Exciting birthday gifs for kids of all ages
Shopping for a birthday gift for a kid can be fun. However, with the countless options available for different age ranges, finding the perfect present can be challenging too. Ideally, the gift you choose for the child in your life will be age-appropriate while sparking a burst of enthusiasm when they open the package.
How to find the perfect gift for a kid
As you browse for gifts for a child, following a few tips will guide you in finding the perfect item that they will treasure for months or years to come.
Consider the child’s age
It’s important to choose a gift that is designed for the age of the child. For example, a child in middle school isn’t likely to find a toy that’s made for a toddler very fun or challenging. Additionally, some toys have small parts that small kids may put in their mouths, which could result in choking. When in doubt, check the manufacturer's age recommendations of any item you are considering.
Factor in your budget
Birthdays are special times, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend an extreme amount if your finances are limited. Fortunately, there are quality toys and other items in all price ranges to fit any budget. However, if you want to splurge on one item, opt for that gift that is at the top of the child’s wishlist.
Shop different categories
Toys are popular among younger kids. They come in different categories, such as plush, STEM, building, and sensory toys. Games including classic board games, PS4 games, and Nintendo Switch are also popular for kids of various ages.
Teens can be a bit more difficult to shop for, as they have outgrown most types of toys. Tech, clothing, jewelry, and personal care items are good categories to shop for a teen’s birthday.
Make presentation a priority
Once you find the ideal gift for a child’s birthday, you can add to the anticipation with appealing wrapping paper or a colorful gift bag. Adding ribbon and a gift card will also make the present stand out.
What should I buy for a child’s birthday in 2022?
Birthday gifts for babies
Melissa and Doug Take-Along Shape Sorter Baby Toy
With bold colors, classic shapes, and fun activities, this baby STEM toy teaches while it entertains. The soft case doubles as storage for the included pieces.
Sold by Amazon
Baby Einstein Bendy Ball Rattle Toy
This rattle captivates a baby’s attention with its unique design. It features flexible plastic that’s enticing to grasp. Parents will find peace of mind in the fact that the materials are BPA-free.
Sold by Amazon and Buy Buy Baby
Fisher-Price Corn Popper Push Toy
Kids have enjoyed push and pop toys for generations. This classic model works like those you may remember from your childhood, as it keeps encased balls popping while a baby pushes the toy. A bonus is that pushing this toy helps small kids develop walking and coordination skills.
Sold by Amazon, Buy Buy Baby, and Macy’s
Babies love to make music, which comes naturally with the Tap-A-Tune piano that has keys and chimes. The bright colors and fun sounds encourage kids to explore and play.
Sold by Amazon
This sweet toy stimulates all of a baby's senses with a variety of colors, textures, and sounds. Not only is it a teether and a rattle, but it’s also a plush toy that’s soft and huggable.
Sold by Kohl’s, Macy’s, and Amazon
Other top birthday gifts for babies
- The youngest sports fan will appreciate the Gund My First Sports Bag, which includes soft sports balls that crinkle, rattle, and squeak.
- Every baby needs a set of stacking rings that provides entertainment and helps with the development of hand and eye coordination.
- A mobile makes an excellent gift for small babies that are just beginning to reach, grasp, and explore.
- The Soothe and Glow Sea Horse lights up and plays music to calm babies and help them fall asleep.
- Every kid needs a sweet stuffed animal like this adorable lamb.
Birthday gifts for toddlers
Little Tikes Cozy Coupe 30th Anniversary Car
Any toddler on the go will love this adorable ride-on car. It’s a classic Little Tikes toy with new features, including a removable floor and handle for parents to push.
Sold by Amazon and Buy Buy Baby
Discovery Kids Toy Drawing Light Board
This light-up board provides a fun way for kids to create art as it lights up while kids draw. It comes with colorful markers.
Step2 Shower Tower Splash Pond Water Table
Kids who love to play in water will spend hours engaged in educational entertainment with this water table. It makes sounds and has components that sprinkle and squirt for exciting water play.
Sold by Kohl’s, Amazon, and Buy Buy Baby
Kids will learn about 100 animals with this interactive book that plays songs, sounds, and animal facts. It speaks in English and Spanish too.
Sold by Macy’s, Buy Buy Baby, Kohl’s, and Amazon
This well-made slide is ideal for novices. It is straightforward for parents to assemble and can be used indoors or outdoors.
Other top birthday gifts for toddlers
- Any toddler who loves Disney will enjoy cuddling up with this large Mickey Mouse Plush Toy.
- Youngsters will enjoy learning to count and recognize colors with the Skoolzy Rainbow Rainbow Counting Bears Set.
- The Step2 All Around Wagon offers a modern take on a classic childhood toy.
- With the Melissa and Doug Dust, Mop, and Sweep Set, a little one can lend a helping hand when it’s time to clean house.
- This unique Goldilocks and the Three Bears Toy House is a contemporary take on a classic story and toy. It’s suitable for ages 3 to 6.
