well and truly out of the ‘terrible twos’ and has entered the preschool years. This is such a fun age, and you’ll notice they’re really starting to flex those independence muscles and are letting their personality shine. 

You can expect your three-year-old to want to take ownership of their routines, build emotional intelligence, and make sense of their world through open-ended play. So, any gifts or toys you buy them to celebrate this milestone should tap into those themes.

Three-year-olds are more physically able, so it can be a great time to invest in some outdoor toys that will give little ones a new skill to master. Similarly, it’s around this age that children first grasp the concept of games, so stocking up on a few age-appropriate board games will stand you in good stead.

It can also be a good time to bring in a few educational toys to start introducing them to letters and numbers ahead of school starting the following year.  

To pull together this list, we cast our net wide to find the best gifts and toys that would appeal to three-year-old boys and girls, and keep them entertained long beyond their birthdays. Keep scrolling to find out which products impressed the most.

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How we tested

Over a few weeks, our three-year-old tester tried out a wide range of gifts and toys, across varying price points. Together, we decided which ones met our criteria of longevity, fun and general appeal. We also took into account how sustainable each one was, as well as whether they promoted developmental benefits and – crucially – whether our tester kept wanting to come back to them again and again.

The best gifts for three-year-olds 2024 are:

• Best overall – Toniebox starter set: £79.95, Amazon.co.uk
• Best budget buy – Ikea circus tent: £17, Ikea.com
• Best crafty gift – Djeco multi activity kit: £26.99, Crafts4kids.co.uk
• Best educational gift – GeoStix letter construction set: £27.99, Shopedx.co.uk
• Best role play toy – Janod candy shop: £33.93, Amazon.co.uk

Toniebox starter set

• Best : Overall
• Dimensions : 12cm x 12cm x 12cm
• Requirements : Wifi
• A great alternative to screens
• Price of additional Tonies can stack up

If you’re trying to resist the lure of the iPad when it comes to keeping your little one entertained, investing in a Toniebox is the way to go. This clever little device is hugely popular with kids and parents alike, and for good reason – it lets you take music, audiobooks and bedtime stories out and about with you, with no need for screens. The Toniebox is also incredibly kid-friendly and easy to use – simply pop one of the cute characters (or ‘Tonies’) onto the top of the box and the device will immediately start playing.

The Gruffalo Tonie is the brand’s bestseller for three-year-olds, and we can confirm it went down a storm with our mini tester. Yes, the gadget may be on the pricier side but, with a wider range of stories and educational products available, kids will enjoy it for years to come, so it’s worth the investment.

Ikea circus tent

• Best : Budget buy
• Dimensions : 120cm x 100cm
• Requirements : Minor assembly, which takes a few minutes
• Good value for money

As soon as they turn three, your little ones will start wanting to show their independence by having their own space, and this affordable tent from Ikea is a great way to let them have just that. While it may not be quite as aesthetically pleasing as some of the other (pricier) options on the market, the fun circus theme is sure to tap into kids’ imaginations and keep them playing for hours.

If you don’t want the tent on permanent display, no problem – it can be assembled and taken down in a matter of minutes. It then folds away into a handy mesh case, so it can be stashed out of sight when you’re not using it. It’s great for both indoor or outdoor play and is virtually indestructible – it was able to withstand the rambunctious play of 20 kids during testing. Although it’s made of polyester, at least 90 per cent is recycled, making it more eco-friendly.

Meri Meri superhero costume

• Best : Dressing up gift
• Dimensions : 45.7cm x 61cm
• Requirements : Ready for use
• Gorgeous quality
• A little on the pricier side

When it comes to beautifully designed kids’ costumes, Meri Meri reigns supreme. This is the age when your little ones will really discover the joy of dressing up, and this superhero costume ticks all the boxes. What three-year-old doesn’t want to be a superhero?

The costume set comes with a gorgeous cape, complete with glittery stars, a mask and cuffs, meaning your little one will have all they need to transform into their favourite world-saving star. Although Meri Meri’s items can be on the pricier side, they’re all brilliant quality. The cape is made from lined blue lamé, while the mask and cuffs are made from leatherette and felt. This means it feels much more luxurious than many of the cheaper costumes on the market and will last much longer. A must-buy for letting your little one harness their growing imagination.

Djeco multi activity kit

• Best : Crafty gift
• Dimensions : 29cm x 23cm x 6cm
• Provides hours of entertainment
• Likely to require some help from grown-ups

French brand Djeco is known for making some of the best craft kits around, and this activity box centred around animal houses is no exception. Inside, you’ll find six different activities that kids can work on together, from collage, colouring and cutting out to mosaics, transfers and totems.

Everything you need can be found in the box, which comes with a pair of safety scissors, a tube of glue and plenty of stickers. If your little one hasn’t yet mastered the art of using scissors, you may need to help them with some of the cutting out but, otherwise, this kit enables them to let their imagination run wild and create some lovely pieces worthy of being stuck up on the fridge. It’s a great option to pull out on a rainy day, if you’re trying to avoid just plonking them in front of a screen.

Edx Education GeoStix letter construction set

• Best : Educational gift
• Dimensions : 20cm x 16cm x 5cm
• A fun way to introduce kids to letter formation
• Requires patience and concentration

Now that your three-year-old is officially entering their preschool years, it’s a great time to start introducing them to the concept of letter formation, in a fun and informal way. We found this set from Edx Education (the masters of educational toys) a great way to do just that. Inside the box, you’ll find 200 brightly coloured flexible GeoStix and 20 double-sided activity cards suggesting all manner of weird and wonderful things to make.

Your little one can snap together the GeoStix to form space rockets and dinosaurs, diggers and bugs, or settle down to make all the letters of the alphabet. The sticks snap together super easily, meaning even the tiniest of fingers can master this activity, and our little one loved seeing her creations take shape before her eyes. It’s also a great way to help promote patience and concentration, as they need to pay careful attention to the cards to build whatever they’re making.

Janod candy shop

• Best : Role play toy
• Dimensions : 20.5cm x 21cm x 14.5cm
• Requirements : Self assembly, screwdriver required
• Great for imaginative role play
• Some of the smaller pieces may get lost

What kid doesn’t dream of owning their own sweet shop? This gorgeous wooden set from Janod is every three-year-old’s fantasy come to life. This is the year your little one is really going to get into role play, so, it’s the perfect time to invest in toys that are going to unleash their imagination. Our tiny tester loved the bright colours of the shopfront and the sweets, but it was the cash register that really sold it for her. She loved being able to open the register and use the ‘real’ money provided to pay and charge for her sweets.

We particularly loved the attention to detail, such as the little bell that dings when you close the till, and the miniature chalk board on which you can write prices for each sweet. Another bonus is the set is made entirely from sustainably sourced wood, for those who prefer to steer clear of plastic. The paper money is a little flimsy and likely to get lost but, overall, this is a fantastic toy for imaginative play.

Superga 2750 J strap classic kids’ trainers

• Best : Unisex shoes
• Dimensions : Unspecified
• Sturdy and stylish
• Might not appeal to those who prefer something a little flashier

Finding a hard-wearing yet attractive pair of shoes for a three-year-old can be surprisingly tricky. You want something that can withstand long days at nursery or preschool and romps around the park but also still look smart enough for a family meal out or a kids’ birthday party. These unisex Superga trainers tick all the boxes.

A miniature version of the classic adult style, they’re made of extra-strong, fully breathable cotton, perfect for keeping little feet dry without overheating. They’re wonderfully lightweight and also machine washable, which means you can just chuck them in the wash whenever they’re looking too grubby. The Velcro straps mean you don’t have to faff around with laces, and you can start teaching your little one to do them up themselves – they’ll master it in no time.

Miss Nella kids’ polish and accessories set

• Best : For copying the grown-ups
• A kid-appropriate introduction to nail polish
• Can get messy if not supervised

Everyone knows three-year-olds love nothing more than copying the adults around them, and that’s doubly true for mum’s make-up and grooming routine. Our tiny tester is obsessed with nail polish, and Miss Nella’s products are the best kid-friendly offering on the market.

These non-toxic nail polishes are made with a water-based formulation and easily peel off when you want to remove them. Dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic, they’re gentle on young skin and won’t wash off in water, either. There’s a wide range of colours to choose from, and this set also comes with a little nail file to perfect those manicure and salon role plays. While this may seem like a rather girly gift, our mini tester’s male friends also loved getting their nails painted when they came over for playdates.

VTech kidiZoom duo FX camera

• Best : For budding photographers
• Dimensions : 11cm x 16cm x 6cm
• Requirements : 4 x AA batteries required
• A great intro camera for young kids
• Uncovering all the different features takes time

If you’re looking for a way to stop your three-year-old filling up your smartphone camera reel with blurry selfies, investing in their very own camera could be the way to go. This option from VTech is one of the most popular kids’ cameras on the market and is a great starter option for little ones. Larger and chunkier than many other cameras aimed at kids, it feels reassuringly robust, meaning it’s more likely to withstand being dropped or chucked around.

It’s also packed full of whizzy tech features: there are dozens of games and activities to choose from, as well as 75 photo and video effects. While it may take some time for your little one to figure out how to use all of them, this is definitely a camera they can grow into, and it should keep them entertained for years to come. Our tiny tester got a kick out of playing with all the different effects, as well as snapping plenty of family portraits.

Orchard Toys hungry little penguins game

• Best : Game
• A great introduction to collaborative gameplay
• Requires concentration

Once they hit three, your little one is likely ready to start playing some basic family games. When it comes to fun games that are also educational, there’s no brand better than Orchard Toys. The brand has loads of brilliant options to choose from, whether it’s something from its Peter Rabbit range or fun mini games for taking on holiday. Our top pick, however, is Hungry Little Penguins, which offers a first introduction to collaborative gameplay.

There are two ways to play – either everyone plays together against the pesky seal, who’s trying to steal the penguins’ fish, or you compete against each other to be the first to fill your board with fish. Our mini tester loved playing the collaborative version, and the game itself is brilliant for helping to encourage turn taking and teamwork.

Mori x Peppa Pig pyjamas

• Best : For Peppa Pigs fans
• Dimensions : Up to 104cm
• Made from super-soft organic cotton and bamboo

Anyone with a three-year-old will know they go absolutely gaga for Peppa Pig, and will likely pester you to buy everything and anything featuring the world-famous TV character. If you want to thrill your Peppa-loving little one while still buying something aesthetically pleasing, this is the pyjama set to go for.

Mori’s recent Peppa Pig collaboration is by far the chicest we’ve come across, featuring beautifully muted colours rather than the garish shades so often found on kids’ clothes. These pyjamas are also super soft, crafted from a blend of organic cotton and silky bamboo. Gentle on the skin, they’re the comfiest things to snuggle up in come bedtime – our tiny tester rarely wanted to take them off. Bamboo is also great for temperature regulation, meaning they’re less likely to overheat while wearing these.

Banwood balance bike

• Best : For developing new skills
• Dimensions : Adaptable seat height 37cm to 44cm; adjustable handlebar 50cm to 59cm
• Requirements : Requires assembly
• Beautifully designed
• A pricier investment

Once your little one turns three, it’s likely they’ll start clamouring for their first set of wheels. Many parents introduce a balance bike around this age, and it’s a great ‘big’ present for their third birthday. Banwood makes some of the most stylish bikes around, and our mini tester loved the shininess of this sleek chrome option.

The 12in bike comes with an adjustable saddle and handlebar that can be easily switched up as your child grows, meaning the bike should last your child until around their fifth birthday. A balance bike is a great way to develop little ones’ coordination skills, while also helping them be more independent. They’ll be whizzing around on it in no time – now all you have to do is make sure you can keep up.

Töastie pac-a-mac waterproof raincoat

• Best : Practical gift
• Dimensions : 49cm
• Brilliantly practical
• On the pricier side

Three-year-olds are like dogs, in the sense they need to get outside every day to burn off some energy, whatever the weather. This waterproof pack-away raincoat is a godsend on rainy days, as it’s super lightweight and folds away into a tiny bag, meaning it’s easy to carry around with you at all times.

The coat itself has an ultra-soft outer shell made from recycled PET plastic bottles, and a silky Airtex lining that means it’s also very breathable. While it doesn’t come in a huge range of colours – the main ones being soft mallow pink, peppermint and light blue – the shades are lovely, and there’s also a couple of patterned options. The main draw here is definitely the fact it packs away into such a small bag, making it one of the most practical options on the market.

