Why Parents Recommend These 38 Gifts for 1-Year-Olds

Is it really the year Barbie premieres if you didn’t get the baby in your life a hot pink ride-on toy? By all means, you can go with the classic Little Tikes Cozy Coupe (my kids go crazy for the ice cream truck version), but a little kitsch will add some razzle to daily walks. There’s a safety belt and a foldable handle, but the toy’s unique features are the so-called Whisper Wheels and the poppable hood for storage (yes, like a Tesla frunk). FYI, the Step2 car also comes in a cool blue for something a little more chill.

What our expert says: “My kids all cycled through a red version of this car when they were in the 1- to 2-year-old range. It was such a hit… and it clearly is with everyone else in my neighborhood, since I see these cars all over the place on a daily basis!" — Earley

Musical toys are great developmental gifts for babies and toddlers, and this one is a regular on “best toys” lists for playtime. It also happens to be one of the most popular toys in this guide, according to Glamour readers. With a mini xylophone, clacking saddles, and a detachable maraca, this little llama will make a standout first birthday gift.

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When in doubt, snag a pull toy (that essentially doubles as a push toy) to help encourage movement and coordination. Hape makes a series of animal-themed ones that have hidden talents, like this cat whose yarn ball bobbles up and down with every step.

What our expert says: “This toy is so adorable in action. And as a nice little bonus that’ll make you seem totally in the know: My friends gush about the fact that Hape is one of the most storied sustainable toddler toy brands out there.” — Earley

Remember what we said about fine motor skills? Here’s a way to get their hand-eye coordination going. Sure, the parents can take an old Kleenex box and wrap rubber bands around it for the same effect, but that takes more effort, plus this will last longer and ensure no miniature hands are snapped in the toy-rescuing process.

What our expert says: “This is a simple toy that gets a surprising amount of mileage. It's a little challenging at first, especially for kids just turning one, but that's a good thing, since it'll grow with them. If your baby is anything like mine, they'll probably shake it around for the rattle sounds until about 18 months when they'll master the toy for what it's really meant for." — Earley

There’s an endless array of baby bath toys that’ll serve as wonderful distractions while their parents are going in on those neck folds, but how about the promise of a glow-in-the-dark tub? Drop this little birthday buddy into the water, and he lights up, making the experience more like a party than a daily chore. There are tons of other characters available, too, including faves likes Sesame Street and Daniel Tiger. This is a very good thing, because your kiddos will definitely ask for more.

What our expert says: “My kids have had these—there are tons of characters to choose from, and believe me, you’ll collect them all—for going on four years now and are just as obsessed as they were on day one. They make bath time so much fun!" — Earley

If you’re looking for a plush toy, make sure you check out Gund. It’s one of the oldest makers of soft toys in the US, having been established more than 100 years ago. While Gund is known for its vintage-looking teddy bears, we think the additional selection of somewhat unusual animals, like this too-cute hippopotamus, make great gifts. They're not just ultra-cute, either. They're thoughtfully designed with features like quilted feet and ears to promote tactile play.

What our expert says: “It's rare to see my friend's child without this hippo in tow. Her mom doesn’t mind, either, since it’s 100% machine-washable.” — Earley

In the world of baby toys, you’d be hard-pressed to come across a wish list without Melissa & Doug on it. And why not? The manufacturer—the owners are parents of six!—is beloved for its unique wooden puzzles that are as educational as they are durable. If the babe already has a puzzle, level up their collection with this larger wooden activity table.

What our expert says: I couldn’t even begin to count the number of toys my four kids have from this brand! The wood is highly durable, so the toys really hold up through years of rigorous play.

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Babes don’t always play with toys the “right” way, and that’s okay. Until they’re developmentally ready to engage with this versatile play set as a shape sorter, the shapes can be played with on their own. It’s also especially useful for parents and kids on the go, since it allows for easy transport and even easier clean-up.

What our expert says: “I have a friend who keeps this little kit in the trunk of her car. She pulls it out for restaurants, doctor’s offices, or even just a traffic jam. Brilliant!" — Earley

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First things first: a crown for the little king or queen’s first birthday. You can customize this beautiful handmade creation with pom-pom colors and the stitching, but no matter what you choose, the design will be picture-perfect. Good things, because you know you're going to snap a portrait of your little one wearing this gem. It's not a one-and-done item for the first birthday, either. One of the best things about this linen birthday crown is that it can be used for years to come, thanks to easily adjustable cotton ties.

