30+ Practical Gifts for 3-Year-Olds

practical gifts for 3 year olds

Unique Gifts for 3-Year-Olds

We are going to look at some really great and practical gifts for 3-year-olds.

I myself have a 2.5 year old so this is very personal for me. And I take gift-giving very seriously.

When my older daughter (almost 10 now) was younger, I thought she needed everything. Anything that caught her eye, I viewed as a must-have.

This resulted in her having an obnoxious amount of toys.

Did she play with all of these toys? Sometimes. But for the most part, there were only a handful of things that actually kept her engaged.

So with my younger daughter, I pretty much have the opposite mindset.

Now, I try to be very strategic when I purchase gifts for her or when I give others suggestions for things she needs. I do not want a cluttered house full of toys.

More importantly, I really want to have things in my home that get played with. It is, of course, impossible to know for sure if a toy or gift will stand the test of time.

But the gifts on this list give it their best shot.

Now, kiddos show interest in different things at different ages. So the gift ideas here can work for ages younger than 3, of course. They also work for ages much older than 3. (those are my favorite kinds of gifts..long-lasting)

I love the 2-4 age. I love how little ones are really starting to show their personalities. They are learning to communicate more and more.

It’s just so much fun. (don’t get me wrong, toddlerhood is also an extremely trying time but isn’t that true for every age?)

Three is an age when I really like to dive into the land of toys and consider ideas that have a long play life and things that will provide value for the long haul.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Here Are 32 Of The Best & Most Practical Gifts for 3-Year-Olds

1) TeePee Tent

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Sumbababy Teepee Tent for Kids with Carry Case, Natural Canvas Teepee Play Tent, Toys for Girls/Boys Indoor & Outdoor Playing (White Teepee Tent)

★【Best Toys for Kids】:These girls teepee tent are made of 100% natural, non-toxic, unpainted canvas. The kid play tipi tents poles are made of sturdy pine wood and are free of chemical odors and harmful substances. This baby tent will be your child’s playhouse for many years. Boys tent size is 47 x 47 x 59 inches. This kids tent is the best toys for little girls/boys!
★【Gift Idea for Kids Indoor/ Outdoor Play】: Your kids can play with their tipi tent wherever they want. Great decorative play tent for girls/boys can decorate rooms, classrooms, outside gardens or when going to the beach. It’s your kids’ new favorite place. They will play, imagine, read, nap, and spend some alone time in their girls toys tent. This baby play tent is a gift for kids.
★【Child Safe and Funning】: This teepee tents comes with natural wooden poles and plastic connectors to withstand any kid’s inquisitive play. All seams, raw fabric edges, and openings lead to fastness and durability, which can safeguard your Child’s Safety and be fit for Years of Safe Play. Wooden poles are sanded to prevent splinters. There is a flap door and a mesh window for easy ventilation. This princess play tent is the best gift for child .
★【Assemble and Portable】: An inner pocket lets kids store beloved dolls, books and snacks. It’s easy to assemble if you follow the packaged instructions. And this canvas teepee can be conveniently assembled by an adult alone. Or you can have fun installing the kids toys tent with your kids. Best gifts for your little boys or girls!
★【100% Satisfaction】: This is not camping gear but a wonderful little house for your kid’s Childhood, for they can play with their friends in this play house. Customers First is the aim of our service. For any problem arises with our girls toy, please don’t hesitate contact us On Amazon.

This is one of my favorite gifts ever. The possibilities are endless with this one.

We have ours in a bedroom closet and created a sort of cozy corner. My little one loves to bring her baby dolls in here and read to them or pretend to nap with them.

2) Play Couch

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Mod Blox 6 Piece Soft Furniture Playset Modular Microsuede Foam Play Couch for Creative Kids (Light Gray)

NEW FAVORITE TOY: This trendy, innovative, new modular furniture is designed for anyone. 6 Piece set includes 2 base pieces (33″x33″x5″), 2 cushion pieces (33″x33″x3″) and 2 triangle wedges (14.5″Wx13″Hx21.5″L).
HIGH QUALITY MATERIALS: Mod Blox uses high-quality, high-density polyurethane foam that has been certified through the CertiPUR-US program which prohibits the use of any CFCs, or other ozone depleters, in the foam manufacturing process.
PERFECT CHOICE FOR KIDS: Mod Blox microsuede fabric is kid-friendly, easily removable and machine-washable for quick and convenient cleaning – so comfortable you can relax with a good book or practice tumbling!
EASY SET UP AND TRANSPORT: Each cushion comes with an easy to grip handle that makes play, storage and transport a breeze for any age. Each piece is tightly sewn with the finest workmanship and will last for years of creative fun.
STYLISH ADDITION TO ANY ROOM: We use high-quality YKK zippers for each piece with a pocket to hide each zipper for a seamless look. Each zipper matches the fabric color of your choice that will provide a stylish addition to any room.

Another option that will be used for a very long time. I am obsessed with gifts that encourage creativity and the use of the imagination.