The verdict: Gifts for three-year-olds

When it comes to picking the best all-round gifts for three-year-olds, there are some great options out there, from adorable Peppa Pig pyjamas to penguin-themed games . However, you really can’t go wrong with a Toniebox . It’s a truly engaging way for kids to immerse themselves in their favourite songs and stories, without resorting to a screen, and it will grow with your little one, as you can buy new characters and add-ons that suit their changing ages and interests. Best of all, it totally captured the imagination of our mini tester and had her asking for it at home, in the car and at bedtime.

Want more inspiration? We’ve rounded up the best gifts for five-year-olds

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89 best expert-recommended christmas gifts and toys for 3-year-olds in 2023.

Three-year-olds are just too cute, and yes — they deserve spoiling. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday or a milestone of theirs, finding something to buy (that they don’t already have, no less) can be an incredible feat.

But, it doesn’t have to be. We turned to a handful of child development experts who know the ins and outs of the 3-year-old age group to recommend wonderful gifts and toys for you to reference. Almost all of their recommendations are available at easy-to-shop stores such as Amazon , Target and Walmart .

After conversing with seasoned experts, we understood one thing about 3-year-olds: they’re always learning and on the move.

“Three-year-olds are pretty smart human beings who are defined by curiosity,” Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, PhD , psychology professor at Temple University and senior fellow at the Brookings Institution — whose research centers on the development of early language and literacy, as well as the role of play in learning — told the New York Post. “They have mastered language skills to determine how the world works and, while we’re not interested in the slugs, bugs and worms that make up the ground, they are. They’re naturalists.”

With even more insightful knowledge about the 3-year-old age group in our in-depth FAQ section (including the ‘why’ behind their constant ‘why? why? why?’ questioning), you’ll have a better grasp into this adoring age, thanks to five childhood learning experts chiming in. Check out the expert-recommended toys below, and find toys for other age groups here: best toys for 1-year-olds , best toys for 2-year-olds , best toys for 4-year-olds and best toys for 5-year-olds .

Click to jump to a specific section:

Developmental & Educational Toys

General toys, creative toys, outdoor toys, musical toys, puzzles & shape-sorters, blocks & building toys, cars, trucks & vehicles, push, pull & ride-on toys, stuffed animals & dolls, meet the experts.

• Alice Cady, EdM , classroom teacher for 2- and 3-year-olds for 8+ years
• Ali Mierzejewski , editor-in-chief at “The Toy Insider”
• Caitlin Sanschagrin , occupational therapist specializing in pediatrics
• Sonia Pruneda-Hernandez, PhD , Montgomery College acting education dean
• Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, PhD , Temple University psychology professor
• Keri Wilmot , pediatric occupational therapist, also known as the Toy Queen
• Claire Diamonstein , child therapist and parent coach at Family Therapy Center of Bethesda
• Dr. Jacqueline Harding , international child development expert and author
• Yesim Kunter , child’s play expert and independent consultant
• Dr. Lauren Loquasto , Chief Academic Officer at The Goddard School
• Heather Barnum , Senior Librarian at the New York Public Library
• Rachel Ritlop, M.Ed , mom and expert toy reviewer at The Confused Mom

Help your child develop a love of learning by treating it like a game. Lingokids The Playlearning App has more than 1,000 fun and interactive activities to help them read, learn math, music and other useful skills like routines and mindfulness. Voted the number 1 learning app for kids, you’ll actually feel good about giving your little one extra screen time with this download in your parenting arsenal, and they’re enjoy learning something new each day.

Stapelstein Special Rainbow Fusion

This is the kind of toy that kids intuitively understand better than adults. Each piece is made from a firm foam and can be stacked to create chairs or steps, or used outside to play in the pool or at the beach. They encourage open-ended play and are great to use indoors and outdoors.

“These lightweight, colorful pieces can be used creatively in so many ways to help kids get sensory input that improves their developmental skills,” said Wilmot. “Scatter them to use like stepping stones, stack them up to serve as a chair or use them for sensory play in the sandbox or the bathtub.”

AMOSTING Color-Matching Mosaic Pegboard

“This pegboard has so many developmental skills to facilitate,” Sanschagrin shares. “Fine motor for putting the pieces in, visual skills to put matching colors in the right spot and problem solving to identify which piece goes where and how to locate it.”

Not to mention, the AMOSTING Color-Matching Mosaic Pegboard she recommends is less than $25, comes in vibrant colors and is on-the-go friendly.

Ladybugs Garden Memory Game

Using five double-sided puzzle cards and 20 toy ladybugs, children work on their memory and recall skills in an intuitive and enjoyable way.

“Ladybug’s Garden Memory Game is a memory game that is fun for children and parents alike,” said Diamonstein. “The game offers an exciting opportunity for kids to practice taking turns and engaging in friendly competition.”

LeapFrog Slide to Read ABC Flash Cards

Over a dozen double-sided flash cards give kids a clever introduction to letters, letter sounds, words and sentences — all the essential language building blocks. The device also makes music and has sound effects to accompany the cards, which helps to keep children engaged.

“These electronic flash cards teach kids the underlying concepts of reading,” said Wilmot. By prompting kids to use their finger to follow the information on each card, Wilmot said this toy also “reinforces letter sounds and vocabulary.”

Magnetic Creation Station

With 46 colorful magnetic pieces and a blank canvas (that doubles as a carrying case), this toy is an excellent way for kids to practice shape play and visualization.

Dr. Lauren Loquasto , Chief Academic Officer at The Goddard School, recommended this educational toy because she said it “challenges young minds with visual-spatial and geometric skills.”

“Engaging a child’s curiosity, children are challenged not only to replicate the images with the appropriate shapes but are then able to self-evaluate their success,” she said. 

Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Talking Kids Microscope

“This introductory microscope is perfect for curious kids and will encourage them to discover new things,” Mierzejewski shares. “They can explore close-up looks at different objects around the house or that they find in the backyard.”

The beginner microscope has big and chunky dials for them to focus, so it’s easy for little hands to maneuver and perfectly sized for three-year-olds, too.

hand2mind Tactile Turtles Math Activity Set

“This math activity set not only has the educational benefits of a learning toy, but also the developmental benefits of tactile play, so it’s a true two-for-one,” Mierzejewski adds. “It’s packed with tons of activities and facts for kids to learn about turtles, but also provides the tools for open-ended play as well.”

This STEM-based toy includes turtles of three different sizes, six colors, six shell textures and six belly shapes, adding to how it’s a wonderful sensory toy in addition to a learning-development aide.

Learning Resources Big Feelings Pineapple Deluxe Set

“Social-emotional learning is so important for 3-year-olds, and this adorable pineapple is great for helping kids identify, recognize and communicate their emotions,” Mierzejewski notes.

Aside from being adorable and unique, this toy helps develops important coping habits and communication skills that will serve as an important foundation for mental health, too, according to Mierzejewski.

Montessori Peg Board Toy

“For a three-year-old, the Montessori Peg Board Toy helps a three-year-old understand one-to-one correspondences, cardinality and subsitizing [the ability to instantly recognize the number of objects without actually counting them],” Cady highlights.

Be sure to note that pegs are choking hazards on this one, but they make ones with larger pegs as well, if highly concerned.

TOOKYLAND Hammer & Nails Game

“Hammer and nail toys are wonderful toys to expand creative play as well as fine motor skills like precision and bilateral coordination,” Sanschagrin adds. “Visual skills can be used by trying to match a visual model and example.”

Not to mention, a 3-year-old holding a hammer in their hands help improve their critical thinking skills, like how to allow for a certain piece to firmly grasp the included board.

Soft Bowling Set

The pins and ball in this kid-safe bowling set are made from a soft material that won’t scratch floors or cause any injuries — and because the pins are numbered 1 through 10, they double as a counting and number ordering exercise for children.

Dr. Jacqueline Harding , a child development expert and author , recommended this toy for hours of indoor fun. “When you are three years old, getting moving is one of the main activities on your mind,” said Harding. “There is hardly any time to sit still when there is a big world to investigate! This bowling set is simply great fun and offers a chance to recognize and name numbers and colors.”

Aizweb Wooden Burger Stacking Toy

“Stacking and sequencing toys are a wonderful way to work on those fine motor skills as well as visual and sequencing skills,” Caitlin Sanschagrin , an occupational therapist specializing in pediatrics — specifically, feeding, sensory processing and regulation and neurodivergent-affirming care, told The Post.

What’s more, the addition of the imaginative play component allows your 3-year-old to serve your customers a burger makes playtime even more fun.

MindSprout Dino Blasters Kids Rocket Launcher

Take aim and grow those gross motor skills by launching these dinosaur rockets into the sky! “This helps work on coordination and strength by making them go sky high! ” Sanschagrin notes.

Plus, these interactive toys are just $20 on Amazon, making it a budget-friendly toy to snag.

StoryCaptain

It can be difficult to know what to read to your child, especially when they’re young. Fortunately, the folks at StoryCaptain have you covered. The monthly children’s book subscription curates its selection, so your little one will always have age-appropriate reads that spark the imagination. Three board books arrive in every order, and each offer a chance to encourage curiosity, critical thinking skills and a love of learning.

If you have older kids that you need a gift for, StoryCaptain also has a book subscription for ages 4 to 7 .

Hape Gourmet Kitchen Wooden Pretend Play Kitchen Set

“Play kitchens ignite children’s imagination and are such a great way to encourage unstructured, pretend play,” said Claire Diamonstein , child therapist and parent coach. “Adding play food to the set opens up even more opportunities for increased fun and creativity.”

Made from non-toxic materials that are easy to clean and easy to assemble, this kitchen set will delight any kid with hours of pretend play opportunities.

Educational Insights The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game

“Educational Insights creates fantastic toys for preschoolers, designed to nurture and stimulate young minds,” said Diamonstein. “The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game is one of my favorites because it’s fun for the whole family. It’s easy to learn and makes a wonderful first board game for young kids. It’s also a great opportunity for kids to practice counting and color-matching skills while they play.”

This entry-level board game involves practicing color-matching skills and is interactive enough to keep young children engaged the whole time they’re playing. Plus, as an option for family board game nights, this is a toy that parents and siblings can also enjoy.

Learning Resources Primary Science Sensory Tubes (Set of 4)

“These tubes are amazing and open ended! I add them to my sensory bins, fill them with items to shake, roll them, use them to mix in, and explore volumes with them,” Alice Cady, EdM, an eight-year classroom teacher of two and three-year-olds told The Post. She has an education doctorate degree from the University of Buffalo’s Early Childhood Research Center, with a focus on computational thinking in early childhood.

“You can fill them with counting toys to ‘fill and spill,’ fill them with natural items to observe, fill them with spices to smell or even use them to blow bubbles!” she adds. Each tube comes with dual openings and twistable lids and also leaves you the option to create your own sensory tubes to help with self-regulation.

Crayola Color Wonder Mess-Free Coloring Activity Set

“Crayola’s Color Wonder line is a great gift for kids, not only because of its affordable price point, but because it is a perfect, no-mess, creative art line,” Ali Mierzejewski, editor-in-chief at “The Toy Insider” and childhood play expert, told The Post.

The Color Wonder markers only show on the special Color Wonder paper, so it’s great for traveling on airplanes, roadside restaurant stops, or for kids’ independent playtime as well.

Chuckle & Roar Family Bingo

“Family game night is super important for kids during this age window for social development, and games geared toward preschoolers like this bingo set are the perfect way for families to play together,” Mierzejewski adds.

This game in particular, aside from having cute artwork, also provides four ways for kids to learn, so it’s packed with educational value in addition to fun.

LOYO Medical Kit for Kids

This 38-piece play set includes a plethora of pretend tools, costumes and a convenient storage box that let kids play doctor for hours on end. It also has specialized dentist equipment, as well as a large set of plastic teeth to brush and clean.

“Role play, or sociodramatic play as it is sometimes called, is perfect for developing empathy and understanding the perspectives of other people,” Harding said. “Imaginative play with super-fun toys like a medical set does wonders for confidence and self-esteem.”

