The 50 Best Toys & Gifts for 3-Year-Old Girls of 2023

For imaginative and educational play

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Best Toys for 3-Year-Old Girls

The Spruce / Chloe Jeong

By the time your little girl turns 3, she is ready for toys that are going to enhance her imagination and allow for creative play. Finding the perfect toy for a 3-year-old girl isn't always easy, but one that encourages learning and social play while relating to your child's interests is a great place to start, according to Dr. Jody Sherman LeVos, the chief learning officer for HOMER.

Some of the best options for a child at age 3 are ones that allow for free play, according to Colleen Mason, a kindergarten teacher with her Master's in Early Childhood Education. "Open-ended toys that allow for many different uses or encourage children to tell stories and narrate their play are best at this age," she tells The Spruce. We tested and researched the best options considering the recommended ages, complexity, and educational value of each toy.

Melissa & Doug Personalized Examine and Treat Vet Set

Melissa & Doug Personalized Examine and Treat Vet Set

Personal Creations

What We Like
  • Quick shipping

  • Customizable and personal

  • High-quality tools

What We Don't Like
  • A bit pricey

A precious gift for any animal lover, your toddler will play all day with this vet set, treating her pet patients and keeping track of their treatments. What we love about this option from Personal Creations is the ability to customize the storage tote, giving a sweet, personal touch to this already great play set.

Price at time of publish: $70

Dimensions: 15 x 18 inches | Pieces: 24 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Librio My Search-and-Find World Trip Book

Librio My Search-and-Find World Trip Book

Librio

What We Like
  • Personal, thoughtful, and customizable

  • Excellent shipping times

  • Encourages learning through travel

What We Don't Like
  • The "I-Spy" aspect could be challenging for younger kids

This best-selling product from Librio is the perfect personalized gift for your toddler girl. She can see herself in print with this customizable "Where Are You?" book. Create the main character from scratch based on your little girl, and as they read, they'll search for themselves in all kinds of recognizable places around the globe. There's a reason why this book has over 350,000 positive reviews. It is sure to be a standout gift for years to come.

Price at time of publish: $30

Dimensions: 8 x 10 inches | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 2 years and up

SmarterKids Mighty Musical Playmat

SmarterKids Mighty Musical Playmat

SmarterKids

What We Like
  • 8 different instrument sounds

  • Rolls up for easy storage

What We Don't Like
  • Doesn't come with batteries, requires 4 AA

Dance, dance! Your toddler will be able to dance to their own tune or to the pre-loaded melodies on this musical playmat. As they dance around, each key plays its own tune, and your child can learn to sing along. This is a great way to get your kids active and moving while striking a chord.

Price at time of publish: $40

Dimensions: 6 feet | Material: Plastic | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 - 7 Years

Squishmallows Robert The Frog 8" Plush

Squishmallows Robert The Frog 8" Plush

Target

What We Like
  • Adorable design

  • Plush and comforting

  • Makes the perfect companion

What We Don't Like
  • Simplistic

Squishmallows are fantastic toys for any age. Their adorable, plush design is unlike any other toy, making them so unique and collectible. Your girl will adore adding Robert the frog, or any other Squishmallow, for that matter, to their collection.

Price at time of publish: $78

Dimensions: 12 inches tall | Weight: Not Listed | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

B. play School Play Set

B. play School Play Set

B. play

What We Like
  • Grows with your kids

  • Storage bins for easy cleanup

  • Exciting and engaging

What We Don't Like
  • A bit pricey

  • Assembly required

Three-year-olds are almost ready for days spent in the classroom, which makes this play classroom the perfect gift for them. It features 11 fun and educational activities, from writing on the whiteboard to telling time to spinning the color wheel. Plus, the set includes handy storage bins for easy cleanup.

Price at time of publish: $70

Dimensions: 41 x 21 x 20 inches | Pieces: 49 | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Crayola Scribble Scrubbie Pets Mega Pack

Crayola Scribble Scrubbie Pets Mega Pack

Amazon

What We Like
  • Hours of fun

  • Washable and reusable

  • Suitable for various ages

What We Don't Like
  • Has to be washed right away for the ink to come off

With over 3,000 5-star ratings on Amazon, there's a reason that this Crayola set is so beloved. Your three-year-old girl will be able to color and play all day—and wash it away on these customizable pets, making the fun never-ending. Reviewers noted that their toddlers played with these for hours and absolutely loved the characters and fun adjoining bathtub.

Price at time of publish: $40

Dimensions: 12 x 4.75 x 8 inches | Weight: 1.7 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Lovevery The Block Set

Lovevery The Block Set

Lovevery

What We Like
  • Comprehensive, imaginative block set

  • Unique and high-quality

  • Versatile with multiple uses

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

Lovevery set out to create the ultimate block set, and they succeeded. This comprehensive set of wooden blocks is filled with varying colors, shapes, sizes, and ways to play. Your three-year-old girl can build a car with wheels and dowels, create houses and towns galore, or play pretend with small, wooden people.