3) Balance Bike

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KRIDDO Toddler Balance Bike 2 Year Old, Age 18 Months to 5 Years Old, 12 Inch Push Bicycle with Customize Plate (3 Sets of Stickers Included), Steady Balancing, Gift Bike for 2-3 Boys Girls, WH

EARLY LEARNING BALANCE BIKE – A fun way to introduce small toddlers to riding bicycles this girls and boys balance bike lets them push, stand, and walk their way around the outdoors with a sturdy frame and well-balanced, kid-friendly design for 18 months to 5 years old.
CUSTOMIZE PLATE (3 SETS OF ALPHABET & NUMBER STICKERS INCLUDED) – Each balancing bike comes with a removable customizable plate, where kids can design their own plate with the stickers or draw anything they want.
ENHANCED SAFETY – Along with a soft, rubber grip handlebars, a soft PU seat, this kids balance bike has built in a wide tough carbon-steel frame, it can holds up to 110 lbs and you never need to worry that it will break when kids are learning to ride around.
EXTRA-THICK ALL-TERRAIN TIRES – We want kids to feel strong and stable when they’re moving on grass and sidewalks which is why we added puncture-resistant tires to the front and back of each balance bike for 5-year old’s and 18-month-old riders.
GROW WITH YOUR KIDS – We know kids grow fast and we would like them to enjoy their riding partner longer, both handlebar and seat height can be adjusted, the quick release mechanizm makes it really easy and safe to adjust the handlebar and seat height to your needs.

It’s adorable to see little ones vrooming along on one of these.

4) Table & Chairs

B. toys- B. spaces- Table and Chair Set- Furniture For Toddlers- 1 Craft Table & 2 Chairs- Natural Wooden Legs- Mint- 3 years +

KIDS’ TABLE & CHAIR SET: Two cozy seats and a little place to meet! Sized perfectly for toddlers or preschool kids, our table and chair set combines cozy and modern to create a great space where children can draw, paint, snack, play, and dream.
EASY ASSEMBLY: The best part about this furniture for kids is that there are no tools needed to assemble! Simply screw the legs directly on the children’s chairs and on the table, then tighten them for about 30 seconds for maximum stability.
SAFETY FIRST: At B. toys, keeping your little one safe is our top priority. That’s why all of our learning activities and toys are crafted from sturdy, kid-friendly materials to keep your little ones safe as they play and learn.
LEARNING IS FUN: Little brains develop best when they are engaged in play. Our toys encourage imaginative and pretend play to help improve concentration and memory all while focusing on the important developmental skills your child needs to master.
B. TOYS FOR LITTLE EXPLORERS: We aim to be bigger than a toy company. We want to let children know that it’s okay to be curious, happy or serious, and giddy and adventurous all at the same time. Because at the end of the day, you should just B. you!

Again, a gift that has so many uses. I really love this idea for the way it can help little ones get used to sitting and doing an activity.

5) Wooden Workbench

Melissa & Doug Solid Wood Project Workbench Play Building Set – STEAM Toy, Wooden Kids Work Bench, Toy Tool Bench

SOLID WOOD WORKBENCH FOR KIDS: The Melissa & Doug Wooden Project Solid Wood Workbench, a realistic toy construction set for kids, includes a functioning vise, tool rack, wooden tools, and hardware, as well as project ideas to spark imaginations.
STURDY WOODEN CONSTRUCTION: Our wooden workbench for kids is made of high-quality wood to ensure durability and safety.
STORAGE SHELF: This Melissa & Doug wooden toy construction set includes a convenient storage shelf.
GREAT GIFT FOR KIDS 3 TO 6 YEARS: This workbench is an ideal gift for kids ages 3 to 6. Add the Melissa & Doug Deluxe Wooden Tool Belt Set to round out the construction play experience and give kids an engaging option for screen-free fun.
“THE GOLD STANDARD IN CHILDHOOD PLAY”: For more than 30 years, Melissa & Doug has created beautifully designed imagination- and creativity-sparking products that NBC News called “the gold standard in early childhood play.”

Look at the little storage shelf on this.

6) Play Tent With Tunnel & Ball Pit

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UTEX 3 in 1 Pop Up Kids Play Tent with Tunnel and Ball Pit for Kids, Boys, Girls, Babies and Toddlers, Indoor/Outdoor Playhouse,Orange Pink/Light Green

BUILT TO LAST, UTEX Kids Play Tent with Tunnel and Ball Pit Made of highly colorful and high grade 190T polyester taffeta, highly resistant to wear and tear.
SUPER VALUE, The adventure play tent and tunnel set includes one Play tent house with mesh window,one Ball Pit, and a long Play tunnel
The play tent and ball pit set features mesh ‘windows’ provide ventilation and peek-a-boo opportunities, long tunnel to provide lots of play opportunities.
TOOL FREE ASSEMBLY, Lightweight With the carry bag, Great for Children Parties, Backyard Playing, Kids Playroom, Kids Playgrounds, Kids Day Care.
REAT GIFT FOR BOYS AND GIRLS, Great gift idea for birthdays, Christmas, or just as a surprise. The colorful design will surely be loved by kids . Great for Encourages physical play and stimulates the imaginations.

This one can get a little messy. But it’s a great tool for teaching little ones to clean up (dang those balls getting thrown all over) when they are done.

