The 63 Best Gifts for 5-Year-Olds of 2024

Choosing a gift for a 5-year-old is always fun. No longer preschoolers but not yet big kids, 5-year-olds are incredibly energetic and have wide-ranging interests, from stuffed animals and arts and crafts to STEM toys, action figures, and sports. Playful gifts that inspire active play, whether outdoors or in, can help them channel that energy and develop their physical and intellectual skills.

Five-year-olds are also naturally curious, so gifts that spark a new interest or develop a new skill are a great idea. Another solid choice is a gift that embraces their natural independence, from a game with kid-friendly instructions to a building set that doesn’t require parental supervision.

To find the best gifts for 5-year-olds, we reviewed guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on recommended toys and developmental milestones for 5-year-olds. Next, we surveyed 875 parents, asking what toys their children love and why. We assessed hundreds of products and narrowed our list down by considering developmental appropriateness, safety, design, features, and value.

Our Favorites

Bitzee Interactive Digital Pet

Meet Bitzee, an interactive digital pet you can touch. Each Bitzee contains 15 different pets, which respond to tilts, swipes, shakes, and touches. Kids care for their Bitzees as a baby and watch them grow up, just like real pets, by feeding them, rocking them to sleep, and more. Even adults will be jealous of Bitzee; they’re like a 3D version of the popular ’90s Tamagotchi toy. 

Razor Jr. Lil’ Kick Scooter

This lightweight, three-wheeled kick scooter is one of our top picks for growing kids. The extra-wide, slip-resistant deck helps new riders maintain their balance. Made with wide urethane wheels for stability, it gives kids a smooth, comfortable ride as they learn to balance and steer the stand-alone scooter. It comes in pink and blue and is made for kids aged 3 and up, with a maximum weight of 45 pounds. 

Magna-Tiles Classic 100-Piece Magnetic Construction Set

Magna-Tiles were one of the top toy recommendations in our survey. Parents love how engaging they are and how their kids can build countless creations. These magnetic tiles come in six colors and translucent shapes, including squares of various sizes and different types of triangles. We love how they help kids work on their fine motor skills and creativity as they build.

Rainbow High Color & Create Fashion Doll

These dolls inspire creative, open-ended play. We love that they’re available in various skin colors to make every kid feel included, and our kids loved flexing their design skills with them. Color the dolls’ outfits, hair, shoes, and scrunchie with the included rainbow washable markers. The best part? You can rinse off designs as often as you want and start all over.

Squishmallows Maui the Pineapple Plush

It’s a giant, soft pineapple! How can your child not love it? It’s deliciously snuggly and the right size to act as a pillow when your little one nods off. It also comes in a 20-inch version if you want a bigger option.

Hey Clay Monsters Modeling Air-Dry Clay

This modeling clay kit includes a variety of colors and pairs with an app that serves as a guide to clay modeling for kids. Let the creations dry, and then your kids can play with them like figurines when they are finished.

Upbounders Fun Outside Floor Puzzle

Looking for a fun puzzle to challenge your child’s brain? This 48-piece jigsaw made by a Black-owned business features original artwork representing families of different races and ethnicities. It’s sized just right for little hands, and many 5-year-olds can do this puzzle alone.

Learning Resources Coding Critters Ranger & Zip

This STEM toy for ages 4 and up encourages kids to learn how to code (without screens). Following the included storybook, kids solve problems and build new skills. It also has a play mode where kids feed, walk, and pet the included dogs, Ranger and Zip. This is also a great toy to help them learn the responsibilities of caring for their own pet and allows them to build their sense of responsibility.

Tooth Brigade Gift Set

Wiggly teeth will probably start around age 5. Ease any concerns and build excitement with this gift set. The book tells the story of three creatures that help the tooth fairy, while the pillow has a cute spot for teeth, money, or prizes. You can also pair this with a brand-new electric toothbrush.

Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Talking Microscope

Spark a love for science and the outdoors with this talking microscope. There are over 60 slides with detailed photos of space, nature, and more. Bonus: The voice you hear is Bindi Irwin, the Australian conservationist and daughter of Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter!

Clixo Rainbow 42-Piece Pack

A fun, multi-sensory, open-ended STEM toy, these flexible building toys fold, bend, flip, and then snap together with integrated magnets to make 2D and 3D objects. The 42-piece set includes a quick start guide to get the imaginative juices flowing.

