6 Tips for Buying Birthday Gifts for Kids

Need some ideas for birthday gifts for the kids in your life? We asked some of our co-workers for their favorite, go-to birthday gifts for kids of all ages. These are the tried-and-true gift ideas that have worked for them and will work for you!

Our fans tell us that Melissa & Doug toys are a hit with both kids and their grown-ups, for their playing power and their staying power. With their focus on open-ended, hands-on play and their ability to grow with kids through many ages and stages, Melissa & Doug toys make for gifts you’ll feel great about giving!

The Best Birthday Gifts for Kids of All Ages

Toy-Buying Tip #1: Shop What's New

"My go-to strategy for buying toys for nieces, nephews, or friends’ kids is to browse the What's New page and buy them the toys that are the newest! That way I know they probably don't already own it. In terms of favorite toys for gift-buying, I like to find ones that can easily be stored away, like these really cute, new play tents. There are a few different play tent themes that match different kids’ personalities.” — Carrie B., mom of three

Birthday Gift for 3-Year-Olds, 4-Year-Olds, and 5-Year-Olds

CARRIE: "These play tents were a hit for all different ages when I bought them as Christmas gifts for all the kids in my life."

Toy-Buying Tip #2: Think About Themes

“I like to do themes when buying birthday gifts. Melissa & Doug is known for themes such as farm, dinosaur, wildlife, ocean, and fairy tale. For example, for a dino-obsessed kid, I might buy this dinosaur set that includes a giant T-Rex, an activity rug, and a floor puzzle.” —Traci M., mom of two

Birthday Gifts for Babies, Toddlers, and Preschoolers

“I always give the Rainbow Stacker for babies and toddlers and the Stainless Steel Pots & Pans, Cutting Food, or Tabletop Easel for toddlers and older kids.” —Sara E., mom of two

SARA: "Parents love it because it doesn't take up too much room and you can move it from table to floor…so many options for play to keep kids entertained. It's also awesome for virtual learning!"

SARA: "Another playroom staple...I have not met a kid who doesn't love these pretend play sets!"

SARA: "I love that it's a classic toy, babies can even chew on it when they're teething! Also, it looks great in any nursery or playroom on display!"

Toy-Buying Tip #3: Tunnels Are Tons of Fun

“The Melissa & Doug tunnels are great because they are fun for indoor and outdoor play. Kids get so creative with them. The camp chairs are great gifts, too!” — John F., dad of five

Toy-Buying Tip #4: Water Wow Always Wows

“I love Water Wow. I always think back to the times I've been in the car or on planes with my own little ones, trying to give them a creative, mess-free way to play!" 
— Jess T., mom of four

Toy-Buying Tip #5: Don't Forget the Guests

“I love using Water Wow as birthday party favors.” —Jill G., mom of two

JESS: "Another huge plus to this gift is that it can be used over and over!"

JESS: "I also love our role play outfits. I recently gave the construction worker outfit to a little boy whose dad works in the field. Now he can dress up to be just like dad!"

Toy-Buying Tip #6: When in Doubt, Opt for a Play Food Set

Kids love the realistic details in the Melissa & Doug pretend play food sets. Although they say age 3+, even older kids enjoy playing with the comprehensive sets. With their high-quality construction, these sets are sure to last for many years of play. Some favorites:

Melissa & Doug Prepare & Serve Pasta Set

Melissa & Doug Top & Bake Pizza Counter