7) Kinetic Sand

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Kinetic Sand, Sandisfying Set with 2lbs of Sand and 10 Tools, Play Sand Sensory Toys, for Kids Ages 3 and up

THE ONE AND ONLY KINETIC SAND: Kinetic Sand is the original, squeezable play sand kids love! Flows through fingers like slow-moving liquid, but leaves them dry. Satisfying oozes, moves and melts!
CREATE & PLAY: Transform Kinetic Sand like never before with 10 tools and 2lbs of sand! Mix sand colors together, mold it, shape it, scoop it & grate it – the possibilities are endless!
CREATE MESMERIZING VIDEOS: With the contained play space, video backdrop and phone holder, create your own videos! Mix the colored sand together, set up your scene, then film your amazing sand creations!
SPARK CREATIVITY: Encourage pretend play and fine motor skills through tactile sensory play as kids mold, shape & flow! Made from natural sand and magically sticks together for easy clean up!
GIVE THE GIFT OF KINETIC SAND: Kinetic Sand toys are creative gift ideas for kids Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers for kids! Alternative to kids crafts, a slime kit, modeling clay and fidget toys.

My older daughter loved this when she was little. And to be honest, I really enjoyed it as well.

8) Stepping Stones

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Hapinest Turtle Steps Balance Stepping Stones Obstacle Course Coordination Game for Kids and Family – Indoor or Outdoor Sensory Play Equipment Toys Toddler Ages 3 4 5 6 7 8 Years and Up

Turtle Steps is a game of balance, coordination, and concentration for kids ages 3 years and up. Both boys and girls will love traversing each turtle shell as they show off their balancing skills.
This set includes 3 large turtle shell stepping stones, 3 medium turtle shell stepping stones, 24 activity cards with turtle facts, colorful spinner, instructions, and additional game suggestions.
Each stepping stone is made of durable plastic with non-slip edging and stackable for easy storage. Shell weight limit should not exceed 195 lbs.
A perfect toy for both indoor or outdoor play. Get your kids moving and developing their gross motor skills as they move around an obstacle course and jump from stepping stone to stepping stone.
These stepping stones are sure to be a hit whether your kids are playing along with the included activities, creating their own obstacle course, or pretending the floor is lava.

So many games can be created from these.

9) Truck & Cars Wooden Toy Set

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Melissa & Doug Car Carrier Truck and Cars Wooden Toy Set With 1 Truck and 4 Cars – Vehicle Toys, Push And Go Wooden Trucks For Toddlers And Kids Ages 3+

TRUCK AND CARS WOODEN TOY SET: This set includes a truck that picks up and delivers 4 colorful cars. The car carrier is easy to load, with a second level that lowers to allow kids roll the vehicles onto 2 different levels.
DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: This Melissa & Doug wooden toy set is made from high-quality materials. The sturdy wooden vehicle play set provides hours of loading and unloading fun, and it’s easy for younger kids to use.
HELPS DEVELOP MULTIPLE SKILLS: Our wooden car carrier truck for kids is a great toy for building fine-motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
GREAT GIFT FOR 3 TO 6 YEARS: The Melissa & Doug Car Carrier Truck & Cars Wooden Toy Set makes an exceptional gift for kids from 3 to 6 years. Add the Melissa & Doug Magnetic Car Loader to round out the screen-free pretend play experience.
“THE GOLD STANDARD IN CHILDHOOD PLAY”: For more than 30 years, Melissa & Doug has created beautifully designed imagination- and creativity-sparking products that NBC News called “the gold standard in early childhood play.”

Both of my girls loved simple toys like this one. No bells or whistles are needed.

10) Wooden Blocks

Pidoko Kids Wooden Blocks – 100 Pcs – Building Blocks for Toddlers – Includes Storage Container with Shape Sorter Top – Hardwood Plain & Colored Wood Blocks – Preschool Block Learning Toys

✔ Hand-Crafted Quality Wood – 100 pcs traditionally styled hand-crafted colorful wooden blocks; 4 stimulating bright colors and Natural wood. Building blocks for toddlers 3-5 with a storage bucket. Wood blocks for kids is a good selection of Montessori toys to play and learn. Classic wooden building blocks for kids ages 4-8 boys and girls.
✔ No More Messy Rooms – Block set includes a carrying container for convenient storage. The toddler building blocks teach and promote children the concept of cleaning and organizing after play at an early age. Kids building blocks. Stackable blocks so toddlers can stack and build. Spark their imagination!
✔ Early Developmental Skills – Comprehensive blocks set with multiple shapes to encourage a child’s imaginative and creative cognitive skills. The wood building blocks set come with a storage bucket that has a shape sorter lid. Children will enjoy sorting shapes with these blocks. Fun shape sorter toys for toddlers and wooden building blocks set.
✔ Durable and Sustainable Wood – Each piece is carefully crafted to make sure there are no rough edges, ensuring safe play for kids and toddlers. Building blocks for toddlers are a great choice for any occasion and play area; home, classroom, school, daycare, party and birthday gifts. 100 piece wooden block set.
✔ Next Level Learning and Educational – An impressive kids blocks set that promotes color recognition, matching, stacking and sorting skills. Wooden blocks for kids, preschool toys, toddler blocks. Wooden stacking blocks help with balancing skills. Gifts for 3 + year old girls and boys.

