Top 5 Gift Ideas for 3-4 Year Olds

Many of our toy recommendations are cross a range of different age groups so make sure to check our other gift guides.

Please note that our age group recomendations are based on development and are for guidance only, children using toys under the age recommended by the manufacturer should be supervised at all times.

1. Stepping Stones

Stepping stones are a great toy for all ages. They help to develop balance, coordination and motor skills while teaching kids how to estimate distance and identify different colours. They can help with learning to count and can be used as part of an obstacle course.

I didn’t realise how much the Stapelstein Stepping Stones spanned age groups until our 1 year old learned to walk. He constantly carries them around stacking them up to position himself into a higher vantage point and has started using them to practice balancing as well.

They really are a fantastic multifunctional open ended toy for all ages that can be used to develop gross motor skills as well as imagination and creativity. If you are looking for extra play ideas, the Play Suggestion Cards are a really useful resource.

2. Games

Games are such a great way to connect with your children while helping them hone important skills and having fun. They can also help with language, math, and social skills, and even help children learn to cope with stress (and losing).

The Postman Obsesrvation Game is one of my favourites. It says it is for ages 4+ but we introduced it in a very minimal way at 2 years old. There are cards for different levels so the youngest and the oldest can all play together. Plus the board is made of puzzle pieces to no memorising of house locations can be done! A really clever game that can be enjoyed by all ages.

3. Play Shop

Shop play is firm favourite in our house and a great way to encourage pretend play, creativity, and imagination. Children can be introduced to the concept of money, practice counting and play out lots of different scenarios.

This beautiful Wooden Cafe is the perfect plug and play shop. It comes fully stocked with all the accessories included. It also has ample shelving and storage to keep all the little bits organised.

4. SmartGames

SmartGames has a fantastic selection of multi-level logic games. The games support cognitive develop and improve concentration.

Little Red Riding Hood is a fun spin on a familiar story that requires planning, spatial insight, problem solving and visual perception.

5. Toolbox

Imaginative play is a great way for children learn critical thinking skills, to follow directions, build up vocabulary and improve social skills.

This Tool Set is one of our favourites as it combines imaginative play with fine motor development. The set includes a drill board, electric drill, screw driver, screws, wrench and bolts to practice a whole range of fine motor skills. It also comes with a booklet of designs that can be followed.

Our son is 2.5 years old and he loves screwing bits to the board. Some of the pieces are quite small so I would only recommend this be used under close supervision with younger children.

For more gift ideas explore the Directory.

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