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Promising review: "My niece loved getting this for her birthday." —R. G. Nazzaro

This bundle comes with a mix of 10 Daniel Tiger and classic story cartridges plus the Daniel Tiger and Owl figurine. Additional characters are also available for adding to their collection.

Promising reviews: "This is a life-changing experience for parents who have active kiddos. Brought this for my grandsons so that they had something else better than their electronic devices, and my daughter thanks me so much. It keeps them busy for hours, she says, and it gives her time to do other things around the house. I highly recommend this." —Stephen Savage

"This projector is a bedtime game-changer. Stories and songs are the perfect length to include in your little ones' schedule and help them calm down before sleep. Both my 3- and 4-year-olds love all the stories and look forward to choosing a story and a song every night. We have had it for a few weeks now, and it works perfectly. Batteries last long. We got four cartridges to start, and the kids have not been able to listen to all the stories yet, because they love and learn through repetition, but I think eventually we will end up purchasing them all. It's not inexpensive, but it's something they can grow up with and learn different things at different ages." —Maria

The wooden ice cream counter comes with eight ice cream scoops, six toppings, two cones, a cup, a scooper, tongs, a wooden spoon, a reusable menu card, and six pretend dollar bills.

Promising review: "I purchased this for my 3-year-old nephew, and he loved it! It's the only toy that he has played with for months and months. By far, the best gift I've purchased yet. Highly recommend!" —Amazon Customer

It can also be wrapped around their bedposts, backpack straps, lamps, and anywhere else where they might want a lil' friend to hang out! 

Promising review: "This was a birthday gift for my granddaughter, 5. She loves it, has so much fun wearing it on her arm, or wrapped around her purse. She keeps it twisted on her bedpost at night. Very cute and has kept a little girl happy for well over a month now. She has taken it for rides in her jeep and also has twisted it around the swing while she is swinging. She was sitting in the tree house the other day reading it a story. CUTE :)" —Deborah

Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (also available in a different color).

Promising review: "I have always prided myself on being the aunt who gives the best gift and this year I'm positive I'll win again! I bought these for my niece and nephews ages 6–12. I thought i would try them out one night when my daughter (age 22) was visiting. Her exact words were,"where were these when I was a kid!?!?"

So long story short, I have to buy 1 more. They fascinate my 22-year-old daughter so I can't wait to see my niece and nephews faces when they open it on Christmas and I can officially declare myself kids gift-giving champion again! Highly recommend. Great price." —Kelli Burlingame

Get it from Amazon for $25.60+ (available in seven colors).

This is one of my kiddo's most FAVORITE toys. We got it two  Christmas ago, and it still gives us hours of family play, even a year and a half later! Perfect for those rainy days when you want to get out some kiddo wiggles without too much effort on your part.

Promising reviews: "This toy is so awesome that I have now purchased three! Every child loves it! Heck, I like playing with it, too! Push the nose button, hide it. Bluey talks every 20 seconds or so, until you find her. Then you push the button, and it plays the theme song. Kids burst into dancing. I HIGHLY recommend this gift." —Florida Buyer

"My niece loves this toy! She carries it around everywhere, she loves Bluey! It’s small enough for her to carry and she loves to take it everywhere with her! A must buy for all Bluey fans." —Amber N

Get it from Amazon for $10.10+ (also available in a Bingo version and a newer model).

I was actually surprised at how eager my son was to try the poses. I figured there would be a lot of rolling around of the yoga buddy and not much else, but the pose cards really game-ified it for him, and he has played with it NUMEROUS times. Now we can do yoga together!

Promising review: "Got these for my great nieces. I think they're going to love it, and I have also seen that on YouTube, you can follow some exercise videos along with the cards." —Walmart Customer

Get it from Walmart for $24.97 (also available in penguin and unicorn versions).

My son carried one of these in the car for a ~long~ time, and I still get a happy little jolt of serotonin when I see it in photos because it was entertaining without being annoying to me as an adult human parent, so it's basically also a gift for your sibling, too. (They are WELCOME.)

Promising reviews: "My baby has been obsessed with this since she got it! I enjoy that she can flip through the pages herself, and she loves to touch the words she knows. It is built tough, especially against a toddler throwing it around." —Kelsey

"This book was a birthday gift for my daughter from her uncle and it is awesome. She loves books and this one you just touch the pictures and it tells you what it is, a fact about the picture you touched and a song. Has tons of things for your toddler to learn about. Like colors, fruit, food, clothes, body, animals ect… definitely worth buying." —Megan Nicolle

Get it from Amazon for $24.90+ (available in two colors). 

