Cool Toys for Kids can often be difficult to find when you need it the most. I guarantee you’ll find something you love in this list of gift ideas. Yes, there are countless lists online for cool gift ideas and cool toys for kids — cool toys for boys, cool toys for girls. But, I hand-picked every toy on this list and made sure that they had that unique quality that can be categorized as “cool” and unique.
Whether you’re looking for a Christmas gift for your son or daughter, we’ve got you covered. If you’re looking for the perfect birthday gift your own child or a nephew or niece — we’ve got you covered. I searched far and wide to help you find the perfect gift idea for that special someone.
Keep reading to discover some very cool toys for kids.
Cool Toys for Kids | Christmas Ideas
VTech Record & Learn KidiStudio
Inside this article you will discover cool toys for boy and girls and I’m sure you’ll also discover that the child within you is still alive and kicking because you’ll be wanting to buy some of these toys for yourself. Don’t feel guilty, because I wish my parents had purchased many of these gift ideas for me.
You see, I believe that a thoughtful gift extends far beyond the price. A meaningful gift should inspire a child to create, to dream, to invent. The majority of these toys for kids are intended to add value to their lives and encourage them to explore, learn, grow and move their bodies.
Table of Contents...
- 1 Step2 Grand Walk-in Kitchen and Grill
- 2 Air Swimmers Remote Control Flying Shark | Cool Toys for Kids
- 3 Gonge Riverstones | Cool Toys for Kids
- 4 KidKraft Ride Around Train Set and Table | Cool Toys for Kids
- 5 Meccano Meccanoid G15 | Personal Robot for Kids
- 6 Meccano Meccanoid G15 KS | The Bigger Sibling
- 7 Melissa & Doug Fold & Go Wooden Barn | Cool Toys for Kids
- 8 Learning Resources Farmers Market Color Sorting Set | Cool Toys for Kids
- 9 Step2 Play and Store Sandbox | Cool Toy
- 10 KidKraft Laundry Play Set | Cool Toys for Kids
- 11 Hape Master Workbench | Cool Toys for Kids
- 12 Build More Stuff | Hape Master Workbench
- 13 Fisher-Price Triple Hit Baseball
- 14 Loopin’ Louie Board Game | Fun Christmas Gift
- 15 Jetson V8 Scooter | Safety Tested
- 16 Step2 WonderBall Fun House
- 17 Learning Resources Pretend & Play Teaching Cash Register | Cool Toys for Kids
- 18 Black & Decker Toy Leaf Blower | Cool Toys for Kids
- 19 Educational Insights | GeoSafari My First Microscope | Cool Toys for Kids
- 20 Educational Insights The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game | Cool Toys for Kids
- 21 Great gift idea for kids.
- 22 Step2 Deluxe Art Master Desk | Cool Toys for Kids
- 23 A Cool Gift Idea for Any Child!
- 24 Step2 Deluxe Workshop | Cool Toys for Kids
- 25 Peg Perego John Deere Ground Force Tractor with Trailer | Cool Toys for Kids
- 26 Educational Insights Grill-And-Go Camp Stove | Cool Toys for Kids
- 27 Learning Resources Camp Set | Gift Idea
- 28 Step2 Extreme Coaster Ride-On | Cool Toys for Kids
- 29 Thames and Kosmos Biology Tk2 Scope
- 30 Little Tikes Backyard Barbeque Grillin’ Goodies | Cool Toys for Kids
- 31 Hey mom, do you want a burger?
- 32 KidKraft Fire Station Set | Cool Toys for Kids
- 33 KidKraft Everyday Heroes Play Set | Gift Idea
- 34 KidKraft Wooden Toaster Set | Cool Toys for Kids
- 35 KidKraft Majestic Mansion Dollhouse with Furniture | Cool Toys for Kids
- 36 Brio Deluxe Railway Set | Cool Toys for Kids
- 37 KidKraft Uptown Espresso Kitchen | Cool Toys for Kids
- 38 Radio Flyer Full Size All-Terrain Steel and Wood Wagon | Cool Toys for Kids
- 39 Black And Decker Junior Power Tool Workshop | Cool Toys for Kids
- 40 Husqvarna 223L Toy Trimmer | Cool Toys for Kids
- 41 Step2 Naturally Playful Sand & Water Center | Cool Toys for Kids
- 42 Swing-N-Slide Chesapeake Wood Complete Play Set | Cool Toys for Kids
- 43 Flying Turtle Scooter | Cool Toys for Kids
- 44 Radio Flyer The Ultimate Comfort Wagon | Cool Toys for Kids
- 45 KidKraft Waterfall Mountain Train Set and Table | Cool Toys for Kids
- 46 Fisher-Price Thomas the Train Tough Trike | Cool Toys for Kids
- 47 Radio Flyer 4-in-1 Trike | Cool Toys for Kids
- 48 Kidkraft Vintage Kitchen in Pink | Cool Toys for Kids
- 49 Husqvarna Toy Chainsaw | Cool Toys for Kids
- 50 Melissa & Doug Wooden Project Workbench | Cool Toys for Kids
- 51 Fisher-Price Power Wheels Kawasaki Brute Force | Cool Toys for Kids
- 52 KidKraft Tasty Treat Pretend Food Set | Cool Toys for Kids
Meaningful Toys Meant to Inspire & Teach
SmartLab Squishy Human (love the name)
We live in an age where kids are getting hooked on digital gadgets at a young age. If you’re looking for a digital gift of any sort, well, you won’t find it here. These gift ideas are for the kid in all of us. I choose toys that encourage children to interact with the physical world. The majority of these toys will provide lasting memories and remind your child that the tactile world is rewarding and beautiful.
I hope you find something “cool” here and if I did my job right, your child will be rewarded with a wonderful gift that they will adore and cherish throughout the years. Happy gift searching!
The pictures are large and easy to browse. Be careful, you might catch yourself drooling.