Here is another gift I thoroughly enjoy. (my kids do too, of course)

These cardboard blocks are a big hit as well!

11) LCD Writing Board

ORSEN LCD Writing Tablet Toys, 8.5 Inch Doodle Board Gifts for Kids, Toddlers Dinosaur Drawing Pad or Board Christmas Birthday Gifts, Drawing Tablets for Boys Girls 2 3 4 5 6 7 Years Old-Blue

🦖 【AWESOME EDUCATION & LEARNING TODDLER TOYS】 The LCD writing tablet dinosaur toys is a perfect learning toy for kids 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 years old boys girls. ORSEN dinosaur doodle board helps toddlers free their imagination and creativity. It also can be used as a doodle board, drawing pad for kids, toddler drawing board, light drawing tablet, writing board, scribble board, magic graphic tablet. An ideal boys girls toys & gifts for back to school, birthday, Christmas, Thanksgiving Day, Easter etc.
🦖 【UPGRADED COLORFUL DRAWING PAD】 With the newest LCD screen and sensing technology, ORSEN kid toys writing tablet’s screen color is 60% brighter than other drawing tablets for kids, which make the drawn lines smoother and more vivid. And writing tablet kids christmas gifts for kids will show different lines thinness if use different pressures while writing. What a magic kids gifts drawing board!
🦖 【EASY TO USE & ONE-CLICK CLEAR AND SCREEN LOCK】 This electronic drawing pad for kids is very easy to use, just use stylus to write, draw, scribble or doodle anything you want! LCD writing tablet kids toys has erase key and screen lock function, emptying the screen content in one second and save it via lock button of writing board. TIPS: There may have scratches on the screen when opening package, which is caused by transportation, just press the erase button and the screen will be clear.
🦖 【SAFE & DURABLE & PORTABLE DRAWING TABLETS】 Made with safe & non-toxic & durable material, ensure the health and safety of your children; drawing board dinosaur toys for kids 3-5 years old boy can write about 100,000 times, just like an endless paper! And the CR2032 button battery can be used for up to 6 months! Environmentally and save your money! 8.5 inch Lightweight drawing tablets for kids is easy to carry anywhere (school, airplane, car, road trips, restaurant, sofa, outside etc.)
🦖 【WHAT YOU GET & CUSTOMER SERVICE】 1X 8.5″ Toddler Learning Toys LCD Doodle Board; 1X Stylus. ORSEN is dedicated to providing customers with the best products and services. Please feel free to contact us if any problems. TIPS: Please DO NOT put kids drawing travel toys in humid or high temperature places.

This is perfect to bring in the car or any time you are on the go.

12) Modeling Clay

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Sago Brothers Air Dry Clay, 24 Colors Modeling Clay for Kids, Molding Magic Clay for Slime add ins & Slime Supplies, Kids Gifts Art Set for Boys Girls

🤯 DEVELOPS CREATIVITY – Sago Brothers air dry clay kids gifts can help kids enhance their logical thinking ability, confidence and sensory development. Keeping kids obsessing with modeling clay and staying away from electronics. 24 colors of clay is a good choice for kids toys, christmas gifts for kids, arts and crafts for kids.
📘 72 PAGES TUTORIAL IDEA BOOK – Simple and easy steps for kids. Including over 50 kinds of common shapes, foods, and animals that benefit for color recognition, mixing and matching, as well as learning how to paint. Tutorials allow kids to start from imitation, until they can create their own work independently. Popular air dry clay as gifts for girls, crafts for girls, boys toys.
📦 NO-MESSES and SUPER SOFT – Soft and pliable material helps kids to create wonderful works easily. Doesn’t leave a mess and easy to clean when kids playing them is a great favor for parents. Package includes – 24 colors of air dry clay, 24 x extra sealed bags for storage, 3 x clay tools, 1 x 72 pages tutorial book, 1 x giftable package! (Not include any small parts lead to choking hazards)
🧒 NON TOXIC & 100% SAFE – Product conforms to the ASTM D-4236 requirement. Have passed ASTM F963-17, CPSIA & EN71 certification. Wheat, tree nut or peanut-free. Kid-friendly and parent approved air dry clay for kids! Kids gifts ideas as toys for boys, toys for girls.
🎁 THE GREATEST GIFT – Sago Brothers air dry clay is perfect for Christmas and birthday gifts. Make it your go-to present, kids will be thrilled and won’t be able to put it down! Most favorite molding magic clay for kids, gifts for boys, craft kits for girls, girls toys.

My 9-year-old has an entire fairy garden made of clay in her room. My little one is still at the point of just making blob figures but she sure has fun making those blobs.

13) Basketball Set

Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set, Blue, 3 Balls – Amazon Exclusive, 23.75 x 22 x 61 inches

6 ADJUSTABLE HEIGHTS. Raise the height to increase difficulty as your kids grow. Basketball Set can be adjusted from 2.5 to 4 feet
OVERSIZED RIM. Designed with an oversized rim making it easier for kids to score baskets
INDOOR AND OUTDOOR USE. Little Tikes’ basketball hoop for toddlers is sturdy and water-resistant so kids can use it outdoors or inside
DEVELOP SKILLS. Encourages preschoolers and toddlers to play independently while working on balance and improve their hand-eye coordination
Base must be weighted with 40lbs. of sand (not included )

Awesome indoors or outdoors!

