23 No-Fail Gifts for Kids, From Baby Gear to Trendy Teen Must-Haves

For the One Who Loves Storytime

Nothing’s better than a gift you can keep on giving — and that’s what you get with Toniebox. This interactive device was made for independent play for kiddos ages one through nine, allowing them to listen to stories, play games and more. Each figurine offers a unique experience, so once you’ve purchased the starter pack, you can continue to buy new options (including Ms. Rachel or a Disney Princess bundle) for birthdays and other special occasions.

For the Kid With a Wild Imagination

While these foam cushions go together to form a tiny foam couch, kids can dream up a million ways to play with them. It’s a ramp today, a fort tomorrow and a slide on Friday. Don’t have the room? Grab a mini version instead!

For the Mini Animal Lover

Melissa & Doug have a wide range of fun toys, from pretend ice cream shops to dentist kits complete with fake teeth. But little animal lovers will love playing vet. Not only does this set include the essentials like a stethoscope and a thermometer, but you also get a tiny plush dog and cat, so they can get to work right away!

For the Photographer in Training

In a world where so much is digital, give them a camera that prints their photos! They’ll have so much fun capturing family and friends at holiday gatherings, and later on, they can display their work in their room. Thanks to the three volumes of paper, it’s possible to print up to 372 black and white pics, but the included SD card also saves a color version of the shot.

For the Newborn

New baby in the family? Introduce them (and their parents) to an earworm about a purple monkey in a bubblegum tree (even John Legend has covered the catchy song!). This musical mat will keep baby occupied, whether they’re kicking the light-up piano or grabbing for the hanging toys. Parents can also adjust the setup as their little one grows, with the piano turning into a separate toy once they reach toddlerhood.

For the Sports Fanatic

Let them practice dunking from their bedroom, or get the whole fam in on the fun by hanging a hoop in the playroom. Either way, your little sports lover will have a chance to improve their skills (and parents who grew up in the ‘90s will enjoy a bit of nostalgic fun).

For the One Who Loves Movie Night

Give movie night an elaborate upgrade by getting them a small projector. They can keep it in their room in place of a TV or set it up in the basement, living room or even outside. While the price is right, you won’t have to worry about quality. “This is by far the best mini projector I have seen,” one reviewer wrote. “Incredibly easy to use right out of the box. You just plug it in and there you go. You’re done.”

For the Ferocious Reader

The Harry Potter fandom is still going strong, and if the kid in your life loves reading or is fascinated by magical worlds, the series makes the perfect present. While these bulky books might feel intimidating to some, you can always offer to read the chapters together for a fun bonding experience. It’s a win-win!

For the One Who Values Personal Space

A secret, chill spot of their very own? That’s what they’ll get with Live Dove’s play tent, which includes chic twinkling lights and flag decor. Once it’s set up, they can play house, draw, read or do whatever their heart desires, away from the busyness of the world (or the chaos of little siblings).

For the Builder

Does your kid have an obsession with trucks or enjoy a good Lego project? This construction toy is calling their name. The under-$10 find is multiple activities in one — after it’s built, it’s able to dig and drive, keeping them occupied for a solid chunk of time (hopefully).

For the Family

The perfect stocking stuffer or family gift, this silly game is sure to earn a few laughs. Each card contains multiple questions meant to be conversation starters. You ask the group, everyone tries to guess your answer and a good time ensues. Many reviewers note that it’s great for older kids and preteens.

For the Mini Beauty Lover

Should a 10-year-old have better nails than you? No. . . but they’re going to with this kit of colorful press-ons. They’re not just pretty to look at, either — Amazon shoppers swear they’re “excellent quality” and easy to use.

For the Future Author

Encourage them to write (and practice their handwriting) with a set of blank books. Not only are they perfect for the kid who loves making up stories and dreams of becoming an author, but the cover is also blank, allowing them to draw and doodle as well.

For the Tween

Tweens and teens can be tough to buy for, but if you’re struggling to come up with ideas for the mini makeup lover in your life, scoop up this trendy set of lip masks and balms (and one for yourself while you’re at it). Trust Us, at least one of their friends will be getting the same thing.

For the Little Learner

If you feel bad buying a toy or gift that isn’t educational, combine the best of both worlds with a KiwiCo gift card. With the subscription service, kids from ages zero to 12 and beyond receive a monthly crate containing an item or project that allows them to learn and explore. All of it is based on STEAM — science, technology, art, engineering and math — so they’re using their brain while also having fun.

For the Future Fashion Influencer

Ralph Lauren style is seeing a resurgence right now, so why not get your kid in on the fun? This sweet cable-knit sweater is a classic, and one they’ll get great use out of all winter long. So chic!

For the Gamer or F1 Fan

Does your kid love a good video game? Or have they been watching F1 and feeling the need for speed? This wheel and pedal combo takes racing games to the next level, allowing players to experience the thrill of being a professional driver — safely, from the comfort of their living room.

For Mama’s Mini

Does your baby love copying everything you do? Get them their own set of everyday essentials, including a tumbler, car keys and play earbuds, all of which light up and play music to keep them entertained.

For the Dessert Lover

A sweet treat, anyone? The whole family can join in on the fun with this little ice cream maker, which produces soft serve in half an hour or less. Just add the ingredients, press the button and voilà — you’re basically done. If you want, add some sprinkles and cones to your gift to make it a full kit!

For the Baby on the Move

Encourage them to get their (first!) steps in with this classic push toy. The balls pop around inside and keep baby curious. The item itself is pretty compact, so it won’t take up much room. There’s a reason this one has stood the test of time – and why it was purchased over 9K times on Amazon in the past month!

For the Ms. Rachel Fan

We’re sure your toddler would love to meet the actual Ms. Rachel, but if that isn’t possible, this interactive plushie is the next best thing. It recites the same phrases you hear on the hit show and encourages your little one to repeat them back, sing and talk.

For the Stuffie-Obsessed

Rather than picking out a bear or stuffed animal for your little one, let them choose — and stuff! — their own! There are so many cool options at Build-A-Bear right now, from the Grinch to Wicked-themed pals, so they’ll definitely enjoy their time at the store (plus, it’s another thing you can even do together). This gift card will be much appreciated, and it saves you the stress of guessing what they’ll like the most.

For the Foodie

Montessori moms can stock this little fridge with grab-and-go snacks, while teens will appreciate a place to store their Prime drinks and leftovers from dining with friends. Plus, this pick doesn’t just cool — there’s also a heating option, so if they’re too booked and busy for dinner, they can store the plate in their room and break it out later.