Buying gifts for a one-year-old can be a fun challenge. Between 12 and 24 months, toddlers are learning quickly, moving more, and exploring everything with their hands and mouths. Because of this, the best gifts are safe, age-appropriate, and built for real toddler play.
The good news is you do not need to spend a lot. There are plenty of great toys, books, and practical items under $20 that support early learning and everyday life. This guide shares quick picks and specific product examples, plus safety guidance and tips for choosing a gift that parents will actually appreciate.
Quick note: All items below are commonly labeled by manufacturers as appropriate for 12 months and up. However, always follow the specific age label on the product you buy and supervise play as appropriate.
Quick Picks: Great Gift Types for 1-Year-Olds Under $20
These categories tend to be the best value, and they match what most toddlers enjoy at this age.
Board books
Board books with bright pictures and simple words help build early language. In addition, they are durable enough for drool, page chewing, and enthusiastic page turning.
Stacking and sorting toys
Stacking cups, rings, and shape sorters build fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Over time, toddlers also learn early concepts like size, color, and shape.
Push and pull toys
Many one-year-olds love toys that move. Push toys can encourage walking and balance, while pull toys can be fun for confident walkers. That said, avoid long strings or cords on pull toys, since they can pose an entanglement risk.
Toddler musical instruments
Simple instruments like shakers, drums, and small xylophones let toddlers explore cause and effect. Meanwhile, music play supports listening, rhythm, and movement.
Bath toys
Bath toys can turn routine into play. Look for toys that are easy to clean and dry, since some bath toys can trap water and develop mold.
Soft plush toys
A soft stuffed animal can become a favorite comfort item. For safety, choose plush toys with embroidered features and no loose parts.
Practical gifts
Clothes, toddler cups, bibs, and feeding items may not be exciting at first glance. Still, parents often love gifts that make daily life easier.
Now let’s get specific.
In-Depth Gift Ideas Under $20
Each example includes why it is useful, what it supports, and what to watch for.
1) The First Years Stack Up Cups
Why it’s good:
- Builds fine motor skills through stacking and nesting
- Also works for water play
Best for: 12–24 months
Safety notes: Dry fully after water play to help prevent mildew.
Where to buy: Often available from major retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart.
2) Goodnight Moon (Board Book Edition)
Why it’s good:
- A calm, rhythmic bedtime story that supports language routines
- Durable pages for toddler handling
Best for: 12–36 months
Safety notes: Replace if pages become damaged from chewing.
Where to buy: Widely available at major book and retail stores.
3) Fisher-Price Baby’s First Blocks (Shape Sorter)
Why it’s good:
- Supports hand-eye coordination and early problem solving
- Introduces shapes and colors through matching play
Best for: 12–24 months
Safety notes: Use intact, chunky blocks only. Discard cracked pieces.
Where to buy: Common at big-box retailers and online.
4) Gund “My First Teddy” Plush Bear
Why it’s good:
- Soft comfort item with baby-safe construction
- Embroidered features reduce small-part risk
Best for: 12–36 months
Safety notes: Keep plush toys out of sleep spaces for young toddlers when following safe sleep guidance.
Where to buy: Often sold at Target and other major retailers.
5) Fisher-Price Corn Popper Push Toy
Why it’s good:
- Encourages active movement and walking practice
- Cause-and-effect feedback can motivate new walkers
Best for: 12–24 months
Safety notes: Supervise near stairs or uneven ground.
Where to buy: Widely available at major retailers.
6) Hohner 4-Piece Baby Band Instrument Set
Why it’s good:
- Simple instruments encourage sensory play and movement
- Great for shared play with caregivers
Best for: 12–36 months
Safety notes: Store any carrying bag away from unsupervised play if it includes plastic.
Where to buy: Often sold online and at music retailers.
7) Green Toys Tugboat (Bath Toy)
Why it’s good:
- Durable design for scooping and pouring
- Easier to clean than many bath toys
Best for: 12–36 months
Safety notes: Supervise water play closely at this age.
Where to buy: Often available at Amazon, Target, and Walmart.
8) Crayola My First Palm-Grasp Crayons
Why it’s good:
- Large shape supports early grip and scribbling
- Washable and non-toxic for toddler use
Best for: 12–36 months
Safety notes: Supervise closely to reduce mouthing or biting off pieces.
Where to buy: Common at big-box retailers and online.
9) Carter’s Sleep & Play Zip Pajamas
Why it’s good:
- Practical and frequently used
- Easy zip design helps with quick changes
Best for: 12–24 months (size depends on child)
Safety notes: Remove all packaging fasteners and tags before use.
Where to buy: Often sold at Target, Amazon, Walmart, and Carter’s.
10) Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Cup
Why it’s good:
- Helps toddlers practice cup drinking with fewer spills
- Useful for travel and daily meals
Best for: 12–36 months
Safety notes: Inspect the silicone seal for wear and replace if damaged.
Where to buy: Widely available at major retailers.
How to Choose the Right Gift for a One-Year-Old
Choosing well is easier if you focus on a few basics:
- Match development: At this age, toddlers benefit from toys that support grasping, stacking, walking, and early pretend play.
- Check age labels: If something is labeled for older kids, it may include small parts or hazards.
- Prioritize safety: Avoid magnets, button batteries, and small detachable pieces.
- Think open-ended: Simple toys often last longer because toddlers can play with them in different ways.
- Choose cleanable items: Machine-washable plush, wipeable toys, and dishwasher-safe cups are big wins.
For more ideas by age and budget, browse our Gift Guides (internal link to your posts page).
Safety and Age Guidance for Toddler Gifts
Safety matters most at this age because toddlers explore with their mouths.
- Choking hazards: Avoid small parts and pieces that can fit through a toilet paper roll.
- Age labels matter: Follow warnings and age grading on packaging.
- Avoid high-risk items: Skip toys with strong magnets, unsecured batteries, or long cords.
- Inspect regularly: Over time, damage can create hazards even if the toy started safe.
- Check recalls: Before gifting, it’s smart to check the latest recall information.
To check current recalls, use the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission database
For general toy and child guidance, HealthyChildren (AAP) is a good reference:
Gifting Tips for One-Year-Olds
- Ask parents if possible: They may prefer clothes, books, or a specific type of toy.
- Include a gift receipt: It helps if the family already owns the item.
- Consider a bundle: For example, pair a board book with a practical item like a cup or bib.
- Expect varied reactions: One-year-olds may love the packaging first. That is normal.
- If it is noisy: Pick something moderately noisy, or choose a toy without electronics.