Promising review: "Looking for 'Cool Aunt/Uncle Points'? Look no further! Got this for my niece's fifth birthday. She's still too young to dedicate too much time to it now, but over time, I know she'll pick it up more. When she opened it, I was relieved that all her little friends knew what it was and raved about it in excitement. Her older sister (10) shares it in the meantime, and was very fascinated." —Dylan Castro

Get it from Amazon for $25.49 (also available in three other styles, including Disney).

My kiddo is too young to *read* the books, but gosh does he love snuggling this kitty! It's the perfect size for kiddos and bigger kiddos (ie, adults) alike!  

Promising reviews: "Such a cute plush gift to go along with the Warrior Cat Novel Series and Comic Series! My daughter received Brightheart! She is already requesting more!" —TargetPractice

"I bought this for my daughter who is a huge Warriors fan and has many plushes from the website. She got Scourge and he's bigger than the large plushes from the Warriors site and SO soft. The quality is great and I was very impressed at the price. She adores him. If you're a Warriors fan or have one in your life I'd definitely pick one of these up!!" —Em

Promising review: "Love this puzzle, my nieces and I enjoyed putting this puzzle together and enjoyed the secret at the end as well. The different rooms were so fun to look at individually and the art is wonderful. We even enjoyed the 'I spy' section after finishing the puzzle and the fact that it told a story. A great spin on a classic pastime." —Takirah Griffin

If you've given this puzzle in the past, or they're already a fan, don't fret! They've released several series of puzzles — you can shop them all on Amazon.

Promising reviews: "I got a set for my girls (3.5 and 1.5), and they are obsessed. We use them on hikes and at the zoo. I did end up tying the string together because the anti-choke clasp just kept coming undone too easily, and I was constantly fixing it. Yes, it is only a simple magnifying view, but that’s all they need at this age." —Eliza

"I bought these binoculars for my nephew, and they were an instant hit! He didn’t take them off all day and spent hours running around investigating everything. They’re the perfect size for little hands, lightweight, and durable enough to withstand all his adventures.

The clarity is impressive for kids’ binoculars, and they’ve sparked so much curiosity and creativity in him. A fantastic gift for any young explorer—highly recommend!" —Madison Cook

This science kit includes natural crystal-filled geodes (quantity depends on the size you choose), a pair of safety goggles, a geode display stand(s), and a learning guide.

Promising reviews: "My daughter is 10, and this kept her busy for HOURS! She had so much fun and was excited every time she got a glimpse of what might be inside. A couple of them were pretty cool, while the rest were just white. She didn't care, she loves them all. She was so proud to gift them to her grandparents." —Michelle

"My 5-year old great-niece (and her daddy) LOVED opening the geodes to see the crystals inside! The kit was a big hit at Christmas. The Nat Geo kits offer learning opportunities that are engaging for both kids and their parents!" —HarperLeeFan

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in three sizes). 

There are lots of other Bananagrams options, including a winter wonderland version!

Promising reviews: "My 17-year-old niece asked for this for Christmas, so I bought it for her, and we ended up playing many times over Christmas break while they were up visiting. It was way more fun than I was expecting, so I ended up buying another one for myself so my hubby and I can play at home after our littles go to bed instead of staring at our phones." —Amber

"I really enjoy this game. Being a Scrabble lover, this really hit home. I like that you can play by yourself, too. I played with my nephew and brother. We kept saying 'one more game.' :) This one is a real winner." —Amazon Customer

Promising reviews: "My son received this set as a gift for Christmas, and he really loves it. I asked the gifter where they got it, and I have since bought the same set two times as a gift to other toddlers my son's age. And each time, it's a huge hit! Kids are just obsessed with this. Even I had fun playing this with my son. I like how versatile the tracks are. Totally worth it!" —olive 

"My three year old great nephew now thinks I am the coolest aunt in the world. It is easy to put together and fun for many ages." —Cindy Manjounes

Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in two colors and a shark version).

Promising review: "Absolutely a MUST for any Dino-loving kid. Purchased for 3- and 2-year-old nephews and both LOVED the egg hatching process. All the adults watching were amazed, seriously the coolest thing ever and worth the price just for that experience! The training/clicker was over that age levels head but the Dino itself is cool and easily can be played with without that process. Hands down one of the best gifts Ive ever given!!" —Katy Dennis

Promising reviews: "My niece absolutely loves this! She won’t stop playing with it." —Natalie

Get it from Target for $39.99 (also available in Disney Princess, Marvel, classic Disney, and Hello Kitty styles). 

