Welcome to the world of learning and exploration! You might have heard about STEM, which includes science, technology, engineering, and math. STEM toys have gained recognition for their ability to engage young minds in critical thinking and problem-solving while promoting a deeper understanding of STEM concepts. But have you ever heard of STEAM toys and wondered what the “A” in STEAM stands for?

In this article, we’ll dive into what the “A” represents and how it can make learning more enjoyable for kids. We’ll explore the meaning of STEAM, explore the world of STEAM toys, share fantastic kits, and get creative with art projects that are perfect for family fun. Our goal is to show you how the artistic side of science, technology, engineering, and math can be a lot of fun. Let’s begin this adventure together!

What Is STEAM?

STEAM is an innovative educational approach that combines science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics to spark creativity and critical thinking in children.¹ It’s all about making education fun and hands-on and encouraging children to explore, create, and solve problems. One of the key tools in this learning journey is using STEAM toys, which make science, math, and art concepts engaging and accessible for kids. This approach not only equips children with essential skills for the future but also fosters a sense of curiosity and excitement in the learning process.

What Are STEAM Toys?

STEAM toys are educational tools thoughtfully designed to ignite children’s interest and proficiency in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.²

STEAM toys offer a comprehensive learning experience, fostering problem-solving skills, creativity, and critical thinking. They come in various forms, from building sets and science kits to art supplies and interactive gadgets, all geared toward making learning enjoyable and hands-on. By seamlessly integrating fun and education, STEAM toys encourage children to explore, experiment, and understand complex concepts in an engaging and interactive way, setting a solid foundation for academic and personal growth.

19 STEAM Kits and Toys for Kids

There are many toys out there, and we’ve put together an assortment of 20 STEM toys and STEAM kits that are ideal for offering young learners the opportunity to explore the worlds of STEM and STEAM. These toys and kits also incorporate the artistic and creative aspects of the arts. These educational toys and kits encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and a deeper connection with these fundamental subjects.

1. The LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox

This is an interactive building and coding set that combines traditional LEGO brick-building with robotics and programming components. It’s an excellent tool for STEAM education, as it encourages children to explore the concepts in a hands-on and creative way. With the LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox, children can construct and program their own robots. This toolbox is an excellent introduction to engineering and coding principles, featuring a simple coding platform. It offers diverse building possibilities and enables technology integration into creative projects. This resource is excellent for children interested in STEAM subjects because it enhances problem-solving skills, logical thinking, and creativity.

2. The Osmo Genius Starter Kit for iPad

The Osmo Genius Starter Kit is an educational gaming system that transforms the iPad into an interactive learning platform. It promotes creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills by offering a range of games and activities that seamlessly blend technology with hands-on learning. The Osmo Genius Starter Kit for iPad offers many interactive activities. Using the kit, children can engage in math games, engineering challenges, coding adventures, artistic creations, and educational puzzles. The interface provides instant feedback and adjusts the difficulty of activities based on the child’s progress.

3. Snap Circuits

These toys are a series of electronic building kits that allow children to construct various circuits and electronic projects in a hands-on, safe, and creative manner. These kits foster an understanding of how electronic devices work while encouraging experimentation and problem-solving. Snap circuits toys allow children to build real electronic circuits using snap-together components. This product features clear instructions, a wide range of projects to explore, and a focus on real-world electrical principles. Children can construct functioning circuits while using their problem-solving skills and gaining an understanding of electronics.

4. Botley 2.0

The Botley 2.0 is a programmable robot that provides an engaging introduction to coding and robotics. It teaches kids to code and problem-solve while having fun with a friendly, screen-free robot companion. Botley 2.0 is a great way to introduce fundamental coding principles. The coding interface allows children to program the robot using buttons and commands. Children can use Botley to navigate mazes, solve puzzles, and complete coding challenges. The coding challenges involve creating sequences of commands to instruct the robot to perform specific tasks or navigate through complex scenarios.

5. The Thames & Kosmos Physics Workshop

You and your kids will love this educational kit that introduces them to physics principles through hands-on experiments and building projects. Young learners can explore fundamental physics concepts through interactive experimentation and practical application. With the Thames & Kosmos Physics Workshop, children can conduct various experiments and explore scientific principles. There are various hands-on experiments included, such as investigating simple machines, exploring light and optics, understanding electricity and circuits, and learning about thermodynamics. The kit consists of detailed instructions and real-world physics equipment.

6. Melissa and Doug Pattern Blocks and Boards

This creative learning toy combines colorful geometric shapes with pattern boards, encouraging children to explore mathematics and art concepts while developing fine motor skills. It promotes these skills by allowing kids to engage in hands-on activities that foster spatial awareness, critical thinking, and creative design. My 3-year-old son loves these boards, and I’ve noticed an improvement in his spatial awareness due to playing with them. This is a valuable toy for STEAM learning because it encourages early development in mathematics and geometry and enhances cognitive skills.

7. The Sphero Mini Robot Ball

This robot ball is a small, programmable robotic ball that introduces children to coding and robotics through interactive play. It teaches kids to code and problem-solve while having fun with a responsive and engaging robot. Kids can program the Sphero mini to navigate mazes, complete challenges, and experiment with various driving modes. The user-friendly app features an interface with straightforward controls, making it accessible and enjoyable for children.

8. ThinkFun Gravity Maze

This is a challenging logic and building game that requires players to design and complete marble run puzzles, promoting spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills. The ThinkFun Gravity Maze is designed for interactive STEAM learning, featuring a variety of challenge cards and colorful pieces. Children use these components to build 3D marble-run structures and solve gravity-powered puzzles. The challenges vary in complexity, requiring players to arrange the pieces strategically to achieve the goal.

9. K’NEX Intro to Simple Machines

An educational building set like this enables kids to construct working models of real-world machines, teaching them about the fundamentals of engineering and physics while enhancing their problem-solving and creativity. It’s a fantastic tool for encouraging hands-on experimentation and providing insights into how simple machines function. The K’NEX Intro to Simple Machines comprises a range of K’NEX pieces and provides instructions for constructing models of simple machines, such as levers, pulleys, wheels, and axles. Through building these models, children understand the principles of physics and mechanics, fostering a comprehensive grasp of STEAM subjects through hands-on learning.

10. The Snap Circuits 3D Illumination Electronics Exploration Kit

This kit enables children to build various electronic projects, including circuits with lights and sound. It fosters STEAM skills by offering hands-on experimentation and insight into electronics while also sparking creativity and problem-solving abilities in young learners. The Snap Circuits 3D Illumination Electronics Exploration Kit enables children to construct working electronic circuits, integrating lights and 3D structures. Key features of this kit include the ability to build more than 150 projects, hands-on experimentation, and clear instructions. Children learn about circuitry, electronics, and physics by constructing various functional projects.