- Playing cook will feel realistic to youngsters when they hang out in this comprehensive Costway Play Kitchen.
Birthday gifts for middle schoolers and pre-teens
Elenco Snap Circuits Electronics Exploration Kit
Kids can learn the engineering side of STEM with this toy that has more than 100 circuits for completing different projects. The easy-to-use system works by snapping the components together, so no tools are needed to play and learn.
Sold by Amazon
National Geographic Glowing Marble Run
This marble run provides next-level excitement, thanks to the marbles that glow in the dark. This is another STEM toy that teaches kids about the basics of motion while they conduct experiments with colorful pieces.
You can introduce your kid to the self-pampering of pedicures with this kid-sized foot spa. It makes sounds and bubbles just like an adult foot spa and comes with a pedicure set that includes nail polish, stickers, and a file.
Sold by Macy’s
LEGO Architecture New York City Kit
Part of LEGO’s architecture series, this kit challenges older kids to build with numerous intricate pieces. The subject of this 598-piece set is the New York City skyline. It’s ideal for LEGO enthusiasts ages 12 and up.
A portable design and multiple game modes make the Nintendo Switch a must-have for any avid gamer. Kids who like to game on the go will love the handheld mode and decent battery life, so the fun doesn’t have to end even when they aren’t at home.
Sold by Amazon
Other top birthday gifts for middle schoolers and pre-teens
- Kids can learn about each state’s flower while they hone their problem-solving skills with this unique USA State Flower Map Puzzle.
- An electric scooter is a good option for a pre-teen who’s ready to advance from a standard bike.
- A rock tumbler is a good option for a young rock collector.
- The Dynacraft Mountain Bike is a gift that any young cyclist will love.
- Budding artists will be inspired to create with the feature-packed Arts and Crafts Library by Kid Made Modern.
Birthday gifts for teens
Kids, as well as the young at heart, will love how this rugged RC car navigates bumpy terrain. It can reach speeds over 30 miles per hour. You’ll get a battery and charger with your purchase.
Sold by Amazon
Hover-1 Helix Electric Hoverboard
A sporty design, built-in Bluetooth speaker, and notable battery life per charge earn the Helix a top spot on our list of favorite Hoverboards. It’s great for beginners and pros, as it features multiple rider modes.
Sold by Amazon
JBL Clip 3 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
This Bluetooth speaker may be small, but its compact design is one of its selling points. In addition to being easy to stash and go, it offers long battery life and excellent sound quality. It is also waterproof and comes in a choice of several eye-catching colors.
Sold by Amazon
Thames & Kosmos Chemistry C500 Kit
Older kids who appreciate science and enjoy learning about chemistry will like this kit’s 28 experiments. It includes an informative guide and all of the necessary components for successful experimentation.
AirPods are the ultimate gift for any teen who loves to indulge in their favorite music wherever they go. In addition to outstanding sound, a comfortable fit, and 24-hour battery life, they come with a charging case.
Other top birthday gifts for teens
- This pretty handmade necklace makes an ideal birthday gift, as it features a real flower encased in resin. It’s available in a choice of birth flowers for every month.
- Every teen needs a tablet, and the Fire HD 10 model offers impressive features at an appealing price.
- Most teens love their favorite music, which makes a subscription to Amazon Prime Music an awesome birthday gift.
- A casual sweatshirt is likely to become your teen’s go-to wardrobe essential.
- Guys can never have enough stylish jeans like this pair by Calvin Klein.
Kids’ birthday presents FAQ
Q. How can I determine if a STEM toy is suitable for a toddler?
A. Most quality toys have the recommended age range on the package and in the online product descriptions. When shopping for a STEM toy for a small child, it’s best to follow these recommendations to avoid an item that’s meant for an older child that may have small pieces that are choking hazards. If a toy’s package and description don’t indicate the age range, steer clear of those that look overly difficult or have small, removable pieces.
Q. What are some birthday gift items for a child who loves Disney?
A. Disney toys come in many varieties, including figures, plush toys, playsets, and dolls. Most fall into the age ranges of toddlers through pre-teens. While many of these toys would be appreciated by a young Disney fan, be sure to check the age recommendations of the products you are considering before you buy.
Q. What’s a nice gift for a pre-teen who seems to have everything?
A. When shopping for a child who already owns a lot of toys and other gadgets, it’s important to consider their interests. If they are fans of any shows or movies, such as Paw Patrol or Star Wars, gifts with these themes are good choices. Children’s books are ideal for young avid readers. If a kid is into gaming, a game to add to their collection will be a welcomed present. If all else fails, a gift card is a good choice.
Q. Are there any toys that are appropriate for teens?
A. Yes. However, these toys are more advanced and challenging and made to keep older kids entertained. Multistep STEM toys, hoverboards, and drones are some items that appeal to teens who still like to have fun with the items they get for their birthdays.
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Jennifer Manfrin writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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