14) T-Ball Set

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EagleStone T Ball Sets for Kids 3-5, 5-8, Tee Ball Set for Toddlers, Baseball Outdoor Toy Includes 6 Large Balls, Adjustable Teeball Batting Tee, Tball Games for Boys & Girls, Kids Ages 3-12 Years

ADJUSTABLE KIDS TEE BALL SET- Beginning baseball Tee set includes 6 oversize (4 ″ ) baseballs,an easy-to-use oversize bat and tee, 1storage bag for balls . Adjustable height “T” adapts to a child’s developing skills. Your child can also start batting from a young age with our kids’ T-Ball Set!
EASY TO STORAGE- Our storage friendly t ball set for kids 3-5/ 5-8 is designed for quick taking apart and storing. Eaglestone Tball Game Set features a special “hang-on-the-wall” design and one storage bag so that it doesn’t cramp up all your living space.
INDOOR & OUTDOOR FUN – Our lightweight toddlers baseball set with batting tee is easy to hold, and children can move the baseball bat freely. Teach your toddler to hit the ball from high up for Tee-Ball, Baseball, Softball. excitement to your kids as they learn sports.
FUN & EDUCATIONAL AT THE SAME TIME! – Not only will this baseball toy set improve your boy’s or girl’s batting skills, it will also boost those fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and accuracy! kids are able to learn basic key skills while playing a game they truly enjoy.
BEST BALL SPORT GIFT FOR KIDS AND TODDLERS: Made with premium quality non-toxic material. The safest and fun toy for tball beginners. Great outside gift for birthdays, parties or holidays!

Perfect for getting that last bit of energy out before bedtime.

15) Waterfall Discovery Wall

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Step2 Waterfall Discovery Wall for Kids, Double-Sided Sand and Water Table, Toddlers Ages 1.5+ Years Old, 13 Piece Toy Accessories

WATER PLAY: Splash and play with a scoop and pour, improve gross and fine motor skills with the outdoor activity center
PLAY & LEARN: Kids learn cause and effect as water cascades through spinners, zigzags, and funnels, fostering hand-eye coordination and introduces early STEM concepts
DOUBLE THE FUN: Fit multiple kids on either side, encourage social interaction and shared exploration as they engage in sensory play
INTERACTIVE: 13 piece waterfall maze wall accessory set, waterfall tray, water wheels, water buckets, maze ramps, assembled dimensions 33.25″ H x 28″ W x 16.25″ D
DURABLE: Built to last, double-walled plastic construction, years of use with colors that won’t chip, fade, crack, or peel

Water play always gets two thumbs up.

16) Easel

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Melissa & Doug Deluxe Standing Art Easel -3 – 7 years, Dry-Erase Board, Chalkboard, Paper Roller

This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, and may arrive in a generic box

Anything art-related is a good choice.

17) Mini Trampoline

Little Tikes 3′ Trampoline – Amazon Exclusive

Perfect trampoline for toddlers to burn off energy
Features large jumping surface and handle bar for stability
Plastic and metal combination
Trampoline is for indoor use only. Age- 3 to 6 years. Ground to top of handle bar- 34.00 inch H. Jumping surface to top of handle bar- 26.25 inch H

Jump those wiggles out.

18) Play Kitchen

KidKraft Wooden Farm to Table Play Kitchen with EZ Kraft Assembly™, Lights & Sounds, Ice Maker and 17 Accessories

MADE OF WOOD: Kitchen is made of premium, sustainable materials for long-lasting play you can feel good about.
PLANT VEGGIES: Wooden play kitchen recognized for its garden-to-plate play has planters with vegetables nestled inside. Even write the crop name on the chalkboard label.
REALISTIC FEATURES: Vegetables are held together with self-adhesive closures for a crisp sound and clean cut when sliced on the chopping board. Ice maker really dispenses play cubes.
LIGHTS & SOUNDS: Faucet lights up and makes running water sounds and cooktop lights up and makes sizzling noises.
EASY ASSEMBLY: Make assembly easier with more help! Two people can set up this item in approximately 2 hours or less.

My kids LOVE their play kitchen. And you can never have too much play food.

This pizza play set has also been a hit in my house for years!

19) Water WOW! Pads

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Melissa & Doug On the Go Water Wow! Reusable Water-Reveal Activity Pads, 3-pk, Colors and Shapes, Fairy Tales, Animals – Travel Toys, Stocking Stuffers, Mess Free Coloring For Kids Ages 3+

NO-MESS ACTIVITY BOOK 3-PACK: The Melissa & Doug On the Go Water Wow Activity Pad 3-Pack features themed watercolor books (Colors & Shapes, Fairy Tale, Animals) that each include 4 reusable pages and come with a refillable water pen.
4 REUSABLE WHITE PAGES IN EACH BOOK: Use the pen to fill in each activity and see hidden colors and pictures appear with every stroke Then simply let the page dry to erase the pictures and fill it in again and again.
REFILLABLE WATER PEN: Each activity book comes with a chunky-sized water pen designed for smaller hands to easily grasp and fill. The compact, spiral-bound format is great for travel.
GREAT GIFT FOR AGES 3 TO 7: This activity pad is a delightful and educational gift for kids ages 3 to 7 years. Add a Melissa & Doug Reusable Sticker Pad to round out the hands-on and screen-free play experience.
“THE GOLD STANDARD IN CHILDHOOD PLAY”: For more than 30 years, Melissa & Doug has created beautifully designed imagination- and creativity-sparking products that NBC News called “the gold standard in early childhood play.”