11. The Scientific Explorer My First Mind Blowing Science Experiment Kit

A hands-on science kit is another excellent option. This one offers a wide range of fun experiments that introduce them to basic scientific concepts and spark their curiosity. It engages young minds in interactive and educational experiments that foster critical thinking, creativity, and a passion for discovery. The Scientific Explorer My First Mind Blowing Science Experiment Kit introduces STEAM concepts by offering experimentation through various simple and safe science experiments. There is a wide range of experiments to explore, like creating volcanic eruptions, growing crystals, and learning about chemical reactions. This would be an excellent tool to instill a love for science in young children!

12. The Playz KABOOM! Explosive Eruptions and Foam Bombs

It can be fun to let kids explore exciting chemical reactions and create safe, colorful “explosions” with foam. This kit is a fantastic resource for STEAM education, as it provides hands-on, engaging experiments that promote scientific understanding, creativity, and problem-solving while making learning fun and memorable. The Playz KABOOM! Explosive Eruptions and Foam Bombs kit focuses on chemical reactions and physics. Children can explore the world of chemistry and physics and conduct various experiments, such as creating volcanic eruptions and foam bombs. This is a valuable kit for introducing young children to experiments and STEAM learning.

13. The Klutz Circuit Clay

This kit combines sculpting with electronic circuitry, allowing kids to create conductive clay projects that light up. It’s a hands-on, creative approach to electronics and circuitry, fostering problem-solving and sparking young imaginations in a fun and engaging way. The Klutz Circuit Clay kit allows children to understand basic electronics and encourages their creativity while enjoying the tactile experience of working with clay. Integrating arts and technology and hands-on creation makes STEAM learning more interactive and engaging.

14. The Learning Resources Coding Critters

This STEAM toy combines interactive, programmable toy animals with coding challenges, offering a playful way for kids to develop coding and problem-solving skills while engaging in imaginative play. It’s a valuable tool for introducing coding principles in a fun and creative context, encouraging young learners to explore the world of technology and critical thinking. With the Learning Resources Coding Critters, kids can program interactive animal figures with coding cards and playlets. Children engage in creative storytelling and coding challenges by using a straightforward coding system. The Coding Critters set is an effective resource for fostering a practical understanding of coding principles and enhancing problem-solving skills.

15. The Geomag Magicube Set

A magnetic building kit like this one allows children to create 3D structures and designs, fostering creativity, spatial understanding, and fine motor skills while also encouraging hands-on exploration and design thinking. The STEAM toy includes magnetic blocks with integrated building concepts. Children create various structures and shapes, promoting spatial awareness, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The Geomag Magicube Set is an engaging resource for parents and educators to teach STEAM subjects through imaginative play and construction.

16. E-Blox Circuit Blox Builder Electronic Building Blocks

This STEAM toy combines traditional building blocks with electronic components. It offers an interactive way for children to learn about circuits and electronics while enhancing their creativity and problem-solving abilities. The E-Blox Circuit Blox Builder Electronic Building Blocks incorporate electronic components, allowing kids to create working circuits and electronic devices. Key features of the kit include hands-on experimentation, clear instructions, and a focus on real-world electronic principles. Children gain a practical understanding of engineering, circuitry, and creativity by building functional electronic projects.

17. The Wonder Workshop Dash Robot

This programmable robot enables kids to learn coding, problem-solving, and robotics while having a blast! It’s a valuable asset for teaching children to code, think critically, and experiment with technology in an interactive and engaging way. The Wonder Workshop Dash Robot features programmable capabilities and a user-friendly interface, enabling children to code and control the robot to complete tasks and challenges. It introduces robotics and programming and includes hands-on coding experience and problem-solving skills development. Children can create interactive games, navigate mazes, and explore coding principles.

18. The 4M Magnet Science Kit

Designed to introduce kids to the fascinating world of magnetism, this science kit has engaging experiments and activities. The STEAM toy encourages young learners to conduct real experiments, understand magnetic principles, and develop their problem-solving abilities. The 4M Magnet Science kit features various magnet-related experiments so that children can explore the principles of magnetism and learn about the applications of magnets in everyday life. One of the experiments included in the kit involves demonstrating magnetic attraction and repulsion by using different types of magnets and observing how they interact with one another. With the 4M Magnet Science Kit, children gain a practical understanding of science and physics while enhancing their problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

19. The National Geographic Marble Run

This STEAM toy enables children to design and build intricate marble raceways, fostering creativity, problem-solving, and an understanding of physics principles. It gives children a valuable opportunity to explore concepts related to gravity, engineering, and spatial design. The National Geographic Marble Run includes various building components that allow kids to construct marble runs. Children engage in designing and building complex marble-run structures, gaining an understanding of physics while enjoying the process of creating their marble races. This kit is a great tool for learning spatial awareness, logic, thinking, and problem-solving skills.

5 STEAM Art Projects

STEAM art projects are creative activities that blend science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Children can express themselves artistically, gain problem-solving and critical thinking skills, and develop an appreciation for STEAM subjects.

1. Robot Art With Recycled Materials

Children can unleash their inner engineers and artists by building simple robots from recycled materials like cardboard, plastic bottles, and old toys. After assembling their robotic creations, they can paint and decorate them, combining hands-on engineering with artistic expression. This project encourages kids to repurpose everyday materials to create artistic robots. Through the process, children learn about engineering, design, and problem-solving while exploring the joining of art and technology. This activity provides a hands-on way for children to understand how recycled materials can be transformed into functional and artistic creations.

2. Sculpting With Playdough Circuits

This project combines sculpture and technology. Kids create sculptures using conductive playdough and attach LED lights and batteries to make artwork glow. It’s an interactive way for young artists to explore basic electronics and develop sculpting skills. This project has numerous benefits, such as teaching kids basic electrical concepts and circuitry.

3. Rainbow Slime Chemistry

Mixing science and art, this project allows kids to create colorful, stretchy slime. They learn about chemical reactions and color mixing while customizing their slime with different hues. This activity helps children develop an understanding of basic chemistry concepts. Children create colorful and stretchy slime while learning about chemical reactions, polymer formation, and the scientific method. Through this activity, children mix and explore different substances, observing the chemical reactions that result in the formation of slime with rainbow-like colors.

4. Papier-Mâché Solar System

Young astronomers and artists can construct a papier-mâché model of the solar system. They learn about the planets’ order and characteristics while honing their sculpting and painting abilities. This project fosters a love for both science and art. Children construct models of the planets from paper and other materials while learning about planetary characteristics and relative sizes. They can paint, sculpt, and assemble their solar system models according to their appearance in our solar system. Children gain an appreciation for the arts and learn facts about our solar system.

5. Kinetic Art Mobiles

Kids can design and construct kinetic art mobiles using lightweight materials like paper, string, and cardboard. This project introduces them to concepts of balance, movement, and design while allowing them to create captivating, moving art pieces. This project encourages an understanding of engineering concepts, promotes artistic expression, and enhances fine motor skills. By observing the movement of their mobiles, children develop an appreciation for both the creative and scientific aspects of kinetic art.