Price at time of publish: $90

Dimensions: 15" x 6" x 5" inches | Pieces: 70 | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 2 years and up

Janod Wooden Pasta Playset

Janod Wooden Pasta Playset

Janod

What We Like
  • Chic, engaging design

  • Long-lasting fun

What We Don't Like
  • A bit expensive

This pasta play set is so cute, we might buy one for ourselves (and our three-year-old). If she is already a budding foodie, this 58-piece pasta play set will keep her entertained all day. It includes everything from felt ravioli to a cheese grater to parmesan cheese and tomato slices.

Price at time of publish: $33

Dimensions: Not listed | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

VTech LeapFrog Scoop & Learn Ice Cream Cart

VTech LeapFrog Scoop & Learn Ice Cream Cart

Amazon

What We Like
  • Helps toddlers learn colors and numbers

  • Includes education phrases and fun music

  • Batteries are included

What We Don't Like
  • Cart on the smaller side

This ice cream cart from LeapFrog can take your child's creativity to new heights. It lets them scoop up their own delicious pretend treats, all while they’re learning important things like colors and numbers. Fun and educational phrases and upbeat music set the stage. It comes with six order cards, a magic scooper, ice cream scoops, cones, and toppings. Kids will love pushing it around, taking orders, and preparing treats for anyone they can find. It comes with the three required AA batteries, which means she can open up for business immediately.

Price at time of publish: $50

Dimensions: 8.27 x 20.58 x 23.77 inches | Weight: 4 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 2 to 5 years

Melissa & Doug Double-Sided Tabletop Easel

Melissa&Doug-Double-Sided-Tabletop-Easel

Courtesy of Amazon

What We Like
  • Sturdy and well-constructed

  • Dry erase comes clean easily

  • Paper roll ensures a fresh sheet every time

What We Don't Like
  • Some small pieces

A great gift for any three-year-old, this tabletop easel is made for hours of fun. Everything your toddler needs to create art is included, with a chalkboard, whiteboard, and paper roll ready to pull down and doodle on. Plus, it folds away for easy storage.

Price at time of publish: $53

Dimensions: 20.7 x 17.5 x 2.7 inches | Pieces: 42 | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Lipneaed 3 in 1 Toddler Tricycle

Lipneaed 3 in 1 Toddler Tricycle

Amazon

What We Like
  • Foldable for easy storage

  • Sturdy and durable

  • Easy to put together

What We Don't Like
  • Reviewers note it can be too lightweight

A great toy is able to grow alongside your child, and that is exactly the intention behind the Lipneaed 3-in-1 Toddler Tricycle. The kids' bike adjusts to meet your toddler's needs: if they aren't ready to pedal yet, those are removable. They can be added back on whenever she is ready, and when she is set to ride without the third wheel, that comes off as well. Plus, the design is cute, chic, and foldable for easy storage.

Price at time of publish: $50

Dimensions: 25 x 13 x 20 inches | Weight: 6 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor and outdoor | Recommended Age: 1-4 years

AMOSTING Button Art Color Matching Mosaic Pegboard

4.2
AMOSTING Color Matching Mosaic Pegboard Early Learning Educational Toys for Boys and Girls

Amazon

What We Like
  • Create pictures with bright colors

  • Includes 10 different pattern cards

  • Storage tray included for buttons

What We Don't Like
  • Lacks instructions

This activity set we tested is as cute as a button. Kids create fun pictures by snapping small, button-like "mushroom nails" into various pattern cards. Simply match a button's color to the color on the pattern card and watch as the images come to life. Once toddlers get the hang of it, they can freestyle and create anything of their imagination. The set comes with 10 different pattern cards, a pegboard, and 46 colorful buttons.

We loved that the pieces felt sturdy and fit perfectly in little hands. Matching the colors and popping the buttons into place fosters toddlers' sorting and fine motor skills and keeps them engaged. And it teaches independence; we loved that kids could complete it all by themselves.

If you're wondering where to keep all of those colorful little buttons, don't worry—there's a storage tray included, which makes clean-up a breeze. No instructions are included, but the toy was intuitive enough for her toddler to figure out independently.

Price at time of publish: $26

Dimensions: 30.7 x 30.2 x 5.3 inches | Weight: 1.35 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 2 years and up

AMOSTING Color Matching Mosaic Pegboard

The Spruce / Sarah Vanbuskirk

Hape Dynamo Kid's Wooden Domino Set

Hape Dynamo Kid's Wooden Domino Set

Amazon

What We Like
  • Vibrant colors

  • Great quality

  • Obstacles add a fun twist

What We Don't Like
  • Could be challenging for young kids

With 107 colorful pieces, this domino set equals hours of playtime. Not only will your toddler have a blast setting up their course and tipping the first domino over, but Dynamo Dominoes are also made to encourage children’s spatial thinking abilities and color recognition.