Another great on-the-go (non-messy) option.

20) Fold & Go Wooden Barn

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Melissa & Doug Fold and Go Wooden Barn With 7 Animal Play Figures – Farm Animals Portable Toys For Kids And Toddlers Ages 3+

PORTABLE WOODEN BARN: The Melissa & Doug Wooden Fold & Go Barn is a portable wooden barn that comes with additional play pieces and opens wide for easy play access and closes to take it with you. The wooden handle makes it easy to transport.
STURDY WOODEN CONSTRUCTION: Our farm playhouse set is made from strong, high-quality wood and assembled to stand up to constant play. It includes open-and-shut sliding doors to let animals in and out of the barn.
PROMOTES IMAGINATIVE PLAY: This set includes 7 realistic plastic farm animals (horse, cow, pig, sheep, goat, dog, and turkey), a wooden ladder, and a folding corral. It promotes imaginative play and is an exceptional screen-free play option.
GIFT FOR AGES 3 TO 6: The Wooden Fold & Go Barn set makes an ideal gift for kids ages 3 to 6 years old. Add the Melissa & Doug Farm Friends Classic Play Set to round out the pretend play experience.
“THE GOLD STANDARD IN CHILDHOOD PLAY”: For more than 30 years, Melissa & Doug has created beautifully designed imagination- and creativity-sparking products that NBC News calls “the gold standard in early childhood play.”

Classic, simple, and fun!

There’s just something about animal figures. My girls both love these dinosaurs as well.

21) Scooter

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Radio Flyer Lean ‘N Glide Scooter with Light Up Wheels, Kids Scooter, Red Kick Scooter, for Ages 3+

Product Note: Max speed and range per charge vary based on several factors, including: rider weight, riding surface, incline, ambient temperature, battery level, riding style (stop/start vs cruising), etc.

Ride on toys for the win.

22) PicassoTiles

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PicassoTiles 100 Piece Set 100pcs Magnet Building Tiles Clear Magnetic 3D Blocks Construction Playboards, Creativity Beyond Imagination, Inspirational, Recreational, Educational Conventional

DREAM BIG & BUILD BIG – No limitations, scalable to build as big as desired by adding more pieces to create the master piece. PicassoTiles in colossal styles
LEARNING BY PLAYING – Never too early to start developing kids creativity. Children can acquire strong sense of color, geometrical shapes including 3D forms numbers counts, magnetic polarities & architectural design at early age
BONDING BY PLAYING – Entertaining for single or multiple parties and feel the sense of achievement together. Suitable for all ages (3+ and up) by one party of in groups a great way to spend quality time with the family and love ones
LEARNING IS FUN – Encourage creativity which is the key factor to success in today’s ever-changing environments. Fun and entertaining, perfect educational presents for school age children that will never go out of style

Another toy that will stand the test of time. (and another toy I enjoy)

23)Wooden Train Set

ORBRIUM 52 Pcs Deluxe Wooden Train Set with Wooden Storage Box Tunnel Compatible with Thomas, Brio, Melissa (Wooden Box – 52 Pcs Train Set)

Very engaging to play, run the train up the bridge, maneuver the engine under the bridge, picking up passenger at the train station, stop at the railroad crossing
Featuring 4 destinations: Village Tunnel (Wooden Storage Box), Long 8″ Bridge, Train Station, Railroad Crossing
Complete 52 Pcs Set includes premium wooden tracks, engine, passenger coach, hopper car, automobile, buildings, figurines, road signs, trees, and bushes. Scenic background is for illustration purposes, not part of the set.
Ready to play set or adding to your existing set. Great for future expansion too.
Conforms to the safety requirements of ASTM F963 and CPSIA. Comes in glossy gift set packaging.

Kids and trains go together like peanut butter and jelly.

24) Yoto Mini

Yoto Mini + Make Your Own Card – Kids Screen-Free Bluetooth Audio Player, All-in-1 Travel Device Plays Stories Music Podcast Radio White Noise Ok-to-wake Alarm Clock, Use as Speaker or with Headphones

SMALL SPEAKER FOR BIG ADVENTURES: The all-day battery allows you to fill your family-outings, road trips, car rides, flights, long journeys & play dates with inspiring audio!
EASY TO SET UP & USE: Simply pop an Audiobook Card (sold separately) into the Yoto Mini to play & remove to stop. Adjust volume or tracks with the dials. Alternatively, control the Mini via the free Yoto App!
KID-FRIENDLY WITH PARENTAL CONTROL: Enjoy up to 14 hours of screen-free entertainment per charge. All Content is safe & has been specially chosen & created with children in mind. No cameras. No mics. No ads.
MULTI-PURPOSE: Features a pixel display to bring the audio to life, play sleep sounds, use as bedtime storyteller, an OK-to-wake sleep trainer clock, a portable Audio Player or use with Headphones!
CONTENT THAT GROWS WITH KIDS’ MINDS: Explore 1000+ Yoto cards of bestselling novels, music, fun activities, free podcasts, radio, soundscapes, useful timers or even create content with a Make Your Own card!