Play-Doh Fun Factory Deluxe Set

In addition to six containers of colorful Play-Doh, kids get a Fun Factory toy for pressing the Doh into different forms, as well as over a dozen cookie-cutter style shapes for creating animals and other objects.

“The world of creativity and imagination is at their fingertips with this flexible Play-Doh set,” said Harding. “Malleable materials can offer children deep emotional satisfaction as there are never ending ways to manipulate the substance, which is a rich source of sensory stimulation.”

Innorock Flower Garden Building Toys with Portable Storage Box

These stackable building toys let children design their dream bouquets (and give you a convenient box to store all the pieces when playtime is over).

“Children absolutely love this flower-building kit,” said Diamonstein. “It nurtures their creativity and enjoyment while enhancing their hand-eye coordination and problem-solving abilities. With so many interchangeable flower pieces, this kit definitely keeps kids engaged and entertained.”

Boogie Board Magic Sketch

Keri Wilmot , a pediatric occupational therapist who has over 24 years of experience helping children develop sensory and motor skills through play, recommended this doodle toy as a way to stimulate artistic exploration in kids. This kit includes four drawing tools and has a durable, water-resistant design.

“Three-year-olds are beginning to turn their scribbles into real pictures, and writing tablets can help foster their creativity without all the paper waste,” Wilmot said. “These boards are lightweight, portable and perfect for travel and trips to restaurants.”

WikkiStix Sensory Fidget Toy

Infinitely reusable and entertaining, these colorful bendy sticks let kids build characters, animals, plants and anything they can imagine, then take pride in their creations.

Diamonstein said these are a favorite at her office. “They offer endless possibilities for creative fun,” she said. “There are a million different ways to use WikkiStix. You can use them for crafting, in imaginative play, as a fine motor activity and even as a fidget tool.”

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Sock Puppet Kit

This puppet creation kit includes fuzzy socks, finger puppets and self-adhesive felt patches that bring characters from the classic children’s book to life — and let kids take a turn at telling their own stories.

Yesim Kunter , an independent play consultant who has worked as a designer for LEGO, Hasbro and Toys “R” Us, recommended this kit for 3-year-olds. “Storytelling tools like puppets are great for enhancing children’s imagination and creative thinking, and developing their language skills and future thinking,” she said.

Pretendables Nacho Set

“This set allows kids to use their imagination and fine motor skills to creatively design their own favorite nacho combinations,” said Wilmot.

It includes a variety of pretend ingredients, condiments and serving trays, all in vibrant colors. Kids can practice designing dishes for themselves, as well as friends and family members, and start engaging with super rudimentary concepts of food preparation and sharing.

Kinetic Sand

Made from natural sand and dyed a mesmerizing color, this hands-on toy encourages creative play and building. Since the sand particles stick to one another, this toy is also amazingly easy to clean up after and won’t stain hands or surfaces.

“Kinetic Sand is another favorite in my office because it can be used in so many different ways,” said Diamonstein. “Young kids love to play with it, create with it or just squish it between their hands. It’s also an excellent and versatile tool for sensory play and is a great addition to any sensory bin.”

Melissa & Doug Wooden Scoop & Serve Ice Cream Counter

“This delightful toy is made of wood and is wonderfully calming,” said Harding. “As parents, it is exciting to discover that playing imaginatively has an impressive brain-building result for our children. The brain relishes the opportunity to be creative with play activities like this!”

The set includes an array of ice cream flavors and toppings that kids will enjoy combining (with the option to pile all the scoops together into one mega cone). The pretend dollar bills and menu also give kids the opportunity to role play with their friends, parents or siblings.

Play22 12-Piece Kids Gardening Tool Set

“With summer fast approaching, I would recommend gardening and insect catcher toys that parents can easily purchase at dollar stores, Walmart, or Target,” Sonia Pruneda-Hernandez, PhD , acting dean of education and social sciences at Montgomery College —and doctorate of education with a concentration in early childhood education and higher education — told The Post.

She recommended items like a bucket, shovel, trowel and watering can. Specifically, the Play22 12-Piece Kids Gardening Tool Set is one she brought to our attention for fun outdoor play.

Micro Kickboard Mini Deluxe 3-Wheeled Scooter

“The Micro Mini Scooter is the perfect toy because it offers a stable and fun ride to help young children hone their balance and coordination skills,” said Diamonstein. “It also boasts the remarkable feature of adapting to a child’s growth, allowing them to stay entertained and active as they gain confidence on the scooter.”

This scooter’s easily-adjustable handlebar lets kids set it at the most comfortable (and safe) height for themselves. Plus, some models have light-up wheels that add a real wow factor to this gift.

Kidoozie Sand ‘n Splash Activity Table

“Kids love sensory activities to play with water, sand and all sorts of slimy goo,” said Wilmot. “An outdoor sensory bin is a great way to offer sensory play while containing any messes.”

This comprehensive kit includes enough sand and a variety of tools to let kids explore their creative side. The two-bin system — one for sand and one for water — provides a sense of beachfront playtime at the convenience of home. Plus, the snap-on lid can turn it into a functional table when not in use.

Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse

Wilmot said that “playhouses are a perfect way to bring a child’s imagination outside,” and she recommended this model because offers plenty of room for hours of pretend play.

The cute little cottage has a mail slot, swinging doors and window frames and even a spot to hold up a flag on the front. All the pieces snap together for easy assembly, and once it’s built, it’s designed to be sturdy and safe. Also available in a cute pink and purple color .

Europa Kids Adventure Nature Explorer & Bug-Catching Kit

“Parents can also add items for insect catching such as a net, magnifying glass and insect catcher,” Pruneda-Hernandez adds. The Europa Kids Adventure Nature Explorer & Bug-Catching Kit fits the bill at just $25, and one our expert recommends.

Do note that parents and caregivees should check and ensure that their 3-year old can easily hold and manipulate the items with their hands before use.

PlayVibe 40″ Tree Swing

Saucer swings are great toys to have outside. “From a sensorimotor perspective, they facilitate various body movements through space,” Sanschagrin says. “You can even work on developing eye skills by tossing a soft ball to the kiddo while they are swinging!”

Of course, 3-year-olds may not be able to catch it, but being able to use their eyes to track the ball while their body is moving assists that development, per Sanschagrin. “You can even do bubbles so that your kiddo is looking in all different directions while swinging, teaching their nervous system and body how to accommodate with these new movement patterns,” she adds. 

Piano Musical Mat

“Piano mats can be used for similar skills to the musical sets but on a gross motor scale,” Sanschagrin says. “See if they can imitate different walks across the keys to make similar rhythms and sounds.

According to Sanschagrin, it’s also great for sensorimotor skills being able to discriminate between the keys and for understanding the way the mat feels different then the floor as they move across this interactive toy.

Stoie’s International Wooden Music Set

“Musical sets are a great way to facilitate those fine motor and bilateral coordination skills,” Sanschagrin notes. “You can practice different rhythms and see if your kiddo can imitate and join in!”

The Stoie’s International Wooden Music Set is less than $40 on Amazon, one that our expert recommends and is backed by more than 5,000 rave reviews. Plus, it includes a tambourine, a castanet, a hand drum, two hand bells, a maraca, a flute, a wooden block with a stick, a wood sounder with a stick and a chime bar with a stick.

Toniebox Audio Player Starter Set

Give kids a screen-free listening experience that sparks their imagination and offers them a wide selection of music and stories. “By placing different collectible characters from their favorite shows and books on top of the Toniebox,” Wilmot said, “kids will love being in control of choosing the songs and stories they listen to.”

This device can be a great way for kids to wind down before bedtime, and its built-in interactivity keeps kids feeling engaged. Plus, once you buy this, you can pick up additional Tonie figurines to give as gifts for future holidays. The starter set, shown here, includes a Playtime Puppy Tonie with 52 minutes of popular children’s songs.

Loog Mini Acoustic Kids Guitar

“Preschool age is the perfect time for kids to start discovering what they’re interested in — including music!” Mierzejewski shares. “This Loog Mini Acoustic guitar is great for kids this age because it’s easy for them to handle and gives the look of a real guitar.”

With the Loog Mini Acoustic Kids Guitar, 3-year-olds can start learning the basics with this three-string guitar, and even have a jam session with the grown-ups in their life who play, too.

Taimasi 33-Piece Kids Musical Instruments

“A variety of musical toys such as the kit above allows children to develop their fine motor skills and their hand-eye coordination,” Pruneda-Hernandez explains. “Kits such as the one above can also grow with the child.”

Whereas a 3-year old may enjoy using the maracas, a four-or five- year-old may be more interested in the xylophone or rhythm sticks. “The kit also allows for more than one child or for an adult to be involved in the musical play with a child,” she adds.

Right on the money, Cady also recommends this play bundle for musical fun.

Halilit Mini Orchestra

“Open ended music toys, like the Halilit Mini Orchestra, all offer chances to experiment and jam along to rhymes, rhythms and favorite songs,” Cady highlights. For less than $35 on Amazon, this four-pack is perfect for 6-month-olds and 3-year-olds alike, thanks to its musical, take-around-with-you nature.

Learning Resources All About Me Sorting Neighborhood

These colorful toy houses may seem simple, but they’re a quite innovative way for children to intuitively practice both counting and identifying and matching colors. Kids can add and remove color-coordinated figures into their respective houses, engage in pretend play and even recreate their own family size by organizing a number of figures to match the number of people in their household.

Rachel Ritlop, a mom and  toy review expert , recommended this toys for 3-year-olds. “Kids can use these with a train set, magnetic blocks or other building toys to create a little neighborhood in open-ended play,” she said. “Or you can work on color matching and counting.”

Melissa & Doug Farm Wooden Cube Puzzle

“Cube puzzles are a fun way to address in-hand manipulation and fine motor skills as well as problem solving and visual skills,” Sanschagrin adds. “The borders along the outside of the puzzle can help give spatial reference while in the process of building the puzzle.”

To better help your 3-year-old learn about common farm animals they’ll find in preschool and kindergarten, we approve of this affordable toy that’ll keep your little one engaged for hours, too.

Upbounders Fun Outside 48-Piece Floor Puzzle

“This puzzle features families of mixed races and ethnicities, encouraging diversity, inclusion, and representation,” Mierzejewski highlights. “This Black-owned company was founded by a mom who wanted her son to feel represented in the toys he played with, and now it expands that offering to all kids.”

Even better, parents can build along with their kids as they piece together this puzzle that stresses the importance of playing together and kindness.

Mudpuppy Kindness 4-in-a-Box Puzzle Set

With four puzzles picturing different colorful settings and made of large, easy-to-grasp and easy-to-connect puzzle pieces, this box set is an excellent introduction to the kind of game that can grow into a lifelong hobby. It also gives parents opportunities to help kids figure out shape-fitting skills in real time.

“Puzzles are great at keeping young kids busy and entertained, with the added bonus of building their cognitive and fine motor skills,” said Diamonstein. “I love sets like this one because it includes four distinct puzzles, each offering varying levels of difficulty, allowing kids to advance as they conquer each puzzle.”

ThinkFun My First Rush Hour Brain Game

Kids practice all the fundamentals of setting up and playing games with this car-themed shape and color matching board game. It includes 15 puzzle cards of easy, medium and hard difficulties, so kids won’t outgrow this toy right away.

“This brain teaser for young kids helps them to learn about following instructions even just by setting the game up,” said Wilmot. “Activities like this one include cards that are graded, where kids can experience success and build to more challenging problems by starting off simple and getting more complex.”

Battat Lock & Learn Activity Cubes

“Shape sorters have so many developmental benefits for kids this age, including fine motor skills, shape and color recognition, introduction to cause and effect and experimentation, and more,” Mierzejewski lists. “This set of activity cubes stands out because it is brightly colored and engaging — and kids can stack the cubes as well, in addition to just sorting the shapes, opening up more possibilities for open-ended play.”

Plus, there’s much variation with this Amazon toy. With four nesting cubes, three numbers, three letters and seven fun shapes, your 3-year-old will praise this stackable toy over and over again.

Melissa & Doug Mix ‘n Match Wooden Bear Family Dress-Up Puzzle

“The Melissa & Doug Mix ‘n Match Wooden Bear Family Dress-Up Puzzle is great for three-year-olds,” Cady recommends. Not to mention, we recommend nearly any toy from the brand as they’re (1) adorable and (2) always a hit with our nieces.

