:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-HOME-14-best-toys-for-3-year-old-girls-4151591-final-01-5bcc12c5defb49c4bb1541ca314d9cfe.jpg)
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/melissa--doug-personalized-examine-and-treat-vet-set-2675357777fb44d3be51fefc5a971bdf.jpg)
Personal Creations
Quick shipping
Customizable and personal
High-quality tools
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/ScreenShot2022-10-25at10.11.18AM-e3ef8148323f4f20b1545105c4fde64b.png)
Librio
Personal, thoughtful, and customizable
Excellent shipping times
Encourages learning through travel
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/smarterkids-mighty-musical-playmat-d1b366a1d895487390c5bf3df169b3ed.jpg)
SmarterKids
8 different instrument sounds
Rolls up for easy storage
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/ScreenShot2022-10-25at9.53.24AM-96cc839ffd5447478ed320027e8af269.png)
Target
Adorable design
Plush and comforting
Makes the perfect companion
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/bplay-d62c716d32e046a59cf9b3f2948a9832.jpg)
B. play
Grows with your kids
Storage bins for easy cleanup
Exciting and engaging
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/crayola-scribble-scrubbie-pets-mega-pack-371f6551f90e4189b12ede605eb82652.jpg)
Amazon
Hours of fun
Washable and reusable
Suitable for various ages
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/lovevery-the-block-set-5cba6930d08d413589a63fe93ff9bbf5.jpg)
Lovevery
Comprehensive, imaginative block set
Unique and high-quality
Versatile with multiple uses
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/janod-wooden-pasta-playset-e54dedbd7bc74114a290b30a373e3426.jpg)
Janod
Chic, engaging design
Long-lasting fun
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/vtech-leapfrog-scoop--learn-ice-cream-cart-f1d45970c3f741588e1f867dad3cc6fa.jpg)
Amazon
Helps toddlers learn colors and numbers
Includes education phrases and fun music
Batteries are included
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/MelissaDoug-Double-Sided-Easel-8de60800be67462e851b79d31c50e533.jpg)
Courtesy of Amazon
Sturdy and well-constructed
Dry erase comes clean easily
Paper roll ensures a fresh sheet every time
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/lipneaed-3-in-1-toddler-tricycle-8a638bd664f34d9686c43a2dce43467d.jpg)
Amazon
Foldable for easy storage
Sturdy and durable
Easy to put together
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/amosting-color-matching-mosaic-pegboard-early-learning-educational-toys-for-boys-and-girls-947e0743b63844f7ad96e3a1b25361cd.jpg)
Amazon
Create pictures with bright colors
Includes 10 different pattern cards
Storage tray included for buttons
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Amosting_Giftsfor3YOGirls_1SP4151591_03-0ab28413f4314bdc870e63630db9e7c2.jpg)
The Spruce / Sarah Vanbuskirk
Hape Dynamo Kid's Wooden Domino Set
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/hape-dynamo-kids-wooden-domino-set-4c91aac44ed24bc3b715e72cac66b98f.jpg)
Amazon
Vibrant colors
Great quality
Obstacles add a fun twist
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/ScreenShot2022-10-25at9.21.37AM-e908daa7780542a68898f19b29bb380d.png)
Target
Great educational toy
Teaches STEM-based skills like building and construction
Hours of fun
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/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-b0d3b98e16b643059e9190b2bc92a5ce.jpg)
Amazon
Great educational value
Easy to carry and use
No-mess design that's easily erased
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/disney-encanto-magical-casa-madrigal-f860a6ca4d3949fabb89cdc0e73ab592.jpg)
Amazon
Accurate to the beloved film
Engaging and fun
Play with recognizable characters
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/hape-all-seasons-kids-wooden-dollhouse-37040f23fe2a4f1bb5475476b6d2e979.jpg)
Amazon
Beautiful modern design
High-quality materials
Solid wood construction
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/melissa--doug-deluxe-nina-ballerina-magnetic-dress-up-wooden-doll-53ac3e41026840c2a2cc9ef1732d5a9f.jpg)
Amazon
Encourages sorting, matching, and make-believe
Can be played alone
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/MelissaandDoug_Giftsfor3YOGirls_5SP4151591_04-da7c181a7fa84f1495df7f2e4c7337b5.jpg)
The Spruce / Sarah Vanbuskirk
Little Tikes 3-Foot Trampoline
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/little-tikes-3-foot-trampoline-630a4eed77c748528a98dcd85c733671.jpg)
Amazon
Good for indoor fun
Easy to assemble
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/cloud-b-calming-nightlight-star-projector--gentle-brightness--3-colors--3-constellations--auto-shutoff--unicorn-w-wings-3a893acc84d44222b04657dd61b31181.jpg)
Amazon
Brings light and comfort
Cute design
Great gift
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/71weJdT3TQL._AC_SL1500_-06f39fdfaf3745139b46bccd23c853d1.jpg)
Amazon
Easy starter watch
Includes lots of games
Features a camera to take photos
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/green-toys-tea-set-9efd5ab786644eb3b44181ca2f237087.jpg)
Amazon
Made from recycled plastic
Easy to clean
Durable
Fosters imaginative play
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/picassotiles-2-in-1-double-sided-magnetic-drawing-board-918673652f824faf839c9516381f1358.jpg)
Amazon
Great sensory toy
Keeps kids very entertained
Portable and travel-friendly
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Monobeach-Princess-Tent-48acfdf21cd442729ffb7e0a4e7fdaf3.jpg)
Amazon
Beautiful design
Great value
Fits multiple people
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/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-74d47bf30397499ab0bbeb9ecc290e8e.jpg)