Klee Naturals 4-Piece Makeup Kits

Kids who love to play in your makeup bag will enjoy having their own makeup kit, complete with two lip shimmers, a blush, eyeshadow, and application brushes. The makeup is all non-toxic and made specifically for kids’ sensitive skin. The set can be used to take dress-up play to another level.

MindWare Dig It Up! Dinosaur Eggs

This set comes with 12 dinosaur eggs that your child can excavate themselves. Your little one can uncover what dinosaurs lie within using the included chisel (and handy excavation guide). Just be sure to lay down some newspaper—it can get messy!

Butteryfly Craze Daisy Flower Plush Floor Pillow

Kids can create their very own cozy corner with a 35-inch-diameter flower floor pillow. Choose between multiple colors, and your little one will love reading, playing, or jumping around on it.

Lego Jurassic World Stygimoloch Dinosaur Escape

Your 5-year-old will be so excited to graduate from Lego Duplo to big-kid bricks these starter Lego kits created for ages 4 and up. This set features a dinosaur and other characters from Jurassic World. Kids can build their own treehouse/observation tower to keep an eye out for incoming dinosaurs. Don’t forget the getaway car!

Little Poppy Hair Bows

Lovely hair accessories will arrive monthly with this unique hair bow subscription service (or you can purchase them separately). Choose the right-size ribbon for your sweetie’s head, and they’ll get their very own package of bows. Stop the subscription when you’re all stocked up.

Toy Choi’s Construction Workbench Play Set

Teach them how to build and repair items and encourage imaginary play at this workbench. It has 82 pieces, including a power drill, hammer, and more.

Melissa & Doug Goodie Tutus Dress-Up Set

Your little performer will be obsessed with these shimmery skirts for kiddos between 3 and 6 years old. The set includes four different tutus, so you can stock up the dress-up bin in one click. Each has a comfy elastic waist and is well-made for years of play.

Plus Plus Big 100-Piece Set

Unleash your child’s creativity (and join in the fun) with this 100-piece set of oversized Plus Plus blocks. Kids can build either 3D or 2D creations, and there are enough blocks to play alone or with a friend.

Sulwe

In this book by actor Lupita Nyong’o, Sulwe’s beautiful dark skin makes her stand out among her family, friends, and everyone at school. This stunning picture book encourages kids to love the skin they’re in through a touching story about self-acceptance.

Loog Mini Guitar

Your little rock star can learn to strum on this three-string guitar that’s perfectly sized for tiny hands. Ready to play right out of the box, the guitar also comes with flashcards with chord diagrams and access to the Loog Guitar app for video lessons, a tuner, and a digital songbook—it’s a great gift option to showcase your child’s talent and spark a love of music.

Crayola Bath Bomb Bucket

Bathtime just got a lot more colorful. Simply drop one of the eight bath bombs into warm water and watch the bomb fizz as it dissolves and colors the bath.

Calico Critters Cozy Cottage Starter Home

Ready for fun right out of the box, Calico Critters encourage imaginative play and are suitable alone or with a buddy. The set includes the starter house and over 15 pieces of furniture, figures, and accessories.

Monster Jam Garage Playset and Storage

This Monster Jam Playset lives up to its name at 2 feet high and over 4 feet wide, so there’s plenty of space for stunts. It also has exciting lights and sounds. The set comes with a truck but has storage for 25 more.

This educational toy isn’t your ordinary night-light; it teaches your child about the moon’s phases. Each phase lights up with the touch of a button or remote control and attaches to your child’s wall.

Totes Kid’s Clear Bubble Umbrella

Kids will love carrying their very own umbrella on their way to a rainy day playdate. The clear plastic bubble dome style lets them see where they’re going—a huge plus!

Marvel Spidey and His Amazing Friends Multipack

The little superhero in your life will love saving the world with Spider-Man and his Spider-Buddies. Villains in the multiverse don’t stand a chance with this three-pack of figures!

Speedo Kids’ Sunny G Seasiders

With these fun swim goggles that resemble fashionable sunglasses, your kid can swim in style. With over 40 different designs to choose from, you’re sure to find one they’ll love. The toggle bungee strap makes getting them on and off easy, while the flexible frame ensures a comfortable fit. Plus, they have anti-fog treatment and UVA/UVB protection.