“This puzzle sorter helps build upon self-help skills and pushes toward dramatic play,” she adds.

Melissa & Doug Primary Lacing Beads Educational Toy

“The Melissa & Doug Primary Lacing Beads Educational Toy is wonderful for three-year-olds and older,” Cady shares. “It helps develop fine motor skills, patterning, counting and sorting.

For less than $20, you won’t find a more interactive or colorful toy, either. With an included play box, it’s especially perfect for neatly storing in your playroom.

Dreampark Wooden Jigsaw Puzzles (6-Pack)

“Small puzzles are great for spatial orientation and fine motor skills,” Sanschagrin notes. “Having smaller puzzles makes it less overwhelming to see when your puzzle is ‘done'”

You can downgrade this activity by taking a picture of a completed puzzle and let your three-year-old use that visual model to complete the puzzle, she recommends.

“Thank a Farmer” by Maria Gianferrari

Heather Barnum, Senior Librarian in the Reader Services division of the  New York Public Library , recommended this book for 3-year-olds. It’s an excellent way to introduce children to the farms and farmers that grow and produce all the food they love to eat.

“Vibrant illustrations connect foods and sources,” said Barnum, “while a simple refrain, ‘Thank a farmer,’ repeats from page to page and slightly more detailed, but still child-friendly, information is shared.”

“Kicks in the Sky” by C. G. Esperanza

Vibrant colors, active imagery and an intriguing artistic style make this storybook engaging for little ones. The story centers around everyday items that can become fantastical, inspiring kids to get excited about the world around them.

“A fun-filled, joyful, and magical read-aloud rhyming story,” said Barnum, “‘Kicks in the Sky’ will make readers want to lace up their sneakers and dance along through the psychedelic illustrations.”

“Pancakes!: An Interactive Recipe Book” by Lotta Nieminen

This book offers kids an introductory cooking lesson without any mess in the kitchen. The thick pages have hidden pull-tabs and moveable parts that kids can move around as you read to them, imitating the actual motions of measuring ingredients, mixing food and cooking dishes. Other books in the series include pizza , cookies and other recipes.

“The ‘Cook In A Book’ board books have great interactive recipes where kids can lift, turn and shift the pages to ‘cook’ in the book,” said Ritlop. “It also doubles as a real recipe, so when your three-year-old is ready to bring the fun out of the page and into the kitchen, they can follow along.”

Scissor Skills Preschool Activity Book

Containing more than 50 activities, this book helps children build their scissor-handling skills in a safe and fun environment. The pages are filled with simple line and shape art that kids — with adult supervision — can cut out. The slightly thicker-than-normal paper is easy for kids to handle, too.

“Three-year-olds are ready for a little more responsibility, and a scissor skills activity book is one of my favorites,” Ritlop said. “Kids can work on hand-eye coordination, hand strength and refine motor skills with each of the pages. Once your child is able to handle scissors on their own, parents will love the newfound independence of letting your kid cut open their snack bags instead of always having you open it for them.”

“Spidey and His Amazing Friends” by PI Kids

What better way to play than with everyone’s neighborhood-friendly superhero?

“This set is awesome because it features look-and-find activities so kids stay busy,” Mierzejewski notes. “Plus, this Marvel-based story will deeply engage your little one, especially if they’re fans.

“Beyonce: A Little Golden Book Biography” by Lavaille Lavette

“This book is just one of many celebrity biographies that will be available from this line,” Mierzejewski shares. “Parents will love sharing their love of Bey with their little ones and the nostalgia of the Little Golden Books that they had as a kid. It’s the perfect inspiring story for young readers.”

Not to mention, it’s a super fun gift for the Beyoncé-loving parents in your life.

“Milo Imagines the World” by Matt de la Peña

“Providing children books with pictures that include diverse people is critical,” Pruneda-Hernandez notes. “Regardless of the age, children should be able to visually see people in books that look like them and those that are around them.”

That said, our expert shares that “Milo Imagines the World” by Matt de la Peña as one of her favorite books for 3-year-olds.

“Carmela Full of Wishes” by Matt de la Peña

“Another one of my favorite books that I still keep in my own home for nieces that visit is ‘Carmela Full of Wishes,'” Pruneda-Hernandez shares. It also is wonderful to promote diversity and representation, infused with a unique hopeful tone that’ll help spread optimism to your 3-year-old.

“Too Many Tamales” by Gary Soto

“One of my personal favorites is ‘Too Many Tamales’ because it brings back memories of my childhood,” Pruneda-Hernandez shares. Not only does it help explain numerical quantities and living in abundance but it’s also available in Spanish, so it’s especially ideal for ESL students.

“The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle Felt Learning Toy Set

“Other books that I recommend are books include Eric Carle’s ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar,'” Pruenda-Hernandez adds. And, according to Sanschagrin, we love a good storytelling set!

“You can incorporate so many interactive activities to engage with this Felt Learning Toy Set bundle, Sanschagrin adds, also recommending Carle’s best-selling read. “My favorite is putting the pieces away from where I’m reading the story and have the kiddo do a silly walk to go find the corresponding stuffed item.”

This way, you’re adding movement which can regulate their nervous system in a way that increases their ability to focus on the book or story, according to Sanschagrin.

“Melissa & Doug Poke-A-Dot: Who’s in the Ocean?”

“My occupational therapist heart adores these Poke-Dot books,” Sanschagrin adds. “It’s an interactive way to talk about animals while using that index finger to poke each dot.”

Much like reusable bubble wrap, this interactive book can help develop fine motor strength and coordination. Not to mention, our nieces deem this one of their favorite books to pull out of the bookcase.

KIDWILL Toolkit for Kids

Get young ones interested in working with their hands at an early age with this wooden play toolkit. It includes easy-to-follow instructions so kids can use the provided wooden pieces to create different toy models in an engaging way.

“This comprehensive building kit can inspire children to get busy building their own models, [which is] great for developing early strategy skills,” said Harding. “Children can begin to think and plan ahead or just go with the flow. Another great feature is that all the bits and pieces can be popped away neatly in the transportable toolbox.”

LEGO DUPLO Classic Heart Box Building Toy Set

With 80 easy-to-grab pieces, this block set is a wonderful way to inspire kids to explore building and nurture an interest in LEGOs that they can enjoy for years to come. The pieces in the set can be used to spell out a heart-warming message of love, too.

“Virtually anything from the world of LEGO DUPLO can provide endless hours of fun and serve as a wonderful toy for a three-year-old,” said Diamonstein. “For a child inclined toward open-ended creativity, this brick set provides a canvas for free play, imagination and construction, all while enhancing fine motor skills.”

Ravensburger Bluey 35-Piece Jigsaw Puzzle

Watch kids bring the popular animated children’s show to life with this large jigsaw puzzle that features Bluey and her family. The pieces are made to be extra durable and can be used over and over again as kids improve their shape-fitting abilities.

Wilmot recommended this puzzle because, as she said, “three-year olds can improve their visual spatial skills and motor planning while putting together scenes from their favorite show.”

hand2mind Numberblocks

This intuitive counting toy encourages young kids to practice fundamental math skills in a way that lets them focus on having fun.

“Numberblocks are a really popular show for preschoolers that helps teach kids about the concept of simple addition, subtraction and counting,” Wilmot said. Parents and older siblings can also engage with the characters to create learning and developmental opportunities for youngsters.

Magna-Tiles Downhill Duo 40-Piece Set

After building their own custom racetracks, children can race cars down them and learn first-hand some pretty elementary principles of physics. With 40 magnetic pieces, this set lets kids think creatively about how to make the toy cars gain speed, and it’s a smart buy for siblings because it allows multiple tracks to be built at the same time.

“ Magna-Tiles are classic building toys that connect to each other to create structures using magnets,” said Wilmot. “The Downhill Duo set introduces fun roads that can be added to the blocks for added competition and problem solving.”

John Deere Build-A-Buddy Tractor Toy & Screwdriver

“Kids love to mimic what they see grown-ups doing, and this little tractor is a great way for them to get their hands on some power tools in a very kid-friendly way,” Mierzejewski highlights. “The battery-powered drill and large, chunky screws are easy for preschoolers to maneuver and the Johnny Tractor’s face is so adorable!”

Sanschagrin also recommends this toy, as it’s great for cause and effect, executive functioning, motor planning, and bilateral coordination. “They can play around with spatial relationships outside of their body as well, like focusing on how far the car is from the wall rather than themselves as the reference point,” she adds.

CreateOn Sesame Street Coloring with Elmo Doodle Tile Set

Kids can not only build with their favorite Sesame Street character, but they can also color with this set!

“Since there are multiple activities, kids will stay busy for awhile,” Mierzejewski says. “The kid-safe magnetic building pieces are fun for kids to construct with, helping them to hone their spatial awareness, motor skills and more.”

Melissa & Doug Standard Unit Solid-Wood Building Blocks

Children’s blocks that allow for a variety of uses in play make great toys, and this Melissa & Doug Standard Unit Solid-Wood Building Blocks is recommended by our expert.

“Blocks should not just be squares but come in a variety of shapes to include spheres, rectangles, triangles and squares so children can build in many different ways.” Pruneda-Hernandez recommends. “Blocks not only provide children the opportunity to enhance their fine motor skills and eye-hand coordination, but allows them to problem solve and begin to use their critical thinking while building.”

Learning Resources Gears! Gears! Gears! 100-Piece Deluxe Building Set

“Building sets that not only have blocks, but gears provide opportunities for cognitive development and opportunities to test hypothesis, make wonderful toys,” Pruneda-Hernandez recommends. That said, she recommends the Learning Resources Gears! Gears! Gears! 100-Piece Deluxe Building Set for an engaging, well-varied bundle that’ll keep your 3-year-old as busy as a bee.

Magna-Tiles House Set

Building toys are a staple toy for toddlers. And, Magna-Tiles can teach 3-year-olds spatial relationships, problem solving, bilateral coordination and creative play.

“The open-ended-ness expands their imagination on top of the motor skills developed,” Sanschagrin adds. “You can even practice working on emotional regulation if the structure they build doesn’t work out (i.e. falling down or can’t figure out how to build how they want) by talking through different strategies for calming enough to solve their problem.”

Picasso Tiles 120-Piece Bristle Lock Tiles STEM Building Set

“Bristle Lock Tiles are similar in their skill building as the Magna-Tiles, however they require more strength,” Sanschagrin explains. “There’s also more flexibility for tile assembly rather than depending on the magnet attraction.”

Additionally, this toy adds an interesting sensory aspect with different textures to explore.

VTech Go! Go! Smart Wheels 4-in-1 Zig-Zag Raceway

“Kids who love cars, trucks and vehicles can use their problem-solving skills to modify the tracks on their own, using one of four builds, then race to see whose car is fastest,” said Wilmot.

The multiple setups give this toy excellent replay value and encourage experimentation. Plus, this gift offers kids an opportunity to play with siblings and friends, which makes the toy doubly engaging.

Melissa & Doug PAW Patrol Rescue Mission Wooden Dashboard

This interactive dashboard from Melissa & Doug provides ton of tactile and imaginative play for preschoolers.

“They’ll love to pretend to drive as they move the steering wheel and engage with all of the other interactive features,” Mierzejewski adds. “Plus, it’s PAW Patrol, so it’s a guaranteed hit for your little one.”

CatToys Construction Vehicle (2-Pack)

“My recommendation for vehicles for three- and four-year olds are those that allow them to experiment with,” Pruneda-Hernandez says. “Bulldozers, excavators and dump trucks all can be used in many different ways, providing young children opportunities to experiment, explore and manipulate with their hands.”

For a two-pack that’s less than $30, it’s a wonderful unisex toy as well, especially for sandbox play.

Beestech Construction Toys (4-Pack)

Contrary to popular belief, vehicles do not have to have sounds or need to be battery operated. 

“Vehicles without batteries should be durable to be used indoors and outdoors in dirt or sand,” Pruneda-Hernandez shares. “Vehicles provide children more opportunities to use their imagination to make their own sounds.”

Not to mention, parents, teachers or caregivers can enhance the play opportunities by interacting with the child while they play. Pruneda-Hernandez recommends that the adult gets on the floor or grass, play with the child and converse with the child during play.

Pull-Back Animal Toy Cars (6-Pack)

What better way to work on grading muscle force and motor planning than a pull back toy car?