Price at time of publish: $44

Dimensions: 3.54 x 9.45 x 10.24 inches | Weight: 2.64 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Educational Insights Design & Drill Flower Power Studio

Educational Insights Design & Drill Flower Power Studio

Target

What We Like
  • Great educational toy

  • Teaches STEM-based skills like building and construction

  • Hours of fun

What We Don't Like
  • Lots of little pieces

This is such a cool toy, we might be stealing it for ourselves. Meet the Design & Drill power studio, the perfect spot for your girl to use her kid-safe power drill to create custom, flower-powered designs. No need to worry—this kid-friendly power drill is safe and easy to use. The set comes with 60 bolts in 5 colors, 6 design plates, and an activity guide.

Price at time of publish: $40

Dimensions: 3.9" x 13.1" x 7.2" | Pieces: 72 | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

GAMEJOY LCD Writing Tablet for Kids

LCD Writing Tablet for Kids 10 Inch Colorful Screen, Toddler Educational Toys for 2 3 4 5 6 Years Old Boys and Girls, Reusable and Portable Drawing Tablet Christmas Toys Gifts for Kids

Amazon

What We Like
  • Great educational value

  • Easy to carry and use

  • No-mess design that's easily erased

What We Don't Like
  • No way to save drawings

If your child always has a pen in their hand—and you're one swipe away from a mess on your walls—this writing pad might be the perfect toy for them. Your toddler girl is right at the age to start refining motor skills, and this reusable pad is a great toy for that. It is sure to give her the freedom to doodle and create her own masterpieces, then just as easily, wipe them away.

Price at time of publish: $13

Dimensions: 9.84 x 6.69 x 0.39 inches | Weight: 0.3 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 2 years and up

Disney Encanto Magical Casa Madrigal

Disney Encanto Magical Casa Madrigal

Amazon

What We Like
  • Accurate to the beloved film

  • Engaging and fun

  • Play with recognizable characters

What We Don't Like
  • Batteries not included

We don't talk about Bruno, but your three-year-old girl won't be able to stop talking about this magical Encanto play set. It spans 3 floors, and 7 rooms, and includes a Mirabel Doll along with 15 house accessories. Open the rooms to hear special music and features, all with beloved and recognizable characters from the movie.

Price at time of publish: $85

Dimensions: 14.48" x 22.83" x 5.5" | Weight: 8 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Hape All Seasons Kids Wooden Dollhouse

5
Hape All Seasons Kids Wooden Dollhouse

Amazon

What We Like
  • Beautiful modern design

  • High-quality materials

  • Solid wood construction

What We Don't Like
  • A bit expensive

Hape created a modern dollhouse so chic, it'll fit right in with your home decor. This is the perfect roleplay dollhouse for any child, featuring 6 rooms and all the furnishings it needs. Your three-year-old will play for hours with sparked imagination and creativity.

"Toys that are active versus passive make for some of the best educational toys," Colleen Mason, a K0/K1 Inclusion Teacher, shares with The Spruce. "While the toys with the lights and sounds and buttons can be very entertaining, children aren’t doing the heavy lifting in making that toy fun, they’re just receiving information. Kids learn best from toys that require them to use brain power!"

Price at time of publish: $140

Dimensions: 23.62 x 11.81 x 28.9 inches | Weight: 6 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Melissa & Doug Deluxe Nina Ballerina Magnetic Dress-Up Wooden Doll

4.3
Melissa & Doug Deluxe Nina Ballerina Magnetic Dress-Up Wooden Doll

Amazon

What We Like
  • Encourages sorting, matching, and make-believe

  • Can be played alone

What We Don't Like
  • No lid on tray for the pieces

Tiny dancers will love this fun wooden doll dress-up set we tested. Similar to a traditional paper doll, it allows young kids to dress up the ballerina (named Nina), change her clothes, and have all sorts of make-believe fun. This doll, however, is made of sturdy wood, as are her outfits, and they’re all magnetic to make dressing and undressing her a snap. There are six outfits to mix and match with a slew of accessories too. There’s also a wooden stand included, so your tot can easily show off all of her fashionable creations and spin Nina around the floor in dances she choreographs all by herself.

Price at time of publish: $16

Dimensions: 1 x 8.25 x 11.5 inches | Weight: 1.7 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Melissa & Doug Nina Ballerina Magnetic Dress-Up Set

The Spruce / Sarah Vanbuskirk

Little Tikes 3-Foot Trampoline

Little Tikes 3-Foot Trampoline

Amazon

What We Like
  • Good for indoor fun

  • Easy to assemble

What We Don't Like
  • Foam on handlebar can tear with use

She can bounce all that energy out on this cute trampoline from Little Tikes that’s perfect for her size. There’s a large surface area for jumping, and the handlebar on top will help her keep her balance while she springs up, down, and all around. Designed for indoor use, it can hold one kid up to 55 pounds and is a fun form of exercise when playing outside isn't possible. Parents love its easy assembly, noting that it’s well-made and a great energy burner for little ones who can't sit still.