Amazon
No-spill design
Option to turn off the music
Beloved character design
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/melissa--doug-my-magnetic-daily-calendar-50e5681ff54540ba8493064d840ea25e.jpg)
Amazon
Encourages communication
Aligns with school learning
Colorful and sturdy
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/bluey-13-talking-bluey-plush-f2c6db0686874e88891350c84ac87f1f.jpg)
Amazon
Perfect size for toddlers
Well-made
Beloved character
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/magna-tiles-100-piece-clear-colors-set-the-original-magnetic-building-tiles-for-creative-open-ended-play-educational-toys-for-children-ages-3-years---af5b06bc7fee44ac81b768bb769e976a.jpg)
Amazon
Easy-to-play STEM toy
Good for solo and collaborative play
Encourages patience
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/iplay-ilearn-kids-bowling-toys-set-0e35c3d117d54954b0db141af941e9a9.jpg)
Amazon
Soft, foam balls for safe play
Engaging and easy-to-use
Sturdy, balanced pins
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/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-2bae8fbea32d4e2c8e23930fdce89b9e.jpg)
Amazon
Removable and washable cover
Adorable, friendly design
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/fat-brain-toys-ladybugs-garden-memory-game-edd1b4876800457bbed2c43fd56a4881.jpg)
Fat Brain Toys
Great quality
Sturdy storage box
All ages can play
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/disney-and-pixar-toy-story-slinky-dog-plush-636b7831dcfc48f0b842adb67e54f504.jpg)
Amazon
Stays tangle-free
Plush version of beloved character
Durable yet soft
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/kinetic-918bc7aec1314a0598be2a0d1042fae4.jpg)
Kinetic Sand
Tools are sturdy and easy to clean
Good amount of sand for the value
Resealable bag
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/educational-insights-geosafari-jr-my-first-microscope-25502c7b9479452b90b27d54004093a5.jpg)
Amazon
Easy-to-use focus knob
Extra-large pieces perfect for kids
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/learning-resources-smart-snacks-shape-sorting-cupcakes-8fcfe0c200984b579399e614b6b25d49.jpg)
Amazon
Durable
Help teach colors and sorting
Suitable for various ages
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/skip-hop-zoo-crew-bingo-287673b4fdd946a282e73afa27d38d55.jpg)
Amazon
Thick, durable cards
Fun for many ages
Lots of variety
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)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/leapfrog-number-lovin-oven-pink-amazon-exclusive-c40bbb8f6a6a48cbbac250de2b6deeef.jpg)
Amazon
Affordable, fun toy
Great for children of many ages
Educational yet playful
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/mudpuppy-dinosaur-park-25-piece-floor-puzzle-de287688ab6c4dea817ab17ac2766b02.jpg)
Amazon
Oversized pieces perfect for tiny hands
Simple and fun
Sturdy storage box
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/gobidex-7-in-1-multi-kids-activity-table-set-with-2-chairs-d4bbef519599488384110338015c5c4b.jpg)
Amazon
Storage space included
Seats are adjustable
Indoor or outdoor use
Lightweight and easy to assemble
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/step2-all-around-easel-for-two-3793ffb8939a4750844cad70fd2037b1.jpg)
Amazon
Suitable for two children
Easy to assemble
Includes stickers and magnets
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/forgotten-fairy-tales-of-brave-and-brilliant-girls-e63f8f5be66a44c19f26d903e5028101.jpg)
Amazon
Modern adaptations of beloved fairytales
Great story time book
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/play-doh-kitchen-creations-rising-cake-oven-bakery-playset-726446c735a34733ae0c15253386c49c.jpg)
Amazon
Set comes complete with baking and decorating tools
Little to no assembly required
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/pets-alive-poppy-the-booty-shakin-pug-fc0c133bae8d47478182b210fe80fc8e.jpg)
Amazon
Adorable and fun
A toy the whole family loves
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/brio-disney-princess-castle-set-fa2a62e028794033a0688dfaafebb932.jpg)
Amazon
Adorable Disney characters
Fun and engaging
Helps develop motor skills
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/melissa--doug-lets-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--603c2b0288db4aa18d17c99f03a9c00b.jpg)
Amazon
Actually cleans
Great for imitation play
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/melissa--doug-catch--count-wooden-fishing-game-376260a019494a3b91215f2f7b1b5b44.jpg)
Amazon
Helps kids learn about fishing
Great for learning numbers and motor skills
Magnetic pieces for easy clean-up
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/the-little-blue-box-of-bright-and-early-board-books-7cde6d476be64bf79b1bda69f0ee57a9.jpg)
Amazon
Encourages reading and imagination
Convenient carrying case
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/melissa--doug-water-wow---water-reveal-pad-bundle---farm-safari--under-the-sea-debad338c2474a32b14c1ac1fe4fade7.jpg)
Amazon
Good for traveling and road trips
Includes six coloring books
Mess-free disappearing ink
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/hasbro-gaming-candy-land-the-world-of-sweets-game-ea0d8c2f81194c89a6cf8846b0b643c9.jpg)
Amazon
Classic board game
Great for minimizing screen time
Good for 2 to 4 players
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
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/micro-kickboard-mini-original-3-wheeled-scooter-89aea78b57f7440298902f1cae1f88ac.jpg)
Albee baby
Helps with balancing skills
Quiet and non-marking wheels
Good for indoors and outdoors
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.