Choosing Christmas presents for your toddler
With Christmas fast approaching many parents and carers begin the search for presents that are fun, safe and genuinely beneficial for their toddler. The festive season is filled with lights, decorations, sounds and excitement which makes it an ideal time to support learning and development through meaningful play. This article complements our blog What to consider when choosing Christmas presents for your toddler and expands on how to choose thoughtful and age appropriate gifts.
Choosing toys for toddlers is enjoyable, but with so many options available it can be difficult to know what will keep them engaged, stimulated and safe. A suitable gift should be **age appropriate**, developmentally supportive and made to a high safety standard. Whether brand new or homemade, toys must be durable and free from hazards such as small parts, long cords, magnets or easily detached components.
What to think about when buying toddler gifts
When selecting presents you may find it helpful to consider the following questions before making a purchase:
- Is the toy sturdy, non breakable and free from sharp edges or detachable parts
- Is it suitable for your toddler’s stage of development
- Will it capture interest and stimulate curiosity
- Does it support communication, movement or problem solving
- Is it washable and durable enough for energetic play
- Is it too loud when held close to the ears
Toddler toys that support learning
Toddlers learn through active exploration. The best Christmas presents are those that encourage movement, imagination, communication and early problem solving. Many toddlers go through rapid periods of physical development which makes toys that support balance, coordination and strengthening especially valuable.
Useful ideas include:
- Push and pull along toys
- Ride on toys suitable for the child’s size and balance skills
- Stacking cups and nesting sets
- Large construction bricks
- Simple wooden puzzles with sturdy knobs
- Shape sorters and early logic toys
- Role play toys such as tea sets, toy phones and pretend kitchens
- Musical instruments designed for toddlers
Toddlers are naturally enthusiastic about copying adults. Role play toys, pretend tools, dolls, prams and kitchen sets often become favourites because they allow toddlers to explore real world scenarios in a safe and creative way.
Sensory toys for curious toddlers
Toddlers thrive when they can explore textures, sounds, movement and visual contrasts. Sensory toys help build concentration, coordination and body awareness. They are also ideal for keeping toddlers focused during the busy festive season.
- Textured balls and squishy shapes
- Lightweight scarves for movement play
- Large crayons and washable paints
- Textured or lift the flap books
- Pop up toys and toys with simple mechanisms
Books are especially valuable for toddlers. Simple stories, rhyme, repetition and bright illustrations help build language and support early bonding and routine.
Homemade Christmas presents for toddlers
Homemade gifts are often the most loved. They can be simple, inexpensive and highly engaging. With the right supervision they can provide long periods of concentrated exploration.
- Treasure baskets filled with safe everyday objects
- Texture boards made with different materials
- Homemade sound shakers using securely sealed containers
- Sturdy cardboard boxes for imaginative play
- Photo books featuring family members
Ensure that homemade toys contain no loose parts, small items or materials that could splinter or break apart during enthusiastic play.
Classic toys that never lose their appeal
Many traditional toys remain firm favourites because they support creativity, social interaction and long term engagement. They are also reliable choices when shopping for Christmas gifts.
- Bricks and stackers
- Wooden trains and tracks
- Puppets and soft toys
- Simple board books or story collections
- Basic art supplies suitable for toddlers
These toys encourage imagination while leaving space for your toddler to explore, imitate and problem solve.
Why some second hand toys are unsafe
Although second hand toys can seem practical or sentimental, not all of them meet current safety standards. Older toys may contain batteries, magnets or small parts that loosen with age. Painted toys made before 1978 may contain lead which is highly dangerous to young children.
If a toy is designed for older children, contains electronic components, or shows signs of damage it should not be given to a toddler. Safety is always more important than cost or nostalgia.
Important Christmas safety reminders
The festive season brings additional hazards for toddlers. A few safety points to keep in mind include:
- Do not allow toddlers to play with Christmas decorations or baubles
- Use cool touch battery operated lights
- Avoid candles around toddlers
- Keep mistletoe and holly out of reach
- Store alcohol, fragrances and cosmetics safely
- Keep plastic wrap, ribbons and packaging materials away from toddlers
- Secure Christmas trees and place them away from pathways
Many festive accidents can be avoided with supervision and by removing items that toddlers could pull, break or swallow.
Making Christmas meaningful for your toddler
Christmas offers wonderful opportunities for imagination, learning and shared joy. With thoughtful choices you can give presents that are enjoyable, supportive of development and safe for curious hands. Whether you choose classic toys, sensory items or creative homemade gifts the most meaningful presents are those that match your toddler’s interests and stage of growth.
With careful consideration Christmas can be a magical and memorable time full of discovery and togetherness for the entire family.
