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The 27 Best Gifts and Toys for 1-Year-Olds

Aka everything you need to know about shopping for a baby.

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gifts for one year olds

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Want to be the coolest aunt on the block, but don't know the first thing about buying gifts for babies? We got you. There's so much out there to pick from, but it's hard to know what new parents even allow for their little ones. Like is plastic OK? What about screens? We've done the hard work for you. We asked experts (aka real-life moms) to weigh in on what babies are into these days, and gifts that will make parents happy as well.

Below, you'll find a carefully curated list of the best gifts and toys for 1-year-olds that are sure to make you the best parent/cool auntie/friend out there. From bath time water toys to interactive stuffed animals they'll actually use. We're sure you'll find something "add to cart"-worthy on this list to spoil the 1-year-old baby in your life.

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Those old teething keys you probably had as a baby have gotten a major upgrade. Now they come with baby's first Stanley cup and earbuds, so baby can be just like mom.

Not gonna lie, I almost bought this for myself. This snuggly little otter mimics breathing, has gentle lights, and plays soothing sounds to help make bedtime easier.

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this colorful fidget toy

Fat Brain Toys Original Dimpl

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Original Dimpl
3
this colorful fidget toy

Fat Brain Toys Original Dimpl

They can practice their hand eye coordination with this very satisfying popping toy that has five colorful bubbles that move in and out.

Playmobil toys are built to outlast even the most rough and tumble little kids. Start their construction vehicle collection with this set that comes with a garage and a dump truck.

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Shapes and Sharing Picnic Basket
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There's never been a more glam shape sorter than this one. I mean, look at the eyelashes! All 15 pieces fit back in the basket when they are done with their picnic feast.

Give that budding artist some safe crayons to color with. These chunky sticks are harder for toddlers to break.

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You've got bag charms, but baby needs some charms of their own to hang off their stroller for decoration and built-in entertainment.

This adorable baby bike is engineered so that it won’t topple over while your favorite 1-year-old practices scooting around sans pedals before graduating to a real bicycle.

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9
this cozy playhouse

RONGFA Kids Tent Playhouse

Kids Tent Playhouse
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this cozy playhouse

RONGFA Kids Tent Playhouse

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Introducing the most versatile play place for a little one. This tent will give a toddler all of the space to play games, read books, and take a nap—whatever is on their schedule for the day.

Floaty toys like this friendly octopus turn bath time into a play zone. This little buddy even comes with rings that can be tossed onto his tentacles!

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this fruit and veggie set

Fajiabao Wooden Food Set

Wooden Food Set
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this fruit and veggie set

Fajiabao Wooden Food Set

Anyone else grow up with these?! Babies can learn how to match the veggie halves and velcro them together—they can even practice some (very safe) knife skills with the wooden utensils!

This simple wooden toy will keep them occupied for hours as they watch the cars zoom back and forth on the colorful tracks. It'll also look adorable on a playroom shelf!

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13
this colorful sorting toy

Gopo Toys Wooden Stacking Toy

Wooden Stacking Toy
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this colorful sorting toy

Gopo Toys Wooden Stacking Toy

One-year-olds will probably be most interested in the soft colors and simple, sturdy pieces of this set, but as they get older, they’ll be able to sort and stack the shapes.

They’ll love pushing this around the house and stopping to explore the different shapes and colors this grocery cart has.

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Ah, don't you remember how happy a singing stuffed animal made you? This super-cute elephant sings a fun tune when you press its right foot and plays peek-a-boo with its flappy ears when you press the left foot.

This learning toy will help the lil one learn shapes, colors, and simultaneously improve spacial skills.

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You can never go wrong with gifting a baby a fun storybook.

Music toys are just one of those fundamental things babies need. This mini electric guitar has two sounds: acoustic and banjo.

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This sensory ball is the perfect toy for the 1-year-old in your life. Improve motor skills like throwing and catching with this rubber toy.

Babies can start walking at all different stages, so if your 1-year-old hasn't started walking yet, this will help get them started. And if they're already walking, they'll love pushing this thing throughout your home.

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