Lego City Tractor

Introduce your kiddo to the world of Lego with an age-appropriate kit that will be fun and frustration-free. Kids will love making their own tractor and playing with the vehicle, two mini-figures, and other farm gear.

Gabby’s Dollhouse Purrfect Dollhouse Playset

For the Gabby’s Dollhouse fan in your life, this cat-shaped dollhouse offers a working Cat-A-Vator, four floors, seven rooms, two figurines, and lots of play furniture.

LeapFrog Magic Adventures Globe

This interactive globe is a great option for little adventurers. With educational facts and unique games, your child will learn about geography while enjoying themselves.

Play Doh My Little Pony Kit

Play-Doh is a gift you can’t go wrong with because the possibilities of creation are endless. This kit has four molds to create different types of My Little Ponies, down to their Cutie marks and tails.

PlayMonster Yeti in My Spaghetti

Your crew will have a blast with this silly game. Simply place the spaghetti pieces across the bowl, put the Yeti on top, and carefully remove each piece of spaghetti without the Yeti falling into the bowl. Each round of Yeti In My Spaghetti takes just a few minutes and will get lots of laughs.

Melissa & Doug Wooden Scoop and Serve Ice Cream Counter

Serve up delicious treats with the wooden pieces, and practice counting with the play money. Our kids love this set because it’s very engaging, and we appreciate that it encourages pretend play. The 28-piece set has several ice cream flavors, toppings, cones, a reusable menu, and more.

Tiger Tribe How to Draw Set, Wild Kingdom

This drawing set has everything your little artist needs to learn how to draw animals. It comes with 10 colored pencils, an eraser, a sharpener, a sketch pad, and a learn-to-draw book. It all fits nicely into a box, so nothing will get lost.

Bauble Bar Kids Pisa Bracelet Set

You may shop Bauble Bar for yourself to score trendy jewelry; now it’s available for your mini. This beaded bracelet set features beloved motifs like unicorns, shooting stars, and rainbows. Your kids can stack them to create an arm party or share one with a pal as a friendship bracelet.

Rawlings Player Series Youth Baseball Glove

Ideal for first-time players, this baseball glove is durable, lightweight, and easy to open and close. Choose from a lefty or righty, a variety of colors, and glove sizes. Each glove comes with a soft training ball.

Lil Gadgets Kids Premium Headphones

Sized just right for kids, these headphones come in seven colors. They include a built-in splitter, so sharing the sound is easy. Designed with kids in mind, the max volume is 93 decibels, so they’re safe for little ears.

eKids Disney Bluetooth Karaoke Machine

This karaoke machine allows you to have a Disney sing-along all day long by connecting to a wide variety of curated playlists. It’s extra handy because it features Bluetooth connectivity and a wireless microphone, so there are no cords to trip over while you’re dancing.

Lego Friends Forest Waterfall Building Kit

With 93 pieces, this set will keep kids busy for a while, and they’ll feel super-confident when they can assemble it all by themselves. Once they’re done building, there are tons of playtime options.

Rockets of Awesome Clothing Subscription

Your kiddo will love taking the Rockets of Awesome quiz and then receiving their very own box full of clothes that are just to their liking. Ideal for kids or parents who don’t like shopping in person, this subscription service delivers the clothes right to your door.

Pottery Barn Kids My First Anywhere Chair

Create a cozy reading, playing, or chilling-out spot with your kid’s own chair. You can easily transport the chair from one room to another because it’s lightweight. The super soft slipcover can be personalized so everyone knows who sits where!

Super Smalls DIY Bead Kit

Your 5-year-old’s next playdate just got more crafty. Whip out this beading kit to entertain the kids for a few hours. It features tons of trendy, colorful beads for them to make friendship necklaces or bracelets.

Nine Cube Kids Camera

Let your child snap photos to their heart’s content with this digital camera. It comes preloaded with fun photo filters and frames (so they’ll stop asking to play with your Snapchat!) and a 32GB memory card. The rechargeable battery means it’s easy to use for hours of fun.

