The 35 Best New Toys That Every Kid Wants for the Holidays This Year

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It's a universal truth: kids always want the latest, greatest stuff. While there are some characters who will be eternally popular — we see you, Anna and Elsa — brands are constantly besting themselves with new versions of fun toys. Be the hero of the holiday season by grabbing one of the best new toys of 2023, as recommended by expert toy-testers, Amazon reviewers, and Toy Insider Senior Editor, Madeleine Buckley.

We tapped Buckley to provide the trendiest items of the year, which are guaranteed to top the list of hottest holiday gifts for kids. Her suggestions include new twists on some classic faces (Elmo! Furby!) for babies and toddlers as well as new gifts for older kids, like Beast Lab's interactive playset. It should come as no surprise that comeback-queen Barbie is represented in our guide, along with Gabby (she of the infamous Dollhouse), Batman, and Bluey. For the planners out there, we even have a toy from the soon-to-be-released latest Disney movie. Hoping for something a little less brand-oriented? We have the best in board games and building blocks, too.

Whether you're looking for that perfect tactile gift for a 2-year-old, a Montessori-style wooden toy for a preschooler, or the must-have video game gift for a teenage boy, we've got it below.

Mix & Learn DJ Table

Fisher-Price's new DJ Table combines a bunch of things toddlers love: piano keys, dials, lights, and buttons. "This is one of those baby toys that kids and adults will have just as much fun playing with," says Buckley. "To top it off, it’s educational!" Kids probably won't learn to spin like Steve Aoki, but they will be able to practice balance and coordination. The legs are also detachable, so they can play with it while sitting. If they're more mobile than musical, Fisher-Price also released the 4-in-1 Farm to Market Tractor. Ages 6 months to 3 years

Winnie's & Piglet's Tree House

In addition to being adorable, Winnie's & Piglet's Tree House helps kids improve their fine motor skills through actions like opening and shutting the treehouse door and identifying shapes and colors for items to go into the tree. Ages 1-4

Musical Farm Band

Blocks are an essential toy in any toddler's collection, and this new set is meant for more than just random play. Toddlers learn to build with a purpose, putting together the pieces to form a little band. Once built, they'll have a horse xylophone, a cow drum, a piggy cymbal, and more. Ages 1+

Magic Tears Newborn

Fact: Kids love dolls that mimic human actions. Fortunately, the new toy from Cry Babies only cries "real" tears and doesn't perform other bodily functions. Magic Tears Newborn comes in two styles — Coney (pictured) and Molly — and makes over 20 sounds to indicate how she's feeling. This is a great option for kids who are soon welcoming siblings and may want their own baby to cradle! Ages 18m+

Disney Princess Magical Lights & Dancing Castle

The Little People line of toys is ideal for kids who love playing with figures but aren't quite ready for Barbies yet. (Though if they do like the vibe of Barbie, the Little Dream Plane just came out this year, as well.) Amazon reviewers rave about the Disney Princess Magical Lights & Dancing Castle, which they say is lightweight yet "extremely durable." If the toddler you're gifting for is more into cars than castles, check out Little People's newly released Light-up Learning Garage. Ages 18m-5y

Elmo Slide

Tickles are out; sliding is in! The new interactive Elmo sings, sways, and glides. "Sesame Street continues to be a favorite brand for kids and parents alike," says Buckley. "Many kids grew up with an interactive Elmo toy, but this latest version takes it to the next level. The Sesame Street Elmo Slide does a full dance, encouraging kids to get up and moving." Ages 2+

Frankie The Cat

Female-founded brand Hugimals is earning a great reputation for its high quality weighted plushies, which were created to provide comfort and cuddles. Frankie is the latest addition to the line, which also includes Charlie the Puppy, Emory the Elephant, and Sam the Sloth. The animals each weigh 4.5 lbs and are designed to soothe kids and adults by "hugging" them back. These are ideal gifts for kids experiencing sensory issues or kids who have trouble sleeping at night. Ages 2+

