🎁 Best Gifts for 1-Year-Olds in 2025
Buying a gift for a one-year-old can be surprisingly tricky. At this age, little ones are exploring the world at full speed—crawling, cruising, babbling, and learning every single day. So, the perfect present is one that’s both engaging and supportive of their development.
Whether you’re shopping for your own child, a grandchild, a niece or nephew, or a friend’s baby, we’ve rounded up the best gifts for 1-year-olds in 2025
🧸 1. Montessori-Inspired Toys
Montessori-style toys are a huge hit in 2025, loved by parents for their simplicity, quality, and learning benefits. Think toys that encourage natural discovery and problem-solving.
Top Picks:
- Wooden stacking rings or cups – Classic toys that support fine motor skills.
- Shape sorters – Perfect for coordination and logical thinking.
- Sensory blocks and balls – Safe and fun for tactile exploration.
📚 2. Interactive Books
Books that include textures, flaps, or sounds are a lovely way to engage a one-year-old and build early literacy skills.
Favourites:
- Touch-and-feel books – Help them explore new sensations.
- Lift-the-flap books – Great for peekaboo-style fun.
- Sound books – Add music, animals, or everyday sounds.
🚗 3. Push & Pull Toys
If the little one in your life is already walking (or just on the cusp), push and pull toys are perfect. They support balance and coordination—and they’re just plain fun.
Popular Choices:
- Animal pull toys – From ducks to dogs, these follow them everywhere.
- Toddler trolleys or walkers – For early walkers who love a bit of independence.
🎨 4. Creative Play Gifts
Creative play starts young! You can help nurture a baby’s imagination with simple instruments, drawing tools, or sensory kits designed for safe exploration.
Best for Creativity:
- Baby-safe musical instruments – Like mini tambourines and maracas.
- Water doodle mats – Reusable and mess-free!
- Jumbo crayons – For supervised scribbling.
💡 Bonus: Screen-Free Smart Toys
Parents in 2025 are leaning towards “low-tech” toys that still feel interactive—lights, textures, and movements without screens or apps.
Great Screen-Free Ideas:
- Pop-up toys – Twist, push, and pull to make animals appear.
- Busy cubes – Filled with things to open, spin, and slide.
- Clicking and stacking rings – For cause-and-effect play.
🎈 Final Thoughts: What Makes a Great Gift for a One-Year-Old?
The best presents for 1-year-olds are:
- Safe and age-appropriate (always check CE or UKCA markings)
- Built to last (because little hands can be surprisingly strong!)
- Engaging without being overwhelming
- Supportive of curiosity, movement, and creativity
Whether it’s a musical shaker, a lovely book, or a thoughtful keepsake, your gift is sure to be appreciated by both baby and parents alike.
