Christmas Gifts for Toddlers: Thoughtful Ideas They Will Actually Use
We suggest toy types, not brands, so you can choose what suits your family. This page has no ads or sponsored links. Our approach.
Christmas with a toddler is magical, busy and occasionally overwhelming. Between family, friends and the excitement of wrapping paper, it is easy to end up with more toys than a small child can play with.
We think the best Christmas gifts for toddlers are open-ended, sturdy and suited to the age your child is right now. A few well-chosen presents, with a few simple stocking fillers, are often plenty.
Here are gift ideas by type, plus some suggestions for relatives who ask what to buy. Whether your family celebrates in summer heat or winter cold, there is something here for every home.
What is a good Christmas present for a toddler?
Look for gifts that can be played with in many ways and will still be useful in six months. Big-ticket items are often best shared between a few relatives.
It also helps to think about space. A large play kitchen or ride-on needs room to use and store, so check with the family before buying a big item. Smaller gifts can still be special if they suit your child's current interests.
Wooden block set
Open-ended and long-lasting, with endless building possibilities.
Age 18m+Play kitchen or kitchen accessories
Supports pretend play that grows with your child.
Age 2y+Ride-on toy or balance bike
A bigger gift that encourages active play.
Age 12m+Train set with track
Can be expanded over time as a family gift.
Age 2y+
Christmas books and music gifts
Books are gifts that get used every day, and festive books become part of family traditions. Music gifts are a lovely way to share carols and nursery rhymes together.
Singing Christmas songs together while your toddler jingles bells or points at pictures in a festive book is a simple tradition that many families come back to year after year.
Christmas board books
Sturdy pages with festive pictures that toddlers can handle themselves.
Age 12m+Lift-the-flap Christmas story
Flaps add a surprise element that toddlers enjoy.
Age 18m+Toddler bell and percussion set
Perfect for jingling along with festive songs.
Age 12m+Personalised name book
A keepsake that also helps children spot the letters of their name.
Age 2y+
Christmas gifts for toddlers who love the outdoors
For families celebrating in warmer weather, outdoor gifts get immediate use. They are also a great way to get everyone outside after a big lunch.
Sandpit set with bucket and spade
Classic outdoor play that suits beaches and backyards.
Age 18m+Water play table
Pouring and splashing is perfect for hot days, with supervision.
Age 18m+Bubble machine
A simple, joyful activity for all ages.
Age 2y+Toddler slide or climbing frame
Supports climbing and confidence at home.
Age 18m+
Stocking fillers for toddlers
Stocking fillers do not need to be toys. Practical and consumable items are often more welcome and create less clutter.
- Choose items large enough to be safe for under-3s.
- Consider bath toys, crayons, stickers or a new cup.
- Avoid lollies and hard foods that could be a choking risk.
Toddlers often enjoy unwrapping more than the gift itself, so simple items wrapped separately can be just as exciting as one big present.
Chunky crayons
A small, useful gift that will get plenty of use.
Age 18m+Toddler sticker book
Keeps little hands busy on holiday travel.
Age 2y+Mini board books
Small books fit well in a stocking and are easy to take out.
Age 12m+Chunky toy vehicles
Easy to grip and a favourite with many toddlers.
Age 12m+
Christmas gift ideas for grandparents and relatives to give
When family members ask what to buy, it can help to share a short list. Experience gifts and contributions to a bigger item are good options that reduce clutter.
Toddler art easel
A shared gift that lasts for years.
Age 2y+Kids table and chair set
Useful for art, puzzles and snacks.
Age 18m+Dress-up costume set
Great for older toddlers who love role play.
Age 3y+Puzzle collection
A set of age-appropriate puzzles offers something new to try over time.
Age 2y+
Safety checklist
Christmas brings extra hazards for toddlers. Button and coin batteries are found in many decorations, cards and remote controls, as well as toys; Australian mandatory standards require secure battery compartments, but keep all loose batteries well out of reach. Small parts in older siblings' gifts are a choking risk for under-3s, and Australia has a mandatory safety standard for toys for children up to 36 months.
Remove wrapping, ribbons, plastic ties and packaging straight away. Keep glass baubles and tinsel off the lower branches, secure the tree so it cannot tip, and supervise water play and new ride-on toys closely.
Questions parents ask
How many Christmas presents should a toddler get?
There is no right number. Many families find that a handful of well-chosen gifts is easier for toddlers to enjoy than a big pile, and some keep a few presents aside to bring out later.
What do you get a 1-year-old for Christmas?
Board books, stacking toys, a push walker or a musical instrument set are popular choices. Toddlers this age also enjoy the boxes and wrapping paper.
What are good non-toy Christmas gifts for toddlers?
Clothing, a swimming or music class, a zoo pass, books or a special cup and plate set are all useful options. Experiences can become lovely family memories.
How can I reduce toy clutter at Christmas?
Share a gift list with family, suggest contributions to one bigger item, and try rotating toys so some are put away for later.
Should I buy toys a size up so they last longer?
A gift slightly ahead of your child's stage can work, but it should still be safe for their current age. Toys with small parts are best saved until your child is older.