“Your three-year-old will get to think through how their movements will impact the future of the car’s path,” Sanschagrin adds. Oh, and they’re quintessentially adorable.

Radio Flyer Deluxe EZ Fold 4-in-1 Stroll ‘N Trike

“A durable tricycle that will last for several years and can even be passed down to another child is my recommendation,” Pruneda-Hernandez says. “For children just turning three, parents or caregivers should be able to push the child when taking the child out for walks.”

However, the push handle should easily come off when children no longer need that support. Tricycles build children’s gross motor skills, too, according to our expert.

Retrospec Cub Kids Balance Bike

Three words: balance, coordination, and body confidence.

“Balance bikes offer a chance for children to rely on their own sense of balance to navigate the use of a bike,” Cady explains. “Without pedals, children can focus on balancing and coordinating both sides of their body while using the bike, building skills and muscles to have eventual success with a future two-wheel bike.”

Yvolution Y Velo Balance Bike

Sanschagrin also recommends balance bikes for 3-year-olds, namely the Yvolution Y Velo Balance Bike that comes in a wealth of vibrant colors.

“Balance bikes are great beginner bikes to work on bilateral coordination — using both sides of your body, arms and legs to work together in a coordinated manner — as well as core strength and overall balance,” she adds. “This is a great way to introduce beginner bike skills!”

Kid Trax Unicorn Quad Ride-On Toy

Push button ride-on-cars are so much fun (and are great at keeping your 3-year-old entertained for hours on end).

“They help develop those bilateral coordination skills by steering correctly and even hand strength by maintaining that push button to GO!” Sanschagrin explains.

Little Tikes Cozy Coupe

“I really like the Cozy Coupes because they do have a push option for parents but they also give the kiddo the option to use those feet and develop leg muscles and overall gross motor coordination,” Sanschagrin says.

Of course, parents and caregivers all need a break from time to time, so having the option to push your 3-year-old around the neighborhood when they need a little rest is a great option to have. “It also can help with their body awareness for when they are climbing in and out of the car while maneuvering the door,” she adds.

Sloth Warmies

While other stuffed animals are nice to hug and to hold, this Warmies doll can also provide warming or cooling relief that can help children relax. The doll can be warmed up in the microwave or chilled in the fridge or freezer, depending on what feels best for your child.

“Great for kids to develop social connection, empathy and soft skills,” said Kunter. “It is scented with natural lavender to sooth and calm children.”

Disney Princess Royal Collection 12-Piece Shimmer Fashion Dolls

“Disney toys are always wildly popular, but they are this year especially with the Disney100 anniversary celebrations,” Mierzejewski adds. “Classic fashion dolls allow kids to engage in creative storytelling and imaginative, open-ended play, and these allow kids to do so with their favorite Disney characters!”

At a great value, kids can build up a whole Disney squad to create their own adventures.

Terra By Battat Wooden Animal Barn Toy

When going to a real-life petting zoo isn’t an option, the next best thing is this farm-themed barn that comes filled with animal figurines. This toy offers a lot of room for creative, imaginative play, and does a good job of familiarizing children with some of the most common animals they’ll read and learn about in school.

“The Battat barn comes with 20 pieces to recreate a fully functioning farm,” Ritlop said. “The top lifts up to where you can use a pulley to crank the bales into the loft on the upper part of the barn. It’s great for reining motor skills and engaging in pretend play.”

Schleich Farm World Starter Set

Animals can be fascinating to young children, and this set of four friendly animals allows kids to study their barnyard friends up close. These are a great hands-on educational toy for helping kids learn to name and identify different animals, and after you get the barnyard set, you can try other options, such as the forest set .

“These work great with the Battat Wooden Animal Barn or on their own,” Ritlop said. “We’ve used them for animal matching games, in kinetic sand, in the bath and pretty much everywhere. They are a must have for every playroom.”

GUND Audrey Flamingo 12″ Plush Stuffed Animal

“Stuffed animals that are durable, easy to wash, and do not have parts that may become loose or fall off are the best purchases,” Pruneda-Hernandez explains. “Children may become attached to a stuffed animal and may want that toy at all times since it may provide them comfort.”

The stuffed animal or doll is going to depend on the child and, if a child becomes attached to a stuffed animal or doll, the child may keep that toy for many years. “”I still have a koala from my childhood that I was attached to and I just turned 50 this year,” she adds.

Viral Toys Dinosaur Weighted Stuffed Animal

“I love weighted stuffed animals for my kiddos that I work with,” Sanschagrin shares. “It can offer deep pressure as a tool to regulate and calm themselves, especially when they are feeling anxious.”

What’s more, the weight can also provide good feedback for where their body is in space, essentially helping them feel ‘ground’ to the world. It’s also perfect for imaginative play.

Squishmallows 10″ Hanna the Purple Hippo

Squishmallows can also offer a safe sensory experience.

“The texture often encourages squeezing of the toy which can also offer similar deep pressure benefits as the weighted animals,” Sanschagrin adds. “They make for great comfort items and sleeping companions.”

An FAQ on the 3-year-old age group, from experts

Ahead, our team of child development experts provide insight into the 3-year-old age group and what defines playtime at this stage.

For more, check out our expert-backed guides to the best toys for 1-year-olds and 2-year-olds and 4-year-olds .

What child development skills come to light among 3-year-olds?

Three-year-olds are like 2-year-olds in the sense that they’re moving, but they’re noticing more, according to Hirsh-Pasek. Ahead, she details all of the wonderful learning stages three-year-olds — generally — are up to in age.

• They can tell a story well and can run pretty fast (though skipping is far away).
• They are much more coordinated, with their body proportions more formed.
• They are very conversational and particular. If a three-year-old boy wants milk out of a dinosaur cup, he’s usually referring to a specific cup that you should know about.
• They can live in fantasy worlds they create, as well as line up toys and tell a story with them.
• They’re “not bad” toward the end of the third year but “great” as they move toward year four.
• They are glued to characters like Elmo who serve as conversational agents for them.
• They’re pretty dexterous and can put small pieces into large puzzles.
• They’re interested in putting crayons on paper.
• They like when you read stories to them and can talk about the characters in a book in finer detail.
• Their scribbles are becoming more sophisticated and symbolic. To them, things stand for something else: the rocks symbolize the tower they want to build; the drawings begin to turn into family portraits. They start to symbolically represent, and that’s one of the best human development skills — the move toward language and symbolism.

What are the best toys for 3-year-olds?

Of course, every 3-year-old has a different imagination and a different view of play. However, it’s most important to find a toy that suits their needs as they’re becoming more curious by the day.

“I highly recommend toys that allow children to explore, use their imagination and will enable them to hold or use their hands easily,” Pruneda-Hernandez says. “Children should not become frustrated with toys that may not be age-appropriate such as providing a 3-year-old with a fifty-piece puzzle.”

What’s more, parents, teachers and caregivers should always review the manufactures age range for a toy. “Three-year-olds may put toys or items in their mouths, so toys with small pieces that children may swallow are inappropriate,” she adds.

There’s a multitude of evidence recognizing the importance of play in children. According to Sanschagrin, at age three, one of their primary occupations is play which is a massive facilitator of their learning.

“Toddlers are much more likely to absorb new information when using the modality of play. Play is also a great way to process emotions that they might be unable to express or even understand. It encourages creativity and even problem solving!” Caitlin Sanschagrin, an occupational therapist specializing in pediatrics — specifically, feeding, sensory processing and regulation and neurodivergent-affirming care

Overall, staple toys for the 3-year-old age group would include building toys (like Magna-Tiles and LEGO), shape sorters, drawing and coloring toys (like MagnaDoodle), and open ended pretend play toys (like Little People sets), per Sanschagrin.

How do toys facilitate learning in the 3-year-old age group?

“Toys introduce kids to the foundations of storytelling, coding, creativity, dexterity and more thorough fun and engaging play patterns, so they spark curiosity for a future love of learning,” Mierzejewski explains. “Through play, 3-year-olds can develop their motor skills, start to learn the basic concepts of STEM skills, flex their imaginations, and start to role-play what they see adults doing through pretend play.”

During this age, kids can also start to establish physically active and social-emotional habits early that they will carry with them as they grow.

Check out the New York Post Shopping section for more content :

20 Fun Things to Do in St. Petersburg with Kids — Family Friendly Activities!

By: Author David Reeve

Posted on Published: March 12, 2021  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

If you’re on the hunt for a dreamy family escapade, head to St. Petersburg. 

This gem, fondly known as Sunshine City (and for good reason), has got it all. 

And you know what? 

I’ve danced through its artsy streets, built sandcastles on its pristine beaches, and it’s nothing short of a jackpot for families with kiddos.

Hold on, though, because St. Petersburg is not just about the beaches. 

It’s packed with creativity and a kind of pizzazz you won’t find elsewhere. 

I’m talking about hands-on museums, lush parks, and historic spots that are not only educational but also cool enough to make your little ones go, “Woah!”. 

And yes, we’re just scratching the surface. 

Ready to take notes? 

Here’s your ultimate roundup of fun things to do in St. Petersburg with kids.

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Fun Things To Do In St. Petersburg With Kids Compared 

If you’re seeking fun-filled family experiences in St. Petersburg, you’ve hit the jackpot. 

Our top picks will blow your little ones’ minds. 

Editor’s Choice

Guided Segway Tour

Uncover the treasures of downtown St. Petersburg effortlessly with this exhilarating 2-hour Segway tour.

• Age Compatibility: Tweens (10-12 years old)
• Educational Value: 3/5
• Fun Factor: 4/5
• Accessibility: 3/5
• Affordability: 2/5

#2nd Best Choice

Morean Art Center Hot Shop

The Morean Arts Center displays works by local, national, and international artists. Their Hot Shop showcases artists at work.

• Age Compatibility: Young Children (6-9 years old)
• Educational Value: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 3/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Affordability: 3/5

#3rd Best Choice

Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops

The Hyppo Gourmet started in 2010 when a random stranger told Stephen DiMare he should serve gourmet Mexican ice pops if he’d open up a coffee shop.

• Age Compatibility: Preschoolers (4-5 years old)
• Educational Value: 1/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Accessibility: 5/5
• Affordability: 4/5

Here are fun things to do in St. Petersburg with kids.

1. Guided Segway Tour (Editor’s Choice)

Hops2.0, 225 2nd Ave N St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Unique experience: Riding a Segway can be a thrilling and memorable experience for kids, allowing them to explore the city in a fun and exciting way.
• Educational: The guided tour can provide interesting information about the city’s history, landmarks, and culture, offering educational value along with the adventure.
• Age and safety restrictions: Segways may not be suitable for very young children or those who have difficulty with balance and coordination. 
• Cost: Guided Segway tours are relatively expensive compared to other activities, which may make them less accessible for some families.

Why Your Family Should Go

Here’s why families should give this 2-hour Segway tour in downtown St. Petersburg a whirl. 

Let’s face it, a touch of exploration, a dash of learning, and an easy ride are a recipe for family bonding. 

Discover highlights and hidden gems without breaking a sweat. 

Plus, Segways? 

They’re easier to use than you’d think, and it’s a whole heap of fun to boot​.

What to Do with Kids

Let them lead the way in taking photos and asking questions. 

Encourage them to soak up the knowledge our friendly guides generously share. 

And let’s not forget the sheer joy of mastering a Segway. 

Witnessing your little ones transform into pros? 

Priceless​.

Recommended Ages

When it comes to age, I’d recommend this for those 10 years and up. 

Segways have a minimum weight requirement of 75 lbs, so keep that in mind. 

But trust me, your tweens, teens, and yes, you, too, are going to dig this​.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Vinoy® Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club

Related: Best Things to Do in St. Petersburg

2. Morean Art Center Hot Shop

714 1st Avenue N St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 822-7872 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Morean Arts Center displays works by local, national, and international artists.

Their Hot Shop showcases artists at work.

• Educational and artistic: Watching skilled glassblowers create beautiful works of art can be a fascinating and educational experience for kids, exposing them to different art forms and creative processes.
• Interactive: Some hot shops allow visitors to ask questions, engage with the artists, and learn about glassblowing techniques, making it an interactive and engaging experience.
• Limited engagement for younger children: Glassblowing demonstrations may require patience and attention, which younger children may find challenging. 
• Fragility and safety concerns: The hot shop environment involves hot glass and sharp tools, so there may be safety concerns and restrictions on close interaction or touching the exhibits.