Promising review: "Got this for my 9 year old niece. She loves Lego. I had concerns that it might be too complex for her since it was advertised as 18 year old. But she came by yesterday and completed the build without any challenges (while simultaneously listening/looking at some unrelated YouTube vids). She absolutely love it. And she never even knew these Lego flowers existed so got some "cool uncle" point!" —C. Lue

They also have a Wi-Fi version that is available for preorder!

Promising reviews: "I bought my niece a Tin Can because I wanted to be able to call her and her brother without having to go through their parents. My niece just turned 5 and she calls me on her own when she wants. Her brother is older and we uses her phone quite a bit too! I love it!!" —Berenice M

"My son loves it! He has had so much fun calling family. My family has also loved being able to call him, and he gets so excited to answer the telephone. Highly recommend it!" —Sutton B.

"The Flashback has been a wonderful addition for our family! My kids love coming home, calling relatives or friends to see how their days have gone, or see if they can set up playdates. Hearing the phone ring makes their eyes light up with excitement! I cannot rave enough about having this phone now!! We absolutely love it! I've been recommending it for friends who don't want to get another cellphone but still want their kids to have the capability of calling family. Such an amazing addition!" —Veronica F.

Promising review: "We got this for our 5-month-old since he loves to try and hold/catch running water. He LOVES this! In the tub, it gets him sooo excited. We have even taken it outside in his small, shallow splash pad, and it still works. He loves catching the water and picking it up. And in the tub likes to try to sneak a sip haha. He is now almost 8 months old and is still obsessed. There are sensors on the bottom that, when it hits the water, will turn it on, and when it needs to be charged, it will just shut off. A definite bathtub fave for sure!" —Jo Edith

"OMG!!! My niece loves it!!! She’s 2 and she giggles and now my sister has a hard time taking her out of the tub!!! Highly recommend." —Maria Leon

Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in six colors).

My son is OBSESSED with this Toothless. If you're a '90s baby like me, *THIS* is what we wanted from those robo-dogs as kids, but now the kids in our lives can live that fully realized dream.

Promising review: "I'm obsessed with this Toothless figure from the How to Train Your Dragon series. The design looks great and the light effects really make it stand out. It's high quality and super interactive, keeping my kid entertained for hours. The product definitely exceeded expectations in both appearance and functionality." —Caroline

Get it from Walmart for $24.98 (originally $53.97).

Promising reviews: "This was bought as a last-minute Christmas gift for my teen daughter. She absolutely loves it! I was a bit taken aback by the price, but after seeing it in action, it was totally worth it! The speaker quality is great, and it has a ton of unique features that set it apart from similar products. Also, it comes in super cute packaging!" —jjwhray

"It was a gift for my niece, and boy, she loved it. Not just her, but the whole family. Now my nephew wants one, so yes, I'll buy it again." —chachalaco

Get it from Amazon for $75.99 (available in five colors).

Promising review: "I'm shocked at how much my now 8-year-old nephews (3 of them) still use this to this day. The thing is, I bought this because it was easier and cheaper to buy one game for four kids than it was to buy one gift each for four kids. This hit all the boxes as far as being right for them.

Here we are, 2 years later, and they still love it and play it every weekend as if it were brand new. Super aunt? Not sure about any of that, but I'm really happy that I got them all something they collectively love ... and together too!!" —Roxanna

Promising review: "Bought them for my 3-year-old niece and 1-year-old nephew. They throw them down from the second story of their house. Intended for just a fun time Christmas morning, but my sister-in-law told me they're still playing with them a year later, so for the price, it's worth it. The parachutes do open quickly, so they fall pretty well, and the kids have fun with them." —Amazon Customer

Get a pack of four from Amazon for $8.99 (available in three colors).

Promising reviews: "I have a son who is almost 2-years-old. If I could only have one toy for him, this would be it. He has been obsessed with this toy since he was old enough to hit the button on his own, and he still loves it now that he's almost 2. I never would have thought that this toy could be so essential or important. It seemed neat and popular, so I got it along with a lot of other stuff before he was born. I had no idea how endlessly entertaining such a simple toy could be. If I ever have another child, I will probably buy a new one just because the sticker has become so worn with use." —JHev

"I had to get this for my nephew’s first birthday since this was my kiddo’s favorite toy for years!! He loved it, the lights and songs keep them engaged. Definitely recommend!!" —Autumn

Promising reviews: "This was my son’s favorite birthday gift! It has a long-lasting battery. The seatbelts are great for little ones riding in them. The tilt bed was fun to empty dirt when helping in the yard. Easy-to-follow instructions for assembly. No weather-fading. It’s still running strong." —DCasey655