✓ NOTE: Toys sell out fast this time of year, so don’t wait until the last minute to make a decision. The most popular toys will likely be gone before Christmas. Unfortunately, manufacturers can’t always accurately predict how fast shoppers will snatch up their toys during the holiday season. Inventory decisions are often made months in advance.
Step2 Grand Walk-in Kitchen and Grill
Read our comprehensive article on the best play kitchens for kids. So many cool toy gift ideas. Makes me wish I was a child again. Oh well, I’ll have to wait until the next life.
Features:
- Plenty of room for multi-child play, including an attached dining area, “stainless steel” refrigerator and toy kitchen appliances that will keep kids busy for hours.
- Three realistic electronic features: grill, stove top and phone.
- Large toy sink has a swivel faucet with push button for preschoolers to pretend wash the play dishes, play food, and even their hands.
- 103-pc. accessory set included (colors of accessories and play food may vary).
- Requires two “AA” and four “AAA” batteries (not included).
- Adult assembly required.
Details:
- Dimensions: 47″ H x 50.75″ W x 36.38″ D
- Weight: 50 lbs
Air Swimmers Remote Control Flying Shark | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 3+ years.
This is a very unique cool toy for kids. Honestly, it’s simple but there’s something about it that is incredibly appealing. Imagine flying this through the house. Kids will love this toy!
This Air Swimmers flying shark will glide through the air with incredibly smooth and life-like motion. These amazing fish provide hours of remote control indoor fun in even the smallest of rooms (not for outdoor use). They require four AAA batteries and you have total control, including: up, down and 360 degree turning control.
Watch someone pilot it through New York City. How fun!
You’ll need to fill your own personal shark with helium (inexpensive) at any party store, florist shop, or grocery store or anywhere that carries balloons. The body is constructed from high quality, durable nylon material that will stay inflated for weeks. Once the helium depletes you can fill it up again.
Features:
- Remote Functions: climb, descend, and tail fin control
- Range: Up to 40 feet
- Length (with tail): 57 inches
- Height (with fins): 36 inches
Gonge Riverstones | Cool Toys for Kids
Set of 6 River Stones. Can withstand weights up to 110 lbs. Grades PreK-3. Ages 3-7.
Features:
- Great for improving coordination and balance.
- Each side of the stones vary in steepness and difficulty.
- Can be stacked for easy storage.
- Rubber rim prevents slipping.
- Includes: 3 large stones and 3 small stones.
I love this gift because it allows children to play inside as they would play on a river bed. Let’s face it, kids can’t always be outside in nature. These play river stones are well-made, durable and most all, fun. But, as a parent, you’ll be happy to know that they provide your child a means to continue their development — improving coordination, balance, and motor skills.
The River Stones are inspired by stepping stones in a river with each side of the triangle varying in steepness and difficulty. The purpose is to jump from stone to stone without touching the floor – you can vary the position of the stones to create more challenging paths for advanced children. Each stone has rubber studs on the base which prevent them from slipping, and also protect indoor floor areas. This interactive toy provides a wide range of benefits including: Increased confidence when jumping, judging distances, coordinating and balancing.
Little Tikes Backyard BBQ Get Out ‘N Grill | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 2 years +
The Little Tikes Backyard Barbeque Get Out ‘N Grill is a fun toy for kids who love playing with food — and thankfully, you won’t have to worry about cleaning it up off the floor when they’re done.
This toy BBQ will give your kids their own space to mimic mom and dad cook while encouraging them to share and play. A wonderful kids gift idea to help them develop social and sharing skills in an active playing space.
Another great aspect of this gift idea is that it can be used indoors our outdoors.
Accessories include: Pair of tongs, Spatula, Hamburger and bun, Hot dog and bun, Bottle of ketchup
Features:
- Realistic toy BBQ: Comes with a dual grill, lid sink and side burner.
- Lots of storage in the cupboard below the grill.
- Starter button and clicking knobs.
- Assembly Required.
KidKraft Ride Around Train Set and Table | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 3+ years.
KidKraft designed this train set in its own elevated enclosed table to keep playtime organized and off the floor. Measuring 49″ x 34″ and standing 16″ high, kids can be closer to the fun while sitting down. The Ride Around Town Train comes with a storage bin to house all the pieces underneath the table when not in use.
Features:
- 100 colorful pieces.
- Airport includes runway and helipad.
- Hospital with ambulance.
- Large enough that multiple children can play at once.
- Compatible with Thomas & Friends wooden train sets and Brio wooden train sets.
- 49″ x 34.25″x 16″ (length x width x height).
- MDF, T molding and melamine.
- Item Weight: 42.9 lbs.
Fisher-Price Power Wheels Jeep Wrangler | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 3 years & up
I would have absolutely loved one of these Fisher Price Jeep Wrangler’s when I was a kid. I desperately wanted a real Jeep growing up, but this would have been a dream come true as a child. This is a great gift idea if you have a large yard that your child can safely roam around in.
Maximum Weight Capacity: 130 lb. (59 kg).
Features:
- Looks like a miniature Jeep Wrangler.
- Ample room in the rear storage area.
- 2.5 and 5 mph (4 and 8 km/h) max. forward; 2.5 mph (4 km/h) max. reverse.
- Perfect for hard surfaces and grass.
- High speed lock-out for beginners. You control the maximum speed.
- Power-Lock Brakes
- Includes 12V battery and charger.
- Enough room for two.
Meccano Meccanoid G15 | Personal Robot for Kids
Ages: 5 to 14.
Coming in the Fall of 2015. My guess is that this will be extremely popular as we inch towards Christmas. Santa will be delivering a lot of these toy robots.
This is the type of toy that kids dreamed about when I was a kid. Yes, it was a long time ago but let’s a subject for another day. Meccano has been making cool toys for kids since 1901. If your child loves to build and tinker and invent and create then this Meccanoid G15 (or the KS model – see below) is the only gift they need.
This is fully programmable but don’t worry, your kids doesn’t have to be technical to take advantage of its capabilities. It has 3 learning modes which you can control from a tablet or smartphone. It allows you to program it by moving the different parts and the robot will automatically record the movements and then be able to act them out on command.
