![These Are Officially the Best New Toys of 2023 (1) These Are Officially the Best New Toys of 2023 (1)](https://i0.wp.com/hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/best-new-toys-20232-64e3c5271b7df.jpg?crop=0.502xw:1.00xh;0.474xw,0&resize=640:*)
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Shopping for kids toys can be tough. You want to find games and toys that are developmentally appropriate and educational but also ones that will keep your little one engaged during playtime. For example, you're not going to expect your 2-year-old to play with the same toys as your 7-year-old. But then add that to the fact that new toys are always coming out, and "what's trending" is constantly changing, meaning your child's tastes are constantly evolving to whatever toys and games are being promoted at the current time—and many of those aren't educational! It's enough to make you want to throw in the towel and just pick up whatever is on the shelves next time you're at the supermarket, right?
Despite how overwhelming it can be initially, finding the best toy for your child is probably a lot easier than you think. For starters, you can find what's developmentally appropriate for your child easily online. We love the National Association for the Education of Young Children's list of age-appropriate toys and play styles. As for the exact toys that'll keep your kiddo entertained while they learn, that's where we come in!
We consulted the experts on both ends of the spectrum: parents, to hear what toys they think have helped their child's development, and kids, to listen to what toys they actually enjoy playing with. Everything that made the cut can be found here. These toys range for kids aged newborn to 10 years old and up, with more than one fun game the entire family can get in on together. And each and every one has been approved by our editors to make sure they're developmentally appropriate and engaging. Say goodbye to the days of watching your kids play with that $100 toy for ten minutes and then tossing it. These toys will have them occupied for quite some time. And if you're looking for a more age-specific guide, then check out the many curated lists we have:
Gifts for 2-Year Olds | Gifts for 3-Year Old Boys | Gifts for 4-Year Olds | Gifts for 7-Year Olds | Gifts for 8-Year Olds | Gifts for 10-Year Old Girls | Gifts for 10-Year Old Boys
This set makes for an exciting update to the classic game of catch. The bear paws and snout catch the trout, moth, and huckleberries. Also includes lots of interesting grizzly bear facts. Younger kids will love to use it for pretend play.
Ages 3-6
Connetix tiles are made with stronger magnets and a unique riveted surface. It makes it possible to build even taller creations. This set has hexagons to add new design elements to buildings, towers, and more.
Ages 3 and up
There are many play ovens on the market, but this one is extra special. Put the magic cookies inside and set the timer. A satisfying ding noise will let you know that the cookies are toasted to perfection.
Ages 3 and up.
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Calling all slime-aholics! Don't miss this new holiday version. The slime kit is complete with everything you need to create a snowman: button eyes, carrot nose, and textured baubles for a smile. Plus it is scented like hot chocolate!
Ages 4 and up.
Get ready to rock with the new Furblets! These stocking-sized miniature Furbys come in six different colors. They all harmonize different melodies together. Plus they have a special interaction with the regular size Furby. Pre order now to get in time for Christmas.
Ages 6 and up.
Treat puzzle lovers to a new experience with this puzzle by number kit from Plus Plus. Fill in the numbered spots with the appropriate color to create a fantastical unicorn.
Ages 5-12.
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Budding chefs will love this felt pasta set. It includes different varieties and toppings.
Ages 3 and up.
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Horse collectors will love the new horse transporter from Schleich. Take show-winning horses on the road with this camper and trailer set.
ages 4 plus
classic toy
Melissa & Doug Wooden Scoop and Serve Ice Cream Counter
classic toy
Melissa & Doug Wooden Scoop and Serve Ice Cream Counter
Now 35% Off
This all-in-one ice cream counter grows well with kids, teaching them hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills as toddlers and then helping them learn to count as they grow. It comes with an incredible 28 pieces, with most large enough to not be considered a choke hazard of any kind.
Editor review: "My son loves playing with this! We've had it for a while but he's just now figured out how to stack the ice cream cones, etc. It's a lot of fun to play with accepting with money and him serving me for a change."