"Love the look of this machine, and my nephew loves it. It’s fast too, unlike others that have only one speed; this thing moves. The only thing I wish this had was rubber wheels. Found a workaround, but it isn’t ideal, but overall, it's worth the spend. For the wheels, you will need to screw bike tires to the wheels so you get traction when off-road." —Justin Miller

Promising reviews: "This is the cutest little house and honestly very impressively constructed! Way nicer to look at in the yard than the plastic ones and very worth the extra money. Having the kitchen, doorbell and phone are a huge hit for my daughter! She squealed when she first walked in! The directions are very easy to follow, I did it mostly myself with a drill. I would recommend doing the roof last, because otherwise assembling everything on the inside is not ideal for an adult!" —Fair Customer

"I bought this for my 1.5-year-old niece, and she absolutely loves it! She plays in it every day! My brother had no problems putting it together for her and it arrived when it said it would." —Mariah

Get it from Amazon for $236.99+ (available in two colors).

There are free games on the system, but heads up that to access the full catalog, you must make a separate purchase of a 3-month ($49) or 12-month Play Pass ($89). (TOTALLY WORTH IT, Y'ALL. TRUST ME.) Seriously, let the cool aunt and uncle points STACK. UP.

Promising review: "Okay, I have been deemed 'Auntie of the Year!' for gifting this to my nephew for Christmas. I am also “Sister and Daughter of the Year” bc he is so physically tired and has had SO MUCH FUN after each time he plays on/with/in it. Such an awesome console, fantastic game selection (through subscription), and it wears out our 8-year-old when the winter weather doesn’t allow for outdoor activities. Thank you for this!

I also recommend purchasing the travel case as it will be taken to playdates and sleepovers. ;)" —AB Avid Shopper

Check out a TikTok of it in action here!

Bonus points that this totally means you can drop off all your Amazon boxes over at your sibling's house and call it ChompSaw philanthropy. 

Promising review: "My kids haven’t stopped. There’s cardboard everywhere. They are planning their cardboard DIY Halloween costumes already. The thing is amazing. Highly, highly recommend!!!!" —Nik

"I can't say enough good things about it! My 3-year-old nephew has been obsessed with the Chompsaw from the second the box was opened, and it's adorable how he keeps singing chomp-chomp-chomp when he is cutting all kinds of cardboard shapes. The quality of the product is incredible — I can tell that the designers have put a lot of thought into making the Chompsaw easy to use and safe for kids! I don't think it's just for kids, though. I have thought of so many things I can make with it! I am now planning to get one for myself so I can build a cardboard ramp for my dog!! Go ChompShop!! Thanks for making a great product!" —Prathyush

Nugget Comfort is a small biz based in Butner, North Carolina, that specializes in play furniture made out of foam cushions.

Promising review: "We absolutely love our nugget couch! The kids love using it as a crash pad, building forts, and climbing all over it. They’ve spent hours in their room playing with all the different pieces. The material is super soft and wipes clean from messes easily. Highly recommend this couch! Talked so highly of it that my sister bought one for her son’s birthday!" —Sydney R.

Get it from Nugget Comfort for $249+ (available in 24 colors and styles).

Promising review: "My daughter absolutely loves this climbing gym! It keeps her entertained for hours and provides a great way for her to stay active indoors. The design is sturdy and safe, and the 5-in-1 setup offers plenty of variety to keep her engaged. I love that it’s Montessori-inspired, encouraging independent play and motor skill development. Highly recommend for any parent looking for a fun and functional play gym!" —Carlos

Get it from Amazon for $219+ (available in two colors).

Don't forget the matching chairs for their graduation to Big Kid Table!

Promising review: "Purchased as a gift for our newest nephew. He’s 7 months. It was awesome watching him show super excitement while playing with it. It was a Christmas gift and he’s still loves it. Definitely a hit with him and his parents. :)" —SueDe425

Get it from Amazon for $149.99 (available in three styles).

It took my kiddo a minute to grow into this one, but once he did, he was OBSESSED. He's five now, but even at four he enjoyed the novelty of poking around with the pen. But now he can actually learn from Bindi Irwin, the Schumacher-family "taught by the Irwin fam" circle is complete.

Promising reviews: "Purchased this for my 6-year-old grandson who is fascinated with geography, maps, etc. He plays with it all the time and is learning a lot. I was very impressed with the quality and features. I am so very glad I ordered it. It’s his favorite Christmas gift. It’s fun listening to him tell me facts about different countries and the states. Love that it has states and capitals. Definitely would purchase it again." —Kathy L. Cluggish

"Bought this for a birthday present for my niece and she loves it!! She loves searching the globe and finding out interesting facts." —Beth B

My son was OBSESSED with the bunny for years. So much so that even though he's finally outgrown it, I'm saving it as a memento of his babyhood and toddlerdom.