From engaging art projects to the best STEAM toys, art enriches learning experiences for both children and adults. This creative element enhances our understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Let’s continue nurturing curiosity and fostering innovation as we journey through the world of STEAM!

Age five is typically when most kids enter kindergarten, which means they are exploring things they’ve never had a chance to experience before. And because they’re getting access to this brand-new world, they’re also honing some of their personal preferences, including developing hobbies and habits they’ll carry through those early elementary school years. This can make shopping for the perfect toys for 5-year-olds much easier because you likely have at least a hunch about what the 5-year-old in your life is into, making toy-buying a fun experience for you and the recipient.

It doesn’t matter if you’re hunting for the perfect toys for 5-year-old girls or boys — this list has some ideal choices. So, scroll down and see if you can’t find something gift-worthy for that special kiddo in your life.

4 Building Toys for 5-Year-Olds

Children at this age have a lot of imagination, and what better way to let their playful side shine than to offer them a blank canvas to build with? They can build anything they can think of with building blocks, creating a whole new world. These building options make such great toys for 5-year-olds!

1. LEGO City Great Vehicles Tractor Set

The classic LEGO building block set gets a new twist with this fun tractor toy. Perfect for block-building enthusiasts, this is a fun project to put together and can be played with or displayed in their room. Besides a tractor toy, this set has adorable minifigures, including a farmer, a rabbit, and food crops.

2. Magnetic Play Tiles

This 125-piece magnetic building set is the perfect starter set for those looking to get into magnetic tile play, or it can make a great addition to an existing collection. With bright colors and various shapes — squares, rectangles, triangles, and more — there are endless opportunities to build. This set has two vehicle bases and four figurines, so the fun doesn’t have to stop after construction.

3. Hiwawind Magnetic Blocks

Another great magnetic building set has three-dimensional cubes that click together to create more robust designs. Made with non-toxic material, these toys have an “anti-swallow” design, giving grown-ups peace of mind if little siblings are at home. Inspire creative thinking and reinforce color recognition with this fun gift.

4. BEBLOX Building Blocks

With 250 pieces and five colors, this interlocking building block set will have kids thinking about all the fun things they can build. The “click and build” design offers a secure connection between the two-dimensional blocks, allowing for larger three-dimensional builds. Your kid can do everything from creating animals to buildings with these blocks!

4 Outdoor Toys for 5-Year-Olds

Getting your kiddo off screens and outside can be a struggle, so we love these fun outdoor toys for 5-year-olds. From Stomp Rockets to garden tools, these gifts will have the kindergartener in your life asking when they can head back out into the yard.

1. Stomp Rocket Stomp and Catch

As the name indicates, this toy works by having kids stomp on a launch pad, sending a small foam rocket into the air. They can play with this as is, seeing how high they can project the rocket into the sky, or make a game with a net designed to catch the foam-tipped missile as it heads back to Earth. This game has four rockets, one launchpad, one net, and hours of guaranteed fun.

2. ShyLizard Adjustable Basketball Hoop

Help the 5-year-old in your life discover their inner Michael Jordan with this basketball hoop. The design has an adjustable base that can be expanded from 3½ feet to over 6 feet, allowing the toy to grow with your child. It also comes with three balls, a pump, and a net so your kiddo can start playing when they open their gift.

3. Duckura Kids Garden Tools Set

Inspire your kids to push up their sleeves and get dirty with you with this cute, pint-sized gardening set. The six-piece set comes with a shovel, a rake, a hoe, a leaf rake, gloves, and a spray bottle. These pieces can be used in the yard and are designed to excite kids about spending time outdoors.

4. Kids Camping Set

Speaking of spending time outdoors, this adorable tent set allows kids to enjoy all the perks of camping from the comfort of their backyard. This play tent comes with a faux campfire and all the little extras you’d expect to find while roughing it in the wild — everything from s’mores to creepy crawlies — while allowing them to quickly and easily pack it in for the day when it’s time to go back inside. As a bonus, this set comes with a cute backpack where everything can be neatly stored when not in use.

4 Educational Toys for 5-Year-Olds

Kids this age are just entering kindergarten, so education is a high priority. But educational gifts for 5-year-olds don’t have to be boring, especially when shopping for some of these fun finds. There’s something at every price point on this list, from high-tech tablets to board games.

1. Kangaroo Cravings Learn-To-Read Board Game

This award-winning board game helps children learn to identify high-frequency sight words. The game has 300 sight words and offers three levels of difficulty: easy for beginners, moderate for early readers, and more difficult for those who have already grasped some of the basics. Kids can play independently or with up to five others; each round should only last 20 minutes.

2. TEKFUN LCD Writing Tablet Doodle Board

Do you know a tech-savvy 5-year-old who isn’t quite ready for their own tablet? This doodle board from TEKFUN is an excellent option. It allows kids to draw on the tablet using the included stylus, creating colorful and elaborate drawings. When they’re done, they can erase everything, creating a fresh canvas for their art. This device has no blue light, so grown-ups won’t have to worry about their child needing eye protection while it’s being used.

3. Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet

This online streaming giant has become known for its tablets over the years, and the Amazon Fire 7 kids tablet is the perfect starter. It has ad-free content, robust parental control options, and a 10-hour battery life. As a bonus, Amazon offers a two-year, worry-free guarantee, which means if anything happens to the tablet during those first two years, Amazon will replace it, offering grown-ups a little peace of mind.

4. Scientoy Flower Garden

Get the creative juices flowing with this 130-piece flower garden-building toy. The floral arrangement playset helps kids flex their educational muscles as they pair up 25 stamens, 45 flowers, 50 leaves, and eight bases. Once the garden has been built, kids can continue to enjoy it by putting it on display, “watering” it with the included water can, or taking it apart to start over again.

3 Ride-On Toys for 5-Year-Olds

Kids love getting a chance to cruise around on anything with wheels, which is why riding toys make such great gifts. From two wheels to four, there’s bound to be something on this list that will have the 5-year-old in your life yelling, “Vroom vroom!”

1. Kidzone 6V Electric Ride-On Bumper Car

Send your 5-year-old off to the races with this fun remote-controlled ride-on bumper car. They’ll be able to zoom (safely) around while a grown-up holds a remote, controlling where they go. Older kids can switch to a self-controlled option. The soft bumper makes this good for both indoor and outdoor use.

2. EzyRoller Mini Scooter

A new twist on the old classic, this offers a sit-down version of a scooter. Kids can control their speed and direction using their legs, which they must work side to side to drive. With five colorways, you’ll find the perfect option; don’t forget a helmet!

3. Aosom 6V Kids Motorcycle

Are you looking for something a bit different for your little speed demon? Check out this 6V motorcycle ride-on toy! The three-wheel design makes it easy for kids to stay balanced while zipping around, and the anti-slip wheels mean they’ll be able to drive on all types of terrain, including cement, brick, wood, and asphalt. Suitable for kids up to 55 pounds, this trike-style motorcycle makes a unique gift.