Singing Asha Doll

Wanna get ahead of the game? Disney's new movie Wish isn't coming out until November 22, but the merch is already for sale. This 14" doll is a spitting image of the main character, Asha, and comes with her sidekick, Valentino. The doll speaks 20 different phrases and sings a portion of Asha's big song from the movie, "This Wish", performed by Ariana DeBose. Ages 3-6

Fire-Breathing Bowser

This is the toy to get for the kid who loved The Super Mario Bros. Movie. He may look like just an action figure, but with a little help from some water, Bowser actually breathes steam. With hundreds of 5-star reviews on Amazon, the only drawback appears to be that batteries aren't included. Ages 3-7

Ultimate Headquarters

Tiny Batman and Superman figurines accompany this 2-foot-tall playset, modeled to look like the Justice League's headquarters. There are four levels to the set, which includes a working elevator(!) and a projectile launcher. Lights and sounds encourage imaginative play. Ages 3-8

Player 3rd Generation

Amazon reviewers love the latest generation of this popular storytelling device. The compact box comes with cards that recite fariytales and bedtime stories, but it also serves as a nightlight, an alarm clock, and a digital thermometer. There are an impressive amount of cards, including familiar Disney favorites, educational cards, and kid-friendly meditations. Ages 3-12

Escape Convertible

Embrace the wholesome phenomenon that is Bluey with the latest toy: the Escape Convertible. It comes with stickers (for decoration) and a few figurines: Cupcake Bluey, Sunglasses Chilli, Shuttershade Bandit, and Jerry Lee the Butler. Kids can reenact the "Escape" episode — season two, episode 21, in case you're wondering — and race away in their cool car. (Buckley also recommends the Bluey Hammerbarn, which is also inspired by an episode of the show.) Ages 3-15

Skye Mighty Movie Jet

If the highlight of their year was sitting in the theater to see PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie, this is the toy they want. The ridiculously popular action figure features lights and sound effects to help them recreate their favorite scenes. Skye is our pick — because the movie really is all about her finding her inner strength — but Chase, Marshall, Zuma, and Rubble are also available. Ages 3+

Dinos Set

Help them learn one of the most vital pieces of information in their young lives: the names of dinosaurs. Kids get a T-Rex, a Brachiosaurus, a Stegosaurus, a Triceratops, and a Pteranodon in this tile kit from MAGNA-TILES. Putting the tiles together aids in the development of fine motor skills and once they're assembled, it's pretend-play time! Ages 3+

Romper Electric Tricycle

There are a few key features that set this new electric tricycle apart from the rest: parental speed controls, motion-activated LED lights, and, crucially, a safe and reliable design. While there is some assembly required, Amazon reviewers say it's easy to put together. One reviewer even raved that their 4-year-old "would literally ride this non stop if we let him!" Ages 3+

Talking Cranky Delivery Train Set

Cranky the Crane may be a bit of a curmudgeon, but he has one heck of a fun playset. Kids can spin him all the way around to deliver heavy equipment while they listen to over 325 songs and phrases from the Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go! series. The set includes over 14 feet of track (plus Thomas and Troublesome Truck), and you can buy even more separately. Ages 3+

Frozen Snow Color Reveal

Anna and Elsa are the latest addition to Mattel's Color Reveal line, which also includes versions starring Disney princesses and Hot Wheels trucks. Upon unboxing, the figures are all a silvery purple, but water transforms them into their true colors. The cool thing about the Frozen set is that the water actually becomes "snow." Very thematic! Ages 3+

The Little Mermaid: Ariel & Sisters 7-Pack Set

Be the MVP of holiday season by gifting not just Ariel, but all her sisters, too! Caspia, Indira, Perla, Karina, Mala, and Tamika are all included in this set of mermaid dolls. If you want to get even fancier, there's also a very cool-looking life-size Ariel Vanity With Lights and Sound. Ages 3+

Barbie Dreamhouse 2023

In the year where Barbie made her biggest comeback since, well, ever, we can't not include the newest iteration of the famous Barbie Dreamhouse. Buckley agrees: "It’s always hard to choose just one must-have item for the season because kids have so many varied interests, and different toys appeal to different ages. However, if I have to choose, I’d select the Barbie Dreamhouse 2023. This year has been the year of Barbie, and that will be reflected in holiday season, too. All things Barbie are hot this holiday season, but this hero item is a true must-have."

