The 15 Best Christmas Gifts for Toddlers (Affordable and Unique Ideas!)
Finding the perfect Christmas gifts for toddlers can feel overwhelming with so many options out there, but I’m here to make it easier for you!
As a mom of two toddlers, I’ve done the hard work of testing countless toys in my own home. My little ones have personally used and loved every single gift on this list.
These aren’t just trendy toys, they’re the ones that spark hours of creativity, laughter, and learning right in my living room.
From durable favorites that withstand toddler chaos to unique items that encourage their development, these tried-and-true gifts are sure to bring joy to your home this holiday season!
*As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.
Best Christmas Gifts for Toddlers Under $20
Battat Stacking Cups
These stacking cups are hands-down the biggest bang for your buck! My toddlers use them everywhere—stacking towers in the living room, pouring water during bath time, and digging in the sand at the beach. They’re lightweight, easy to clean, and endlessly entertaining. It’s amazing how something so simple keeps them happy and engaged day after day!
Retro Magna Doodle
If you grew up with one of these doodle boards then you know how magical it feels to draw, erase, and start all over again! It’s the perfect gift for any child—and my sister, who has five kids, says it’s the most-used toy in her house. A classic that never gets old!
Coogam Matching Eggs
These matching egg toys are a huge hit with my toddlers! They love cracking them open and matching the colors and shapes—it’s simple, fun, and keeps them entertained daily. Plus, they’re easy to pack for trips or pull out when I need a quick activity. Such a small toy, but so much value!
Construction Vehicle Set for Kids
I might be a little biased since I only have boys, but these construction trucks are a staple in our house! My kids are absolutely obsessed, and I even keep a set in the car to keep them occupied on the go! They’re simple, sturdy, and boost creativity!
Foam Soccer Ball
Let me tell you—a foam soccer ball is an absolute must-have for toddlers! My kids love kicking it around indoors without me worrying about broken lamps or dented walls. It’s soft, lightweight, and perfect for burning off some toddler energy! I couldn’t find the exact one we have, but here is one that is very similar!
Top Educational Christmas Gifts for Toddlers
Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set
When my 2.5-year-old was struggling with color recognition, this toy set really helped him! It only took a couple of days to learn how to sort each color all on his own. I also love the little buckets—they’re perfect for different activities, pretend play, or even quick clean-up games.
Coogam Wooden Magnetic Fishing Game
This magnetic fishing game is such a fun way to work on fine motor skills while helping toddlers learn their ABCs! My kids love “fishing” for the wooden pieces, and it helps keep them focused and engaged. I’d recommend this toy for older toddlers since the small fish pieces could be a choking hazard for little ones.
Wooden Train Tracks Set
This wooden train track set has been a favorite in our house! It’s great for toddlers just starting out and it grows with them as their tracks get more creative. I also love that it’s compatible with other sets, so you can easily add on over time.
LeapFrog Fridge Phonics Magnetic Letter Set
Since my kids are growing up bilingual, I noticed they struggled a bit with phonetics. This magnetic letter set has been a lifesaver—it goes through each letter in the alphabet and teaches the sounds in such a fun way! Plus, it’s a perfect distraction in the kitchen when the kids are cranky and I’m racing to get dinner on the table.
Coogam Wooden Sorting Puzzle
For younger toddlers, I recommend starting with the Fisher-Price shape sorter. Once they’ve mastered that, this Coogam wooden sorting puzzle is the perfect next step! My 2.5-year-old is still learning to complete it, but I love how it encourages cognitive development and problem-solving skills along the way!
Fun and Unique Toddler Gifts for the Holidays
Crayola Ultra Clean Washable Markers
My 2.5-year-old has been asking to draw every single day, so these washable Crayola markers have been a lifesaver! They’re the perfect size for little hands and easy to keep organized in our arts and crafts drawer. Plus, they make an excellent stocking stuffer gift!
JOYIN Non-Toxic Washable Street Chalk
This sidewalk chalk is a must-have for creative play! It’s perfect for drawing masterpieces outside on the pavement, inside on a chalkboard, or even on regular paper. Plus, it’s washable and non-toxic, which makes it ideal for toddlers (and gives parents peace of mind). My kids love it, and cleanup is a breeze!
LEGO DUPLO Classic Brick Box
There are so many awesome benefits of Lego for kids! This set is perfect for encouraging creativity and building imagination as little ones create towers, animals, and whatever their hearts dream up. Plus, Legos are a toy that truly grows with your child—starting with simple stacking and evolving into more complex creations as they get older.
A Squash and a Squeeze Toddler Book
A Squash and a Squeeze by Julia Donaldson is such a fun read with an amazing lesson about gratitude and appreciating what you have. My toddlers also adore her book Monkey Puzzle—both are must-haves for little bookworms!
Play-Doh Pack of Assorted Colors
Play-Doh is a lifesaver in our house—my kids can’t get enough of rolling, squishing, and creating with it. It’s fantastic for fine motor skills and sparking creativity, even if their masterpiece sometimes ends up as one big brown clump of “art”! A must-have for keeping little hands (and minds) busy.
I hope this list of Christmas gifts for toddlers helps you find the perfect surprises for your little ones this holiday season!
If you’re looking for more fun ways to make the season magical, check out my post on 12 Christmas activities for toddlers, packed with easy ideas to keep them entertained and full of holiday cheer.
Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays filled with love, laughter, and joyful moments! 🎄✨
