Thankfully, the Pish Posh Baby team has had a lot of experience both giving and receiving gifts for 1 year olds. Young children learn through play, much in the way scientists learn by doing experiments. We’ve put together a selection of fun and engaging gifts for young recipients, as well as some keepsake items and gifting options for parents, too. And let’s be real, when it comes to presents, most 1 year olds aren’t picky. In fact, they’re probably just as excited – if not more – by the packaging as they are by what’s inside. (Make sure you save the box.) So grab this opportunity to get creative with your gifts! Here are some ideas that are sure to please.
Gifts That Have Longevity
Opt for something to furnish their room or, if you don’t live nearby, a gift that will keep you connected. You could also invest in keepsake items that will remain special as a child grows up.
1. DockATot Quintessentially Morris decorative pillow, $90
Gorgeous colors and bird prints will bring comfort and delight to little ones while the classic design means this gift will stay in their room forever.
2. Aura digital picture frame, from $179
Stay connected: upload your favorite photos and memories together in real time. A lovely way for a 1 year old and parents to keep in touch with friends and family members who live far away.
3. Baby bracelets, from $30
Baby bracelets are the classic timeless gift for a baby girl. Our selection of pretty bracelets and bangles, featuring topaz and ruby hearts, flowers and cherries, can be worn for years to come.
Gifts for 1 Year Olds Who Are Little Explorers
At this age, babies and toddlers may struggle to speak, but that doesn’t mean they don’t know what’s going on. Find toys that will stimulate and surprise their growing minds, such as ride-on toys that offer the opportunity to roam or games that will build matching and counting skills.
4. Skip Hop Zoo 3-in-1 Ride-On, $65
Designed to grow with your child, this colorful ride-on encourages motor skills development, balance and coordination.
5. Skip Hop Zoo Mini Backpack with Safety Harness, $19
This animal-inspired backpack will nurture independence, while the tether keeps them safe as they wander.
Gifts To Encourage Sensory Play
Play at this age is largely focused on sensory exploration and motor development, so toys with different textures that invite small hands and mouths to grab and investigate are good choices.
6. The Babbler Play Kit, $120, every three months
This subscription box service sends a research-backed selection of nontoxic play products that help parents squeeze more meaningful moments out of playtime with their little ones.
7. Fat Brain Toys Suction Kupz, $14.95
Six colorful, squishy cups that can be stacked, rolled or stuck and be used to pour, float and scoop. Endless possibilities for fun anywhere, from the tub to the car to the park!
Gifts That Spark The Imagination
Kids in this age range don’t typically need a reason to let their imaginations run wild, but adding some props can encourage magical thinking. For a toddler, a mini version of your daily activities will always please, such as a play kitchen or interactive toys.
8. Tiny Love Wonder Buddies, $26.99
Your 1-year-old will love listening to their buddy snoring, hearing them nibble as they feed, watching their heart glow when they’re tickled and playing peekaboo.
9. DockATot Tent of Dreams, $475
Give them their own secret hideaway for seriously imaginative play. What could be more dreamy than a beautiful tent, complete with drapes that can be open and closed?
Unique Gifts for 1 Year Olds (That Are Really For The Parents)
Why not consider something that parents will love? A free babysitting session, home-cooked meal or compassionate ear is likely to go down a treat, too.
10. Therabox, from $34.99 for a monthly subscription
Happy caregivers = happy baby. TheraBox sends a monthly happiness activity (think journaling and mindfulness exercises) as well as 6-8 full-sized wellness items for the mind, body and soul.
11. Fresh Direct food delivery
The gift of food is what most new parents really appreciate. Order groceries, meal kits and prepared foods or opt for a gift card.
12. Jacadi Spray, from $38
French brand Jacadi creates beautiful skincare that’s specially formulated to look after a baby’s delicate skin and smells divine. These scented sprays are the perfect luxurious gift for parents.