Shopping for a one-year-old at Christmas can be surprisingly tricky. They’re starting to explore everything, but many toys that catch your eye are still meant for older children. The best gifts at this age are simple: something to shake, push, stack, look at or enjoy with you.
Here are ten Christmas gift ideas for one-year-olds, from small presents to gifts they can grow into.
1. A rainmaker to shake and watch
The Wooden Sensory Flower Rainmaker makes a gentle sound as the beads tumble through it. Little ones can shake it, roll it and watch what happens.
2. A story they can play along with
A book is always a lovely Christmas gift, and the Three Little Pigs Puppet Story adds four finger puppets to the story. At first, you can bring the characters to life as you read; before long, your child may want to join in.
3. A colourful toy for curious eyes
The Peacock Colours Sensory Toy has coloured panels they can look through and overlap. It’s a gift to explore together, especially when they start noticing and naming colours.
4. Stacking cups
Stack them up, knock them down, nest them inside each other, then start again. Stacking cups are wonderfully simple and easy to take along when visiting family.
5. A puppet for stories and giggles
The Lion Hand Puppet is one you can use to sing songs, tell stories or simply make your little one laugh. It fits an adult hand, is machine washable and is listed as suitable from birth
6. A shape sorter
A shape sorter can start as a game of posting pieces through holes and become more challenging as your child grows. Choose one with large pieces and an age recommendation that suits the child.
7. A pull-along toy
For a little one who is finding their feet, a pull-along animal can become a companion on trips around the living room. It’s a particularly nice choice for a confident walker.
8. Jingle bells for Christmas songs
The Jingle Bell Band would make nursery rhymes and Christmas songs more fun. An adult can hold or use the band while singing with the child. Keep the bell play closely supervised.
9. A soft first doll
A soft doll is lovely for cuddles, carrying around and the beginnings of pretend play. Look for one labelled suitable from 12 months, with securely attached features and no small accessories.
10. A push-along vehicle
A chunky car or bus is easy to grasp and satisfying to send across the floor. It’s a small gift that can provide a lot of repeat play.
If you’re choosing just one present, I’d pick the rainmaker for a child who loves sounds, the puppet story set for a gift to enjoy together, or stacking cups for a simple toy with plenty of uses. Check the age label on the exact item before buying, as products shown in Amazon search results can vary.
Don't forget to use discount code XMAS20 for any products from Busy Little Bears