What our expert says: “These are just as precious as they look—maybe even more so. The fabric is so soft and the attention to detail is unmatched. A real heirloom piece.” — Brigitt Earley

How can you make something practical, like clothes, seem cool to a one-year-old? Pick something with their favorite TV character on it, of course. Hanna Andersson delivers (per usual) with this cozy graphic sweater that’s covered in sketches of Bluey and vibrant red balloons. If your little one's preferences skew in another direction, don't keep scrolling. Hit the hoodie section of Hanna Andersson's site, where you'll find all kinds of other characters—Snoopy, Spiderman, Pokemon, and more—that may strike their fancy.

What our expert says: “We don't have this exact sweater, but oh boy, do we have Hanna Andersson clothes in this house. We have everything from jammies to sweaters, and love them all for the fun prints and soft fabrics.” — Earley

Need something extra quiet for play in the car or on a plane? Press toys are gaining traction as the new fidget spinners (you see versions of this in every goodie bag that comes home), but they’re much safer for babies to engage with. This aesthetically pleasing imitation paint palette will keep their little hands—and brains—occupied with minimal sound.

What our expert says: “My twins take theirs ('my poppy') everywhere, even their cribs at nap time. I don’t mind, because it’s quiet and mess-free.” — Earley

A step up from a traditional puzzle (because that only keeps them occupied for so long!), this personalized busy board has other engaging elements for development that will keep a toddler, well, busy. It has all kinds of stimulating gizmos on it, including zippers, buttons, and shapes perfect for enhancing those fine motor skills. It even has numbers, clocks, and latches that’ll come in handy later.

What our expert says: “We have something similar and the kids especially loved the latches and spinning features around one. Now, my 6-year-old likes it for the laces… he's using it to learn how to tie his shoes!" — Earley

One-year-olds are in the cause-and-effect stage, so this walker is great for helping them understand that actions have consequences. At the base of the contraption, there’s a set of jangling beads that rotate with every step they take. And if they aren’t taking steps quite yet, the face of this walker has plenty of activities for sitters and squatters.

What our expert says: "This toy has tons of play potential, which is obviously a great thing for a busy one-year-old. But as a parent who knows toys never really get put away where they should, I really appreciate the muted aesthetic too." — Earley

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When it comes to sensory activities, bubbles are a surefire win. But kids at this age can't do it themselves (they just spill the liquid everywhere), so the onus is on the caregiver—fun for the first five minutes! Thankfully, this gal is very lightweight and battery-operated, so you can bring it anywhere, and it’ll pump out hundreds of bubblers per minute. Bonus: The bubble formula is premixed and won’t leave the kiddo with sticky hands.

What our expert says: “At the risk of sounding lazy, I love that I don’t have to blow bubbles for minutes on end—just switch it on.” — Earley

Year one of a baby’s life is full of opportunities to build their fine motor skills (movements that involve smaller muscles, like those in fingers), and by 12 months they may be able to grab—and control—crayons, especially larger ones. These chubby little nontoxic sticks are safe if babies are still mouthing objects, since they’re made of 100% pure New Zealand beeswax and food-grade coloring ingredients. They don’t break like normal crayons, either.

What our expert says: “I put these to the test, but they didn't snap, even when I gave it my all." — Earley

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Imaginative play will be right around the corner, and the parents don’t need to find space for a replica of their kitchen to get their child started. Small sets like this little doctor’s case can help introduce pretend play and may help ward off some of the “stranger danger” reactions at their next doctor visit.

What our expert says: “We gave this to our oldest child when his younger brother was born, and it was a definite ice-breaker for the pair. He loved giving his little sibling ‘checkups.’”

Is there anything more adorable than seeing a baby in pint-sized versions of adult favorites? You'll give the baby in your life instant street cred with these white sneakers from Nike. Perfect timing, since they're probably just starting to take their first steps, too.

