The best toys for 1 year olds
Finding the perfect toy for a 1-year-old can be a fun yet daunting task. At this age, children are curious, exploring their surroundings, and beginning to develop key skills through play. Whether you’re shopping for a birthday gift or just looking to inspire their imagination, our guide to the best toys for 1-year-olds will help you make an informed choice.
Best toys for 1-year-old boys
When selecting toys for 1-year-old boys, think about activities that encourage movement, curiosity, and discovery. Look for:
- Interactive toys
Items like musical instruments or talking toys capture their attention and promote sensory exploration. These toys can also be useful for teaching simple words and phrases. - Stacking and building toys
Blocks or stacking rings help improve hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills. - Push-and-pull toys
These encourage gross motor development as your little one toddles around.
Best toys for 1-year-old girls
Toys for 1-year-old girls often focus on creativity and sensory play. Popular choices include:
- Role play toys
Items like mini doctor’s sets, kitchens, or pretend phones help develop social and emotional skills. - Soft toys and dolls
These provide comfort while encouraging nurturing play. - Musical toys
Instruments like the Baby Einstein Hape Magic Touch Piano introduce them to music and rhythm.
Best bath toys for 1-year-olds
Bath time can be fun and educational with the right toys. The best bath toys for 1-year-olds are:
- Floating animals
These are simple yet entertaining, perfect for sensory play in the water. - Water squirters and stackable cups
Great for teaching cause-and-effect. - Interactive bath books
Waterproof books with bright illustrations that captivate young minds.
Best educational toys for a 1-year-old
Educational toys make learning fun and encourage developmental milestones. Look for:
- Interactive learning toys
These toys help to introduce vocabulary in an engaging way. - Shape sorters and puzzles
These teach problem-solving and fine motor skills. For a tactile feel, look for wooden toys. - Musical toys
Toys like these combine education with fun sounds and music.
Top baby toys for 1-year-olds
Here are some of the most popular toys loved by 1-year-olds:
- Fisher-Price Smart Stages Puppy is a cuddly friend that grows with your child, teaching them interactive songs and phrases.
- LeapFrog Learning Friends 100 Words Book introduces toddlers to a range of vocabulary in both English and Spanish.
- Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Game Controller is perfect for little ones who love to mimic adults, with lights and sounds to keep them engaged.
- LEGO Peppa Pig Garden and Tree House Toy is great for imaginative play featuring one of their favorite characters.