Great Pretenders Color-a-Cape Princess

This cape is totally customizable—your child can color in the large castle, butterfly princess, and unicorn-themed designs however they choose. Plus, it’s made with a soft satin lining and stays secure with a Velcro closing. And if you color it with the machine washable markers (included), you can wash it off and do it all again!

Doodle Hog Dab and Dot Markers

A wonderful addition to arts and crafts supplies, these eight dotting markers have a simple twist-off cap, are sized just right, dry quickly, and are fully washable. The markers come with an activity guide filled with lots of fun ideas to get your little artist started.

PinkSheep Jewel Rings in Box

From shiny jewels to mystical mermaid tails, this jewelry box has a ring for everyone. The band on each ring is adjustable, so it’ll fit even the smallest fingers. Your child can stack or share them—but don’t be surprised if they want them all for themselves!

Stomp Rocket Ultra Rocket

Fully kid-powered, this fun toy needs no batteries, screens, or anything besides an active kid. Run, jump, and stomp to launch each of the four foam-tipped rockets in the air.

Polly Pocket Unicorn Forest Compact Playset

This compact kit is perfect for taking Polly Pockets on the go. It folds up with all its pieces and even comes with a carrying strap, so your child can take Polly in the car or to the park. Plus, the quaint pieces will inspire your little one to come up with all sorts of scenarios.

Creative Kids Miracle Gro My First Root Viewer

This gardening kit has a clear planter so kids can see their garden come to life. They can even personalize the container with stickers and markers to make it a truly one-of-a-kind experience. They’ll be so entranced by the spreading roots that they won’t even realize they’re learning STEM concepts, practicing responsibility, and developing fine motor skills.

Hanna Andersson Long John Pajamas

The best kids’ pajamas should be durable, yet cozy. These parent-approved super soft long-john style pajamas are available in tons of styles in sizes up to 14/16. This set of PJs is a great gift for anyone in your family (especially for siblings who want to match).

Gaiam Stay-n-Play Ball

Sized just right for kids, this cute ball makes sitting fun and encourages a healthy posture. The built-in no-roll stabilizing legs keep the ball in place when not in use. Choose between four colors, each with a cute funny face. 

Primary Kids Puffer Jacket in Rainbow Stripe

Made out of 100% recycled materials, this puffer coat is great for chilly temperatures and a useful layer when the days get frigid. Parents appreciate that it’s machine-washable, and kids love the navy/rainbow styling. Available in sizes from 2 to 14, so you can also snag one for younger or older siblings.

Melissa & Doug Scissor Skills Activity Pad

Learning to use scissors correctly is an important skill that strengthens kids’ wrist and hand muscles. It also helps them practice fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and the ability to use their thumb, index, and middle fingers independently. This innovative 20-page activity pad is actually a very useful learning guide that features a wide range of cutting activities. They’ll be practicing valuable skills and having fun at the same time!

Learning Resources Big Feelings Pineapple

Younger kids may have trouble expressing their emotions, so this Big Feelings Pineapple can help them strengthen their social-emotional skills. The two-sided fruit comes with 26 facial expressions, from smiles to frowns; attach them to show different emotions.

Another social-emotional learning toy we love is this set of cute emotional support dumplings that feature five different expressions and are soft and cuddly for sensory stimulation.

RioRand Super Hero Dress-Up Set

Build a dress-up collection instantly with this superhero set that includes five colorful capes, masks, and matching slap bracelets. Your little one will be fully outfitted and ready to save the day alone or with a friend!

Melissa & Doug Dust, Sweep & Mop Set

Do you have a kid who follows you around while you’re doing chores, insisting on holding the (very heavy) vacuum or dustpan? Get them their own set of cleaning supplies! This set is meant for pretend play, so you may still have to clean up after your kid when they’re done.

Epoch Games Super Mario Piranha Plant Escape! Game

Watch out, Mario and Luigi, the piranha plant is out to get you! Kids can play this board game by themselves or with friends. They roll the dice and move around the board. Don’t get attacked by the piranha plant!

Marvel Heroes Glow-in-the-Dark Sheet Set & Pillowcases

What’s cooler than superhero sheets? Glow-in-the-dark superhero sheets! Spider-Man to Thor, these sheets include all of your child’s favorite Avengers. Bonus: They are made with soft, organic cotton.

