The best toys of 2023: Gifts for kids of any age

While giving gifts to loved ones is always fun, shopping for the little ones in your life can be the most rewarding. This holiday season, kids are looking for the best toys, from Lego to Barbie, trending board games, stuffed animals and more to make playtime the best time.

As for retailers, Walmart's toy deals never disappoint and this year is no different. Amazon also packs in the deals for the toys topping lists, so there is no shortage of places to find the top toys this year. Whether you're shopping for toddlers and babies or big kids and teens, we've got a number of suggestions that will delight the kiddos and parents alike. We've broken down our gift guide by age, including toys tied to TV shows and movies, outdoor toys, and arts and crafts and even included some classic toys and games from years past, like Hasbro's Operation board game, where kids get to be the doctor.

Whatever you're shopping for, we've got some gift ideas for kids' toys to help you cover the little ones on your shopping list.

Best toys to gift your kids overall

One thing all kids have in common is they want to have fun. Kids of all ages want toys and gadgets that not only bring out their creativity but also fuel interests that they’ll love for the rest of their lives. In general, kids like stickers, card games, board games and more that are appropriate for their age.

Radio Flyer

Radio Flyer, 3-in-1 All-Terrain EZ Fold Wagon with Canopy

Recommended for any kid aged 18 months and above, the Radio Flyer converts to three different modes: two kids riding inside, a flat-bed style wagon, and a bench. The protective canopy blocks UV lighting from young kids playing inside, or older kids can store snacks and drinks while at the park or playing sports. The fabric isn’t machine washable—you'll need to spot clean when it gets dirty.

$159 at Walmart

Best toys for 2-4-year-olds

Kids ages 2-4 years old are working on expanding their fine motor skills, learning about the world through sensory toys, and pretending with role-play toys like dollhouses or kitchen sets. While 2-year-olds and 4-year-olds range in knowledge base and ability level, all preschoolers want toys that make them happy and allow them to play in their own ways.

Walmart

Barbie Dreamhouse

Barbie’s Dreamhouse got a modern upgrade. Dollhouses and doll playsets have been popular toys for years, and some of the best gifts to give preschoolers or 3-year-olds and up. This one in particular is a three-piece structure with a pool party theme that comes with over 75 different pieces; that’s a lot coming out of one starter set!

$179 at Amazon

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$179 at Walmart$200 at Macy's

Best toys for 5-8-year-olds

For kids between 5-8 years old, toys are more than just a means to pretend and have fun; many in this age group focus on whatever is the big toy of the year or what’s trending. Still popular among this age group, though, are board games and collectibles that are somewhat traditional but provide a theme for them to connect with other kids.

Walmart

Squishville 2-Inch Squishmallows, 6-pack

Squishmallows are a trending plush toy that all the kids are talking about. With this pack of six, you can either gift them all together or take the packaging apart and gift the six as stocking stuffers to all the kids on your gift list this year. 

$14 at Amazon

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$15 at Walmart

Best toys for tweens and teens

If you don’t know what to get a tween or teen, you can’t go wrong with a cool gadget or something tech related. Teens enjoy gifts that align with their interests or that they can use when they’re hanging out with friends. Other than tech, many kids in this age group would want art supplies, books or video games as gifts if that’s what they’re interested in.

Fujifilm

Fujifilm INSTAX Mini 7+ Exclusive Blister Bundle

A novel change from regular old cell phone selfies, older kids and teens will love taking and printing photos from this gadget. The Fujifilm INSTAX Mini comes with film included, so the kids in your life can start taking photos with you right after they open your gift. It’s also great for a tween or teen who has an upcoming event, like a cool class trip or a dance.

$60 at Walmart

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$60 at Amazon

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

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