4 STEM Toys for 5-Year-Olds

Why not encourage educational play with some STEM-inspired toys? These toys ensure that your 5-year-old will be thinking about play while learning valuable lessons.

1. Craft-Tastic Magical Bath Bubble Potions

Mix up some fun with your kiddo when you get them this magical bath bubble potion kit. The set comes with a cloud-shaped bubble maker, a plastic wand (for stirring those magical potions), five potion recipes, five vials of soap confetti, a vial of mica powder to replicate glitter, and a star-shaped bubble bar. Not only will this make bathtime that much more fun, but it will also have your 5-year-old thinking about concepts like measuring, mixing, and creativity.

2. TOMYOU 200-Piece Building Blocks for Kids

This building set has 200 interlocking discs in eight colors, allowing your 5-year-old to create three-dimensional structures. They can work on abstract shapes or build more familiar structures while working on their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

3. Doctor Jupiter My First Science Experiment Kit

The budding scientist in your life will love this kit, with over 50 exciting experiment ideas to help them embrace a lifelong love of learning. This kit is fully stocked with food colors, food essence, food additives, dried leaves, beakers, and more, ensuring hours of experimental fun. As a bonus, the easy-to-follow instructions allow some of these experiments to be done without the help of a grown-up. However, supervision is always recommended.

4. National Geographic Microscope for Kids

Help kids see the world around them in a different light with this cool microscope. The easy-to-use toy has a zoom function to help them visualize the inner workings of all small samples. This kit comes with some prepared slides, rock and mineral specimens, and blank slides that allow them to make their own, making it an excellent option for anyone looking for toys for 5-year-old boys and girls.

6 Other Fun Toys for 5-Year-Olds

Whether you’re looking for arts and crafts projects or a cute stuffed animal they’ll treasure forever, these fun toys for 5-year-olds have got you covered. The only trouble you’ll have is deciding how many fun items to add to your cart.

1. Magic Scrunch Pillow Unicorn

Who doesn’t love a craft that can be repeatedly used after it’s been put together? The no-sew pillow is put together by following the illustrated instructions, which show them how to attach and fold the squishy fabric onto the front of the pillow base. Once done, they can stuff the pillow, creating a keepsake they can snuggle up to for years.

2. Iscream Nutcracker Stuffed Plush Pillow

While nutcrackers are generally associated with the holiday season, this pastel plush comes in a fun, year-round design. The purple outfit and pink accents make it feel more like a regular stuffy, while the traditional nutcracker look means it will still make a great Christmas gift. Clocking in at just over 18 inches, this fun plush offers a lot to love.

3. Squinkies Originals Cupcake Surprize Bake Shop

Kids this age are especially mesmerized by everything that comes in miniature (probably because they’ve spent most of their lives getting larger toys that aren’t choking hazards), which is why this cupcake surprise bake shop will be such a hit. The set comes with a cupcake-shaped bake shop and nine squishy toys. The entire playset can be stored together as the sides of the cupcake base close up, creating the perfect spot to stash all those little figurines.

4. Bitzee Digital Pet

Get your 5-year-old their own little pet without adding another member to the family with this fun digital pet option. The interactive pet reacts to movement, so kids can play using tilts, swipes, and touching. They’ll be able to raise their pet from infancy, feed it, play with it, and help it fall asleep. Choose from cats, bunnies, unicorns, and more!

5. Hatchimals Alive Hatchi-Nursery Playset

Bring the fun of the Hatchimals television show into your home with this playset. The nursery has four figures and 13 accessories, giving kids plenty of opportunities to play. The self-hatching eggs offer fun and surprise to keep your kiddo returning to this set repeatedly.

6. Disney Doorables Mega Peek Pack

Cross off the Disney lovers on your shopping list with this fun gift. The pack comes with 25 figures, including fan favorites from Disney movies like “Cars” and “Zootopia.” Kids can keep them as collectibles or add them to other playsets to expand their imaginations. With 58 pieces across the eight-series run, this will be on your kiddo’s list for every gift-giving event throughout the year.

There’s no shortage of great toys on this list, and you may have trouble picking just one! The good news is that no matter which options you click “add to cart,” you will likely make the kindergartener in your life very happy.

The age of 4 is magical because kids in this group still have a foot in two worlds: that of the little kids they were and that of their older counterparts heading to kindergarten and starting to explore the world around them. Shopping for toys for 4-year-olds can be fun but also challenging for this reason. Fortunately, we’ve rounded up some of the biggest hits in this age group that will help you find exactly what the toddler in your life hopes for. These toys not only encourage fun and exploration but also hit a lot of the developmental needs of this period.

Whether you’re shopping for toys for 4-year-old girls or boys, plenty of items on this list are sure to please, so take a look and start hitting “add to cart” on these fun finds.

7 Toys That Encourage Imaginative Play for 4-Year-Olds

At this developmental stage, imaginative play is still critical to kids. Not only does it help them develop social and emotional skills, but it also helps them work on creative thinking and language development. Even though these gifts may look like they’re just allowing them to play make-believe, they’re setting toddlers up for navigating the real world.¹

1. Bluey Hammerbarn Shopping Playset

Help children expand their imagination and creative play with this fun playset featuring everyone’s favorite family of cartoon dogs. Not only can the little Bluey or Bingo in your life get a chance to recreate that fateful trip to Hammerbarn with this play set, but they’ll get to do it time and time again, changing their shopping every time they play.

2. Gabby’s Dollhouse Gabby Cat Friend Ship

All aboard the friend ship! This cute boat-style dollhouse has two toy figures, some surprise toys, and plenty of accessories to give any Gabby’s Dollhouse fan hours of imaginative play. You can add to the collection by purchasing add-ons or gift this friend ship as is. With two toy figures, some surprise toys, and a few classic accessories, this playset will become an instant favorite.

3. PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie Aircraft Carrier HQ

When Ryder issues the call for help, all the Pups will know exactly where to go with this fun aircraft carrier playset. Inspired by the newly released PAW Patrol movie, this massive toy comes with Mighty Chase, a vehicle, and a few action-packed missiles. You can include some of the other Mighty Pups with this one if you want to splurge on a major gift.

4. Monster Jam Grave Digger Trax

If you know a little one who loves all things remote-controlled, they will go wild for this Monster Jam set. The all-terrain remote control vehicle is great for use indoors. But it shines when you take it outside because it’s tough enough to use in dirt, grass, snow, and even water.

5. Rubble & Crew Deluxe Bulldozer

The new Rubble & Crew television show inspired this construction set. It comes with a mini Rubble figurine that will help the 4-year-old in your life move giant boulders and engage in all kinds of make-believe play. (The Kinetic Sand kit is sold separately.)