For curious artsy tots and older kids, the Hot Shop is a must-stop after the Chihuly Collection.

Glass artists demonstrate just how exactly attractive glass artworks are made.

Watch with the little ones how the science of creating glass works as the assistant narrates the process.

Afterward, drop by the Glass Studio Store to check out the handmade stuff by artists.

You can buy whichever catches your eye.

This scientific, artistic demonstration is entertaining and educational for adults and kids ages 5 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Birchwood

3. Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops

627 Central Avenue St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 498-6536 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Delicious treats: Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops offers a wide range of unique and tasty flavors, providing a refreshing and enjoyable treat for kids and adults alike.
• Accessibility: Ice pops are easy to consume and can be enjoyed by children of different ages and abilities. 
• Limited educational value: They may not offer significant educational value compared to other activities that focus more on learning or cultural exploration.
• Potential allergies or dietary restrictions: Some children may have allergies or dietary restrictions that limit their options when it comes to ice pops.

Made on-site from the freshest fruit in season, Hyppo’s ice pops became an instant hit among Floridians who need a healthier alternative to ice cream during the scorching summers.

Drop by and pick from among the wide array of ice pop flavors — from spicy to sweet to downright funky.

There are tons of fun, nutritious pops available, and they change every season!

Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops is a healthy choice during snack breaks with kids ages 3 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hollander Hotel – Downtown St. Petersburg

4. St. Petersburg’s Beaches

St. Petersburg, FL (727) 893-7111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

St. Petersburg is actually home to a wealth of world-class beaches that consistently rank among the best ones in the entire country today.

With its seat on the western coast of sun-kissed Florida, it is no wonder how St. Petersburg abounds with award-winning beaches featuring the state’s signature snow-white sand and plenty of family things to do.

Treasure Island Beach is popular for beachcombing, and Sunset Beach is, well, where beach bums go for unrivaled sunsets.

Nature lovers, on the other hand, will find the most enchanting tropical scenery at Maximo Beach.

Whether you’re coming over with a baby, a toddler, or a teen, you’re assured of the best family activities in St. Petersburg if you’re escaping to its gorgeous coastline.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Dolphin Beach Resort

5. Creative Clay

1846 1st Avenue S St. Petersburg, FL 33712 (727) 825-0515 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Creative Clay offers people with disabilities the spotlight to create outstanding artworks.

Creative Clay’s gallery is filled with amazing artworks from paintings to ceramics and sculptures all made from handicapped artist-students.

Best of all, these precious artworks are for sale!

Inspire your budding artists by taking them to Creative Clay.

Show them the full potential of each person, regardless of disability, for as long as one believes in their dreams.

Support these artists by purchasing a painting of your choice or donating to take home barely used art supplies!

A trip to Creative Clay is a valuable moment to educate children ages 5 and up regarding disabilities and the importance of equal opportunities.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Place St. Petersburg/Downtown

Also See: Things for Kids to Do in Sarasota Things to Do in Pensacola for Kids Family Things to Do in Clearwater

6. Great Explorations

1925 4th Street N St. Petersburg, FL 33704 (727) 821-8992 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Founded in 1986, Great Explorations Children’s Museum aims to stimulate learning in children through creativity and exploration.

If the little ones barely run out of energy, Great Explorations is no doubt the best of all the places to take kids in St. Petersburg.

Offering them a sprawling playground with endless possibilities for fun, this museum introduces them to the world at the same time!

Channel your child’s inner engineer, architect, agriculturist, artist, journalist, adventurer, scientist, veterinarian, and more by letting them run wild around the museum’s exhibits.

The interactive exhibits and kids activities at Great Explorations Children’s Museum are designed for children 10 and under.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites St. Petersburg/Downtown

7. Fort De Soto Park

3500 Pinellas Bayway S Tierra Verde, FL 33715 (727) 582-2267 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Sunshine City prides itself with Fort de Soto, a five-island park that will surely delight young history buffs who also happen to love the ocean.

Located in the southwest region of St. Petersburg, Fort De Soto Park is the largest in the county’s park system.

Stretching to more than 1,000 acres of flourishing plant life, it’s a vast verdure of cheap family fun that you and the kiddos can explore.

Fort de Soto Park is home to some of the best things to do in St. Petersburg with kids.

Little history enthusiasts can enjoy the historic fort and museum.

Active ones will enjoy swimming, biking, or hiking the nature trails.

Try waterfront camping if you’re feeling adventurous!

This adventure to the sea and through the islands’ greenery is a wonderful experience for families with kids ages 3 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Don CeSar – Recently Renovated

Also See: Kid Friendly Things to Do in Destin Things to Do in Tampa, FL with Kids Panama City Beach Attractions for Kids Fun Things to Do in Crystal River with Kids

8. Sunken Gardens

1825 4th Street N St. Petersburg, FL 33704 (727) 551-3102 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Sunken Gardens has been around for more than 100 years now, having been planted by an avid gardener and plumber in 1903.

This botanical paradise is a relaxing respite from the hustle and bustle of downtown, a charming solace surrounded by over 50,000 tropical flora.

Wander through the Japanese garden, cactus garden, butterfly garden, and more.

Children will adore the flock of Chilean flamingos and sights of cascading waterfalls.

Book a garden tour for a complete experience.

Sunken Gardens is most enjoyable for children ages 3 and older.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Staybridge Suites St. Petersburg FL

9. Engine No. 9

56 Dr M.L.K. Jr Street N St. Petersburg, FL 33705 (727) 623-0938 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Located at the heart of St. Petersburg’s historic downtown district, Engine No. 9 is an award-winning, family-friendly burger sports bar owned by the son of a hockey Hall of Famer.

In need of a more satisfying gastronomic experience?

How burgers made with 8 oz prime black angus beef sound?

Engine No. 9 offers you the flavors of Florida served on a plate.

Chow down on creative burger choices, hot dogs, salads, sides, and more, and enjoy watching sports games on the mini TV that comes with every table.

Kids ages 7 and older will love the multiple hot dog toppings and sports action as adults sip on local craft brews.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn – St. Petersburg West

10. Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

1101 Country Club Way S St. Petersburg, FL 33705 (727) 893-7326 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Boyd Hill Nature Preserve was once a zoo and botanical garden but has since been converted into a natural habitat for native plants and roaming wildlife.

Home to a massive lake, playground, nature camps, picnic site, wildlife, and many more sights, Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is the perfect choice for parents looking for things to do in St Petersburg with toddlers who love the great outdoors.

Explore the diverse ecosystems surrounding the lake, swamp, pine woods, sand scrub, and hammock.

Watch wildlife, visit the aviary of injured birds, and let the kids burn off excess energy at the playground.

Babies, toddlers, older children, and teens will all have a great time with the discoveries one can find at a nature preserve.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Inn On Third

Also See: Kids Activities: Gainesville Things to Do in Tallahassee with Kids Things to Do in Lakeland with Kids What to Do in Fort Myers with Kids

11. Central Arts District

Central Arts District St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Central Arts District is St. Petersburg’s haven for local independent artists across various art disciplines.

Aspiring young artists will find a paradise in St. Petersburg’s Central Arts District, where art can be found outdoors, indoors, and even on food!

Don’t know what to do in St. Petersburg with kids who happen to be lovers of art?

Walk the Central Arts District and view the many walls outdoors that locals turned into their canvas.

Visit galleries and studios, listen to live music, drop by craft stores, and munch on creative snacks.

Children ages 3 and up will enjoy being inundated with all forms of art in this district.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Avalon Hotel Downtown St. Petersburg

Related: Best Beaches in St. Petersburg

12. Cypress Breeze Farm

North Skyway, I-275 St Petersburg, FL 33715 (727) 460-0891 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Cypress Breeze Farms takes good care of horses to offer families happy horseback rides.

Whether you’ve always dreamed of riding a horse through forests or you’ve never heard of riding a horse partially submerged on the beach, Cypress Breeze Farm assures you and the little one’s unforgettable horseback adventures.

Book an appointment with Cypress Breeze Farms to secure rides.

You can ride through farms and shaded trails, swim with horses, learn horse whispering, or even try out equine yoga!

Children have to be ages 6 and older to join the rides.

This activity is particularly fun for teens and school-age children.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The New Hotel Collection Beachfront

Related: Best Restaurants in St Petersburg

13. Salvador Dalí Museum

1 Dali Boulevard St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 823-3767 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This museum’s exterior is as eccentric as the artist it pays homage to.

Though beautifully kooky from the outside, this museum is breathtaking indoors, featuring a large glass entryway, jaw-dropping skylight, and spiral staircase.

The exhibits are the same: weird but undeniably handsome.

Such is the mind of Salvador Dalí!

Explore the brilliant strangeness of Salvador Dalí with the kids and those of the newer generations inspired by his work.

This aesthetic spreads outdoors on the Avant-Garden, a unique yet surprisingly tranquil escape from the mundane.

This museum makes a memorable trip for children ages 5 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Tru By Hilton St. Petersburg Downtown Central Ave

14. James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art

150 Central Avenue St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 892-4200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Founded by businessman Thomas James, this museum explores the history of the American West, its native inhabitants, and its transformation.

With an interior resembling the iconic canyons of the West, the museum houses elaborate sculptures, paintings, and jewelry of Native Americans that call the West home, as well as artworks of native animals. Exhibits then transition to cowboy culture.

Broaden perspectives on history dating back to thousands of years ago as you weave through exhibit after exhibit with the kids.

The historical and artistic exhibits in this museum are best enjoyed by kids ages 5 and up.

15. St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market

350 2nd Ave N St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 855-1937 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Locals in St. Petersburg decided to come together in 2002 and support local growers and their fresh farm products to the community.

Every Saturday, the Morning Market fills up with 170 vendors and more or less 10,000 people looking for nutritious food and delectable treats.

There are cultural events and craft vendors here for handmade gifts too!

Looking for free kid-friendly things to do in St Petersburg?

Visit the Morning Market this weekend!

You can drop by for a cup of organic coffee, artsy objects, or pastries to ease your sweet tooth.

Best of all, watch locals showcase their talents in music for free!

Many fun things to do in St. Petersburg with kids ages 3 and up can be enjoyed at this bustling market.

16. Skyway Fishing Pier State Park

I-275 St. Petersburg, FL 33711 (727) 865-0668 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Transformed from the old Sunshine Skyway Bridge, it’s now the world’s longest fishing pier.

Families can enjoy fishing for various species while soaking in panoramic views.

If you’re on the hunt for more fantastic things to do with kids, St. Petersburg has another gem for you: Skyway Fishing Pier State Park.

At this park, your kids will love the thrill of reeling in snook, tarpon, and even red snapper.

It’s a hands-on nature lesson they won’t forget.

If the little ones get restless, snacks, drinks, and bait are available for purchase right on the pier.

It’s a one-stop shop for a day of family bonding and outdoor fun.

Bring your fishing gear and let the kids try their hand at casting lines.

If you’re new to fishing, no worries—bait and tackle shops are nearby.

Lastly, keep an eye out for dolphins and pelicans.

This spot is great for kids aged 6 and up who can appreciate the joys of fishing.

Younger kids might enjoy watching the boats and birds, but the main activities are best for school-age children and above.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Prestige Collection, Hotel Boutique

17. Florida Holocaust Museum

55 5th St S St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 820-0100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Florida Holocaust Museum offers an impactful journey through history. 

With its immersive exhibitions, the museum provides a poignant education on the Holocaust that’s both kid-friendly and thought-provoking.

If you’re searching for more educational indoor kids activities, St. Petersburg, Florida has a variety of options.

The Florida Holocaust Museum, for one, is an educational experience that will leave a lasting impression on your kids.

The exhibitions are designed to be engaging for younger audiences without diluting the gravity of the subject matter.

Parents will appreciate the thoughtful layout and the opportunity for meaningful family discussions.

Walk through the exhibitions at a pace that allows your kids to absorb the information.

There are often docents available to answer questions and provide additional context, making the experience more enriching for the whole family.

Given the serious nature of the topics covered, the museum is best suited for kids aged 10 and up.