It also has storage for thousands of phrases, can tell jokes, recite fun facts, asks your child questions to keep them engaged, initiates conversations, can play games — and will even remember your child’s name and birthday, among other things. It has 12 interactive modes and will adapt to its environment with its built-in AI.
Honestly, if you’re only going to buy one gift for a curious child then this has to be it. This will challenge your child in new and meaningful ways, providing them with a deep interactive experience they’ll never forget.
Learn more on the Meccano site.
Learn more on Amazon.
Features:
- The Meccano Meccanoid G15 Robot comes with over one thousand phrases and voice recognition to make your personal robot more like your best friend!
- Download the free app from Google Play or AppStore. Works with iOS and Android.
- Build, program and play with this fully-operational, 2-foot-tall android, powered by 6 motors for realistic movement.
- The Meccano Meccanoid G15 TM Personal Robot is for ages 10 and up. Batteries not included.
- Includes: 621 Parts, 1 Meccabrain, 1 LED Module, 2 Hand Tools, 4 Servos, 2 Rear Wheel Assembly, 2 Motor Gearbox Assembly, Instruction Sheet
Watch the video of this cool toy for children:
https://youtu.be/Q03nIupGAIQ
Meccano Meccanoid G15 KS | The Bigger Sibling
For older children, or more advanced kids then you should consider this model as it provides a wider range of features.
Features:
- The Meccano Meccanoid G15 KS Personal Robot comes with over one thousand phrases and voice recognition to make your personal robot more like your best friend!
- Download the free app from Google Play or AppStore. Works with iOS and Android.
- Build, program and play with this fully-operational, 4-foot-tall robot, with life-like articulated limbs powered by 10 motors for realistic movement.
- The Meccano Meccanoid G15 KS Personal Robot is for ages 10 and up. 1800mAh NiMH Battery and charger included.
- Includes: 1223 Parts, 1 AC/DC Wall Mount Charger, 1 Rechargeable 1800mAh NiMH Battery, 1 Meccabrain, 1 LED Module, 2 Hand Tools, 8 Servos, 2 Rear Wheel asembly, 2 Motor Gearbox Assembly
Melissa & Doug Fold & Go Wooden Barn | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 3+
I love the design and muted colors of this toy and kids love farm animals. It’s a simple toy but coupled with the imagination of a child this will spark their imagination. This Melissa & Doug Fold & Go Wooden Farm reminds of toys from the fifties. An instant classic in my opinion.
Features:
- Comes fully assembled. 2-story toy wooden barn.
- Working sliding Barn Doors and Folding Corral.
- Strong handle and a solid case makes it easy to move around.
- Includes 7 plastic farm animals, a wooden ladder & a folding corral.
Learning Resources Farmers Market Color Sorting Set | Cool Toys for Kids
For Grades: PreK+
The Learning Resources Farmers Market Color Sorting Set is a great toy to help your child develop color recognition and sorting skills. You get 25 different veggies and fruits. They look realistic and they’re relationally sized. Great just to play and sort, and also an opportunity to teach your child about nutrition.
Features:
- 25 different fruits and vegetables
- 5 baskets, 5 labels — red, yellow, orange, green and purple
- Comes with an activity guide.
Awards:
- Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Best Toy Gold Seal & SNAP Awards (2012)
- 2013 Learning Magazine’s Teachers’ Choice for the Classroom Award
Step2 Play and Store Sandbox | Cool Toy
Recommended age: 2 and up
Size: 11.00 h 42.00 w 28.00 d
Weight: 13 lbs
Features:
- Four molded seats provide a place for kids to sit while playing.
- Outdoor textures and natural colors blend in with your backyard.
- Sandbox lid provides protection from weather and bugs, as well as offering storage for toys and accessories
- Holds 200 lbs. ff sand (not included).
- Fully assembled, just open and play.
The step2 play & store sandbox is a wonderful gift for young children. Who doesn’t like to beach? Well, why not bring the fun of playing in sand to a safe area within your home — indoor or outdoor. I love that it has heavy-duty lid to keep the sand clean and safe from the elements.
This is a well-designed toy with ample space for several kids to gather and play. Although toys are inherently fun, they also allow your child to develop and grow. Sure, your child will be digging up sand and building castles but they will also be developing their sensory and motor skills. This sandbox (or any sandbox) is a cool toy for kids, encouraging imaginative play.
Hape Sun and Sand Toys
These simple toys have a lot of benefits for kids. Adults forget how much fun the simple things were but to a child, these toys provide a wealth of experience for their development, including:
- Motor Skills (Physical Skills): Boosts coordination, balance, and physical strength
- Problem Solving: Introduces logic, matching, spatial relationships, critical thinking, and an understanding of cause and effect.
Melissa & Doug | Sunny Patch Seaside Sand Cupcake Set
Features:
- Safe and durable.
- Make cupcakes at the beach or in the sandbox.
- 12-piece set includes hinged cupcake molder, cupcake toppers, tray and icing tool.
- Store the whole set in the included mesh bag.
KidKraft Laundry Play Set | Cool Toys for Kids
Features:
- Our Laundry Play Set allows young kids to pretend play cleaning, drying and ironing clothes.
- With its fun design and interactive pieces, this sturdy play set has a ton of play value. Doing the laundry has never been this much fun!
- Washer and dryer doors open and close
- See-through “porthole” windows on doors also open and close
- Knobs that click and turn
- Chalkboard surface
- Two storage shelves
- Convenient storage space at the bottom
- Pretend iron
- Made of composite wood materials
- Size: 28.75″ L x 13.7″ W x 37.25″ H
Hape Master Workbench | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 3+ Years
This toy tool bench from Hape is just to too cool not to include on my list. The unique aspect of this toy is that all of the pieces were designed to attach directly to the toy workbench or your child can make his or her own independent structures.
Solid, well-constructed and beautifully designed for kids. Toy tools are a thoughtful gift idea and that’s why I have several different types included in this article.
