The Best Toys for 3-Year-Olds
This feature is part of Cubby's Gift Edit, our editor-curated collection of gift ideas for every occasion. Need more inspiration? Check out all our guides here.
My daughter recently turned four, so the play life of a three-year-old is fresh in my mind. Though she’s a girl, she loved typical “boy” toys just as much as her dress-up clothes and dolls. I’ve found that it’s important to try not to get caught up in gender stereotypes when searching for toys for kids.
We’ve used many of the toys on this list in our home, and we talked to parents of other three-year-olds as well to get a feel for what kids enjoy playing with.
What to Look for in Toys for 3-Year-Olds
Most three-year-olds are now ready to play with toys that have small parts, but you know your child best. If he or she still tends to put things in their mouth, stay away from toys that are choking hazards.
Many three-year-olds are becoming more interested in pretend play and social play; a lot of the toys we included are ideal for both of those. Three-year-olds are also incredibly active, so look for toys that help them burn off some of their energy. Many kids are starting to kick and throw, and they may be recognizing letters, numbers, and letter sounds.
Our Top Pick
Our top pick, the Youth Astronaut Helmet from Aeromax ($25), is such a fun dress-up toy for kids of all ages, but especially three-year-olds who are really getting into pretend play, by themselves and with other kids.
In this article: Toys Under $20 | Toys $20 – $40 | Toys $40+
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