Best Toys by Age: A Guide From Babies to Tweens

Kids change fast. The toy that held a one-year-old’s attention for an hour gets ignored at three, and the board game a seven-year-old loves is pure frustration for a four-year-old. These guides match toys to what kids are actually learning at each stage.

Start with your kid’s age, then dig into the topic guides below.

Babies (0 to 12 Months)

Babies need simple toys to grab, mouth, chase and stack, plus lots of floor time. Start with the best toys for babies 6 to 12 months.

1 Year Olds

Walking, stacking and first words. See the best toys for 1 year olds and first puzzles for toddlers.

2 Year Olds

Big feelings, bigger curiosity. Try the best toys for 2 year olds, brain-boosting toys for toddlers under 3 and sensory toys toddlers love.

3 Year Olds

Pretend play takes off and simple games start to click. See the best toys for 3 year olds and pretend play toys.

4 Year Olds

Bigger plans, steadier hands. See the best toys for 4 year olds and the best building toys, ranked.

5 Year Olds

Kindergarten brain, endless questions. See the best toys for 5 year olds and coding toys for kids.

6 to 8 Year Olds

Strategy, science and real building. Try STEM toys that teach science, board games that make kids smarter and outdoor toys that beat screens.

Tweens (9 to 12)

Too cool for toys, not too cool for robots. See STEM gifts for tweens and family game night picks.

Guides for Every Age

Why open-ended toys beat flashy ones · Toy rotation · Montessori toys explained · Toy Safety 101 · Smart toys under $25 · Holiday gift guide by age

FAQ

How do I know if a toy is right for my child’s age?
Start with the age label, which reflects safety testing. Then look at what your child can already do. The best toys are a little challenging but not frustrating.

Should I follow age ranges strictly?
For safety ratings, yes, especially “not for under 3” labels. For skill level, use them as a starting point and follow your kid’s lead.

How many toys does a child need?
Fewer than you think. A handful of open-ended toys, rotated every week or two, beats a full toy box.