Ages 3-6
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Play kitchens are far from new, and there's a reason these classic sets have been around for so long: kids love them. This option includes life-like sounds and lights and has everything your little one has come to expect in the kitchen, from the microwave to the vent hood.
Editor review: "My toddler loves this little kitchen. The oven light turns out and the eyes on the stove glow and play sizzling sounds. It's very hands-on and interactive."
Ages 2-10
A working camera that doesn't cost a fortune and can withstand the trauma induced by a toddler? We thought it didn't exist, and then we came across this highly rated little gadget. It comes with a MicroSD card so you can actually download the pictures and videos your little one takes. Just don't expect much though — first off, because he/she is a toddler, and second because the photo quality isn't on-par with your phone.
Ages 4-6
Trust us, they don't have to be obsessed with cars to find this toy super amusing. It encourages toddler's motor and STEM skills by giving them different challenges to overcome on the track by rearranging, lifting, and escalating.
Editor review: "This cause-and-effect race track is so popular with my own four-year-old and her friends that we had to buy a second one. It's by far the most popular toy when people come visit — even parents think it's cool."
Ages 3-7
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Sometimes a single sheet of paper just won't cut it when that artistic strike catches a kid. Also, who wants to actually let their toddler play with real markers or paint? This water doodle mat will allow them to bring their imagination to life with nothing more than a specialized pen filled with water.
Ages 2-7
Have you ever tried to teach a toddler balance and coordination skills? If so, then you know it's not an easy feat, but this balance bike makes learning fun for you and your little one. The best part? The seat is adjustable, so it really will keep up with those insane growth spurts.
Editor review: "My son loves this little balance bike. It's his first one and he loves taking it up and down the sidewalk. We also took on our beach vacation because he's easily entertained riding it."
Ages 12-36 months
promotes entrepreneurship
Creativity for Kids Designed by You Fashion Studio
promotes entrepreneurship
Creativity for Kids Designed by You Fashion Studio
Now 27% Off
Is she a budding fashion designer? Encourage that creativity and pursuit of a passion with this inexpensive toy that'll keep her busy for hours. She can start by sketching her creations and then using the included swatches and sewing kit to watch it come to life. And the fun doesn't have to end when she runs out of swatches. Just go grab her some more fabric and additional sewing materials and watch her keep creating.
Ages 9+
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get them active and outside
Rosycila Reusable Water Balloons
get them active and outside
Rosycila Reusable Water Balloons
These reusable water balloons might win every parent's top toy award for the summer of 2023. Because is there anything worse than cleaning up little plastic bits of balloon for days after you let the kids have fun?
Editor review: "The newest cool toy I know about are these reusable magnetic water balloons. They’re a little expensive (a 12-pack is $25) but they genuinely work! We busted them out for a front yard water balloon fight a couple weeks back. They fill super quickly in a bowl of water, they’re great for throwing and splashing, and there’s no pile of tiny broken rubber balloons to find/clean up for weeks after."
get them active and outside
HearthSong Hop 'n Go Inflatable Bouncing Ride-On
get them active and outside
HearthSong Hop 'n Go Inflatable Bouncing Ride-On
There are few toys we love more than those that get kids active and outdoors, like these fun inflatable ride-on bouncers. It comes in a horse (shown), dinosaur, and unicorn, and includes a weighted bottom so kids have an easier time balancing. It also holds up to 200 pounds in case Mom or Dad wants to hop in on the fun.
Ages 5+
Hannah Jones
Commerce Editor
Hannah Jones is the Commerce Editor for Country Living. Her eye is always on the next up-and-coming products to include in gift guides and she's ready to test everything from dog beds to garden tools for product reviews. When she’s not scoping out the latest and greatest items on the market, you can find her hanging with her two rescue dogs.
Alison Allsopp
Alison Allsopp is the Style and Market Editor at Country Living.