‘Tis always the season for toy shopping. Just ask any kid – they’ll tell you! Whether you’re looking for the hottest toys their list, or are all about traditional favorites, we cover a wide range of options below. You’ll be regarded as a hero – even though we both know you already are one.
Let’s be honest, it’s basically always Christmas around here. And by that we mean there’s constant nagging from our kids who always want the latest toy and are always asking for something on the regular. Alas, if you’re looking for some fun ideas, we’ve got you covered.
There’s nothing quite like the joy of seeing a child’s face light up when they receive a new toy. Toys have the power to bring so much happiness into a child’s play time, and there are so many different types to choose from. Whether it’s a cuddly teddy bear or a high-tech gadget, there’s sure to be a toy out there that will capture your little one’s imagination.
For babies and toddlers (0-2 years), the best toys are those that promote sensory development. Look for brightly colored items that make noise (sorry!), such as rattles and squeeze toys. Soft, plush toys are also great for this age group, as they’re perfect for snuggling and cuddling.
For preschoolers (3-5 years), the ideal toys are those that encourage imagination and creativity. Building blocks, dolls and all kinds of toy cars are great choices. Games that help with early learning skills, such as matching and counting, are also beneficial.
Kids in the early school years (6-8 years) are starting to develop more complex interests. They may be interested in sports, music or creative pursuits. Toys that tap into these interests are the perfect way to keep them engaged and challenged.
For tweens (9-12 years), the best toys are those that foster independence and allow for self-expression. Puzzles, board games and art supplies are all great choices.
According to the latest toy research trends, this year one of the most popular categories is “Generations of Play.” As a result, a lot of the top picks are actually things that the whole family can play with together.
We’ve scoured some of the top toy wish-lists and all-around great gift ideas, uncovering the best selling toys and games from the top toy retailers – and also found some great back-up ideas, so you don’t have to. But wait, there’s more! Some of these are actually on sale right now too and their updated price will be displayed below. Get your sale on!
Shop some of the best toys for kids of all ages (baby, toddler, big kids, and tweens) in 2023, below!
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Magic Mixies Crystal Ball
You might remember the release of Magic Mixies last year. This year, they’ve added a crystal ball! Similar to the cauldron, they’ll follow the steps of the Creation Spell to release the magic mist, give their newest Mixie its voice and color, and teach it how to tell fortunes. Half the fun is watching their Mixie appear through the mist.
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My Squishy Little Dumplings
How cute! These interactive toys are available in Doe and Dot – and their little bodies will pop out when you squeeze their cheeks. Their personalities will come to life, but they’re small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. Reactions will vary depending on the way you play with them – including 50 reactions and emotions. Each comes with 2 accessories. Grab ’em while they’re in stock!
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CoComelon Deluxe Interactive JJ Doll
With the ever growing popularity for all things CoComelon, this little guy is a best seller. Kids can feed him his peas and press his tummy to hear various sounds and songs.
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5 Surprise Toys Mystery Capsules
5 Surprise isback and one of our top picks of the year. This one comes as a fun pack of 2 with 5 surprises in each. Some of their favorite little brands are included, including ones like Sponge Bob, Fingerlings, Nickelodeon Slime, and so much more.
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Purrble Calming Toy
Calming toys for the win! We could all use a little stress relief and kids are no exception. This researched based Purrble is so soft, but interactive as well. His heart races to show emotion, but they can hold and pet Purrble until the heartbeat slow into a soft and gentle purr.
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Marvel Spidey and His Amazing Friends Change ‘N Go Web Crawler
Includes a posable Spider Man and a 2 in 1 vehicle that starts as a racer and converts into a wall crawler – so he can rescue anyone anywhere!
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Magic Mixies Magical Misting Cauldron
Last year, this was the “hard to find toy.” Since they’ve release a new version this year, the cauldron is more reasonably priced. Mix the potion and make your very own pet. Includes the magic ingredients needed, along with a special wand. Watch in amazement as your cute furry Magic Mixie appears through the mist. Mystical! (see what we did there?). Features over 50 sounds and reactions.
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Super Mario Deluxe Bowser’s Castle
Let’s-a-go! This interactive castle features hidden traps, like spinning fireballs, a cage, the moving lift and trap door. Trigger the trap door and drop Bowser into lava – accompanied by authentic game sounds and music. Iconic!
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PicassoTiles Building Blocks
These brightly colored building blocks offer easy connectivity, but are also easy to disconnect as well. Frustration free means more fun, allowing them to build creative designs. available at Amazon and Walmart.
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Star Wars Grogu The Child
This remote controlled plush toy features four modes of play – Follow Me, Hide & Seek, Curious and Sounds. You can also use the joystick to move baby Yoda wherever you want it to go.