6. Minnie Mouse Bow-Tique Bowdazzling Vanity

Disney lovers will appreciate this adorable vanity set. It’s the perfect size for 4-year-olds who want to sit in front of the reflective mirror and style their hair. The set comes with 10 accessories, including four fun stickers, two Mini-styled bows, a hairbrush, and a faux bottle of perfume.

7. Tonka Hat and Bucket

Give your mini builder the perfect play set to stretch their imagination with this Tonka design. The large building blocks come in a fun Tonka hat bucket, which can be flipped over and used as a building platform. They don’t call them “Tonka Tough” for nothing; this playset should last the little one in your life a long time thanks to its high-quality construction.

2 Stuffed Animals for 4-Year-Olds

Kids this age still love snuggling up with their favorite stuffed animals, and these finds are sure to make the list of top stuffies among toys for 4-year-olds. From cuddly bears to mice that sing, there’s plenty to love with these plushes.

1. Disney Junior Mickey Mouse E-1-Oh! Plush

Farmer Mickey wants to snuggle and is looking for the perfect little boy or girl. This 16-inch soft play toy is ideal for cuddle time and helps kiddos get the wiggles out while playing a selection of musical numbers and a call-and-response game of “What animal sound is that?” Six AAA batteries are already included, so this will be ready for fun as soon as it’s opened.

2. Care Bears Superstar Bear

This Care Bears stuffy will give the grown-ups some major nostalgia. Not only is the Superstar Bear made from soft and huggable plush, but it also comes with an important message about caring for the planet and finding a “cleaner and greener way to grow.” This 14-inch plush is made with recycled materials and carefully designed to ensure every 4-year-old can grow up in a “green” world.

2 Necessities for 4-Year-Olds

Buying gifts that kids need instead of just the ones they want doesn’t have to be boring when you shop with a child’s interest in mind. These fun must-haves are practically guaranteed to make the toddler in your life happy.

1. PAW Patrol Coloring Placemat

Whether you’re looking for a way to keep your toddler busy while out to eat or want to make mealtimes at home more fun, you’ll love this coloring placemat. The mat comes with eight washable markers so that it can be used again and again and again. Since it features everyone’s favorite PAW Patrol pups, we have a hunch this will become a mealtime staple.

2. Melii Snackle Box

Nobody likes a hangry kiddo, so this “snackle” box is perfect. With this bento-style food storage solution, the 4-year-old in your life will always have access to a healthy and fulfilling snack, whether at home or on the road. With 12 compartments and removable dividers, kids can use it for snacks or take small games and accessories on the go.

3 Outdoor Toys for 4-Year-Olds

These toys will ensure the 4-year-old in your life is excited about getting a chance to get outside for some fresh air. Even better, their grown-ups will breathe a sigh of relief as they watch their kids get those wiggles out.

1. Animal Bean Bag Toss Game

Help kids stay active while working on their gross motor skills with this fun bean bag toss game. Not only does it help encourage screen-free play, but it also helps them learn cooperation when they play with it with others. When they tire of the animal design, the game can be flipped for more precise target practice, such as a velcro ball toss.

2. Ollyball

Keep them on their toes with this fun soccer ball. Grown-ups will love it because it encourages movement and outdoor play. It can also be played with indoors since this ball weighs less than an ounce and will not break any windows! Kids will love it because they’ll get to personalize the ball, thanks to the customizable design that allows kids to color on the ball by using any marker.

3. Ninja Kidz TV Giant Mystery Ninja Ball

A 2023 National Parenting Product Awards Winner, this Ninja Kidz toy teaches children how to work on their ninja skills. It includes throwing stars, sticky stars and targets, and mission cards. And when the weather isn’t exactly cooperating, the kids can bring the fun inside and play with the five included Ninja Kidz action figures.

2 Riding Toys for 4-Year-Olds

Toddlers love to move around, and these gifts will help them do so in style. Whether they want to be on two wheels or four, these riding toys will have them covered.

1. Strider 12″ Balance Bike

Learning to ride a bike can be challenging for 4-year-olds, so we love balancing bikes. These bikes don’t have pedals, so children learn to balance on them before worrying about learning the foot-eye coordination needed to ride a bike. This adjustable version from Strider is 12 inches high and perfect for kids as young as 18 months and as old as 5. Just don’t forget the safety gear when you gift this one. While bike helmets are necessary, we recommend elbow and knee pads for younger riders, too.

2. Little Tikes Cozy Coupe Dinosaur

This dinosaur version of the classic Cozy Coupe car promises a roaring good time for the 4-year-old in your life. It has a removable floorboard and handles for grown-ups to push smaller kids. Once they start to get the hang of things, the floorboard can be removed so that kiddos can “drive” themselves by pushing along with their feet.

4 Montessori Toys for 4-Year-Olds

The Montessori method is about letting children learn and develop skills by offering them the freedom to move their bodies while encouraging them to learn by getting hands-on experience. These four Montessori toys embody that approach and will help the 4-year-old in your life develop physically and mentally while they play.²

1. Canvas Set, 25 Pieces

Is your 4-year-old a budding artist? Then they’re going to love this reusable canvas set. They can use these interlocking tiles to build with — the pack comes with 25 pieces that can be locked together using small connectors — and they can also draw on each tile to bring their visions to life thanks to the whiteboard material coating them. Are you drawing a boat? A rocketship? It’s up to them to decide!

2. BIRANCO Flower Garden Building Toys

Do you know a 4-year-old who loves to spend time in the garden? This cute building set from BIRANCO allows them to bring their love of the great outdoors inside by allowing them to build a plastic garden. With 120 pieces, including a base, stems, flowers, and more, the little plant lover in your life will have many opportunities to create the garden of their dreams, helping them flex their imagination muscles, all while encouraging a love of the outdoors.

3. The Original Stair Slide

For those days when the kids can’t get outside but need a chance to move their bodies and get the wiggles out, there’s a stair slide. This customizable design comes in four pieces so you can find the perfect size for your space and the kiddo using it, ensuring a fun and safe experience. Each piece can be used on carpeted or plain stairs and has a protective barrier to ensure it doesn’t leave any marks behind once the fun is over.

4. Store Shopping Cart

Little kids love it when they can mimic their favorite grown-ups, and this store shopping cart does just that. It’s great for imaginative play because it allows them to pretend they’re cruising the aisles of their favorite store, grabbing food for their play kitchen, or shopping for staples for the home. Grown-ups will love it because it’s just the right size to be tucked away after playtime.

2 STEM Toys for 4-Year-Olds

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. While it may seem like those concepts are too advanced for the average toddler, many experts believe that children learn about STEM through play, starting as infants.³ These gifts can help encourage STEM learning, all while encouraging fun and imaginative play.

1. Kinetic Sand Deluxe Beach Castle

Nothing stretches the imagination quite like kinetic sand. The sensory-friendly material can be used independently or with fun molds and tools, allowing kids to maximize their fun. As a bonus, this unique design doesn’t leave a gritty feel behind on hands, so kids won’t mind getting washed up when it’s time to clean up for the day.