The 2023 version includes 75 "storytelling pieces" like a spiral slide, a working elevator, a poolside swing, and more. The playset even include a puppy, who has his own elevator, naturally. If you want to be extra cool, Mattel has also released the official 2023 Holiday Barbie. Ages 3+

Action Drivers Construction Playset

Amazon reviewers confirm this Matchbox playset is sturdy, an absolute must when it comes to construction toys for little kids. Made to mirror a realistic construction site, the set even comes with a port-a-potty accessory. Because Matchbox is committed to a sustainable future, the toy is composed of 40% recycled plastic, so you can feel good about buying it. Ages 3+

Gabby Cat Friend Ship

If you're buying for a girl between the ages of three and seven who has access to Netflix, she doesn't like Gabby's Dollhouse — she loves Gabby's Dollhouse. Feed her obsession with the latest, greatest toy: the Gabby Cat Friend Ship. The set includes Gabby, Mercat, a color-changing pool, a light-up disco ball, and the ability to connect directly to Gabby's Purrfect Dollhouse. Ages 3+

Jurassic World Spinosaurus

Inspired by the Jurassic World series, this Spinosaurus — a real type of dinosaur, FYI — is able to rear back and snap his jaw to consume his prey. Boys and girls alike will appreciate his light-up fin and eyes. If they like this one, Fisher-Price also makes a Mosasaurus and a Carnotaurus, while LEGO just released an official Jurassic Park Visitor Center. (Be aware that parents will be hearing dino sounds for days.) Ages 3-8

Canvas Set

If you're looking for a creative toy, female-founded company Follies makes playsets that challenge kids to whip up their own fun. The latest set is multifunctional; kids draw or paint on the pieces to form a design all their own before building a structure. The washable set include 25 large pieces with a whiteboard-like finish. Ages 4+

Space Rover Deluxe Coding Activity Set

Conquer the final frontier with this push-button coding system, which encourages STEM learning for kids as young as four. There are 20 challenges to solve while customizing space-themed mazes. This is a great entryway into tougher STEM toys, like the (also new) Machine Makers Set. Ages 4+

Ultimate T-Rex Transporter

This is a gift for parents, who are constantly stepping on Hot Wheels, as much as it is for their kid. The Ultimate T-Rex Transporter stores up to 20 cars, then spits them out amidst a flurry of lights and sounds. It glows, it burps, and yes, it farts. Amazon reviewers say kids of all ages love this toy so much they regularly fight over it. Ages 4+

Shark Beast Creator

"For the past few years, Moose Toys’ Magic Mixies have been some of the hottest holiday toys," says Buckley. "This year, the company is taking that magic reveal element and giving it a twist. With Beast Lab, kids combine a variety of ingredients in their lab to reveal a mutant shark figure, which is also interactive."