Learn more in our article specifically on the Hape Master Workbench and other accompanying tools.
Features (Hape Master Workbench):
- Kids can now have their own work bench and tools just like a “grown-up”
- Includes tools, gears, bolts and other parts for creative building
- All parts are scaled for easy use by young hands
- Toy finishes are all non-toxic, child safe and of the highest quality
- All Hape products comply with EN71 and ASTM quality standards – wood used comes from FSC managed forests
Build More Stuff | Hape Master Workbench
*Sold Separately
- Includes 62 pieces of screws, fasteners, links and the like.
- Includes a building guide that shows how to build specific objects.
Fisher-Price Triple Hit Baseball
Recommended ages: 4 to 7 years
Batter-up! Three fun ways to play help kids learn to hit like a pro. Beginners hit from the tee. When they’re ready for a little more challenge, a simple adjustment converts this battery-powered trainer to pop-up pitch play for rookies: balls automatically pop-up from the base, one after another! And for pros, the trainer auto-pitches 3 balls from up to 10 feet away.
This battery-powered trainer features simple controls. The power switch turns the trainer on and off, and the automatic ball button sets the trainer to pitch three balls automatically for your child to hit.
Requires four D alkaline batteries (not included).
View or download the instruction MANUAL.
Features:
- Hit from tee, pop-up pitch or auto-pitch depending on skill level.
- Includes battery-powered trainer, bat and 3 balls.
- For ages 3 years and up.
A great toy to build confidence and motor skills
As adults we take for granted the benefits of swinging a baseball bat and hitting a ball. This toy provides your child with a fun way to move their body and exercise. But more importantly, it helps them develop their motor skills, which includes hand-eye coordination. If they already play baseball then it will help them on the timing of their swing, follow through and teach them how far to stand from the ball to be a major league player one day. Hey, you never know. All athletes start somewhere.
As your child improves at hitting the ball, their confidence will increase as well. I’m an advocate for surrounding children with toys that enable them to learn, move and grow. As an adult, you owe it to your child to help them develop into a healthy, happy human being.
Loopin’ Louie Board Game | Fun Christmas Gift
This is a fun dexterity game that anybody can play. It’s simple in principle but a lot of fun. It’s very well made as you can see in the video below. Gather your family over the holidays and sip on some egg nog while having fun with Loopin’ Louie and his airplane.
Product Description
Watch out, Loopin’ Louie is out and about and it’s up to you to protect your chickens from his dizzy diving! Every time he flies by in his airplane, he’ll be out to knock another chicken into the chute below. But if you can flip him out of the way with your paddle, he’ll go after someone else’s chicken! Be ready, though, because he’s got some super-dodgy moves! The player with the last chicken standing wins!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfLjxcyZS2w
Features:
- Loopin’ Louie game is chicken-chasing fun.
- Crazy Loopin’ Louie character flies in his airplane.
- Paddles flip him away from your chickens.
- The player with the last chicken standing wins.
Jetson V8 Scooter | Safety Tested
*Updated for 2016. More rugged and durable.
Recommended Age : 13 and up.
Features
- 2 x 400 Watt Motors w/Independent Gyros
- 3 Speed Modes
- 8.5-inch Wheels
Amazon product description:
The Jetson Rover V8 comes equipped with All-Terrain tires allowing riders to ride stronger and with more power than ever before! All the power will be at your fingertips as you can choose 1 of 3 Speed modes from the free app that comes with the Rover. Feel free to ride along with your favorite tunes, as the Rover also has built-in Bluetooth speakers!.
Studies suggest that children at age 3 have the coordination required to use a 3-wheeled scooter, but may not have developed the balance required to operate 2-wheeled scooters.
The Razor Jr Lil’ Kick is the ideal Christmas gift for kids who are getting ready to ride.
Razor Jr. Lil’ Kick Scooter
The Razor Jr Lil’ Kick’s three-wheel design makes for a more stable ride, while the extra-wide, slip-resistant deck keeps kids on their little toes.
Features:
- High quality steel, aluminum and plastic construction.
- Slip-resistant deck keeps kids on their little toes.
- Three wheel design provides greater stability for new riders.
Step2 WonderBall Fun House
Gravity is not only free, which is a good thing when you are trying to stay mindful of product cost, but is also a great thing for kids to learn about during their play time. “Put and take” play is also something very key with this product. Kids get to see the effect of where the balls travel when they put them into play.
This is a very unique playhouse for kids. The designers put a lot of thought into this product to create a new experience for kids. Read more about the design philosophy behind this inventive kids playhouse.
Recommended age: 1.5 and up
Dimensions: 42″ h x 36″ w x 33″ d
Weight: 30 lbs
For more playhouse gift ideas read our comprehensive buying guide.
Features:
- On the outside, toss balls on the roof and watch as they fall through the maze of activities, making fun plinking sounds as they go!
- On the inside, place balls on the planks and watch the fun “plinko” effect.
- Working Dutch door provides open and close play.
- Flip the balls into the house or into the maze with the included flipper.
- Open design provides parents with a view of all the laughter and fun taking place.
- Bottom basin is the perfect place to store the balls once playtime is over.
- 32-piece accessory set includes 10 play balls plus an additional 20 play ball set, a frying pan and boiling pot.
- Learn about the inside dimensions of each playhouse.
- Adult assembly required.
Learning Resources Pretend & Play Teaching Cash Register | Cool Toys for Kids
The Learning Resources Teaching Cash Register brings money math to life! Students can practice coin identification, addition, subtraction, and place value as they play 4 featured games that increase in difficulty as players advance. Also great for imaginative play and learning basic calculator skills. Cash register features a built in scanner, scale and coin slot. Transactions are rewarded with lights, sounds and voice messages (volume control included).
For Ages: PreK+
Includes: Cash register, Life size money, Credit card, Coupon.
Features:
- Cash register measures 13”L x 9.5”W x 8”H
- Requires 3 C batteries (not included)
- Learning Style: Auditory, Tactile, Visual
Benefits:
- Self Help: Creates real life experiences. Helps develop money management skills.