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Lego Hidden Side Graveyard Mystery
It’s the fun of building really cool Lego sets, with the added fun of virtual reality! Build your graveyard, then using the app, find and defeat the ghosts that virtually haunt your model. If they’re into techand toys this is the one for them! Other sets are available too.
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Throw Throw Burrito Game
A super funny dodge-ball game where you actually get to throw a burrito. What’s better than that?! Outdoor version available as well.
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Glow in the Dark Stomp Rocket
It’s the classic best selling toy, but with a new glow in the dark twist! Your kids will stomp (outside) on the launcher and watch those glow rockets sail up to 100 feet in the air!
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Tetris Push + Pop Bubble Fidget/Sensory Toy
While fidget spinners are a thing of the past, you’re probably already aware of these “push and pop” bubble sensory toys for the kids (or even adults). With this option, pop its are coupled with Tetris. So satisfying!
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Got2Glow Fairy Finder
Features over 30 virtual fairies to catch! Open the lid and see a light show as the virtual fairies find their way home – back inside your jar. Bring your jar to new locations and up your chances of collecting rare fairies. And since it’s interactive, the more you play, the more you’ll find! Available in pink and blue.
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Mr Potato Head Playskool Movin’ Lips Electronic Interactive Talking Toy
Read his lips! This updated spud (stud), features lips that move, along with over 40 phrases and songs. Just in case you’ve wondered what he’s had to say all these years. Just us?
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Remote Control Monster Jam Official Mega Grave Digger
The truck is over 2 feet long! This remote control car is bigger, faster and stronger. It’s lightweight, but can roll over off-road obstacles with ease. And sure, you can have a turn with it.
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TeeTurtle The Original Reversible Octopus
This little fella is still going strong when it comes to the best selling to lists. Available in several different color combinations, they can flip from angry to happy just as quickly as they, themselves! And yes, you can borrow it. Angry octopus, means “I need a little space” while happy octopus is open for business.
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Uno
You can’t go wrong with a classic. Sure it comes across as innocent, color and number matching (learning is fun!), but things can always take a left turn when the cut-throat “Skip” and “Draw 4” cards get thrown. That escalated quickly.
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The New Mall Madness Game
It’s the classic shopping spree game, Mall Madness, but with a new and modern twist. This time around they’ll be paying for all their shopping sprees with their ATM card. It talks too!
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The Harry Potter Fan: Wizarding World Invisibility Cloak
If your kid (you) has ever dreamed about becoming invisible (hiding from the children), well dreams can come true! Includes an invisibility cloak, tripod and instructions. (Requires the Wow! Stuff app – suitable for smartphones or tablets running iOS 11 and Android 5.0 and above). Let the disappearing begin.
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Fingerlings Light Up Narwhal
Who doesn’t want their very own Narwhal? One of the top (and most affordable) toys everyone loves this year, these interactive critters respond with blinking eyes, a flapping, narwhal noises and a light up horn.
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The Original AirFort (Inflates in 30 Seconds!)
If they’re going to be stuck indoors, they’ll have a blast with this easy inflatable air fort that comes in a bunch of different colors and patterns too, (including a barn, UFO and Tiki Hut). Did we mention that it inflates in just 30 seconds?
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Hot Wheels Spin Storm Track
Because isn’t the whole point of “playing cars” crashing them? Features three different crash zones.
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Manhattan Toy Wee Baby
Cute! This super soft 12″ doll has embroidered features, some fleece hair, and a pacifier that attaches magnetically.
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2023 12 Volt Explorer Ride-On Truck (Choose Your Color)
They’re going to have a total blast buzzing around the yard in their own 2 seater ride-on that goes 2-5 mph, has leather seats, LED lights, music, radio, bluetooth and parental remote. Choose from seven different colors, like purple, green, white, and more.
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Mindware Square Up
So fun! See who the best problem solver in the family is. There’s always that one person who’s virtually unbeatable.
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Franklin Throw-Down Base Set
No more using rocks and used water bottles for bases! And get outside and play…please! Includes first, second, third & home plate.
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Hatchimals Pixies Crystal Flyers
Up, up and away! These Hatchimals are literally taking off. Launch her from the base, or lift her into the air – then use your hands to guide her along. Includes a USB charging cable, so you can easily recharge your Crystal Flyers Pixie without any batteries required. Recommended for ages 6+
More Gift Giving Ideas:
Cheap, But Unique, Christmas Gifts You’ll Love
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Gifts For Your Son He’ll Love at Christmas
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The Perfect Daughter Gift Ideas
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