Price at time of publish: $70

Dimensions: 36 x 36 x 33.5 inches | Weight: 13 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 to 6 years

Cloud b Calming Nightlight Star Projector

Cloud b Calming Nightlight Star Projector | Gentle Brightness | 3 Colors | 3 Constellations | Auto-Shutoff | Unicorn w/ Wings

Amazon

What We Like
  • Brings light and comfort

  • Cute design

  • Great gift

What We Don't Like
  • Limited sound options

Bring the night sky inside right to her room with this cute, unicorn-shaped projector. Bedtime will be a lot cozier and more relaxing for your little girl as she drifts off to sleep under the projected nightlights. It automatically shuts off after 45 minutes, so you don't have to worry about leaving it on overnight.

Price at time of publish: $36

Dimensions: 4 x 7.87 x 6.69 inches | Weight: 1 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Dolirapa Smart Watch for Kids

Dolirapa Smart Watch for Kids

Amazon

What We Like
  • Easy starter watch

  • Includes lots of games

  • Features a camera to take photos

What We Don't Like
  • Not the most high-tech

This smartwatch for kids has a pretty impressive set of capabilities that are not only fun and functional but also educational. From games and a calculator to a step counter and calendar, it’s all there right at her fingertips on a handy touch screen. It also has a built-in camera so she can take photos of whatever catches her eye and add fun special effects and borders to them, too. It runs on a rechargeable ​lithium-ion battery (included) and will run for about seven to 15 days after being charged. It’s a great travel toy—plus, it’s just adorable to see a 3-year-old checking her watch.

Price at time of publish: $27

Dimensions: 8.76 x 1.95 x 0.78 inches | Weight: 2.12 ounces | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 to 12 years

Green Toys Tea Set

Green Toys Tea Set

Amazon

What We Like
  • Made from recycled plastic

  • Easy to clean

  • Durable

  • Fosters imaginative play

What We Don't Like
  • Teapot lid falls off easily

Bring the whole family together for a tea party full of imaginative play perfect for any 3-year-old girl. This set comes with 17 pieces perfect for bonding with siblings, friends, or other family members. It comes with four cups, four saucers, four spoons, a teapot, a sugar bowl, and a cream container. Like all Green Toy products, everything is made out of recycled plastic for a purchase that helps the earth. Each piece is extremely durable, making for a toy they can keep and enjoy for years on end.

Price at time of publish: $30

Dimensions: 12 x 4.5 x 10.5 inches | Weight: 1.68 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 2 years and up

PicassoTiles 2-in-1 Double-Sided Magnetic Drawing Board

PicassoTiles 2-in-1 Double-Sided Magnetic Drawing Board

Amazon

What We Like
  • Great sensory toy

  • Keeps kids very entertained

  • Portable and travel-friendly

What We Don't Like
  • Magnets get stuck sometimes

Learning has never been so fun and engaging. With this magnetic board, your child can trace the alphabet on one half and freestyle their own creations on the other half. There are so many engaging lessons learned when playing with this toy: writing, reading, problem-solving skills, and hand-eye coordination.

Price at time of publish: $20

Dimensions: 12.64 x 10.39 x 0.98 inches | Weight: 1.5 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Monobeach Princess Playhouse Tent

Monobeach Princess Playhouse Tent

Amazon

What We Like
  • Beautiful design

  • Great value

  • Fits multiple people

What We Don't Like
  • Annoying assembly, according to reviewers

Watch as your little girl plays all day inside or outside in this princess playhouse tent. The perfect hideout for toddler girls and their friends, the sizable tent can accommodate 3-4 toddlers at a time inside.

Price at time of publish: $56

Dimensions: 55 x 55 x 53 inches | Weight: 4.3 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor and Outdoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

CoComelon No Spill Musical Bubble Machine

CoComelon NO Spill Musical Bubble Machine | Bubble Toy for Baby, Toddlers and Kids | Amazon Toys Exclusive with 20oz of Extra Bubble Solution (Bubble Solution Bottle Colors Will Vary)

Amazon

What We Like
  • No-spill design

  • Option to turn off the music

  • Beloved character design

What We Don't Like
  • Only one song

If she is obsessed with all things CoComelon, then you have to check out this musical bubble machine featuring the beloved CoComelon. And no worries about coming home to bubble solution all over the floor—the no-spill design allows for all the fun without the mess.

Price at time of publish: $18

Dimensions: 6.5 x 9 x 8 inches | Weight: 2.1 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Melissa & Doug My Magnetic Daily Calendar

Melissa & Doug My Magnetic Daily Calendar

Amazon

What We Like
  • Encourages communication

  • Aligns with school learning

  • Colorful and sturdy

What We Don't Like
  • Limited magnet options

She is about to become the most organized member of the household with her first magnetic calendar. The calendar is the perfect introduction to time management, and it displays the day of the week, date, weather, and special events. We love that the set comes with 80 different, fun magnets, including ones to mark years, months, days of the week, holidays, emotions, and more.