- Math: Practice counting, adding and handling money.
- Social & Behavioral: Encourages imagination and pretend play interactions with friends. Your child will be able to practice turn taking, patience and cooperative play.
Black & Decker Toy Leaf Blower | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 3 years +
A great pretend play toy that’s suitable for indoors or outdoors. Although, this Black & Decker Toy Leaf Blower is a little loud, so you may not want your child to play with this indoors for the sake of your sanity. Either way, it’s well-made. It doesn’t blow enough air to clean your driveway but it’s a toy and wasn’t designed to actually clear the leaves away.
This is a cool gift idea for kids because although adults think of using a leaf blower as a chore, kids think using power tools are cool.
Features:
- Battery operated: Requires 2x AA Batteries (Not Included).
- Realistic movements and sounds.
Educational Insights | GeoSafari My First Microscope | Cool Toys for Kids
Show your kids the world from a different view — the microscopic world. This is a wonderful toy to introduce your child to science and allow them to look at things at 8x magnification. It’s very well-constructed with large dials and big eye pieces, making it very simple to use.
My First Microscope is a working microscope designed especially for little kids!
Features:
- A microscope for preschoolers.
- View anything up to 8x magnification. LED light enhances small details (requires 3 AAA batteries).
- Part of the award-winning GeoSafari Jr. line of toys.
- 2 extra-large viewing eyepieces are made for small eyes.
- Stage light brightens the object being viewed.
Spark their Imagination:
- Encourages scientific exploration.
- Rewards curiosity.
Educational Insights The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 3 to 5 years old.
The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game is a wonderfully designed product that is simple to play but captivating for little kids. The rules are simple:
Your forest friends are hungry and they need your help! Spin the spinner, squeeze the matching colored acorn with your Squirrel Squeezers, and place it into your log. Be the first to fill your log with delicious acorns and you win! You could also spin “pick an acorn,” “steal an acorn,” or “lose an acorn,” so be strategic, little squirrel!
Features:
- Color matching game for all ages.
- Designed to teach matching, sorting, counting, and simple math skills.
- Great board game for young kids.
- Short fun game that can be played again and again.
- Easy to setup.
Great gift idea for kids.
Educational Benefits:
- Reinforces color learning.
- Develops strategic thinking, hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and pre-handwriting skills.
- Encourages social skills and turn-taking.
- Teaches memory and attention skills.
Step2 Deluxe Art Master Desk | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 3 and over
Have you ever known a child that didn’t like to draw and color and play around with art supplies? Well, I think every child should have a place to explore their creativity and jot down their ideas. As an artist myself, I feel that every parent should continually encourage their child to be connected to their creative self.
This is a wonderful gift idea and I happen to think that every child should have something like this to escape to and get lost in their own ideas.
The Step2 Deluxe Art Master Desk is a must have, and you’ll be happy to know that it’s very inexpensive — surprisingly affordable.
A Cool Gift Idea for Any Child!
Features:
- Big working surface with smooth molded compartments.
- Hinged dry-erase writing surface is easy to clean and conceals a storage area.
- Raised shelf and storage bins hold art supplies.
- Vertical compartment storage.
- Push-button light (requires 3 AAA batteries, not included).
- Comes with a chair.
- Maximum weight on chair: 75 lbs (34.1 kg).
- Dimensions: 31.25 x 35.50 x 20.25 (Height / Weight / Depth).
- Weight: 23 lbs
Step2 Deluxe Workshop | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 3 and over
We live in a world where children are seduced by digital technology, video games and tablets. As humans, we are intended to live in the physical world, and use our hands to explore the world. That’s why I love to recommend tool benches for kids. This is more than a toy, it’s an experience that allows children to connect with their true potential as builders — as creators.
Let your child free their mind and build with their hands. The Step2 Deluxe Workshop is a wonderful kids toy tool bench that will get a lot of playtime over the years.
Features:
- Large work surface includes screw holes, recesses for nut, and screw storage
- Realistic Durafoam™ “wood” is easy to put together to create birdhouses and other “wooden” projects
- Features tool chest cabinet, slide in/out drawer and hanging jars where tools and screws can be stored
- Parts bin is an ideal place to store the “wood” pieces once playtime is over
- Pretend shop vacuum teaches children the importance of clean-up after creating a project
- Electronic drill and overhead shop light provide interactive play fun
- 50-piece accessory set included (includes drill bits, screws, nuts, saw, hammer, vise and much more)
- Requires two “AA” and three “AAA” batteries (not included)
- Adult assembly required
Peg Perego John Deere Ground Force Tractor with Trailer | Cool Toys for Kids
What can I say about this Peg Perego Toy Tractor. It’s a classic toy that elicits immediate nostalgia for a simpler time. It’s a perfect toy for kids to cruise around the yard in. Your child will be very popular with other kids in the neighborhood. Make sure you lock it up at night.
I love Peg Perego ride on toys. Don’t believe me? Check out these articles I’ve already written:
Includes: 12-volt rechargeable battery and charger.
Features:
- 2 speeds plus reverse; 21/4 & 41/2 mph. (41/2 mph lockout for beginners)
- Accelerator pedal with automatic brakes
- Farm tractor wheels provide traction on grass, dirt, gravel or pavement.
- Extra large stake-side trailer.
- Working FM radio.
- Adjustable seat with flip-up armrests.
- Made in the USA.
Educational Insights Grill-And-Go Camp Stove | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: PreK+
Features:
- Invites children to act out camping adventures and family barbeques.
- Features 2 light-up surfaces with realistic sizzling and boiling sounds.
- Includes coffee pot, pan and 4 utensils; all pieces are plastic and store neatly in a carry-along case.
- Stove measures 11 3/4″L x 6″H
- Requires 2 AA batteries (not included).
Add a few more goodies for the full pretend camping experience:
Learning Resources Camp Set | Gift Idea
For Grades: PreK+
Includes: Lantern, Stove, Compass, watch, Shovel, Pan, First aid kit, Canteen, Cooking tools.