18. Tropicana Field

1 Tropicana Dr St. Petersburg, FL 33705 (727) 825-3137 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Tropicana Field, home to the Tampa Bay Rays, is more than just a baseball stadium.

With its 10,000-gallon touch tank filled with stingrays, it’s a ballpark with a splash of marine life.

If you’re in the St. Petersburg area, and searching for “things to do with kids near me”, check out this field.

Baseball fan or not, there’s something for everyone.

Kids will be thrilled to touch real stingrays in the tank.

And if you’re there for a game, the energy is electric.

Catch a game if you can, but if not, the stadium tours are a worthy substitute.

Let the kids explore the touch tank, and maybe grab some stadium snacks to make the day complete.

Trust me, these experiences are perfect for those mapping out a list of can’t-miss, St. Petersburg kids activities.

Tropicana Field is a hit for all ages, but kids aged 5 and up will get the most out of the touch tank and the game experience.

19. Downtown St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Open in Google Maps

Downtown St. Petersburg is an open-air art gallery.

The Central Arts District is adorned with over 70 murals, turning ordinary buildings into canvases.

Art comes alive here in St. Petersburg’s city center.

Kids will love the vibrant colors and imaginative designs, sparking their own creativity.

Parents, you’ll love the photo ops and the chance to introduce your kids to art in a fun, relaxed setting.

You can opt for a guided tour, but exploring the nearby attractions at your own pace is just as fun.

Make it a scavenger hunt to find the most eye-catching mural.

This is a family-friendly activity suitable for all ages.

Even toddlers will be captivated by the bright colors, making it one of the kid friendly things to do in St. Petersburg.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Autograph Collection

20. Polynesian Putter

4999 Gulf Blvd. St. Petersburg, FL 33706 (727) 360-9678 Open in Google Maps

Polynesian Putter offers a blast from the past with its tiki-themed mini-golf course.

Think Easter Island heads and faux snakes, all set in a retro 1950s atmosphere.

Exploring Polynesian Putter is like stepping into a time machine to the 1950s tiki culture.

Kids will love navigating the 18-hole course filled with quirky obstacles.

Parents, you’ll get a kick out of the nostalgia while enjoying a laid-back game with the family.

Grab a putter and navigate the tricky holes, but watch out for those faux snakes.

Make it a friendly competition and see who can get the lowest score.

This mini-golf adventure is perfect for children aged 4 and up.

And that’s why it’s one of our favorite fun things to do in St. Petersburg for kids.

The course is manageable for younger players, and the fun obstacles keep it interesting for older kids and adults alike.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Saint Hotel

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

Picking just the right adventure for your family can feel like threading a needle. 

But in beautiful St. Petersburg, the possibilities are as boundless as your child’s imagination. 

Zipping around on a guided Segway tour, we drank in the city’s history, splashed with the vibrant colors of street murals and the shimmering waters. 

But for hands-on learning, nothing beat the Morean Art Center Hot Shop. 

There, we stepped into the mesmerizing dance of molten glass blowing, feeling the heat and watching our own creations come to life. 

End the day? 

Sweet surrender at The Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops, where unique, natural flavors became a delightfully icy respite. 

Each attraction has its charm, but consider your family’s interests – adventure, creativity, or a sweet treat – and make your choice. 

How I Picked The Activities

Dipping into my treasure chest of experiences, I handpicked these activities with love. 

I’ve been there and breathed in the magic of St. Petersburg myself. 

But my curiosity doesn’t end at my own escapades. 

I chatted with both locals and fellow globe-trotters to see through their eyes and hearts. 

Their stories added layers of depth to my research as I meticulously scoured through travel forums, blog posts, and trusty guidebooks. 

These delightful recommendations are served up with a heaping spoonful of personal experience, research, and the wisdom of the collective wanderlust tribe.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these activities based on the following criteria: 

• Age Compatibility: I use this criterion to assess the ideal age range for each attraction. Is this activity suitable for toddlers, preschoolers, or young children? Will teenagers and tweens enjoy this attraction? I ask myself these questions whenever I assess age compatibility. 
• Educational Value: This is used to evaluate the educational benefits that the activity offers. Does the activity provide learning opportunities to children? Does it teach them lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating the activity’s educational value. 
• Fun Factor: This measures the level of excitement, engagement, and enjoyment that the activity offers. Is it engaging and enjoyable for kids? Will it create memorable and positive experiences for families? These questions are important whenever I rate the activity’s fun factor. 
• Accessibility: This measures how accessible the activity is for families. Is it wheelchair accessible? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have ample parking space? I consider these factors when evaluating the accessibility of every activity. 
• Affordability: This assesses the value of money provided by the activity. Are the admission fees reasonable? Does it offer deals or discounts for families? I use these questions to evaluate the affordability of every attraction. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is st petersburg good for families.

St. Petersburg is ideal for families. Its pleasant weather, beautiful beaches, and various cultural amenities offer an attractive environment, but some families might be concerned about the higher cost of living and hurricane risks.

What Is There To Do In Saint Petersburg For Free?

Saint Petersburg is abundant with free activities for visitors and residents alike. One can enjoy the picturesque beaches, visit the Sunken Gardens, or take a leisurely stroll along the downtown waterfront which frequently hosts free events and festivals.

Is St. Petersburg An Expensive City?

St. Petersburg is moderately expensive. The cost of living is slightly above the national average, with housing being one of the primary contributors to the expense, while other factors, such as utilities and groceries, are closer to the national average.

Fun Things to Do in St. Petersburg with Kids: Reddit User Recommendations

Best activities for kids in the area by u/pdfruin in StPetersburgFL

Conclusion 

It’s been a whirlwind of fun things to do in St. Petersburg with kids, and each adventure has its own sprinkle of magic. 

But let’s get real here – the Guided Segway Tour is the shining star in this treasure trove.

Because it’s like gliding on a cloud through history and culture, with your kiddos soaking up knowledge like little sponges. 

Sure, the Morean Art Center Hot Shop is a fiery feast for the senses, and Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops tickles the taste buds. 

But nothing beats the family connection and the wind-in-your-hair freedom of the Segway tour. 

So, pack your bags, grab your tribe, and sashay your way through Sunshine City.

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Toy Stores in St. Petersburg

Everyone loves toys, even the grown-ups among us who like to pretend otherwise. St. Petersburg toy stores have toys and games for kids of all ages, from the hottest “must-have” toys on the market to forgotten classics that are slowly working their way back to customers’ hands. Many local toy stores also carry arts and craft supplies, bicycles, electronics, video games, party supplies, specialty toys, sports equipment and outdoor play sets.

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Esjay Toddler Busy Board Montessori Toys for 1 2 3 4 Year Old, Sensory Board Educational Activities for Learning Fine Motor Skills, Gifts for Girls Boys, Travel Toys for Airplane Car

• [8 PAGES, ENDLESS FUN] - Our innovated busy board for toddlers has 8 pages to play, featuring multiple varieties of toddler activities, can keep your little one busy for hours. This toddler busy board is designed in varying difficulty levels to be challenging but not too much to keep your toddlers interested. Including zipper, shoelace, belt, button, clock, calendar, shapes matching, threading numbers, hook&loop letter, jigsaw animal puzzle and etc.
• [PLAY WHILE LEARNING] - Keep your baby entertained while they develop essential skills like dressing at their own pace, improving fine motor skills and finger dexterity. The Octopus button page help improve hand eye coordination. Clock, calendar and season weather page is for cognitive skill. Shape matching page and fun jigsaw puzzle improve recognition and imagination. Toddler can learn spelling and numbers through the hook&loop letters board and interesting number threading game.
• [SOFT & PORTABLE TODDLER TRAVEL TOYS]: Our sensory toys for toddlers 1-3 is made of toxic-free soft fabrics and felt with no hard corners, safe for your little toddlers to play. Busy board with handle, portable for toddlers to carry and flexible to fit in most diaper or school bags. Great toddler activities sensory board to keep them occupied while on car, airplane, travel or settings needing quiet.
• [EASY TO OPERATE] - Design for little hand to use, this Montessori toys is well constructed and in suitable size for toddlers to hold. You can also work on educational board together with your kids and teach them spelling, counting and matching. Great toddler activities for preschool learning. Also a good alternative to screen time.
• [DECENT GIFT & SATISFACTION]: Esjay Montessori busy board for toddlers gifts is made with quality and care. Each parts are securely attached to the board and reliable enough to hold up to toddler’ s use. The covers are printed with cute dinosaur pattern and animal alphabet, makes it a decent Christmas and birthday gift for 1 2 3 4 year old boys and girls. If you have any problems, our friendly service is here to help.

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Product information

Product Dimensions	4 x 6 x 0.1 inches
Item Weight	1.05 pounds
ASIN	B0BZ4R5F56
Item model number	All win deer202104193268
Manufacturer recommended age	3 years and up
Best Sellers Rank	#63 in Toys & Games ( ) #1 in
Customer Reviews	4.5 out of 5 stars
Manufacturer	Esjay

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From the brand

Toddler Sorting&Matching Toys

Busy Board Multiple Pages

Esjay toys encourages curiosity and imagination, our mission is to make learning fun and easy at home.

We make our products with quality and care and are dedicated to providing high quality and distinctive products with great value.

Product Description

Multi-page Content for Hours of Fun

The busy board is like a book filled with pages of exciting activities. With eight different pages to explore, your child will never get bored. Each page is filled with different activities to keep your child entertained for hours.

With the busy board, you can feel confident that your child is not only having fun but also developing important skills that will help them thrive.

Non Toxic, Soft & Reinforced Sewing: Many toddlers like throwing things around, that’s why we introduce this soft fabric made busy board to you. It's soft with no hard corner that won’t harm your babies. We have reinforced the sewing part to make sure they won’t easily fall, reliable enough to hold hold up to toddler’ s use.	Family Time: Enjoy a parent-child time with your toddlers with this Montessori toys. You can teach them to spell and count or demonstrate how to operate.	Portable Quiet Book: Light weight with handles design, this toddlers busy board is portable for kids to carry and play. Designed in suitable size and are flexible to fit in most diaper bags or school bags. Eliminate boredom while on cars, airplane and travel. Good alternative to screen devices while on settings needing quiet.

Learning Alphabet, Spelling & Numbers: The busy board cover is printed with interesting animal alphabet. And there is a Hook& Loop DIY board with letters & numbers for toddler to learn spelling and counting.	Toddler can remove the pages from the busy board, flexible to carry and play on anywhere you want. They can also share some of the pages with their friends and explore this multiple activity board together.	An excellent Christmas, Easter, birthday and back to school gift for toddlers. Dimensions: Unfolded Size: 11 x 17.5 inch Folded Size: 11 x 8.6 inch Weigh: 1 lbs Material: Toxic-free soft fabrics and felt

Customer Reviews
Quantity	10 Cards with 10 Categories of Toys	8 Pages	8 Pages	8 Pages	8 Pages

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Review Busy Book with a 9-month old

Katie Danger

Honest Review of Toddler Busy Board Book

Is this a good toy for a child?

Ultimate Travel Board Book

Kaci Meintsma

This is an amazing book to keep little busy

Its.MadisonTaylor

Review and Use of Best Busy Board For Kids / Toddlers

PTwealthjourney

Honest review of this soft busy board

Customer Review: Perfect road trip activity for toddlers!

Lehua Birkholz

Honest Review of our Busy Board - Would we buy it again?

✅ Rachel’s Reviews

Review - Must have toy for toddler!!!

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• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 69% 18% 8% 3% 3% 69%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 69% 18% 8% 3% 3% 18%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 69% 18% 8% 3% 3% 8%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 69% 18% 8% 3% 3% 3%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 69% 18% 8% 3% 3% 3%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the entertainment value of the board book, saying it's filled with engaging and interactive activities that keep their little one entertained for hours. They also say it'll help them learn, with so many activities for children to do while learning and being occupied. Customers also appreciate the quality of the product, saying that it'd be great for travel with a toddler. They are also satisfied with appearance. However, some customers are disappointed with the letters. Opinions are mixed on durability and ease of use.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the book engaging and interactive, keeping their children entertained for hours. They also say it's interesting and inspiring for busy little children.

