Category: Gift Guides

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My oldest just turned 9, and this age is tricky: too old for toddler toys, too young for most grown-up stuff. These picks hit the sweet spot.

Anime drawing kit

For the kid who already doodles their favorite characters in every notebook. A good sketchbook and marker set goes a long way.

Outdoor basketball

A quality ball for the driveway or park. Pair it with a pump so it’s ready to go.

Kids’ smartwatch or activity tracker

Step counts and timers feel grown-up without being a phone.

Building or STEM kit

Robotics and engineering kits turn screen time into build time.

Graphic novels

A box set keeps reluctant readers turning pages.

Mami tip: At this age, ask them for a short wish list, then surprise them with one thing that isn’t on it.

Heads up: some links on this page are affiliate links. If you buy through them, Mami Finds may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read the full disclosure.

My youngest just turned 3, so I have opinions. These are the toddler gifts that get played with long after the wrapping paper is gone, not the ones that end up in the closet by January.

A sturdy ride-on toy

Burns energy indoors and out, and works for both ages 2 and 3. Look for wide wheels and a low seat.

Superhero dress-up set

Capes and masks are pure pretend-play gold at this age, and they hold up to daily use.

Chunky building blocks

Big blocks are safe for little hands and grow with them. Great for siblings to share.

Bilingual first words

Books and toys with English and Spanish on every page make playtime double as language time.

Toddler art easel

Chalk on one side, dry-erase on the other. Keeps the drawing off the walls (mostly).

Mami tip: Toddlers love the box as much as the toy. Spend less on the gift and more on one great experience together.