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Choosing the right gift for a child can feel overwhelming, so we turned to an expert for guidance. Holy Name pediatrician Dr. Mariell Dominguez curated this list of age-appropriate gift ideas to support healthy development, spark creativity, and make holiday shopping a little easier. Her recommendations are age-appropriate toys that don't just make kids smile; they also support healthy development, spark creativity, and encourage important milestones.
Newborn - 3 Months: Gentle Beginnings
Soft, soothing toys that support early bonding, sensory discovery, and comfort.
Top Picks:
- Tummy time play mats (recommended for babies over 1 month)
- Rattles to stimulate grasping and hearing
- High contrast visuals: Toys with black/white patterns
3-6 Months: Sensory + Tummy Time Favorites
At this stage, babies are discovering the world through sight, sound, and touch. Great gifts help build neck strength, hand-eye coordination, and early sensory skills.
Top Picks:
- Soft crinkle books
- Silicone grasping toys
- Unbreakable baby mirrors
6-12 Months: Exploration + Early Mobility
Babies begin sitting, crawling, pulling themselves up, and exploring with their hands. Pediatricians recommend avoiding baby walkers, as they pose a high risk for injury.
Top Picks:
- Stacking cups (great for motor skills and bath time!)
- Push-pull toys
- Soft building blocks
- Activity cubes
- Shape sorters
- Musical toys with simple buttons
12-18 Months: Walking, Problem-Solving, + Pretend Play
Toddlers are officially on the move and becoming curious problem solvers. Toys should encourage exploration, language development, and coordination.
Top Picks:
- Ride-on toys
- Simple puzzles with large pieces
- Play food sets
- Board books with flaps
- Large Duplo-style building blocks
- Push toy lawn mowers or toy carts
2-4 Years: Creativity + Early Independence
This age group thrives on imaginative play and hands-on activities that strengthen fine motor skills.
Top Picks:
- Art supplies (washable crayons, big markers, Play-Doh)
- Pretend play sets (doctor kit, kitchen, toolkit)
- Wooden train sets
- Puzzles with 6-12 pieces
- Simple musical instruments
- Beginner balance bikes
5-7 Years: Building Skills
Children are mastering more complex motor skills, language, and storytelling. They also love toys that give them a sense of accomplishment.
Top Picks:
- STEM building kits (age-appropriate)
- Dress-up clothing
- Board games made for early learners
- Craft kits
- Magnetic tiles
8-10 Years: Building Skills + Big Imagination
Kids at this age love challenges. Look for toys that strengthen memory, creativity, and collaboration.
Top Picks:
- Classic board games
- Chapter books or series starters
- art and DIY kits
- More advanced building sets (LEGO, magnetic tiles, gears)
- Outdoor sports equipment (jump ropes, soccer balls)
11-12 Years: Independence + Expanding Interests
Pre-teens are developing stronger interests and hobbies. Gifts that encourage confidence and creativity are ideal.
Top Picks:
- Coding kits
- Craft kits (friendship bracelets, sewing, pottery)
- Sports gear tailored to their interests
- Strategy board games
- Journals or sketchbooks
The best gifts are the ones that help children learn, play, and grow at their own pace. When in doubt, choose toys that encourage curiosity, imagination, and movement. And always check age labels to ensure safety.
To make an appointment with Dr. Dominguez or call 201-592-9210.
