Choosing a gift for a child is easier when you know what suits their stage. A toy that delights a three year old may bore a seven year old, and the reverse can be frustrating. This guide to kids gift ideas by age walks from toddlers to tweens, with ideas for each stage and tips for choosing well.
Always check the age rating on the packaging. Toys marked as unsuitable for children under three may contain small parts.
Quick guide by age
| Age | What they enjoy | Gift ideas |
|---|---|---|
| 1 to 2 years | Movement, sounds, cause and effect | Push-along toys, stacking toys, soft toys, play mats |
| 3 to 4 years | Pretend play and simple building | Play tents, chunky building sets, dress-ups, crayons |
| 5 to 6 years | Creativity and early games | Craft kits, beginner building sets, simple board games |
| 7 to 9 years | Projects, collecting and challenges | Detailed building sets, science kits, outdoor games |
| 10 to 12 years | Independence, skills and hobbies | Complex builds, strategy games, sports gear, hobby kits |
Toddlers: 1 to 2 years
Toddlers learn by doing. They love toys they can push, pull, stack, bang and open.
- Push-along and ride-on toys help with walking and balance.
- Stacking and sorting toys build hand-eye coordination.
- Soft toys are comforting. Look for securely stitched eyes and features. Our Bazza plush Australian animals are a fun local touch.
- Play mats give a soft, wipeable space for floor play. Browse our baby toys and activity equipment.
- Board books with flaps and textures.
Choose sturdy, simple toys without small parts or long cords.
Preschoolers: 3 to 4 years
This is the age of imagination. Kids act out stories and love making things.
- Play tents and tunnels become castles, cubbies and rockets. See our play tents, including Keezi designs.
- Chunky building sets suit small hands. Our LEGO by age guide explains which ranges suit younger builders.
- Dress-ups and pretend play sets such as kitchens, tool kits and doctor's kits.
- Art supplies such as crayons, chunky markers and easels.
- Simple puzzles with large pieces.
Early primary: 5 to 6 years
Children at this age can follow simple instructions and enjoy finishing something themselves.
- Craft and painting kits. Our art and drawing toys include kits from Boyle.
- Beginner building sets with instructions and minifigures.
- First board games that teach turn-taking and counting.
- Balance bikes, scooters and outdoor toys for active kids. Our outdoor toys guide has plenty of ideas.
- Books they can start to read on their own.
Middle primary: 7 to 9 years
Kids now enjoy longer projects, collecting and a bit of challenge.
- Detailed building sets with vehicles, buildings and themes from favourite films. Browse our LEGO range.
- Science and STEM kits for experiments, coding and engineering. See our STEM toys guide.
- Collectibles such as Zuru figures and trading items.
- Family board games with strategy and teamwork. See our family board games guide.
- Sports gear for their favourite activity.
Tweens: 10 to 12 years
Tweens want gifts that feel grown up and match their interests.
- Advanced building sets with hundreds or thousands of pieces, such as LEGO Technic models.
- Strategy and card games to play with friends and family.
- Hobby kits for drawing, model-making, jewellery or slime.
- Sports and active gear such as balls, hoops and fitness equipment.
- Tech accessories such as headphones or a portable speaker. Our noise cancelling headphones guide explains features.
- Room decor such as LED lights or a desk lamp.
When in doubt, ask a parent what the child is into at the moment.
Gifts that aren't toys
Not every gift needs to be a toy:
- An experience, such as a day out or a class.
- A book from a favourite series.
- A personalised drink bottle or lunch box for school.
- Art supplies or a journal.
- Outdoor gear such as a kids' torch for camping.
Tips for choosing well
- Check the age rating. It covers both safety and how engaging the toy will be.
- Think about space. Big toys need room. Ask parents first.
- Check batteries. If a toy needs them, include a set, and make sure button battery compartments are secure.
- Consider noise. Parents will thank you for a volume control.
- Choose open-ended toys. Building sets, art supplies and pretend play get used for years.
- Avoid duplicates. Coordinate with family for birthdays and Christmas.
Wrapping it up
Kids love tearing into a well-wrapped present. Browse our toy range, building toys, board games and sports toys. For more ideas for the whole family, see our Christmas gift ideas. Every brand we stock, including LEGO, Zuru and Little Tikes, is listed on our brands page.
Related guides: LEGO by Age, STEM Toys That Are Actually Fun, Outdoor Toys, Family Board Games, Christmas Gift Ideas Australia.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good gift for a 5 year old?
Craft kits, beginner building sets, simple board games and outdoor toys such as balance bikes are popular. Check the age rating on the box.
What do you buy a 10 year old?
Tweens often enjoy advanced building sets, strategy games, hobby kits, sports gear and tech accessories that match their interests.
Why do toys say not suitable for under 3?
Usually because they contain small parts that could be a choking hazard for young children. Keep these toys away from babies and toddlers.
Are experiences good gifts for kids?
Yes. Days out, classes and activities can be memorable alternatives to toys, especially for older kids with plenty of stuff.