Kids will need three LR44 batteries and a high tolerance for gross substances — one of the ingredients is "skin scrapings" — to create their beast in this miniature laboratory. It's not the most educational toy, but hey, they do get to pretend to be a mad scientist. The Shark kit (pictured) comes with either Havoc Hammerhead or Mayhem Megashark and there's a Big Cats version, as well. (Pro tip: You can buy ingredient refills once you run out.) Ages 5-15

My Puppy's Home Interactive Toy Puppy & Kennel

Not ready for the commitment of a real puppy? Skip the crate-training and get one of these. The latest toy from Little Live Pets starts as a project, as kids have to build the kennel themselves. Once assembled, it's home to their new pup, who makes over 25 different sounds. Amazon reviewers love that it's "well designed" and rave about how it provides "multiple aspects of play." Ages 5-15

Capt'n Pepe Treasure Ahoy! Game

More advanced than Candyland but not quite requiring the skill level of Settlers of Catan, HABA's new game is ideal for families just beginning their game night traditions. Players get to go on a pirate-themed adventure, steering a ship and opening treasure chests along the way. Each chapter of the game takes about 20 minutes and there are 25 total, so this provides fun for several sittings! Ages 6+

Furby Interactive Toy

"The nostalgia trend is going strong, and the relaunch of Furby proves it," says Buckley. (The Furby is now considered a piece of nostalgia. We're fine, it's fine.) "The updated version of the interactive toy features five voice-activated modes and more than 600 phrases. There’s one new feature that parents will be most excited about: You can turn it off!" Ages 6+

UNO Quatro Game

This new spin on Uno is more action-packed thanks to a board element. Players have to think about matching tiles by numbers and colors, making it double the challenge. Think of it as Uno meets Connect 4. Ages 7+

Make It Mini Lifestyle

"Mini toys are incredibly popular, and the MGA Miniverse Make it Mini Lifestyle capsule series combines mini, trendy, and crafty," says Buckley. "Inside the capsule, kids will find the materials they need to create a tiny piece of decor, such as an aquarium or a cactus." Ages 8+

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PYXEL Puppy Robot

Wondering how to make coding fun for big kids? Meet PYXEL, the adorable robot that teaches Python and Blockly. This new toy from Educational Insights comes with an app that shows kids how to program their new pup to perform tricks and talk. Amazon reviewers confirm the simple setup. And yes, kids can program PYXEL to fart. So that's a thing. Ages 8+

Squishmallows Take4 Game

Squishmallows… but make it a game. Kids only need two players to start playing this card game, which comes with an exclusive Benny The Bigfoot plush. Each round takes 10-30 minutes, depending on how fast you're playing. It may be the cutest sleepover game in existence. Ages 8+

Super Mario Bros. Wonder + Exclusive Trading Card Pack

"For tweens and teens, video games are a great gifting option," says Buckley. "Nintendo’s new Super Mario Bros. Wonder game expands the side-scrolling world of the Super Mario Bros. with new characters, new adventures, and more. The game is designed for the Nintendo Switch family of systems." Ages 8+

Forest Pokémon Center

It's here: the ultimate Pokémon gift. This set comes with 648 pieces, including Pikachu, Chansey, Eevee, and Togepi. Putting it together may present a challenge for kids on the younger end of the scale, but once built, they can play with the figures and several moving parts. If they put this one together in a snap, consider getting the new buildable Charizard, which has a whopping 1663 pieces, next. Ages 8+

Shop more toys and gifts for kids

Looking for more of the best gifts for kids? Check out our guides for every age:

• Gifts for babies: Best Baby Gifts | Baby Boy Gifts | Baby Girl Gifts | Best Gifts for 6-Month-Olds

• Gifts for toddlers: Gifts for 1-Year-Olds | Gifts for 2-Year-Olds

• Gifts for preschoolers: Gifts for 3-Year-Olds | Gifts for 4-Year-Olds | Gifts for 5-Year-Olds

• Gifts for big kids: Gifts for 6-Year-Olds | Gifts for 7-Year-Olds | Gifts for 8-Year-Olds | Gifts for 9-Year-Olds | Gifts for 10-Year-Olds | Best Gifts for Girls | Best Gifts for Boys

• Gifts for teens: Best Gifts for Teens | Best Gifts for Teen Girls | Gifts for Teen Girls on Amazon | Best Gifts for Teen Boys | Best Stocking Stuffers for Teens

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