2. Magna-Tiles Downhill Duo

The possibilities are endless when it comes to playing with Magna-Tiles, thanks to the magnetic locking power of these building blocks. Add in this fun car track design, and kiddos will get to do more than build. They’ll get to take their designs for a test drive! This set has 40 magnetic pieces, four ramps, two bases, and two drivers.

3 Educational Toys for 4-Year-Olds

The 4-year-old in your life won’t even realize they’re learning valuable skills when playing with these fun gifts. From toys that teach the basics (like color and number recognition) to ones that help budding rock stars learn about music, these gifts have it all.

1. Cocomelon Learning JJ Doll

Toddler favorite JJ pops off the small screen and into homes with this fun interactive learning doll. JJ lights up, plays music, and makes sounds to help little ones learn their letters, numbers, and colors. Thanks to the familiar cartoon face, they’ll be delighted to spend time with the doll, mastering all those things they’ll need to know before they head to kindergarten next year.

2. Melissa & Doug Band-In-A-Box

Encourage the full sensory experience with this band-in-a-box kit from Melissa & Doug. Each set has a triangle, symbols, maracas, and more to help kids learn the basics of standard instruments. These make great toys for 4-year-old boys and girls and can help instill a lifelong love of music. Just check with parents before you buy: You don’t want to get on anyone’s bad side for giving a 4-year-old something that can make this much noise!

3. Melissa & Doug Catch and Count Fishing Game

Go fish! Melissa & Doug have created the perfect fishing game that promises to be loads of fun and teaches number and color recognition. Each kit has two fishing poles, 10 numbered fish, a spinner to play the game, and a reusable cloth pack to keep everything together. They can play this with a partner or as a solo activity, offering plenty of opportunities for educational entertainment.

We know shopping for young kids can be tricky, but this list should make it easier to cross the 4-year-old in your life off your shopping list. So, go ahead and hit “add to cart” on one (or more!) of these age-appropriate gifts, and get ready to see some real joy and happiness. While a “thank you” is always appropriate, there’s nothing quite like getting a toddler the perfect gift and watching them squeal delightfully!

When buying gifts for 5-year-olds, sometimes going back to the basics is what they all need. By age 5, your child should speak in simple sentences, count beyond 10, and recognize most shapes, letters, and numbers.¹ Their gross and fine motor skills have grown to a point where they need more challenge.² Imagination skills thrive at this age, and self-care and independence are essential.^1,2

Purchasing toys that help our 5-year-olds feel like big kids and model the behavior we are trying to teach is also helpful. I have rounded up my top picks of the best gifts for 5-year-olds to help foster these exciting developmental milestones!

The holiday season is here, and if you have toddlers at home, holiday shopping may already be on your mind. But, let’s face it — shopping for a 4-year-old can be challenging. They are at the age now where they have preferences, and it can be tricky to select gifts that aren’t too young for them but are also age-appropriate. The best gift to give your 4-year-old is to help their imagination come alive. Little ones love storytelling, pretend play, and exploration at this age. Parallel play becomes a thing of the past, and they begin to interact with others and play socially. We’ve rounded up the best gifts for 4-year-olds to keep their minds and bodies moving!

This year has flown by, and Christmas will be here before we know it. You can get a head start on your shopping and save a little money with Black Friday sales! Many are online and have deeply discounted products at the lowest prices you will see all year. This means you can shop from the comfort of your home and have your items shipped straight to your door. There are many great deals on baby gear and essentials, perfect for an expecting mom. You can also score some significant savings on gifts for children and adults. We hope you find some great Black Friday deals with this guide!

Best Black Friday Sales in 2023

Here’s our list of some of the best Black Friday sales we’ve found:

1. SNOO

The SNOO bassinet is user-friendly via smartphone or tablet and was a lifesaver for us. We used it for my son’s first six months and highly recommend it. Happiest Baby is offering 35% off its famous SNOO bassinet and up to 60% off sitewide!

2. Petunia Pickle Bottom

Snag stylish diaper bags (like this backpack with a built-in changing station) and accessories from Petunia Pickle Bottom! The brand is offering 25% off sitewide and 40% off on limited-time offers. And with purchases over $125, you’ll get a lovely gift of a tandem bottle holder in brioche.

3. State Bags

Choose from tote bags, backpacks, and even luggage from State Bags. They have some gorgeous designs that are perfect for your next outing or trip. They’re offering 25% off sitewide, plus up to 70% off sale items.

4. Copper Pearl

I love Copper Pearl for its cute and buttery soft baby essentials. Our baby lived in their bandana bibs for a year. They have so many cute prints and deals up to 90% off sitewide from Nov. 13-30.

5. LouLou Lollipop

With LouLou Lollipop, choose from adorable apparel, bed and bath essentials, and must-haves for mealtime. There are so many precious prints that are durable and made to last. They’re offering 25% off full-priced items, including tableware and apparel, from Nov. 21-27.

6. Bodily

Women love Bodily’s bestselling Care For Birth Box and their bras! Spend more and save up to 25% sitewide from Nov. 24-30. Save 15% off $125+ purchases, 20% off $150+ purchases, and 25% off $175+ purchases.

7. Owlet

This is still a lifesaver for my toddler! We loved their sock until he turned 1, we and still use the camera. Owlet is offering deep discounts sitewide, and you can save $50-100! The sale runs from Nov. 19-27.

8. Mockingbird

Here’s some exciting news! During Mockingbird’s first sale EVER from Nov. 21-27, get $50 off all strollers. In particular, we love their customizable double stroller that holds up to three little ones. You’ll love this affordable stroller with outstanding safety features and smooth handling!

9. ergobaby

I love ergobaby’s carriers and how easy they are to use. From Nov. 27, they will have 40% off the Omni 360 Carrier with code BLACK40 and 30% off their Breeze and Dream Carriers with code BLACK30. Additionally, they will have $100 off the Metro+ Compact Stroller with code METRO100 or Free Embrace with a carrier purchase (no code necessary).

10. Baby Tula

Baby Tula has another excellent sale option for baby carriers this week. Sitewide, receive 30% off Nov. 6-22! You can get everything from baby carriers and slings to their signature heirloom blankets.

11. aden+anais

The sweetest little swaddles, bibs, and pajamas for your new babe are at aden+anais! I love the soft fabric and cute prints they have. Take 30% off the Easy Swaddle Collection from Nov. 23-27. You can also get 30% off Muslin Essentials during this time (including the Organic collection, Harry Potter, and Winnie the Pooh prints).

12. Skillmatics

Skillmatics is perfect for finding Christmas gifts! They have games for all ages that reinforce specific learning skills. Our team has received several games, and they have been a hit! Take 20% or more off all Skillmatics items from Nov. 20-27.