Price at time of publish: $28

Dimensions: 15.75 x 1 x 12 inches | Weight: 3 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Bluey 13" Talking Bluey Plush

Bluey 13" Talking Bluey Plush

Amazon

What We Like
  • Perfect size for toddlers

  • Well-made

  • Beloved character

What We Don't Like
  • Have to manually turn on the additional phrases

Beloved Bluey is ready to play with your toddler! This talking Bluey plush is interactive, and your child can sing and dance along to the sounds and songs of the show. The adorable plush is perfect for hugging and snuggling while the nine phrase help foster language and social skills in your toddler.

Price at time of publish: $20

Dimensions: 12.99 x 5.12 x13.98 inches | Weight: 10.6 ounces | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Magna-Tiles 100-Piece Clear Colors Set

4.8
Magna-Tiles 100-Piece Clear Colors Set, The Original Magnetic Building Tiles For Creative Open-Ended Play, Educational Toys For Children Ages 3 Years +

Amazon

What We Like
  • Easy-to-play STEM toy

  • Good for solo and collaborative play

  • Encourages patience

What We Don't Like
  • Many pieces to clean up

This simple set of colorful 3D tiles we tested lets little ones do some pretty cool things. There are no rules, but they offer the opportunity for open-ended STEM-based play and plenty of creativity to build all sorts of creations. The vibrant tiles snap together magnetically to create shapes, scenes, and anything else she can imagine. It boasts 100 pieces, allowing your child to create plenty of 3D objects, but all Magna-Tiles work together, and you can combine it with other sets for double the fun (and even more pieces).

Price at time of publish: $120

Dimensions: 12 x 3 x 9 inches | Weight: 7 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

iPlay, iLearn Kids Bowling Toys Set

iPlay, iLearn Kids Bowling Toys Set

Amazon

What We Like
  • Soft, foam balls for safe play

  • Engaging and easy-to-use

  • Sturdy, balanced pins

What We Don't Like
  • Children could chew on pieces

Ready for your toddler to become a bowling pro? Any three-year-old girl will love playing with this engaging bowling set. Plus, because each pin is numbered, there's an opportunity for some number recognition and learning while they play.

Price at time of publish: $28

Dimensions: 2.5 x 2 x 7 inches | Weight: 1 pound | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 2 years and up

iPlay, iLearn Bouncy Pals Unicorn Hopping Horse Plush

iPlay, iLearn Bouncy Pals Unicorn Bouncy Horses, Toddler Girl Bouncing Animal Hopper, Inflatable Plush Hopping Toy, Outdoor Indoor Ride on Bouncer, Baby First Birthday Gift 18 Month 2 3 4 Year Old Kid

Amazon

What We Like
  • Removable and washable cover

  • Adorable, friendly design

What We Don't Like
  • Simplistic

  • Size could be small for some 3-4 year olds

We love this bouncy, ride-on unicorn, and so do we. This is a warm gift for any toddler girl. The best part? The cover is removable and washable to refresh their new favorite unicorn. We also love the adorable design that mimics a real-life cartoon.

Price at time of publish: $43

Dimensions: 22 x 11 x 22 inches | Weight: 3.8 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 2 years and up

Fat Brain Toys Ladybug's Garden Memory Game

Fat Brain Toys Ladybug's Garden Memory Game

Fat Brain Toys

What We Like
  • Great quality

  • Sturdy storage box

  • All ages can play

What We Don't Like
  • Can't customize cards

A simple memory game has never looked so adorable. With this ladybug matching game, choose one of the five double-sided puzzle cards to use as a guide. If you lift two ladybugs and they're a match to the card, the player takes the ladybugs and keeps on playing until all the matches are found. This is a great game for many ages, as the puzzle cards vary in difficulty, from simple shapes to more intricate illustrations.

Price at time of publish: $25

Dimensions: 10.25 x 10.25 x 1.75 inches | Pieces: 27 | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Disney and Pixar Toy Story Slinky Dog Plush

Disney and Pixar Toy Story Slinky Dog Plush

Amazon

What We Like
  • Stays tangle-free

  • Plush version of beloved character

  • Durable yet soft

What We Don't Like
  • Thin fabric

The famous Slinky Dog from the Toy Story saga is coming from the screen to your playroom! This plush toy is an adorable recreation of the beloved character. No need to worry about tangles or kinks in the Slinky, as there may be with a real, metal one—this plush version is durable and tangle-free.

Price at time of publish: $25

Dimensions: 10.5 x 4 x 7.25 inches | Weight: 9 ounces | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 18 months and up

Kinetic Sand Beach Sand Kingdom Playset

Kinetic Sand Beach Sand Kingdom Playset

Kinetic Sand

What We Like
  • Tools are sturdy and easy to clean

  • Good amount of sand for the value

  • Resealable bag

What We Don't Like
  • Can get messy

Bring home all the fun of the beach with none of the mess. Your toddler will spend hours playing with this Kinetic Sand, which, in this sand color, looks just like the real thing. What's impressive about kinetic sand is its ability to mold and adhere to itself without feeling sticky. Plus, this kit comes in its own sandbox, making for the perfect play place.

