They may still be a mere preschooler, but 4-year-olds are little people with big personalities—and likely already have thoughts on the best gifts for 4-year-olds. Kiddos at this age are growing leaps and bounds both physically and emotionally, which can make finding a gift for kids in between the toddler and big kid stage (aka your 4-year-old) particularly tricky.
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What’s a good gift for a 4-year-old?
“At this age, kids are typically starting to get really imaginative and creative. They love to learn, grow, explore, and everything around them is interesting and exciting,” says Kelly Oriard, licensed family therapist, former school counselor, and cofounder of Slumberkins. They’re also hopping, swinging, talking a million miles per minute, showing more independence, and even starting to write their name, she adds.
Good news for shoppers: There are plenty of toys that will help foster all these exciting milestones. “Many kids this age, regardless of gender, love a cute and cuddly toy or an open-ended toy that they can use and explore over and over again in new ways,” says Oriard. “They are also learning how to make friends and navigating big feelings, so any gift that makes learning new social or emotional skills fun will benefit this age group. It will also be a big relief to parents.”
Whether you’re shopping for a birthday gift, Christmas present, or just need something small to say, “Good job at the doctor’s office,” we tapped parents to find out what their own four-year-olds reach for every day. From melty arts and crafts beads that help hone those fine motor skills to scooters and other outdoor toys that’ll let them burn excess energy, these are the perfect gifts for 4-year-olds.
P.S. Shopping for newborns or soon-to-be mamas? We also rounded up the best baby gifts, the best presents for pregnant women, and the best gifts for new moms. We also have gift ideas for 1-year-olds, 2-year-olds, 3-year-olds, and 5-year-olds.