Lantern and stove each require 2 AA batteries (not included).
Step2 Extreme Coaster Ride-On | Cool Toys for Kids
Turn your backyard into an amusement park. The Step2 Extreme Coaster will thrill young children and will provide them with a fun outlet to get exercise. I love toys that encourage and inspire kids to go outside and move their bodies. This cool toy will do exactly that.
This is well-engineered and can be left outside all year round. Step2 is another excellent toy company that consistently makes high-quality toys for kids. This is a relatively simple toy but it will add so much joy and laughter to your backyard. It’s small enough that you can put it indoors as well. Very cool gift idea for kids.
Features:
- Easy-entry car is balanced for easy mounting.
- Your child will build strength and improve their coordination as they repeatedly push the coaster car up the stairs.
- Encourage your child to share with other kids.
- Maximum weight limit car can hold: 75 lbs (34.1 kg)
- Helmet not included.
- Watch the assembly video.
- Adult supervision, set up and assembly required.
Thames and Kosmos Biology Tk2 Scope
Personally, I love science. I watch every science documentary I can get my hands on. I especially love BBC science documentaries by David Attenborough. So, for me, it’s a natural inclination to recommend a gift that will encourage your child to explore the natural world. Just think about the joy your child will feel when she discovers something new — that feeling of being an explorer. You know how wonderful that is. The moment when your reality changes because you discover something new. For a child, this is a priceless gift.
Includes a full-color, 48-page manual which guides your child through set-up, usage, and dozens of fascinating observations of biological specimens.
Features:
- Ages 10 and up.
- Learn how to use the microscope and how to prepare slides
- 2 bright LED lights, above and below
- 40x, 100x, and 400x magnification
- 4x, 10x, and 40x objective lenses and a 10x ocular lens, all made of optical grade glass
- Over 20 tools and accessories
If you want to learn more about microscopes for kids, I recommend reading our buying guide on microscopes.
Little Tikes Backyard Barbeque Grillin’ Goodies | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 3 and over
Who doesn’t like food? Well, believe it or not, kids enjoy playing with toy food. It’s a very popular toy that you may not have considered before, but if you add extra food to a toy BBQ set, your child and their friends will be having a party all-year long.
See the great Toy BBQ’s that will complement these Grillin’ Goodies.
Features (BBQ Grillin’ Goodies / Toy Food):
- Enough play pieces for 2 kids to share and pretend to have a BBQ lunch.
- 20 pieces includes: 2 hamburger patties; 2 upper and lower hamburger buns; 2 hot dogs; 2 hot dog buns; 2 ears of corn; 2 plates; 2 knife, fork & spoon sets; 2 fabric napkins; 1 ketchup bottle; 1 mustard bottle; 1 set of tongs; 1 spatula.
- Helps develop role-play, sharing and social skills.
- A great compliment for any Little Tikes Grill.
Hey mom, do you want a burger?
Includes: Pair of tongs, Frying pan, Spatula, Hamburger with bun, Hotdog with bun, Bottle of ketchup, Plate.
Features:
- BBQ Grill has 2 age grade configurations.
1) When grill is expanded the height is just right for toddlers.
2) Compacting the grill makes it just right for preschoolers. - Clicking knobs.
- Working Starter button.
- Grill doors open and close.
- Play food fits inside grill base for easy storage.
- Assembly Required.
KidKraft Fire Station Set | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 3 years and up.
Features:
- 10 pieces of furniture.
- 2 bendable firefighters.
- Comes with a helicopter and a fire truck.
- Garage doors open and close.
- Fantastic design details.
Or, you might like this gift idea, which is similar but more elaborate.
KidKraft Everyday Heroes Play Set | Gift Idea
The detail in this play set is impressive. Forget about Superman and Spider-Man — let your child imagine themselves as true real-life heroes.
Features:
- 3 floors and 12 rooms of open space fore fun, creative play.
- 3 rescue vehicles – fire truck, motorcycle and helicopter.
- Two dogs.
- Firefighter’s pole for sliding from the top floor to the bottom.
- Folds up for quick and easy storage
There’s a room for everything.
This is basically a dollhouse for boys. Also, since it’s large it provides you the opportunity to play side-by-side with your child.
KidKraft Wooden Toaster Set | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 3 years and up.
Yes, another KidKraft toy. I have many of their product son this list of cool toys for kids. Why? Well, because they make quality toys.
A wooden toaster set for kids. Who knew? Well, this is a cool gift for kids. The styling is perfect. It’s well-made so it will take the abuse that children tend to put upon their toys.
It’s a ‘working’ toaster, which means, the toast lever mechanism is functional. Also, you can ‘cut’ the butter. This is a fantastic gift idea for either a birthday, Christmas or just a random surprise for your daughter or son.
Features:
- Breakfast is served! Our Wooden Toaster Set is perfect for young boys and girls who like helping out in the kitchen.
- It’s a one-of-a-kind interactive toy that makes a great gift for any occasion.
- Available in three styles: Espresso, Pastel, Red & White.
- Toaster handle presses down, pops back up.
- Pretend stick of butter.
- Butter is held together by hook-and-loop material and can be pulled apart easily.
- Two slices of pretend bread.
- Includes: Butter plate, Butter knife, Pretend jelly.
- Made of composite wood materials.
- Smart, sturdy construction.
- No assembly required.
KidKraft Majestic Mansion Dollhouse with Furniture | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 3 years and up.
This KidKraft Majestic Mansion Dollhouse is a gift from heaven for children who love dolls. It’s exquisitely designed, with vivid colors and beautiful furniture that your child can use to decorate with. Cool toys for kids can be difficult to find but this one will make your child feel like a superstar.
This is a sturdy toy that won’t be easily knocked over and as you can see by the photos, it’s massive. If you have the room for it then put this at the top of your list. Your daughter will love it! Or, son. Boys like to play with dolls too.