Even the duo behind The Home Edit love this sand play set. "Our kids love Kinetic Sand, and so do we" they share with Amazon. "It's something that keeps the kids entertained, and keeps us from losing our sanity—what more could we really ask for?"

Price at time of publish: $21

Dimensions: 2.44 x 12 x 11 inches | Weight: 3 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. My First Microscope

Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. My First Microscope

Amazon

What We Like
  • Easy-to-use focus knob

  • Extra-large pieces perfect for kids

What We Don't Like
  • Simplistic

  • Small range of magnification

Spark your child's curiosity with their very first microscope. This offering from Educational Insights is a kids-sized working microscope that functions just like the real thing: view everything in 8x the size and detail by peering through the viewfinder.

Price at time of publish: $25

Dimensions: 1.12 x 8.1 x 10 inches | Weight: 1.12 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor or outdoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Learning Resources Smart Snacks Shape Sorting Cupcakes

Learning Resources Smart Snacks Shape Sorting Cupcakes

Amazon

What We Like
  • Durable

  • Help teach colors and sorting

  • Suitable for various ages

What We Don't Like
  • Some can be more difficult to get apart than others

Little ones will love the delicious design of this toy, designed to promote fine motor skills. The Shape Sorting Cupcakes from the Smart Snacks line of Learning Resources teaches colors, sorting, shapes, and dexterity in a fun way that 3-year-olds will love playing with day after day. Each cupcake has a differently shaped base that fits into the corresponding base, leading to hours of matching fun.

Price at time of publish: $28

Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 3 inches | Weight: 0.05 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 18 months and up

Skip Hop Zoo Crew Bingo

Skip Hop Zoo Crew Bingo

Amazon

What We Like
  • Thick, durable cards

  • Fun for many ages

  • Lots of variety

What We Don't Like
  • Not waterproof

This game from Skip Hop is more than your average game of bingo. It will challenge your child's memory and recollection with fun, adorable zoo characters. It's a great option for the whole family to play together, even with kids of multiple ages.

Price at time of publish: $10

Dimensions: 7.5 x 0.8 x 7.5 inches | Weight: ‎13.4 ounces | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

LeapFrog Number Lovin' Oven, Pink (Amazon Exclusive)

LeapFrog Number Lovin' Oven, Pink (Amazon Exclusive)

Amazon

What We Like
  • Affordable, fun toy

  • Great for children of many ages

  • Educational yet playful

What We Don't Like
  • Lyrics are a bit odd

We have the recipe for having fun while learning, and that's this Number Lovin' Oven from LeapFrog. A classic toy that boasts tons of 5-star reviews on Amazon, this toy does it all. It is designed to strengthen vocabulary, counting, and number skills: close the oven to explore numbers and counting, and leave it open for your toddler to learn about counting and sharing.

The oven is loaded with over 30 songs and phrases, so your child will be absorbing new vocabulary all while baking pretend pizza, pie, and cupcakes.

Price at time of publish: $25

Dimensions: 14.8 x 5.3 x 8.9 inches | Weight: 2.8 Pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 2 years and up

Mudpuppy Dinosaur Park 25-Piece Floor Puzzle

Mudpuppy Dinosaur Park 25-Piece Floor Puzzle

Amazon

What We Like
  • Oversized pieces perfect for tiny hands

  • Simple and fun

  • Sturdy storage box

What We Don't Like
  • Simple and large

There is no better game for rainy-day fun than a puzzle—and this one takes the fun from the tabletop to the entire floor. With 25 colorful, oversized pieces, your toddler girl can enjoy some screen-free fun putting together this puzzle. Plus, there's an opportunity for learning more about dinosaurs and problem solving—win-win.

Price at time of publish: $17

Dimensions: 22 x 22 x 0.25 inches | Pieces: 25 | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 2 years and up

GobiDex 7-in-1 Multi Kids Activity Table Set With 2 Chairs

GobiDex 7-in-1 Multi Kids Activity Table Set With 2 Chairs

Amazon

What We Like
  • Storage space included

  • Seats are adjustable

  • Indoor or outdoor use

  • Lightweight and easy to assemble

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

One side of the reversible table is perfect for building with the included 100 blocks and is also compatible with LEGO Duplos for even more added fun. The other side can be used as a space for doing homework or art, or as a sensory water bin with an included drain plug. Little ones can grow with this toy by adjusting the two included chairs to perfectly fit their height. Use indoors or outdoors for hours of diverse fun all in one place.

Price at time of publish: $80

Dimensions: 20.08 x 20.08 x 19.3 inches | Weight: 9.98 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor or outdoor | Recommended Age: 2 years and up

Step2 All Around Easel for Two

Step2 All Around Easel for Two

Amazon

What We Like
  • Suitable for two children

  • Easy to assemble

  • Includes stickers and magnets

What We Don't Like
  • Can be difficult to erase chalk completely

The little artist in your life will love exploring her creativity with her very own easel. This one from Step2 two-sided so siblings can join in on the fun (also a great gift option for twins). One side is a dry-erase board with colorful letter and number magnets to promote learning; the other is chalk for drawing and writing. Keep your supplies tidy with two storage trays under each side to store markers, chalk, erasers, and more (which are not included) in this easy-to-assemble easel that she can enjoy for years.

