Gifts kids actually play with, including 2026 Toy of the Year finalists, with ages on every pick.
Updated October 2026 · save to pinterest
best for: Family game night with older kids
A faster, wilder take on the classic. A 2026 Toy of the Year finalist for Game of the Year.
best for: Kids and grown-ups playing together
A fast, loud card-slapping game for the whole family. Ten minutes a round.
best for: Sleepovers and siblings
A silly strategy card game with ridiculous cat art that kids love.
best for: Curious kids who take things apart
Snap-together electronics with 25+ spy missions. Learning electronics without it feeling like homework.
best for: Preschoolers and little builders
Soft, squishy building blocks with a cement mixer, dozer and characters — 75 pieces.
best for: Super Mario fans
A 12-inch Bowser with a light-up fire-breathing effect. Instant hit with Mario fans.
best for: Lilo & Stitch fans
A 17-inch interactive Stitch that reacts to hugs and play.
best for: Collectors of all ages
The squishy plush kids collect. Easy add-on or stocking stuffer.
best for: Tweens who love taking photos
Instant photos kids can hold and stick on their wall. Simple enough for kids to use alone.
best for: The one big gift this year
The big-ticket family gift. Handheld or on the TV, with tons of kid-friendly games.
The Toy Association's 2026 Toy of the Year finalists include Connect 4 Frenzy, the Snap Circuits Spy Kit, Super Mario Big Bad Bowser and the interactive Disney Stitch plush. Popular toys sell out, so buy early.
STEM kits like Snap Circuits, an Instax camera, fast card games like Exploding Kittens or Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, and a Switch 2 for the big splurge.
Match their current obsession (Mario, Stitch, building, art), check the age on the box, and favor toys you can play together, like games.
