Every year, our editors spend three months testing, reviewing, and arguing about the best gifts for children. The brief is simple: would we give this to our own children? If the answer is yes, it makes the list.
Our Test
The best gifts are the ones that get used. A beautiful toy that sits on a shelf is a waste of money and space. Ask yourself: will this be played with in six months?
For babies (0–12 months)
The best gifts for babies are the ones that make parents' lives easier or more beautiful. A gorgeous layette set, a luxurious sleep sack, or a well-designed baby carrier will be used and appreciated far more than another plastic toy.
Baby Gift Picks
Our top picks for the littlest ones
Linen Summer Romper
$38.00
Wooden Stacking Toy
$32.00
For toddlers (1–3 years)
Toddlers are the easiest age to buy for and the hardest age to impress. They want to explore, to build, to make noise, and to do everything themselves. Open-ended toys — blocks, art supplies, sensory kits — consistently outperform flashy electronic toys.
For kids (4–8 years)
This is the golden age for gift-giving. Children this age have specific interests, can articulate what they want, and are genuinely excited by the ritual of unwrapping. The challenge is finding gifts that are high-quality, durable, and actually interesting to a child.
For tweens (9–12 years)
Tweens are the hardest age to buy for. They've outgrown most 'kids' toys, they have strong opinions, and they're acutely aware of what's cool and what isn't. Our advice: ask them, or give them a gift card to a brand they love.
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