Spooner Freestyle Balance Board

With the Spooner Balance Board, your kid can practice all the moves a skateboarder or snowboarder can do. The board is designed for beginners, and the company says kids as young as 3 can use it to simulate spins, twists, and slides.

TSF Toys Claw Machine Arcade Game Dinosaur Candy Grabber & Prize Dispenser

Usually, parents will try to steer their kids clear of those claw machine games that just take their money, but now you don’t have to. Bring the claw machine to your home. This cute, dinosaur-themed claw machine game comes with some prizes, but parents can refill with whatever their kids like.

ATOPDREAM Walkie Talkies for Kids

Kids can use these colorful walkie-talkies with friends as they play hide-and-seek, or parents can call their kids downstairs for dinner. The two-way radios are long-range, voice-activated, and equipped with a flashlight.

Hero Hockey Fast Action Hockey Game With Magnets

This head-to-head tabletop hockey game is controlled by magnets underneath the board. It teaches your kids not only coordination and dexterity but also about how magnets work. The first player to six goals wins!

Crazy Forts Original

We all know how much kids love to build forts. This set lets them build and rebuild whatever their imagination creates. Rods and connectors help put the forts together. Once kids put together the frame, cover it with a sheet, and the fun begins! Plus, the rods and connectors glow in the dark.

Our Review Process

To find the best gifts for 5-year-olds, we first reviewed guidance from the AAP on ages and stages of child development and information from the CDC regarding developmental milestones for 5-year-olds. We also conducted a survey of 875 parents and caregivers, asking them to detail their children’s favorite toys, how they play with them, and why their kids love interacting with them.

Next, we researched hundreds of toys, games, books, clothes, and other gifts. To bring you the best and most up-to-date offerings, we monitored shopping trends, rounded up the latest releases in toys, games, and other gifts, and researched reviews from customers and competitors. To make our picks, we assessed each product on:

• Age recommendations: To ensure your 5-year-old doesn’t get frustrated by toys, games, or other gifts created with older kids in mind, or get bored by things aimed at younger children, we ensured all our picks are engaging and age-appropriate.
• Design: We looked for well-designed products with sturdy construction. Designs that appeal to 5-year-olds pushed items to the top of our list.
• Value: To assess a product’s value, we considered its price, predicted longevity both of the product itself and of a 5-year-old’s interest in the product, and the quality of the materials used.
• Ease of Use: Our preferred gifts for 5-year-olds are those they can use independently. We looked for instructions kids could easily comprehend, such as picture-based guides, as well as age-appropriate user interfaces,

Factors to Consider

• Independence: Five-year-olds tend to see themselves as “big kids” and appreciate items they can use independently. Pick gifts geared toward their age, books appropriate for their reading level, and clothes they can put on themselves.
• Learning: Preschoolers and kindergarteners love to learn. To foster new interests and talents and introduce new concepts, give the 5-year-old in your life something that broadens their horizons or sparks a new passion. Try STEM toys, building sets, DIY projects, musical instruments, and encyclopedia-type books on topics they’ll love.
• Activity Level: Five-year-olds tend to be on the move. This high activity level includes both their minds and bodies. Look for gifts that engage them physically and/or intellectually. Cars they can zoom, stomp rockets, balls, scooters, sports equipment, puzzles, books, learning activities, art supplies, and building sets are all great options that are sure to delight busy brains and bodies.
• Fun: Fun toys are a hit with kids of any age, but 5-year-olds will especially appreciate gifts that offer pure entertainment. Think of anything with a silly side, sensory details (like sounds and lights), moving parts, and pretend play elements. It’s a bonus to choose items that relate to their passions, whether that means sports, stuffed animals, diggers, or dinosaurs.
• Function: Getting useful and practical gifts is also a great option; 5-year-olds are changing and growing quickly, so items like clothing, backpacks, and lunch bags are always appreciated. Bedding, particularly if they are moving to a bigger bed or updating their room to a more “big kid” style, can be a good choice, too.

Who We Are

Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of three and keeps a secret space in her basement closet for last-minute gifts. Outdoor toys and art kits are her go-to gifts since they have a wide appeal. Her kids are super active and love any toy that can be used outside. They are currently setting new pogo stick records every day!