What our expert says: “My son got these from his grandparents for Christmas, and I’ve been jealous of them ever since. Turns out everyone is—we get compliments everywhere we go. And best of all, I think he knows just how cool they are. It’s one pair he never refuses.” — Earley

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One-year-olds have energy to spare, but they’re not exactly the most coordinated individuals. This adorable rocker (from former Teen Vogue editor in chief Elaine Welteroth’s curated Pottery Barn guide) will help them practice their balance and—even better—channel their energy into contained motions. Make it even more meaningful by personalizing it with the little one’s name.

Ideal for Montessori-style learning, this standing chair fosters family bonding time over dinner prep by getting the little one at counter level and into the mix. The stool is incredibly sturdy—it holds up to 150 pounds. It also comes in five finishes to suit your decor.

What our expert says: “This item was high on my list when my first turned one. It made things so much easier when I was prepping dinner. It’s no wonder I see a version of the stool in almost every house I walk into.” — Earley

Zoos, theme parks, uneven sidewalks—they’re no match for the Veer Cruiser. It has room for more than one kiddo, plus endless attachments to soup it up, from cup holders to canopies, and much, much more. If you’re looking for an OMG-worthy baby gift, look no further.

What our expert says: “My friend Kyla, a mom of two toddlers, says it best: ‘If the classic stroller is a minivan, consider the Veer a Cadillac Escalade.'" — Earley

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Baby dolls can help toddlers learn how to nurture and empathize—which is especially meaningful when the toy they’re caring for resembles them. Manhattan Toy has six Playdate Friends of differing sexes and skin tones, each with some serious sartorial style and their own stuffed animal companion. The doll is super soft and durable, but what parents love the most? The entire thing is washable—perfect when your child totes theirs, well, everywhere.

What our expert says: “I like the 14-inch size of this doll, plus the fact that it's made of such a soft material. At this age, the hard plastic dolls are too heavy for their little hands.” — Earley

Kids love building blocks and shape sorting—especially when they’re as colorful as this set from the beloved toy brand Lovevery. When the tot is on the younger side of one, parents and caregivers can assemble the tower, then let baby bat it down. (A sure squeal inducer!) As they get older, they’ll create their own patterns and structures. This 10-piece block set is extra special, since it comes in fun colors and comes with a guide that illustrates 20 stage-based activities.

What our expert says: “We've had these blocks since they first came out a couple of years ago, and they still look brand new, despite all the play time they've seen. Now that my kids are a little older, I regularly ask them to go downstairs and build me a tower when we're struggling to find an activity. They build the most inspiring structures, and are so proud of their creations!” — Earley

One of the most highly anticipated milestones happens around the time baby turns one: They’ll finally utter a few words. And one of the best ways for little ones to learn language is through repetition. You might have to listen to the same words over and over again, but babies love pushing the buttons in this interactive book. “The audio is very clear and easy to understand, so any child trying to learn words should have no trouble with it,” says one user. “Also, I love that it has the option to change to Spanish. Why not make him bilingual?”

Another perennial favorite that makes a great birthday gift, this push toy not only helps stabilize early walkers, but it also spits out hundreds of bubbles as they walk.

What our expert says: “In addition to the bubbles (obviously!), my son loved the imaginative aspect of this toy. He followed his dad around as he mowed, pretending to big his big helper. I do think it's worth noting that this toy is kind of flimsy, but we still got plenty of mileage out of it.” — Earley

You don’t have to do all kinds of research to find out what kind of toys are developmentally-appropriate for a one-year-old—you can just buy this curated kit from Lalo. Each “play box” is filled with sustainably-made, non-toxic toys that support specific stages of growth.

What our expert says: “My twins recently received a box, and we were blown away how beautifully-made everything is. Even better, they’ve held the kids’ attention for weeks, even the older siblings'!” — Earley

A personalized puzzle is my go-to gift for one-year-olds. It’s not all that expensive yet still feels super thoughtful. Plus, it’s a fun activity that’ll help the budding toddler—eventually—learn to recognize and even spell their name.

What our expert says: “This iteration is one of the more customizable ones I've seen. You can include up to 20 characters, choose pegs (great for the one-year-old age group) or no pegs, choose from 15 color schemes, opt for free back engraving, and even add a display stand (genius!) for a small fee.” — Earley

As the little munchkin gets more vocal, their feelings get bigger… much, much bigger. This adorable little plush comes with a companion book that tackles tough topics like conflict resolution to help kiddos—parents!—navigate the tough stuff.