Can not say enough good things about this.

Kiddos can listen to audiobooks, music and so much more.

25) Water Table

Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Toddler Water Table, Outdoor Kids Water Sensory Table, Ages 1.5+ Years Old, 13 Piece Water Toy Accessories, Blue & Green

OUTDOOR FUN: Water table for toddlers to splash, pour, and explore, interactive playtime experience designed with rain showers to spark imaginative play, can also be filled with sand
SPLASH TOYS: 13-piece toy set, duck and tropical fish squish toys, watch as the waterfall flows down the maze-like spinners, activating teeter-totter, teaching cause and effect STEM play
FUN FOR ALL KIDS: Large footprint lets several kids play together, easy accessible, encouraging social and sharing skills, basin holds up to 5 gallons, dimensions 32″ H x 24″ W x 39″ D
EASY TO CLEAN: Plug allows for easy drainage, use disinfectant wipes or household cleaners to clean for sanitary play environment
DURABLE: Built to last, double-walled plastic construction, years of use with colors that won’t chip, fade, crack, or peel

This just got passed down from my 9-year-old to my 2-year-old. (my almost 10-year-old still loves to partake in some water play)

26) Washable Paint

Colorations Washable Tempera Paint, Set of 6 Colors, 8oz Each, Non Toxic Paint, Vibrant Paint, Craft Paint Children, Art Supplies, Homeschool, Home School Use

Our washable tempera paint washes from most surfaces, so kids can create to their heart’s content. Loved by teachers, parents, and of course, kids.
Our versatile 6-count, 8oz craft paint set can be applied to non-greasy, absorbent surfaces including construction paper, drawing paper, cardboard, plaster cloth, and papier-mâché. Its smooth consistency dries to a bold, matte finish, and is perfect with brushes and sponges for different effects. Our tempera paint for kids is perfect for crafts, art projects, hobbies, and whatever your kids dream up.
A World of Creative Possibilities: We formulated our washable paint for kids to create a rich, creamy texture with vibrant colors in bright blue, green, orange, red, white, and yellow, so kids’ imaginations can run wild with endless creativity.
Our kid-safe art paints achieved ASTM-D4236 standard and AP Seal for safety. To help keep our kids art supplies accessible to all kiddos, our washable tempera paint for kids does not have most common allergens including latex, dairy and casein, egg, gluten, peanut and tree nut, or soy. Whether used in school or at home, our kids painting set opens up a world of creativity.
At Colorations, we believe in empowering kids through artistic expression by providing quality, safe, and fun painting supplies made in the USA that let kids truly express themselves. If for any reason you don’t absolutely love your painting for kids set, reach out and we will make it right.

OK, not everyone is a fan of paint because it can get quite messy. But kids getting messy can occupy them for quite a bit of time. (I always go straight to the tub after for a nice long bath)

27) Wooden Dollhouse

PIDOKO KIDS Skylar Wooden Dollhouse – Includes 20 Pcs Furniture Accessories, 5 Family Dolls and a Pet Dog – Wood Doll House for 3 4-5 Year Old Girls & Boys

HOURS OF FUN – Open sided wooden dollhouse; allowing multiple children to play at a time. Moveable stairs; can be placed as desired.
DETAILED ACCESSORIES – Doll house includes 5 play people family dolls, 20 pcs of furniture furnishings set and a pet dog. Handcrafted with durable and sturdy wood; child-safe paints.
GENDER NEUTRAL COLORS – Fresh, bright and vibrant colors of this dollhouse makes it a perfect toy playset house for both boys and girls.
SPARK THIER IMAGINATION – An adorable dollhouse that stimulates imaginative role play and story telling, while also promoting communication, reasoning and intellectual thinking
PREMIUM QUALITY WOOD – Handcrafted with strong, durable wood and child friendly paint

Open-ended toys really are the best.

28) Sensory Bin

Sale

Creativity for Kids Sensory Bin: Garden and Critters – Pretend Play, Flower Garden Preschool Toys Medium

PLAY AND PRETEND – Create your own pretend play flower garden in an ultimate sensory play experience! Engage the senses with a unique play space bin filled with easy to mold sensory sand in 2 colors, faux flowers and critters, shovel, tongs and more!
SENSORY BIN – Sensory bins allow children to discover, imagine and learn while engaging their senses. Place the self-contained sensory bin on a table cloth or towel and scoop, sort, dig and build for easy clean up and endless hours of hands-on play!
SAFETY TESTED – All sensory bins fillers are carefully selected and safety tested to provide the best at home play activity. Since 1976, Creativity for Kids has proudly made fun and creative experiences today to nurture children’s confidence for life
ENDLESS WAYS TO PLAY – Enjoy hours of imaginative play while building fine motor skills and promoting sensory development. Create cognitive tasks for your preschooler as you sort, categorize, explore and engage in hands-on play with your sensory bin
JUST ADD CREATIVITY – Complete play set includes 2.5 lbs of sensory sand, faux flowers, critters, pretend seeds and sensory tools all conveniently packed in a bin with lid for easy storage (Bin measures 14.5″ W x 10.25″ L x 4.75″ H) Great for ages 3+

These types of things are always winners.

