We Believe These Are the Top Gifts for Kids—Fortunately, Our Kids Agree

      When I reflect on the toys that bring the most happiness to our home, they are those that create lasting memories and enjoyable family traditions—items that are a joy to use and foster more togetherness. We've spent countless rainy days constructing intricate marble runs, enjoyed numerous laughs while role-playing in our play kitchen, and established delightful routines reading beloved books in our cozy nook, always with warm mugs of milk in hand. Great gifts also foster independent play, which is particularly beneficial when I have a long list of household tasks to tackle. In essence, the right toys can help children discover the world in new and exciting ways while ensuring plenty of entertainment over time.

      My kids are now 4 and 7, and birthday parties seem to occur every other week. This means that alongside grocery shopping and meal prep, toy shopping has essentially turned into a weekly routine. Thankfully, gift shopping is my forte (it's in my DNA as a shopping director), and over the years, I have tested, tried, and researched numerous toys, maintaining a Google Doc of my favorites that have made a significant impact on my family and others.

      In compiling this gift guide, I also consulted the insightful and shopping-savvy parents at Who What Wear, who collectively have children of various ages. I asked them to share their top toy recommendations that not only receive their endorsement but also have their kids' approval.

      Below, you'll find our gift guide for kids aged 1 to 5, which we hope will inspire you and alleviate the stress of gift shopping for the little ones in your life. (More gift guides for other ages will follow!)

      **Age 1**

      - **Hape Pound & Tap Bench With Slide Out Xylophone**: This quality wooden musical toy was cherished by both of my kids from ages 1 to 3. They enjoyed sending the balls through the holes and discovering the various notes as they traveled down the xylophone, even creating their own sounds with the mallet. Plus, it's pleasantly quiet, which is a plus for parents, and it keeps them occupied for long stretches.

      - **Grimm's Spiel & Holz Wooden Rainbow Tunnel**: My 4-year-old daughter still plays with this rainbow I gifted her when she was 1, and I'm always amazed at how imaginative she can be with it. She crafts all kinds of shapes, building worlds, bridges, and boats while enjoying the colors. In her younger days, she loved stacking the arches. Don't underestimate its simplicity!

      - **Our Green House Baby Books Gift Basket—Bookworm-to-Be**: Baby books were among my favorite gifts, and there are so many wonderful options that I can't include them all here. I adore this book gift basket, featuring all the classics in one package. You can even add a child's name for a personal touch.

      - **Woodtoe Wooden Baby Walker**: "I recently purchased this charming wooden walker for my little one as he begins to explore walking. While there are countless variants of push walkers, this one is visually appealing, and he can fill it with his favorite items. It even has an adjustable knob to control the speed, ensuring it's not too fast for him at first. So far, my son loves it!" — Amy Armani, Creative Director, FBH

      - **Priddy Books US First 100 Words**: "Our kids were both obsessed with this book from ages 1 to 3, making it our go-to gift. It's a sturdy board book, virtually indestructible." — Jennifer Camp Forbes, Senior Shopping Editor

      - **Boon Bundle Building Bath Tub Toy with Pipes Cogs and Tubes**: Bath time is much more enjoyable with these toys. My kids attach them to the wall and create various pathways for the water to flow, encouraging creativity while teaching cause and effect.

      - **Jellycat Amuseables Sardine Tin**: "Jellycat toys are a hit with children of all ages. You can’t go wrong with one of these." — Bobby Schuessler, Shopping Director

      - **Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes Musical Toy**: I used to take this everywhere—the stroller, car, and playdates—because it was a great way to soothe my son when he was upset and keep him amused while running errands.

      - **Manhattan Toy Toy Winkel Rattle & Sensory Teether Toy**: This colorful, lightweight toy is a rattle, teether, and fun to toss around. It keeps little ones engaged both at home and on the go.

      - **PlanToys 2-Piece Drum Set**: This high-quality drum set is a blast for the whole family to play with, and regardless of age from 1 to 6, it remains a favorite.

      - **VTech Drop and Go Dump Truck**: My kids adored this vibrant dump truck. It's not just a pull-along toy, it also teaches basic counting and offers a variety of cheerful melodies and phrases while introducing colors, shapes