Features:
- Massive Dollhouse: 4 feet wide & 4.5 feet tall, giving girls ample room to immerse themselves in their doll world.
- 35 furniture pieces and accessories, including a grandfather clock, a cute little kitten.
- 8 rooms of open space to decorate.
- Elevator moves between the second and third floor.
- Garage doors open and close.
- Great views. Wide windows on either side allow kids to view the dolls.
- Fits fashion dolls up to 12” high.
- Multiple children can play at together. Lots of room to share.
- Materials: Composite wood products, fabric, plastic, and solid wood.
- Molded plastic staircase.
- Comes with step-by-step assembly instructions.
- Weight: 62.4 lbs.
Brio Deluxe Railway Set | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 3 years and up.
Brio is a Swedish company that’s been around since 1884. They are experts at making high quality wooden toys for children. This Deluxe Railway Set is both educational, immersive and fun. It’s beautifully designed and is well-crafted, as you can see in the photo. It’s an interactive toy that stimulates a child’s creativity and imagination.
Features:
- 87 Pieces Includes Storage Box.
- Working lights & interactive sounds.
- Batteries Included.
- Product size: 44.6″ x 28.75″
- Weight: 13.9 lbs.
KidKraft Uptown Espresso Kitchen | Cool Toys for Kids
Features:
- Time to cook up a little fun! Our Uptown Espresso Kitchen has a hip, modern look that young chefs are sure to love
- This wooden kitchen is full of fun details like a cordless phone and a chalkboard for writing the daily specials
- Large enough that multiple children can play at once
- Refrigerator, freezer, microwave, oven and dishwasher doors all open and close
- Cordless phone
- Paper towel holder
- Chalkboard surface on the freezer
- Removable sink for quick and easy cleaning
- Innovative speckled countertop design
- Convenient storage space above the sink
- Made of composite wood products
- Packaged with detailed, step-by-step assembly instructions
- Dimensions: 43 in L x 17.75 in W x 41 in H
Radio Flyer Full Size All-Terrain Steel and Wood Wagon | Cool Toys for Kids
Features:
- A smooth, seamless steel body and sides crafted of natural wood, no-pinch ball joint
- The handle folds under the wagon for easy storage
- Rubber tires that can be filled with air make for a smooth and quite ride
- This wagon won the National Parenting Publications Award and Early Childhood News Director’s Choice Award
- Weight capacity 200-Pounds
Black And Decker Junior Power Tool Workshop | Cool Toys for Kids
Features:
- 50+ accessory pieces
- Realistic action, lights and sounds
- Black and Decker Junior pretend tools look just like the tools Dad uses
Husqvarna 223L Toy Trimmer | Cool Toys for Kids
Looks like a real Husqvarna 223L Trimmer. This toy weed trimmer is good for kids ages 3 and up. Makes trimmer sound and cutter has green LED’s that light up and rotate when trigger is pulled.
Step2 Naturally Playful Sand & Water Center | Cool Toys for Kids
Features:
- Two separate sides: one for water, the other for sand
- Durable, one-piece plastic cover keeps sand clean & dry
- Molded-in roadways on lid provide an additional play surface
- Elastic tie-downs on ends of lid keep it securely attached
- Holds up to 20 lbs. (9.07 kg) of sand
- Convenient drain plug for easy draining
- Removable umbrella is designed to provide shade
- Eight-piece accessory set includes one 60″ diameter umbrella, two bridges, two boats, two pots and one shovel (boat design may vary)
- Minimal adult assembly required
Swing-N-Slide Chesapeake Wood Complete Play Set | Cool Toys for Kids
Features:
- Everything you need is in the box. Two Play Decks totaling 24 sq. ft
- All premium pre-cut lumber and poly-coated uprights included
- Award winning Bracket System saves you time, so you can Build and Play in One day
- Assembled Dimensions; 15 Ft. W x 17 Ft. L x 11 Ft. H
- Fully illustrated plans
- For Residential Use Only. Unable to ship to commercial addresses
- Meets and/or exceeds ASTM standards for backyard residential use only
Flying Turtle Scooter | Cool Toys for Kids
Features:
- A ride on toy for kids of all ages
- Modernized from the original engineer’s 1970 design
- Swing handle bars back and forth to propel forward
- Encourages balance, coordination, muscle strength, and endurance
- Injection molded polyethylene seat and large polyurethane wheels
- Molded polyethylene hand grips and chrome-coated handlebars
- Suitable for use on linoleum, hardwood floors, concrete, pavement
- Comes completely assembled
- No motor, no battery, just kid-powered fun!
- One year manufacturer’s warranty
- Weight limit 150
Radio Flyer The Ultimate Comfort Wagon | Cool Toys for Kids
Features:
- Padded Seats with storage pockets with expandable rear storage
- Extra large, quiet ride tires provide a smooth ride
- UV protection canopy removed in seconds with quick-clip attachment system
- Front axels designed for non-tip turning with Extra large, quiet ride tires
- For ages over 18 months and up
KidKraft Waterfall Mountain Train Set and Table | Cool Toys for Kids
Your child will be swept away to Waterfall Mountain. I love the fact that it comes with its own table to make it easy to play with for your child. Just make sure you have enough room for it because it will become a permanent fixture in your home.