29) Balance Board

Gentle Monster Wooden Wobble Balance Board, 35 Inch Rocker Board Natural Wood, Kids Toddler Open Ended Learning Toy, Yoga Curvy Board for Classroom & Office Adult

🌱 UNLIMITED WAYS TO PLAY: The Wooden Balance Board is whatever you imagine it to be – a swing, a bridge, a shop, a cabin, a stepping stone, a racetrack, a lounge chair, fitness equipment, a puppet, a small football goal, a teeter popper or a tunnel.
🌱 DEVELOP MULTIPLE SKILLS: It stimulates the vestibular system, which is of great importance for general development and learning. It supports the muscles responsible for the correct posture develops the sense of balance.
🌱 BOTH FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: The board is a wooden toy that grows with the child and is also very suitable for adults. To get fit, stretch your back (as a seat aid) in yoga exercises, to train balance or just because it’s fun. It’s possible to do a wide range of exercises on the wooden board.
🌱 TRUE QUALITY ASSURANCE: Highest quality natural real wood,ecologically friendly lacquers. The wood has unique coloring, texture, grain, and mineral patterns in the outer layer, which make each board one of a kind.
🌱 SIZE & WEIGHT: Measures 35 inches long, 11.8 inches wide, 0.66 inches thick and 6 inches tall at the highest point. This durable piece of Montessori furniture is a solid heirloom item that can be used for many years of adventure.It can safely hold up to 480lbs so that friends can join the fun too.

Great movement toy.

30) Ride on Toy & Ramp

Radio Flyer 500 With Ramp, Toddler Ride On Toy, Ages 3-5, Red Kids Ride On Toy

FUN RACING CAR: The Flyer 500 includes a foot-to-floor ride-on car that can be used for on and off-track riding. The Radio Flyer Little Red Racer car also features two footrests for added safety and comfort.
6 FOOT RAMP: The ramp and base provide endless fun for toddlers! The ramp also features grooves for miniature toy car racing.
CONVENIENT STORAGE: With parents in mind, the ramp and car fit into the base for easy storage. The base also has rear wheels so it can be easily moved once packed.
SPECIFICATIONS: Assembled dimensions with ramp are 76.5“ L x 27“ W x 27.5” H. For ages 3 – 5 years. Maximum weight capacity 50 lbs.

Perfect for little thrill seekers.

31) Books

A Collection of Stories for 3 Year Olds

Hardcover Book
Parragon Books (Author)
English (Publication Language)
96 Pages – 10/08/2018 (Publication Date) – Parragon Books (Publisher)

I am a massive book lover so I will always recommend books.

32) Cleaning Set

Sale

Melissa & Doug Let’s Play House Dust! Sweep! Mop! 6 Piece Pretend Play Set – Toddler Toy Cleaning Set, Pretend Home Cleaning Play Set, Kids Broom And Mop Set For Ages 3+

REALISTIC WOODEN CLEANING SET FOR KIDS – This colourful, childrens cleaning set looks just like the real thing and includes a wooden pretend play broom, mop, duster, dustpan and brush, and organising stand; the red dustpan conveniently clips into all handles.
WOODEN CLEANING TOYS THAT INSPIRE HOURS OF PRETEND PLAY – We developed the Lets Play House! Dust! Sweep! Mop! Toy cleaning set for toddlers to motivate your child to model independence and use their imagination to have fun! Each cleaning tool gives them an imagined role and pretend task to try.
BUILDS SKILLS AND CONFIDENCE – This skill-building and confidence-boosting wooden toy cleaning set is designed to strengthen and embolden your child’s sense of purpose and support their development; each pretend play tool helps them develop coordination and fine motor skills, and mimicking everyday chores helps teach responsibility and boosts self-esteem.
A PERFECT EDUCATIONAL GIFT FOR CHILDREN AGED 3 TO 6 – Our kid-tested and timeless toys make great gifts for encouraging screen-free, hands-on, and open-ended play; Check out more Melissa & Doug girls toys like our pretend play iron and ironing board set, vacuum cleaner, or a Melissa & Doug kitchen set for kids to round out the hands-on play experience and give kids another engaging option for screen-free fun.
“THE GOLD STANDARD IN EARLY CHILDHOOD PLAY” according to NBC News, Melissa and Doug are proud to have been making beautiful wooden toys for kids for over 30 years, because we believe that the quality of play influences childrens’ development across the board.

Pretend play at its finest.

There is definitely no shortage of toys out there. The list could go on and on.

My best piece of advice would be to take a beat before you hit the “add to cart” button and really think about what the toy has to offer.

There will always be a new “it” toy. Always. And while some of these toys will get lots of hands-on time, some will end up in the back of a closet or the bottom of a toy chest.

Always consider a child’s interests and try to make the most informed choice possible.

Have anything to add to this list of practical gifts for 3-year-olds?

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practical gifts for 3 year-olds