Price at time of publish: $60

Dimensions: 20 x 22.2 x 41.5 inches | Weight: 8.57 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Forgotten Fairy Tales of Brave and Brilliant Girls

Forgotten Fairy Tales of Brave and Brilliant Girls

Amazon

What We Like
  • Modern adaptations of beloved fairytales

  • Great story time book

What We Don't Like
  • Complex themes

In this book, classic fairytales get a modern refresh. Instead of the stories of Snow White, Cinderella, and Sleeping Beauty ending in marriage to the prince, the heroines instead set out on their next adventure and seek their own happy endings. This is a great bedtime reading book for your little girl.

Price at time of publish: $17

Dimensions: 7 x 9 x 0.75 inches | Weight: 1.85 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Play-Doh Kitchen Creations Rising Cake Oven Bakery Playset

Play-Doh Kitchen Creations Rising Cake Oven Bakery Playset

Amazon

What We Like
  • Set comes complete with baking and decorating tools

  • Little to no assembly required

What We Don't Like
  • Can be a little messy

For little ones begging to help out in the kitchen, this playset by Play-Doh offers a fun and more kid-friendly approach. Your little girl can mold cake into the included cake pan and pop it into the blue oven all on her own. When she hears the timer go off, she can pull down the oven door handle to watch the cake she made rise right before her eyes. The kitchen set includes pretend frosting and three sprinkle shapes so she can decorate her cake whichever way she'd like.

Price at time of publish: $22

Dimensions: 3.19 x 13 x 12 inches | Weight: 1.21 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Pets Alive Poppy The Booty Shakin’ Pug

Pets Alive Poppy The Booty Shakin’ Pug

Amazon

What We Like
  • Adorable and fun

  • A toy the whole family loves

What We Don't Like
  • Short songs

Meet Poppy, a pug who just can't stop dancing, and wants you to get up and move, too! This toy is really just here for some playful fun, inspiring your child to get on their feet and dance along. We love the adorable and funny nature of Poppy the pug that you can't help but smile when playing with her.

Price at time of publish: $20

Dimensions: 10.63 x 4.72 x 10.63 inches | Weight: 1.5 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Brio Disney Princess Castle Set

Brio Disney Princess Castle Set

Amazon

What We Like
  • Adorable Disney characters

  • Fun and engaging

  • Helps develop motor skills

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

If she is obsessed with all things Disney and princesses, there is no better set that this castle train set from Brio. Your toddler will join Aurora, Belle, and Cinderella on a fantasy-filled train adventure. A great feature of this set is its ability to grow: it can be combined with larger Brio sets to challenge and stimulate your girl as she grows.

Price at time of publish: $145

Dimensions: 17.72 x 10.63 x 7.48 inches | Weight: 3.76 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Melissa & Doug Let's Play House! Dust, Sweep & Mop Set

4.6
Melissa & Doug Let's Play House Dust! Sweep! Mop! 6 Piece Pretend Play Set - Toddler Toy Cleaning Set, Pretend Home Cleaning Play Set, Kids Broom And Mop Set For Ages 3+

Amazon

What We Like
  • Actually cleans

  • Great for imitation play

What We Don't Like
  • Dustpan is a little flimsy

Years from now, she might detest being told to help sweep the floor, but right now, she's likely taking the broom from you! This six-piece set includes brightly colored cleaning tools, like a mop, broom, and dustpan built for pretend play. The tools are totally functional, too—so she'll actually help clean while having a blast. It's a fun way to get little ones away from the screen and on their feet while also building confidence and motor skills.

Price at time of publish: $43

Dimensions: 4.5 x 11 x 28 inches | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Melissa & Doug Catch & Count Wooden Fishing Game

Melissa & Doug Catch & Count Wooden Fishing Game

Amazon

What We Like
  • Helps kids learn about fishing

  • Great for learning numbers and motor skills

  • Magnetic pieces for easy clean-up

What We Don't Like
  • Short pole strings

This adorable wooden game from Melissa & Doug is an all-around great catch, as well as fun and educational. It comes with two fishing rods and ten numbered fish, all of which are magnetic. Kids can play alone or with someone else as they spin the worm and try to “catch” the fish with the number on which they land. Included are instructions on other ways to play. When the fun is over, you can store all the pieces in the mesh bag, making clean-up time a snap.

Price at time of publish: $29

Dimensions: 7.25 x 18 x 2.5 inches | Weight: 1.6 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

The Little Blue Box of Bright and Early Board Books

The Little Blue Box of Bright and Early Board Books

Amazon

What We Like
  • Encourages reading and imagination

  • Convenient carrying case

What We Don't Like
  • Books may not hold up well without supervision

Books make great gifts for children of all ages, and a set of Dr. Seuss books—even better! This gift set includes four favorites for a reasonable price "Hop on Pop," "The Shape of Me and Other Stuff," "Oh, the Thinks You Can Think!" and "Ten Apples Up On Top!" And all the stories come in a convenient carrying case for reading on the go.