Features:
- 120 piece set
- 3 storage bins
- Three durable red plastic bins that slide under the table for effortless storage
- Special T-molded edges to prevent chipping
- Silk-screened landscaped play board
- 1″ lip to keep toys on the play table
- Sturdy construction
- Composite wood table and accessories, solid wood train track, and plastic accessories
- Dimensions: 48.75″ L x 34.5″ W x 16″ H
Fisher-Price Thomas the Train Tough Trike | Cool Toys for Kids
Features:
- Tough enough for years of fun with all the features you look for in a first trike
- Great Thomas and Friends styling
- Kid friendly features: a wide, stable wheel base, easy-grip handlebars and big foot pedals
- Kids can ride smoothly with its comfort-ride seat, also lifts to reveal a secret storage compartment
- Durable tires with rugged treads for “off-road” fun
Radio Flyer 4-in-1 Trike | Cool Toys for Kids
Watch this video of the Radio Flyer 4-in-1 Trike:
Features:
- Grows with your child – 4 ways to ride: infant trike, steering trike, learn-to-ride trike and classic trike
- Removable wrap around tray with cup holder to protect your child
- Secure 3-point harness (removable)
- Adult Steer & Stroll™ height adjustable push handle (removable)
- Front wheel coasts while adult pushes
- Comfortable headrest provides neck support (removable)
- Adjustable grow-with-me seat
- Unique stroller-style canopy with UV protection (removable)
- Covered bin for parent or child storage
- Sturdy steel frame
Kidkraft Vintage Kitchen in Pink | Cool Toys for Kids
Features:
- Doors open and close
- Knobs click and turn
- Additional storage space above and below the sink
- Removable, easy-to-clean sink
- Microwave and oven doors
- Cordless phone
- Smart, sturdy construction
- Made of composite wood products
- Packaged with detailed, step-by-step assembly instructions
- 33″ L x 13.5″ W x 35.75″ H
Husqvarna Toy Chainsaw | Cool Toys for Kids
This gift list wouldn’t be complete without including this this Husqvarna toy chainsaw. It’s styled after the real-life Husqvarna 440. It makes realistic cutting sounds and the chain rotates. Don’t worry, this is a toy and completely safe. The chain is rubber.
To learn more details I suggest reading my previous review of the Husqvarna Toy Chainsaw.
Melissa & Doug Wooden Project Workbench | Cool Toys for Kids
For Ages: 3 and over.
I featured this toy in my article on the best kids tool bench and I love it so much that I’m including it on my list for cool toys for kids. It takes your child back to the basics as it’s made from real wood and traditional nuts, bolts and screws. Also, I like the fact that it includes a how-to booklet that shows your child exactly how to make a variety of toys.
This Melissa & Doug Tool Bench is a great gift for any child and allows you to work alongside your child and teach them as you play together. As a parent I feel it’s important to surround your child with toys that encourage learning as well as creating meaningful moments that you can share with him or her.
Page from the Project Book
Features:
- Toy Workbench has a functioning vise, tool rack, wooden tools and nuts & bolts.
- Made with a storage shelf.
- Handcrafted wooden construction.
- High-quality materials will endure over time.
- Dimensions: 26″ x 18.75″ x 24″ (assembled).
- Has small parts. Adult assembly required.
Fisher-Price Power Wheels Kawasaki Brute Force | Cool Toys for Kids
Ages: 3 to 7 years old.
Features:
- Realistic ATV styling.
- Monster Traction system drives on hard surfaces, wet grass and rough terrain.
- Drives 2.5 mph and 5 mph (4 and 8 km/h) max. forward; 2.5 mph (4 km/h) max. reverse.
- Parent-controlled high speed lock-out.
- Power-Lock Brake System.
- Includes 12-volt battery and charger.
- Max. weight 130 lb (59 kg).
Watch this video and see this toy vehicle up close:
KidKraft Tasty Treat Pretend Food Set | Cool Toys for Kids
Features:
- Combine it with one of KidKraft’s trademark wooden kitchens and you’re set! (see below)
- 115 pieces, including fruit, vegetables, snacks, pizza, waffles and more.
- No assembly required.
- Weight: 3.60 lbs.
Tasty Treats Play Food is a whopping 115 pieces of ‘pretend’ toy food, which is more than enough play pieces for kids to go nuts and have a ton of fun with their make-believe kids parties and backyard BBQ’s.
Or use the toy food to fill up the cupboards and refrigerator of the the KidKraft Vintage Kitchen. This is a very cool toy for kids.
- Removable sink makes it easy to clean.
- Microwave and oven doors that open.
- Cordless phone to make fake calls. Sorry, it doesn’t work.
- Stable and sturdy.
- Made of composite wood products.
- Comes with detailed, step-by-step assembly instructions.
- 33″ L x 13.5″ W x 35.75″ H
Smart Shots Sports Center | Cool Kids Toy
Ages: 12 to 36 months.
Features:
- 2-in-1 kids sports center. Play with the toddler basketball goal or score goals with the soccer net
- Animated working LED scoreboard counts points up to 10 and plays animations, sounds and words of encouragement. Restart the scoreboard with the side lever.
- Shape buttons introduce shapes, numbers and sounds for inspired learning.
- Early learning center comes with 50+ songs, sounds and phrases.
- Operates on 3 AA batteries (included).
Pretty in Pink | Peg Perego Case IH Magnum Tractor Ride On with Trailer
It doesn’t get any better than this! I love Peg Perego ride on toys as I’ve already written several articles on their products. This is a well-made vehicle that is much more than a kids toy. Let’s face it, this is an expensive gift for your child but if you can afford it and you have a large yard for them to roam then I guarantee that they will have fond memories for the rest of their life.
This Peg Perego Case IH Magnum truly is a unique gift that you child will cherish and adore for years to come.
Other Peg Perego articles
Features:
- 2-Speeds: 2 ½ or 4 ½ mph (4 ½ mph parental lockout for increased safety)
- Reverse: Switches easily to reverse mode.
- Smart Pedal: Run, coast and automatic brakes (increases riding time by up to 27%).
- Cargo: Large stake-side trailer (21.5” x 14.5” x 9.75”).
- Wheels: Farm tractor wheels provide traction on grass, dirt, gravel or concrete.
- Room to Grow: Comfortable adjustable seat with handy flip-up armrests.
- Power Up: Includes 12V rechargeable battery & charger.
- Weight Capacity: Can carry a child up to 85 lbs / 38 kg.
- Warranty: Free second year warranty extension with customer participation.
- Made in the USA: Made in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
- Weight: 43 lbs
More Cool Toy Ideas for Boys and Girls…
For more cool gift ideas for boys and girls I recommend browsing our section covering outdoor toys for kids: Outdoor Kids.