Looking for gifts for an 18 month old? Here are the best gifts for toddlers – something for every budget and nothing that will put you on the mom and dad’s naughty list! Everyone will love these awesome gifts for 1 year olds.
Does anyone else find that buying a gift for a toddler is excruciatingly painful?
Gifts for 18 month old Gift Guide
If you’re stuck this year for what to buy a year and a half old, have no fear. My holiday gift guide with gifts for 18 month old is here! Below you’ll find some fool-proof gifts the toddler in your life is sure to love!
My number 1 gift for an 18 month old: Mopi
This is our all time favorite toy. Alex’s cousin got it for Ryan after her son was obsessed with his. I was a bit skeptical at first. Not because it wasn’t adorable, but because it seems so simple. There are no bells and whistles, but this toy is awesome.
It’s super light so even littles can pick it up, and it’s advertised to teach balance and coordination. I don’t know what it is about this thing, but it rocks.
All of my kids have loves the same Mopi and it’s still in great condition almost 5 years later. It’s the best, you guys!
A Remote or Phone Toy
You guys, be careful with this one. It’s one of the most annoying toys ever. BUT both of my boys adored them.
That being said, these toys are the best gifts for 18 month olds. They already get the concept watching you use them, it’s got a ton of buttons, lights, and sounds that will keep them entertained for at least 10 minutes, and you can bring it with you places. It makes a great stocking stuffer!
Books
Books are always a good choice for any age. At this age, board books are a favorite for ‘reading’ on their own. Longer books are great for mom or dad reading before bed. Our favorites right now are I Love You, Stinky Face (always) and Harold and the Purple Crayon. I also like having this Shel Silverstein book from my childhood to read to him while he plays.
Find some of my favorite books for kids here!
Stacking Toys
Kids are obsessed with putting things in other things. Not only do they entertain littles, but they’re great for development. Here are a few options:
- Counting Stacker – Count and Sort Stacking Tower
- Sassy Stacks of Circles Stacking Ring
- Wooden Rainbow Stacking Toy
- Stacking Cups with Castle Stacker
Bead Maze
Found at literally every doctor’s office for a reason! There was one at my OB when I was pregnant with Owen and Ryan adored it. I think the fact that this style toy has lasted so many years without much altering really says a lot!
Power Wheels
Yeah, this is expensive (about $100 minimum on average). But if you have a bigger budget, go for it. We got my oldest the Spongebob Go Cart for his first birthday. While I was skeptical, both boys were obsessed.
They make the Go Cart for kids 12 months and up, and the quads for kids 18 months and up. The quad comes in a bunch of different characters, too so you can pick and choose what the kid would like.
Thomas the Tank Engine Power Wheels
Barbie Power Wheels Jeep Wrangler
Kiddieland Battery Powered Buzz Plane
- Things they need
This is boring, I know. But 18 months is still the age where they have no idea what is going on, presents wise. For Ryan’s first birthday, we asked my dad to get him his convertible car seat. My MIL used to get us gift cards for Carter’s until my kids were 3 or so.
No, getting an extremely useful gift card, baby equipment, diapers, etc is not fun or exciting, but it’s the most appreciated.
What are your tips for shopping for an 18-month old? Any other dos and don’ts for buying kids gifts? Old, naive Morgan thanks you! Let me know in the comments!
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Alexandra @ My Urban Family says
I love the idea of a mix of fun things and things they need, even as they get a bit older. Sometimes the gift giving gets a little too out of hand (though I may throw that all out the window once I have one of my own haha)
Morgan says
It definitely does get out of hand. And it’s so silly when they’re so little!! When I was pregnant I thought I would buy him alllllllll the toys but once he got here I realized just what a waste it could be avd that it didn’t work with the kind of child we wanted to be raising.
[email protected] says
My youngest is 20 months old, she’s getting a couple of toys, but I have no shame in admitting I’m wrapping up socks, tights and leggings as well 🙂
Morgan says
That’s basically how we’re doing it over here! He’s getting a new snack cup (the dog chewed the handle if his current one!) and a bath toy holder. Sorry I’m not sorry hahag
The Happy Creations says
Great guide,my best friend has an 18 month old girl so this is really helpful.Thanks:)
Morgan says
Of course! I know also that Brittany over at ahealthysliceoflife.com has one for 18 month old girls as well!