Price at time of publish: $20

Dimensions: 6 x 2.45 x 4.69 inches | Weight: 1.2 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: Up to 3 years

Melissa & Doug Water Wow! Reusable Color with Water Activity Pad

Melissa & Doug Water Wow! - Water Reveal Pad Bundle - Farm, Safari & Under The Sea

Amazon

What We Like
  • Good for traveling and road trips

  • Includes six coloring books

  • Mess-free disappearing ink

What We Don't Like
  • Cardboard can warp after a while

Traveling with a toddler can be tough if you’re not prepared. Luckily, these activity pads from Melissa & Doug are just the thing to have on hand to make road trips more fun for everyone. Six coloring books are included, each with a different theme (animals, vehicles, and safari), and they're "mess-free," so you won't have to worry about cleaning the car afterward. Instead of using crayons or markers, kids use water-filled pens to bring these images to life and complete fun activities. When the “ink” dries, the colors disappear, and they can start all over again!

Price at time of publish: $20

Dimensions: 4.8 x 6.7 x 10 inches | Weight: 2.6 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Hasbro Gaming Candy Land The World of Sweets Game

Hasbro Gaming Candy Land The World of Sweets Game

Amazon

What We Like
  • Classic board game

  • Great for minimizing screen time

  • Good for 2 to 4 players

What We Don't Like
  • Adult assembly required

Say goodbye to screentime with this classic board game that is a great first foray into board games. She'll fall in love with the candy-themed board, and she doesn't need to know how to read to play along. The directions are easy to follow and there are limitless opportunities for replay. This is a great gift for any family who wants to start a board game night tradition.

Price at time of publish: $13

Dimensions: 1.46 x 15.75 x 10.51 inches | Weight: 1.12 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Micro Kickboard Mini Original 3-Wheeled Scooter

Micro Kickboard Mini Original 3-Wheeled Scooter

Albee baby

What We Like
  • Helps with balancing skills

  • Quiet and non-marking wheels

  • Good for indoors and outdoors

What We Don't Like
  • Bars aren't height adjustable

If she doesn't have a scooter, now is the time to help her work on her balance and gross motor skills. She can cruise around the neighborhood in style with one of these top-rated scooters that she can ride till she is 5 years old. The design makes balancing easy, making this a great option for outdoor play in the driveway or at the park.

Price at time of publish: $90

Dimensions: 10.63 x 1.97 x 25.98 inches | Weight: 3.97 pounds | Intended Use: Outdoor | Recommended Age: 2 years and up

What to Look for in a Toy for a 3-Year-Old Girl

Recommended Age

Most toys have an age recommendation on the packaging. These guidelines are there for a reason— they serve as an important gauge of safety and stimulation, says Kristin Morency Goldman, senior advisor of strategic communications for The Toy Association. It also ensures that your child plays safely and comfortably, but also challenges them and fosters important skills to help them learn and grow as they play.

Toys labeled 3+ may contain small parts that pose a choking hazard, Goldman notes. Although your child may technically meet this age requirement, use your best judgment based on their level of maturity. If your toddler still mouths many of their toys, they may not be ready for these types of toys. Remember manufacturer suggestions are just that—an estimate based on expected maturity and motor skills—a good guideline but not an absolute.

Complexity

Sometimes simple toys are tons of fun, but toys with more than one function tend to hold kids’ attention longer. As your toddler grows, look for toys that light up, move, make noise, or have some interactive features, like this interactive Bluey doll that comes loaded with tons of phrases and songs to sing along to. Toys with more than one function are also great.

Educational Value

Toys don’t have to be learning-based to have educational value. There are plenty of traditional toys: pretend play sets, scooters, puzzles, building sets, memory games, and more—that help your toddler develop important physical, language, and cognitive skills, suggests Dr. Natasha Burgert, a pediatrician in Overland Park, Kansas. A great example is the Melissa & Doug cleaning set. Little ones mimic what they see adults do and practice imaginative play that fosters essential motor skills that help them learn and grow.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Julie Evans, a writer who has been researching home products for The Spruce since 2017. She has extensive experience covering products for children, including toys and gifts. For this article, she considered budget, safety, and age appropriateness. Additional research was done by Julia Fields, an associate editor for The Spruce covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, and the holidays, and Mia Ingui, an editor at The Spruce.

Expert advice was provided by Dr. Jody Sherman LeVos, the chief learning officer for HOMER, Colleen Mason, a kindergarten teacher with her Master's in Early Childhood Education, Dr. Natasha Burgert, a pediatrician in Overland Park, Kansas, and Kristin Morency Goldman, senior advisor of strategic communications for The Toy Association, and the duo behind The Home Edit.

Updated by
Julia Fields
Julia Fields
Julia is the Associate Commerce Editor at The Spruce, covering all things toys, gifts, holidays, and seasonal content. She studied English and minored in Journalism and Gender and Sexuality Studies at New York University. 
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