Whether you are shopping for a birthday, Christmas, or just because, choosing the right toy can be daunting. With so many options out there, how do you pick something that a child will actually love and use? This guide breaks it down by age, so you can find the perfect gift every time.
Best Toys for Babies (0–1 Years)
Babies need toys that are safe, soft, and stimulating. At this age, everything goes in the mouth, so quality materials and safety certifications matter most.
Our top picks:
- Sensory ball sets — textured balls in different sizes for grasping and exploring
- Stacking blocks — chunky, colourful blocks that build motor skills and spatial awareness
- Teething rings — soothing, safe toys for sore gums
- Soft bath books — waterproof books with bright pictures for bath time fun
- Comfort blankets — soft, cuddly blankets that become a baby's best friend
Best Toys for Toddlers (1–3 Years)
Toddlers are curious, energetic, and love anything they can grab, shake, or knock over. Toys that encourage movement and early learning are perfect.
Our top picks:
- Wooden puzzles — chunky animal puzzles that develop problem-solving
- Magnetic drawing boards — mess-free drawing that can be wiped and started again endlessly
- Pretend play sets — mini kitchen sets, tool benches, or tea party sets
- Chunky crayons and colouring books — perfect for first marks and scribbles
- Soft plush toys — cuddly animals that become loyal companions
Best Toys for Pre-Schoolers (3–5 Years)
This age loves to create, explore, and play pretend. They are ready for more detail and complexity in their toys.
Our top picks:
- Air dry clay kits — mould and paint their own creations
- Sand art sets — layer coloured sand into beautiful bottles
- Dinosaur figure tubes — collections of realistic dinosaur models for imaginative play
- Colouring and activity book bundles — hours of creative fun with pencils and stickers
- Outdoor bubble sets — giant bubble wands and bubble swords for garden play
Best Toys for School-Age Kids (5–8 Years)
School-age children want toys that challenge them and feel a bit more grown up. Science kits, strategy games, and creative projects are all winners.
Our top picks:
- Volcano eruption kits — build, paint, and erupt your own volcano
- Crystal growing kits — grow real crystals from a science kit
- Fossil digging kits — excavate hidden dinosaur fossils
- Art supply sets — paint sets, felt pens, and sketch pads for budding artists
- Water blasters — essential for summer garden battles
Best Toys for Older Kids (8–12 Years)
Pre-teens can be the hardest to buy for, but the right toy can still light up their day. Think creative, challenging, and cool.
Our top picks:
- Ultimate craft packs — everything they need for a creative marathon
- LCD drawing tablets — digital sketch pads for on-the-go creativity
- Magnetic travel games — chess, Connect 4, and snakes and ladders for trips
- Stretcherz figures — super stretchy, squishy figures that are oddly satisfying
- Pebble painting kits — paint stones and hide them for others to find
Gift Buying Tips
- When in doubt, go creative — craft kits and art supplies are universally loved
- Check the age range — it is there for safety and enjoyment
- Think about storage — kits that come in their own box or tube are parent-friendly
- Bundle it up — a colouring book with pencils and a small toy makes a brilliant gift set
- Gift cards work too — if you really cannot decide, let them choose. Our gift cards are always an option
Finding the perfect toy is easier than you think. Explore our full range by age and give a gift they will genuinely love.