13. Ingrid & Isabel

Save on clothing for maternity, postpartum, and beyond! From Nov. 21-28, take 30% off sitewide on Ingrid & Isabel with the code CHEERS30. Plus, you’ll get free shipping and a special gift with your purchase. They have beautiful quality pieces we have used during our pregnancies, so we highly recommend them!

14. Target

Target has a Holiday Price Match Guarantee, meaning they will match the price if it goes lower at Target on items purchased between 10/22 and 12/24 (some exclusions apply). For their Black Friday sale, you can get up to 40% off select baby monitors and 20% off select nursery furniture. Save up to $60 on select AirPods and up to $175 on Apple products. Treat yourself to a new vacuum like the iRobot Roomba 675 Wi-Fi Connected Robot Vacuum, which is regularly $279.99 but will be on sale for $154.99, or the Dyson V8 Origin Cordless Stick Vacuum, which is regularly $429.00 but will be $249.99.

You can also get up to 50% off kids’ toys and snag deals such as Tonies Frozen Box on sale for $69.00 (Tonies Toy Story Box will also be on sale) and the Power Pony Powered Rideable Pony Ride-On on sale for $399.00. For even more toy options, Target will offer up to 40% off select Lego products and BOGO 50% off for Baby Alive, Fisher Price, Kinetic Sand, Leap Frog, Marvel, Little Mermaid Live Action, Melissa and Doug items.

15. Pottery Barn Kids

You can get everything from toys to linens to furniture from Pottery Barn Kids on Black Friday. A few great things to snag are baby gear (up to 30% off), pajamas and baby bedding (up to 40% off), baby and kids’ toys (up to 50% off), and kids’ bedding (up to 60% off). If you are a mom-to-be, look for gliders, ottomans, and other furniture to complete your nursery. PBK’s Anywhere Chairs, nursery furniture, and kids and playroom furniture are up to 50% off.

If you’re looking for holiday items, you can get up to 40% off on their holiday pajamas and bedding. They also have backpacks, luggage, bath items, decor, and lighting for up to 40% off, as well as rugs for up to 50% off. You can easily complete your Christmas shopping while saving quite a bit!

16. Levi’s

Get new denim for the entire family at Levi’s with 40% off sitewide and free shipping. You can purchase that new denim jacket you’ve been eyeing or stock up on jeans. Grab a pair of jeans for the growing child you can barely keep clothed, and even buy in advance for next year!

17. Madewell

Get 40% off your purchase sitewide at Madewell. Treat yourself to a new set of comfortable pajamas to lounge in. They also have some great quality sweaters that keep you warm and cozy throughout the cold winter. Check out their gift section for something for yourself, or check off a few others from your holiday shopping list.

18. Alo

New year, new me? Something like that! Get you and your significant other ready to crush your goals in 2024 with updated workout gear. Get 30% off full-price items and up to 70% off sale items. Grab a set, some accessories, or even athleisure pieces.

19. Gap

All items will be 40% off during Gap’s sale. Get all your holiday shopping done for the entire family, plus a little something for yourself. Items to purchase include pajama separates, denim, and basics. You can easily get something for anyone, from babies to toddlers to adults. Don’t forget about their maternity line if you’re expecting.

20. Hanna Andersson

Hanna Andersson has 40% off sitewide and 50% off pajamas. Such a great deal and time for stocking up on pajamas. Grab a pair for each member of the family! While at it, buy ahead for the next season since everything is discounted. You can get adorable outfits for your baby’s first Christmas — since they need a different outfit each day, right?

21. J. Crew

J. Crew is offering up to 50% off almost everything sitewide. Get staples like a nice winter coat or New Balance sneakers. Invest in classic discount pieces like denim, blouses, and sweaters. Treat yourself to a few new accessories like a necklace or earrings. And don’t forget to check out the crewcuts section to outfit your little ones in style this season!

22. Nordstrom

At Nordstrom, shop deals on new arrivals from favorite brands, including UGG, Free People, and Barefoot Dreams. The Our Place Always Pan 2.0 Set, which is regularly $150.00, is on sale for $98.99. The Dreamland Baby Weighted Sleep Sack is 20% off for only $71.20. These UGG Cozy Slippers are 30% off, making them only $69.99, and they have several colors to choose from. They would be a perfect gift for anyone! Looking for something stylish yet comfortable? The Barefoot Dreams Cozy Chic Cardigan is on sale for $96.99 (29% off), and their Velour Robe is on sale for $138.99 (29% off).

Baby gear is another great thing to purchase during their sale. The Maxi-Cosi Pria All-in-1 Convertible Car Seat is 20% off, making it $215.99. If you’re looking for a great high chair, the Stokke Tripp Trapp Highchair is only $335.20 (20% off) and comes in multiple colors. Baby Jogger has a stroller and infant car seat for 25% off if you need a travel system. Their City Tour 2 Stroller is on sale for $194.99, and their City Turn Car Seat is on sale for $412.49!

23. Hatch

Give the gift of rest to yourself or someone else this year with the Hatch Restore 2! The Hatch Restore 2 is a soothing sound machine, calming bedside light, and gentle sunrise alarm all in one! During Hatch’s Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale from Nov. 13-30, you can get $40 off the Restore 2 and $20 off the Restore 1! Also, get $12 off Hatch’s Rest Go Bundle and $15 off the Rest 2nd Gen and Rest+2nd Gen.

I don’t know about you, but I am excited about these Black Friday sales! I can’t wait to get great gifts for myself and others while saving money. Make sure to check the dates that each sale is available. Also, don’t forget to add a code to receive your discount if necessary. Happy shopping! 🙂

A child’s mind changes so much once they are 3 years old, and the things that once encouraged play can shift. They are moving a mile a minute and learning new skills every day. You can encourage all these changes in their playtime. Certain games and toys for 3-year-olds will foster this growth, allow them to grow even more, and entertain them. We’ve compiled our list of the best gifts for 3-year-olds to help promote development, learning, and play simultaneously!

Maybe you have a 1-year-old baby, niece, or nephew, or even a friend with a 1-year-old. Whether it’s the holidays or their birthday, eventually, you will have to find the perfect gift to give them. Now, what gift do you buy for a 1-year-old? So many cute things are available — way more than when we were kids. It can be tough to choose, but no worries! We’ve rounded up all the best gifts for 1-year-olds. We know they will love these items, and you will be proud to give them. Whether this is for your baby or you don’t have any children, this list will help you choose the right gift.

Having a 2-year-old, I know this can be a tricky age to shop for. While my son loves dinosaurs, books, and puzzles, there are only so many of these you can gift repeatedly. If you’re unsure what to get for a 2-year-old, I’m sharing the best gifts for this age! These include items our kiddos can use all year long — because, let’s face it, we mamas don’t want to give or receive presents that only entertain them for the first hour of Christmas morning. Let’s make the most of these gifts for toddlers, shall we?

