The best way curious kids can learn about the world around them is by playing with toys. 

Toys, activities, playsets, and more can ignite imaginations and teach new skills for all developmental stages. From indoor STEM exploration to outdoor adventures, we’ve rounded up the hottest learning toys that’ll hone kids’ physical, social, and educational skills while sparking a love of discovery.

For more trendy toys and holiday treats, check out our full 2026 Holiday Gift Guide.


AIR TOOBZ EVO

Foam balls race, hover, and glide through the tubes once kids turn on the fan. Adjustable speed, endless configurations, and easy construction encourage STEM learning, problem solving, and creativity.

Product Facts

  • MSRP:
  • $129.95
  • Age:
  • 3+

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BABY BALANCE BIKE

This bike is for babies from day one. In tummy time, they explore tactile experiences. As they learn to stand and walk, they can balance on the bike with two feet on the ground.

Product Facts

  • MSRP:
  • $69.99
  • Age:
  • 0+

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CHUCKLE & ROAR MESS-FREE LCD FINGER PAINTING DRAWING TABLET

Let creativity flow with a mess-free board designed for hands-on, sensory fun. This tablet features a touch-sensitive LCD screen, a one-touch erase button, and a tethered stylus.

Product Facts

  • MSRP:
  • $19.99
  • Age:
  • 3+

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FARMERS MARKET 3-IN-1 ACTIVITY CENTER

This adjustable wooden activity center grows with your little one, transforming from a tummy-time surface to an angled station or a standing table. The table features various sensory toys, such as a squeaking ladybug, a crinkly corn on the cob, and a push-and-pull silicone radish.

Product Facts

  • MSRP:
  • $79.99
  • Age:
  • 6 MOS+

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MAGNA-TILES TREETOP ADVENTURE 42-PIECE SET

Kids can use 42 magnetic tiles to build a scene high above the forest floor. Using green baseplates, leaf-covered tiles, and interlocking platforms, builders will create an elevated tree house featuring a slide, a working trapdoor, and forest creatures.

Product Facts

  • MSRP:
  • $74.99
  • Age:
  • 3+

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MY FIRST CHRISTMAS TREE PINK

The classic holiday tradition is now available in pink. Toddlers can decorate with the included ornaments, place the star on top, and play with the included train set.

Product Facts

  • MSRP:
  • $64.99
  • Age:
  • 18 MOS+

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NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC KIDS DINOSAUR STACKING TOWER

Engage in prehistoric play with this dinosaur- themed stacking set. Kids build a tower, drop balls into the top, and watch them roll all the way down. The additional Play & Learn cards offer interactive play options

Product Facts

  • MSRP:
  • $24.99
  • Age:
  • 1+

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SOLARFLOWERS

Kids can build this motorized flower model with moving petals, powered by a solar panel, while learning about mechanical systems like motors and planetary gears. The kit teaches kids how solar cells generate electricity.

Product Facts

  • MSRP:
  • $24.95
  • Age:
  • 8+

Buy Now

Walmart, the preferred retailer of The Toy Insider
The Toy Insider participates in affiliate programs that may generate revenue for the site when a purchase is made through the links below.

TAKE ALONG CUTIES

These 8-inch collectible babies are ready for adventure. Each soft-bodied, classically dressed baby comes with its own bottle and a kid-size tote for playtime on the go.

Product Facts

  • MSRP:
  • $28.95
  • Age:
  • 2+

Buy Now

Walmart, the preferred retailer of The Toy Insider
The Toy Insider participates in affiliate programs that may generate revenue for the site when a purchase is made through the links below.

WOOM WOW

Toddlers can develop early motor skills on two wheels as soon as they can stand. Its self-balancing design and self-centering steering make their first wobbly rides more intuitive.

Product Facts

  • MSRP:
  • $199
  • Age:
  • 9 MOS+

Buy Now

The Toy Insider participates in affiliate programs that may generate revenue for the site when a purchase is made through the links below.

About the author

Taylor Battle

Taylor Battle

Taylor is an assistant editor at The Toy Insider, The Pop Insider, and The Toy Book. Between reading fantasy novels and re-watching Disney classics, she can be found building houses in The Sims 4. Taylor is passionate about creating and is always looking to try new things.

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