Ages: 1 - 2

Once you’ve found a gift that suits your child’s age and interests, it’s important to check if it’s safe for daily play. Thoughtful choices protect your little one while giving you peace of mind. 

Keep these safety tips in mind:

Non-toxic materials: Choose wooden toys and products made with safe, child-friendly finishes.

Size appropriateness: Avoid small parts that could pose a choking risk.

Certified brands: Always buy from trusted names that follow Australian safety standards.

Avoid overstimulation: Pick simple, durable toys that won’t overwhelm their senses.

Parents often ask for gift ideas that are already loved by other families. That’s why we’ve curated a selection of best-selling toys that toddlers enjoy again and again.

Our range features HipKids-designed favourites and trusted brands like Melissa & Doug, Little Dutch, and Nana Huchy. You’ll find pretend play sets, soft toddler toys, and pieces that inspire imaginative play, all crafted to support your child’s growth while keeping playtime fun and engaging.

Finding a birthday gift for a baby under one is about choosing soft and safe toys that support their early development. Plush toys, rattles, and teething rings are always favourites for curious little hands. Beautiful hand-knit dolls from the Cuddle + Kind collection make a wonderful option too, offering cuddly comfort while becoming keepsakes that children treasure for years.

Our felt ice cream plush toy is a sweet and cuddly option that brings a playful touch to sensory play. Pair it with a soft playmat or a wooden rattle to create a thoughtful gift set that keeps them entertained while encouraging touch, sound, and movement.

Toddlers in their first year love gifts that encourage movement and curiosity. A ride-on or balance bike helps build coordination while giving them a sense of independence.

Activity cubes, building block sets, and beginner play sets are perfect for hands-on learning. For water fun, bath toys that turn bath time into playtime are always a hit. Add a colourful sticker set to keep little ones entertained and creative during quiet moments.

Two-year-olds love gifts that let them copy what they see in the grown-up world. Pretend play kitchens, mini workbenches, and dollhouse accessories, such as a stroller or high chair, help build storytelling and creativity.

For active play, water tables and musical toys encourage movement while refining fine motor skills. Montessori toys and toy backpacks are simple yet some of the best toys for nurturing independence and early learning through play.

After picking from the top-rated gift ideas, some parents consider giving experiences instead of physical toys. Playgroup sessions or family memberships can offer special bonding time and new environments for little ones to explore.

However, babies and toddlers, especially 2-year-old girls and boys, still benefit greatly from hands-on toys that support their daily learning and play. A balanced gift that combines a small keepsake with an experience often works best for this age.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying gifts, but thoughtful choices make a big difference. Picking toys that are safe, age-appropriate, and practical will help create positive playtime moments for your child.

Avoid these common mistakes:

Buying scooters or toys designed for older children that your toddler isn’t ready for yet.

Overlooking safety certifications and choosing items that may not meet Australian standards.

Choosing flashy over functional instead of selecting educational toys that support learning through play.