It’s the holiday season, full of joy and celebrations galore! There are so many events to attend, and I love ensuring the person responsible for opening their home and hosting an event feels appreciated. While a verbal “thank you” is always great, I love going the extra mile with a written note and gift that I know the hostess will enjoy. Check out our favorite picks for the best holiday hostess gifts below!

30 Holiday Hostess Gift Ideas

There are so many fun gift categories to choose from. You can spoil your hostess with something edible, functional, or beautiful this holiday season. There are great hostess gift ideas for every budget, from $20 and under to $50 and under. You could even add a few of these ideas to make a curated basket. (Don’t forget to consider the interests and tastes of your hostess when choosing a gift!)

Hostess Gifts $20 and Under

1. Nutcracker Christmas Cocktail Napkins

Cute cocktail napkins are one of my favorite things to collect. These festive colors and classic nutcracker design will look great on your hostess’ bar cart.

2. Nutcracker Napkin Rings

These adorable watercolor nutcracker napkin rings are great hostess gift ideas! They would be the perfect addition to any table. The detail on each one makes them look great with virtually any color scheme.

3. Christmas Buffalo Plaid Wine Bottle Covers

Add this holiday outfit cover to a bottle of your hostess’ favorite wine variety. It’s much more fun than just gifting them a plain bottle of wine since the hostess can reuse the outfit on other bottles!

4. Holiday Cookie Cutters on a Ring

Fun cookie cutters make holiday baking that much sweeter! I love this set of four, which could be used for Christmas and the winter season.

5. Festive Nutcracker Foaming Hand Soap

This is such an adorable little holiday gift that will be perfect for your hostess’ bathroom. The festive nutcracker scent smells like sugar plums!

6. Marble Wine Coaster

Here’s a hostess gift idea that does double duty by being functional and beautiful. This grey marble wine coaster will keep rings from chilled bottles off your counter or table.

7. Dated Enamel Framed Ornament

This is such a stunning framed ornament marked with the year. You could even add a photo for the hostess or allow them to choose their own.

8. Stewart Plaid Alphabet Handcrafted Stoneware Mug

Nothing says Christmas like a mug of happiness. You could also include some hot chocolate mix or hot chocolate bombs for an extra touch!

9. Preserved Boxwood Wreath

This preserved boxwood wreath would look perfect inside or outside any home. I love the white faux berry details, and you could add any holiday-themed ribbon or bow to jazz it up.

10. Art of Mixology Book

This book would be perfect for the hostess who loves cocktails. It would look great on a bar cart or coffee table as well.

11. Baolira Retro Bluetooth Speaker

A Bluetooth speaker always comes in handy, and this vintage-looking one is the perfect holiday shade of green. Any hostess would love to have one to keep the Christmas tunes going.

12. Williams Sonoma Ginger Molasses Cookie Mix

Gingerbread cookies give me all the holiday vibes. This cookie mix would be perfect for the hostess who loves to bake with her family.

13. Cookie Advent Cookbook

Here’s another great cookie gift! This advent cookbook features cookie recipes for each day leading up to Christmas, including peanut butter cookies and almond logs.

14. Home for the Holidays Christmas Jigsaw Puzzle

Your hostess will love this beautiful 1,000-piece puzzle, which she can put together with her family. It depicts a snowy town during winter, and the puzzle box house is so cute!

15. 2-Wick Red Plaid Christmas Candle

This ceramic, soy blend candle features a red plaid design. It has a balsam and berry scent to bring a little bit of the winter season indoors.

16. Festive Plaid Woven Christmas Throw Blanket

A warm blanket is always a hit when it comes to gifting! This one has festive Christmas colors and would look great in your hostess’ home.

17. Hot Chocolate Spoons With Mini Marshmallows

Could these Christmas tree marshmallows be any cuter?! This hot chocolate spoon set will be a wonderful (and tasty) token of your appreciation.

Hostess Gifts $30 and Under

1. Nutcracker Oyster Shell Wine Stopper

This elegant bottle stopper would look great in any wine bottle. I love the design of this precious nutcracker. You could also include a bottle of wine as part of this hostess gift.

2. Nutcracker Dish Towel

A decorative dish towel for the kitchen is always a great gift idea. I love this nutcracker one with cheerful colors. Wrapping a bottle of wine in this dish towel would be a great way to elevate this gift for your hostess.

3. George & Viv Holiday Boxed Notecard Set

This holiday notecard set comes with 12 cards and matching envelopes. It’s an ideal hostess gift for anyone because you can always use a blank notecard to write on.

4. Watercolor Nutcracker Serving Platter

This gorgeous watercolor nutcracker serving platter would be stunning for serving bite-sized appetizers. It would also be an ideal addition to your hostess’ holiday decor.

5. The Original Williams Sonoma Peppermint Bark

This delicious seasonal peppermint bark will make a great hostess gift. It comes in a durable tin that’s perfect for storage when she finishes her treats!

Hostess Gifts $40 and Under

1. Hammered Nickel Cocktail Shaker

Here’s a timeless and classic cocktail shaker design! This would be a great hostess gift idea to pair with a bottle of the hostess’ favorite liquor to make cocktails.

2. Classic Bauble Ornaments

Your hostess will adore these glittery bauble ornaments for her Christmas tree. You could gift the entire set of six or split them up and use a few as part of the wrapping for your hostess gift.

3. Illume Plaid Candle Gift Set

If you want to give your hostess more than one candle, this set is ideal! These plant-based candles have a balsam and cedar scent and lovely plaid prints.

Hostess Gifts $50 and Under

1. Bonne Maman 2023 Fruit Spreads and Honey Advent Calendar

This advent calendar is great for the foodie host. It has 23 fruit spreads and one honey to be enjoyed. Include your favorite fresh loaf of bread to enjoy the spreads on for the ultimate indulgent treat for your hostess.

2. Marble Tree Cheese Board

This is a gorgeous marble charcuterie board. It would look elegant in any hostess’ home. You could even elevate this gift by including supplies to make a charcuterie board with their favorite cheeses.

3. 12 Days of Gourmet Nuts

Here’s a 12-day advent calendar with gourmet nuts, including sea salt walnuts, butter cinnamon pecans, and a fireside trail mix. The box and tins are beautiful and festive, too!

4. Monogrammed Serving Board

A monogrammed serving board would be such a thoughtful gift for your hostess. Choose the appropriate letter and gift it with cheese, crackers, and other charcuterie essentials.

5. Chocolate Advent Calendar

Though this advent calendar doesn’t have numbers, it does have 24 delicious chocolates! Your hostess will enjoy the caramel-milk chocolate, white peppermint, milk chocolate, and dark chocolate truffles.

Hosting during the holidays can be hard work and highly stressful, so pick out an extra special gift for your hostess to show appreciation. A handwritten card dropped in the mail with a few sentences about what you enjoyed during your visit is another great option. With these gift ideas, I hope you find the perfect gift to delight your hostess and show gratitude. Happy holidays!