What our experts say: :Slumberkins have helped me immensely with all four of my children, plus they’re some of the softest stuffed animals I’ve ever snuggled." — Earley

Parents who swear by montessori-style play say this climbing set—often called a pikler triangle—is the perfect antidote to a rainy afternoon. It's stable and well-made, so you don't have to worry about your little one's safety. (Of course, we do recommend supervising this activity!) It also has three lockable height positions to suit your child's motor skills now… and as they grow.

What our experts say: “I think this is the only thing we’ve ever owned that kept my energetic kids from jumping off the couch over and over again.” — Earley

It may not look like much, but these colorful suction-cupped pieces are highly versatile Your kiddo can use them to create all kinds of shapes while working on those fine motor skills. They’re also the perfect size for on-the-go fun—they stick to car or airplane windows, plus tables at restaurants.

What our expert says: “This is another toy that some of my friends keep in their car for on-the-go fun. The food-grade silicone has excellent suction and can be safely used on the window next to your kiddo's car seat.” — Earley

Think of this set as their very first dollhouse. All of the pieces and figurines are the perfect easy-to-grasp size for one-year-olds. The house itself is sturdy enough to withstand play, plus packed with interactive features to help hone those fine motor skills. Tiny hands will have fun rolling the train down the ramp to hear fun sounds from Mickey, twirling the Dumbo ride, spinning Tinker Bell, and pressing a special button to reveal Donald Duck.

What our expert says: “My friend’s 18-month-old loves all of her Little People (she has Disney characters, farm animals, and more) so much that she refuses to go to bed without saying goodnight to each and every one.”

For little ones still mastering the art of walking, a push toy like this shopping cart is a helpful aid. As they grow, they’ll find new ways to play with the wooden toy. Will they use it as the shopping cart it's intended to be? The jury is out on that one, but it doesn't matter. Kids sure do like pushing this wooden cart around and filling it up with whatever is in their path, including one another (not recommended!). Parents praise it as a looker—something that can't be said for a lot of other kids' toys.

These trucks are beloved by the construction-obsessed kids out there (trust me, they’re aplenty!). They're undeniably simple, but that's part of the charm, especially for one-year-olds. That's because there's nothing frustrating about them… young toddlers can easily figure out how to manipulate the few parts that move, but mostly just zoom them about. Also nice: They're highly durable and made from earth-friendly BPA-free recycled plastic.

What our expert says: “We’ve had this set for years, and they’re still favorites. I love the price—the perfect birthday party gift or sticker chart prize." — Earley

Uggs have been on a many a Christmas list over the years, and we recommend adding it to your newly-minted toddler's ASAP. The suede and wool shoes are just as comfy and stylish as their adult counterparts, but feature a very important design feature for this age group: a discrete hook-and-loop closure on the front for easy on and off. Your kiddo will be putting these on without your help before you know it.

What our experts say: “Baby Uggs are just one of those things that grab everyone's attention. But it's the special closure that seals the deal on these for me. I learned a long time ago: I don't want to be struggling to put on four pairs of shoes every morning!” — Earley

Babies love anything that looks like something their favorite adults—their parents, of course—use, which is part of what makes this interactive flashlight such a hit. Kids can turn it on and off (and trust me when I say they'll do that over and over again), plus press various buttons to trigger 50 sing-along songs, music, sounds and fun phrases. For early learners, it also counts out numbers 1, 2, and 3.

Now that baby has probably officially outgrown their infant car seat, stroller options open up ten-fold. Double strollers or wagons for sibling pairs or easy-breezy umbrella strollers for traveling… the sky is the limit. But we love this Jeep jogging stroller for active parents who want something easy to push, light, foldable, and sturdy all at the same time. It's a fraction of the price of other comparable models, too, which makes it a tangible gift idea for the little one in your life… and let's be honest, the parents too!

This colorful toy has three strong suction cups that adhere to the surface of baby's tub to create a floating piano of sorts. Each whale functions as a “key”—press them and they'll sing the notes Do, Re, Mi, Sol, La while spraying water from their spouts. It's engaging and interactive, and also teaches baby all about cause and effect.