Promising reviews: "This toy is the perfect size for babies and it’s very soft considering there’s animatronics inside. Hours of fun for the baby in your life." —Jesstin

"My best Christmas find was this, I bought this for my one year old son and one year old nephew and they just laughed and laughed with this toy. I am SO beyond happy I found this. I highly recommend !!! It is such an interactive toy for babies and toddlers!" —TY

Promising review: "I bought this toy smartphone for my grandson, and it has quickly become his absolute favorite toy! He loves the games, taking pictures, and all the fun features it offers. It keeps him entertained for hours, and he never stops thanking me for his 'phone.' The dinosaur design is adorable, and it’s perfect for kids aged 3–8. If you’re looking for a gift that’s both fun and engaging, this is a must-have. Highly recommend for any little ones who love pretending to have their own gadgets!"—Kristi S

"My nephew is obsessed, and my sister hates me for this. lol It is literally just like a phone, minus the calls. So if your child is obsessed with your phone, I highly recommend this." —Erin

Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in three colors/themes).

Psst — there is also a 14-inch version that can be upgraded with a kit to attach pedals when your kiddo is ready for some big-kid zoomies! Basically this company will grow with you (and the products are strong enough to get handed down to siblings/cousins/friends). I've already committed to buying the 14-inch when my kid outgrows this one, and my sister has called STRONG dibs on the 12-inch for my niece when the time comes. 😂

Promising reviews: "I don't know what I did without this bike. I have six children, and I bought this bike for my youngest son. I wish I had gotten one earlier. I'd seen them before but dismissed them and thought, 'Oh, they cost a lot, and would they really use them?' Well, I have gone through useless tricycles and push riders, and nothing compares to this little bike. My 3-year-old (who is a small 3-year-old) never gets off it. He loves this bike. Inside and outside! He could balance himself by lifting his feet within a week and cruising down hills like nobody's business. I think I love this bike as much as he does." —Mother of 6

"Bought for my great nephew for his 2nd birthday, and one for my granddaughter last year. I can easily carry this thing with one hand when they get tired out. Great quality! They both love them!!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $129.99 (available in seven colors).

Promising review: "I would recommend this product. The storage case is really handy, keeping everything organized. The set includes five tools and four colors, which keep kids busy for hours. The pizza cutter and cheese grater add a fun touch. Overall, a great sensory toy that encourages creativity and play." —Katie Hernan

Promising review: "Awesome toy! My two-year-old niece loves it. She really enjoys the doggy zipper and carrying the bag all over the house. A durable learning toy and absolutely a great gift idea." —Madison Schiavone

The lizard is rechargable and powered with the included USB cable, though two AAA batteries are needed for the remote (not included).

Promising review: "My 5-year-old nephew thinks this is the greatest thing ever invented. Keeps him entertained for HOURS. Super easy to use, and let me tell you, this thing has some speed. It’s kind of loud, which is annoying, but it zips all over the place really easily. It was definitely a good value and a good buy." —Annie

Promising reviews: "I bought these for my 4-year-old twin great nieces. THEY LOVED THEM! They kept bouncing off of each other and had a great time. They were a little disappointed that bubbles didn't come out when they hit against each other ?? Really great fun item. Plus, they looked adorable in them." —Amazon Customer

"So so fun! Bought this for my kids and nephews, and it kept them entertained for hours. The kids ranged from 3–5, and being all boys, it was a great way to get their energy out while being protected. Such a fun time!" —Christine B

* If You’re Looking For A Unique And Affordable Birthday Gift, Here Are 28 Options

* Gifts From Amazon Our Readers Are Loving In 2026

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* Gifts For Your Pet Because, I Mean, LOOK AT THEM. They Deserve It.

* Gifts That Are Both Kid *And* Parent-Approved

* Gifts For Anyone Who Is Chock-Full Of Whimsy

* Gift Ideas For The Person Who's In Their Fitness Era

Plus, options for anniversaries, baby showers, newborns (or new parents), wedding guests or new grads, and finds from The Disney Store and Uncommon Goods.

Reviews for this post have been edited for length and/or clarity. 

BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.

Ashley Schumacher is a freelancer who has been writing for BuzzFeed Shopping for over two years with an emphasis on home goods, parenting items and toys, beauty products, and anything that can make your day-to-day life run a little smoother.