"...Helps develop fine motor skills while being portable and quiet for public use ." Read more

"...This activity toy is a lot of learning fun . Kids are well occupied while in the car. The laces, zippers, buckles and snaps are all well-made." Read more

"This is a cute little book! There are many activities . I ended up returning for another option that didn't have any loose pieces...." Read more

"I like the Montessori toys. They teach, entertain and they look great...." Read more

Customers find the motor skills of the toy entertaining and learning for children. They say it has many activities for children to do while learning and being occupied. Customers also say it's a great chance to play with their kid and inspires them.

"Great toy for my 11 month old. Helps develop fine motor skills while being portable and quiet for public use." Read more

"...This activity toy is a lot of learning fun. Kids are well occupied while in the car. The laces, zippers, buckles and snaps are all well-made." Read more

"I like the Montessori toys. They teach , entertain and they look great...." Read more

"Well made! Constantly interesting and inspiring for busy little children !" Read more

Customers like the quality of the toy. They say it's great, car friendly, and awesome. Some customers also say the board is missing the letter "i" and they had to glue it on. Overall, most are happy with the quality and use of the product.

" Great toy for my 11 month old. Helps develop fine motor skills while being portable and quiet for public use." Read more

"...The rest of the book was great with all the options of the clips, shoe laces and snaps!" Read more

"...to take into restaurants/friends houses that don’t have kids and it works great ! My daughter is 16mo now and loves to use this...." Read more

" Great airplane toy !" Read more

Customers find the weight of the book good for traveling with a toddler. They also say it's perfect for road trips and at home.

"...Helps develop fine motor skills while being portable and quiet for public use." Read more

" Very travel friendly - we use this in the car and at restaurants. I unzipped and took out of some of the older activities...." Read more

" Great travel busy book . However there are some shapes that one ought to stick to match to shapes in the book and I can't get the adhesive to work." Read more

"An excellent travel or stay-at-home gift!" Read more

Customers like the appearance of the book. They say it's cute, nice, and colorful. Some say the book is creative and Montessori-like. They also say the outer pages are great for little ones working on fine motor skills.

"This is a cute little book ! There are many activities. I ended up returning for another option that didn't have any loose pieces...." Read more

"...I unzipped and took out of some of the older activities. The outer pages are great for little ones working on fine motor skills. Very customizable." Read more

"I like the Montessori toys. They teach, entertain and they look great ...." Read more

"...The colors and quality are durable , fun and vibrant...." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the durability of the toy. Some mention it's well-made, educational, and has held up well so far, while others say it'll break easily. Some customers also report that the parts broke away from the book like they were not properly attached. Overall, the product is a good choice for those looking for an educational and fun toy for their children.

"...Could be a choking hazard and now it’s harder to keep track of all the pieces . No loss of points for this, but be aware it is slightly bulky...." Read more

"...The laces, zippers, buckles and snaps are all well-made ." Read more

" Some of the parts broke away from the book like they were not properly attached - we had to take them off so the small buttons didn't end up..." Read more

" Well made ! Constantly interesting and inspiring for busy little children!" Read more

Customers are mixed about the ease of use of the toy. Some mention it's easy to use, convenient, and easy to setup. However, others say that it'll take a lot of time and labor to put the pieces together.

"...Downsides are, there is some assembly . It also comes with glue dots that came off the first time we played with this toy...." Read more

"...I thought the book was easy to assemble and only required adding Velcro to the small felt pieces. Looks likes it’s easy to crank, just wipe down...." Read more

"...I’d say it’s worth it but does take a little to get together ." Read more

"It's both entertaining and learning for the children. Easy to use ." Read more

Customers say the letters in the activity book are missing. They also say the numbers and letters are messed up and the letters get everywhere.

"Product is nice but missing the letter “i .” I also had to glue on the velcro stickies on the back because they came off...." Read more

"...Only problem I had was it was missing some numbers and letters but other than that it’s very colorful and great learn tool!" Read more

"Cute and entertaining but missing letters and numbers. Mine did not come with the letter Y or number 7." Read more

"...Speaking of Velcro letters, we are unfortunately missing the letter i , and since that letter is in his name I had to improvise and use the 1...." Read more

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33 Expert-Approved Toys for 5-Year-Old Girls

A gift that focuses on their developing skills is key.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Top-Sellers Right Now

Gabby's Dollhouse Kitty Fairy Garden Party

Best STEM Toy for 5-Year-Old Girls

Geosafari jr. talking microscope.

Amuseable Slice of Pizza Food Plush

You might see a difference in how 5-year-olds play compared to toddlers and even younger preschoolers. They take a huge learning leap, which makes them more coordinated and better able to understand the world around them. When it comes time to buy gifts for kids in this cohort, it works best if you keep these developing skills in mind.

"The best toys for this age group will stimulate movement in space, challenge a child’s cognition, help develop balance and coordination, encourage pretend play and foster early reading skills," says Magdalena Oledzka, P.T., Ph.D. She adds that anything in the realm of imaginary play, like dolls and vehicles, or in the creative sphere, like paint, molding dough and markers, can help stimulate these skills while keeping kids active and away from screens (or active in front of screens at least). Since they're more into independent play with complex play sequences, they can go a bit beyond identifying basic shapes and colors, says Gayle Kligman, M.Ed. , the executive chairman of Family of Kidz.

With these recommendations in mind, the Good Housekeeping Institute sets out each year to find the best toys and gifts for kids of every age, meeting them where they're at developmentally. First, they test the toys for safety, construction and ease of use. Then they put them to the real test, giving them to actual 5-year-old girls to assess the fun factor. This year, when all was said and done, these came out as the best toys and gifts for 5-year-old girls in 2024 .

The list includes current and former Good Housekeeping Best Toy Award winners along with editor favorites, and a few best-sellers to keep on top of current trends. The 5-year-olds in your life will love these fidget toys , board games , educational toys and other unique picks.

Two kid favorites — LEGO and Gabby's Dollhouse — come together in this building set. It comes with figures of Gabby, Pandy Paws and Kitty Fairy, and kids can build the treehouse, garden and playground for them to frolic in. At just 130 pieces, it's good for those just starting out with LEGO building sets. Ages 4+

Bindi Irwin lends her voice to this talking microscope, which comes loaded with more than 100 scientific facts. The slides feature 60 beautiful full-color images, and you can switch it to quiz mode to see how much your kids retain. And if you want to make it a set, you can also get the GeoSafari Jr. Talking Telescope . Ages 3+

This smiling plush is the only pizza slice they won't want to eat. Topped with cheese and olives, and adorable hands, they'll want to cuddle all day long. And if pizza isn't one of their favorite foods, you can opt for a burger , taco and more. Ages 0+

Daisy Flower Plush Floor Pillow-

They'll feel like a fairy curled up onto flower petals when they lounge on this oversized, 35" floor pillow. (There's also a 20" size, which is also available at Amazon .) It comes in many different colors, and the petals have a velvety texture to them. No age recommendation given

They can create their own sparkly art scenes without paint, without glue and — yes! — without loose glitter. With this set, kids just select a puffy sticker and rub a special, sparkly foil onto it, and the shimmer transfers without any mess! They can then stick the stickers onto different backgrounds. There are a few themes to choose from, including animals, unicorns and princesses , dinosaurs , dress up and outer space . Ages 4+

RELATED: The Good Housekeeping Best Toy Awards

Musical Crossroads Piece Jumbo Puzzle

At 5 years old, kids are ready for more of a challenge when it comes to jigsaw puzzles, and this 72-piece puzzle is just the right amount of difficult. And, when it's done, it makes a 21" x 14" picture of a band, so they'll feel accomplished. Ages 5+

Pets Got Talent Play Set

Littlest Pet Shop has been a popular pick for years, but we are impressed with the brand's recent relaunch. If you played with these adorable animals way back when, you can have fun with your kids as they set the pets up on the included stage that features a tightrope, bird perch, swing and more! Ages 4 – 12

Bear and Bird: The Picnic and Other Stories

This beginning chapter book won over Good Housekeeping Institute testers, including a special guest judge : Jenna Bush Hager, co-host of TODAY with Hoda and Jenn a and founder of Jenna Reads . With gentle humor and genuine affection, Jarvis’s stories capture the ups and downs of friendship in a way that will resonate with young readers,” she says. “The beautiful illustrations are the perfect complement to the stories.” Ages 5 – 9

RELATED: The Good Housekeeping Best Kids' Book Awards

It's all the fun of fashion dolls and paper dolls rolled into one. Each Style Bae doll, and there are four to collect, comes with outfits and accessories that peel and stick onto the doll, and then they can be un-stuck again. The looks can be mixed and matched into more than 850 combinations. Testers loved that the dolls also had rooted hair for them to style too. Ages 4+

Doorables Squish’Alots

Kids love things that squish. Kids love their favorite characters. Put them together, and you've got these adorable, collectible figures. Open the door to reveal either four, five or six cute-ified versions of Disney characters — there are more than 50 to collect in all. Will they find a rare one? Ages 5+

Ada Twist's Big Project Book for Stellar Scientists

If Ada Twist, Scientist has them forming hypotheses and designing experiments, channel that energy into this project book. There are ideas for more than 40 projects to complete, including tracking the phases of the moon or building an aquascope. Ages 5+

Cookeez Makery

Testers were dazzled by the big reveal this toy offers. First, kids have to mix up some dough with the included ingredients — a fun, sensory experience. After they shape and mold it, they pop it in the toy oven, the timer ticks and — ding! — out pops a much bigger stuffed animal. It's even warm to the touch, like it's fresh out of the oven, and smells sweet, too. Ages 4+

Hover Soccer Ball

Rainy days don't have to mean being consigned to the couch. They can still work out their extra energy with this hover "soccer ball," which glides over smooth, flat indoor flooring. The foam bumper around the outside makes it easier on walls and furniture too. Ages 3+

Stomp and Catch Launcher Game

Stomp Rockets have long been a kid favorite because of the way they launch up, up, up into the air. Now they're fun on the way down too. This set comes with four kid-powered rockets, which fly into the air when kids stomp or jump on the launcher, plus a net for trying to catch them on the way down. Good Housekeeping Institute testers loved switching off who was doing the launching and who was doing the catching. Ages 5+

Disney Princess Deluxe Dress-Up Trunk

She can dress up as Rapunzel, Ariel, Tiana and Jasmine with this 21-piece truck full of Disney Princess clothing and accessories. The trunk comes with everything they need, including tops, skirts, bracelets, rings, headbands and stickers. There's also a second trunk with outfits for Aurora, Belle, Cinderella and Snow White. Ages 3+

My Simple Sewing Craft Kit

Kids can pick up the basics of sewing with a plastic needle and pre-cut pieces. This kit comes with two cardstock projects they can practice with before moving on to make their own cupcake plush, cookie keychain and pizza pocket — all adorable. Ages 4+

Liya Fashion Doll

Kids can meet Liya, a second-year engineering student who is also happens to be an international model. How cool is that? The line of Naturalistas dolls focus on natural hair. Each one comes with accessories, like Liya's bag and shoes. Ages 3+

Got2Glow Baby Fairy Finder

Kids can use this magic device to find and collect baby fairies, including rare ones. Once they've been spotted, kids can play games with their fairies, feed them and then head off to find more! They can learn more about their fairies through an app, or transfer them to a Got2Glow Fairy Finder jar if they have one. Ages 5+

Dream Seekers Stella

Join Stella, the magical-looking rainbow fairy, as she dives deep into her dreams. Kids can tell Stella their hopes and wishes, and then watch as her wings light up and glow in different color combinations. They can also style her hair with fun clips! (She'll look great on a shelf.) She's part of the Dream Seekers line of fairy dolls, and each one has a different style and personality. Ages 5+

Mystical Animals Bubble Bath Bomb Set

One of these bath bombs is all they'll need to level up their tub time. There are so many sensory experiences in one bomb: It fizzes, it turns the water colors, each one has a different fragrance and — best of all — there's a surprise, squishy toy inside. Ages 3+

Marisa (she/her) has covered all things parenting, from the postpartum period through the empty nest, for Good Housekeeping since 2018; she previously wrote about parents and families at Parents and Working Mother . She lives with her husband and daughter in Brooklyn, where she can be found dominating the audio round at her local bar trivia night or tweeting about movies.

Rachel Rothman was the chief technologist and executive technical director of the Good Housekeeping Institute for over 15 years , overseeing testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all GH Labs. She also managed GH's research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems. 

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