Wow, time flies! My little guy is about to turn five, and what an adventurous year it has been. Reflecting on his journey from four to five, I’ve realized just how many activities, toys, and books have captured his imagination and enthusiasm. It’s been such a fun year watching his interests evolve! I’ve decided to compile a new list of his top picks to share with other parents. These are the items that have not only brought him joy but have also encouraged his development and creativity.
In this updated gift guide, you’ll find a diverse collection of items that have been a hit in our household. From educational toys to imaginative playsets and engaging books, each category is packed with products that have significantly contributed to his learning and fun this year.
As with last year’s guide, I’ve sorted the favorites into categories. From Books and Toys, to Board Games and so much more. We’ve had a blast exploring each of these areas, discovering new talents and interests along the way. These gifts are not only great for growth but are also simply enjoyable.
While some items may be more readily available in specific regions, the appeal of these gifts is global. Whether you’re shopping in North America, Europe, or elsewhere, you’re likely to find equivalent options that will delight any young child.
Here it is—our handpicked list of fantastic finds that have truly made an impression during his fifth year. I hope this list inspires and helps you in finding the perfect gift that lights up your child’s eyes just as it did for mine. And for those who appreciate convenience, I’ll include some handy Amazon links for quick shopping!
Let’s make your gift shopping as joyful and exciting as turning five should be! Cheers to more fun, learning, and unforgettable moments. 🎉
Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you; when you buy through the links, we may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks!
Books
1- The Day the Crayons Quit – by Drew Daywalt & Oliver Jeffers
“The Day the Crayons Quit” is a delightful and hilarious book that my son absolutely loves. When Duncan opens his crayon box, he discovers that all the crayons have gone on strike, each leaving a letter of complaint. From Red being overworked to Yellow and Orange arguing about the color of the sun, the humorous grievances of each crayon make for an entertaining read. This brilliant story always brings a smile to our faces. It is a must-read for anyone looking for a fun and original tale.
“Oi Frog!” is an amusing and clever book that has become a favorite in our home. The story begins with a cat instructing a frog that frogs must sit on logs. This sets off a hilarious series of rhyming seating arrangements for different animals. From hares sitting on chairs to lions lounging on irons, each page brings a new, witty twist. The playful rhymes and vibrant illustrations make “Oi Frog!” an entertaining and engaging read that leaves us all laughing. It’s a brilliant book that we highly recommend for a fun and delightful storytime.
3- Where’s Wally? The Totally Essential Travel Collection – by Martin Handford
“Where’s Wally? The Totally Essential Travel Collection” has been one of my son’s favorite books this year, keeping him entertained for hours. This compact compilation, perfect for travel, challenges readers to find Wally and his friends. There is a wide variety of bustling scenes filled with intricate details and surprises. The thrill of the hunt and the excitement of discovering hidden characters make each page an adventure. This book is not only engaging but also perfect for long journeys. It provides endless fun and a delightful way to pass the time.
4- The Color Monster – by Anna Llenas
This book is a classic in our home, and we keep reading it and using it regularly. The Color Monster is a mess of emotions, and Nunu, a little girl, helps him sort them out. The 5 big emotions are: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Calm. As a mother of 2, I’ve realised that dealing with emotions is so difficult and complicated. Even as adults it is difficult, so getting an early start at naming what they are feeling and giving them tools to deal with them and go through them it is very important. We can’t avoid our feelings, but we can help them understand them and navigate them. This book is a great place to start.
Toys
5- Connetix
Magnetic tiles continue to be the reigning champions of playtime in our home, engaging my son every day without fail! These tiles excel in blending education with entertainment so seamlessly that the learning aspect is completely camouflaged by fun. Among the various options available, Connetix tiles are our preferred choice. They stand out with their superior clarity, ingenious design, and attractive pastel hues, all of which make constructing large, eye-catching structures effortlessly enjoyable. Moreover, these tiles are a favorite during playdates, consistently being the most played-with toy in our home. For anyone aiming to enhance their playroom collection, adding these magnetic tiles is a must. They truly transform play into an enriching experience and a social hit!
6- Hot Wheels
My son’s passion for Hot Wheels continues to burn brightly. We’ve expanded his collection with more tracks, further fueling his imaginative play. These miniature cars still provide endless entertainment as he races them, sets up daring stunts, and delves into vibrant, imaginary worlds. The added tracks have only enhanced his setup, allowing him to engineer more complex jumps and challenges. It’s a domain where speed meets creativity, and he thrives as a race champion, an innovative builder, and a bold adventurer. Hot Wheels remain a fantastic catalyst for creativity and excitement in his play.
7- Grimms Large Stepped Pyramid (LSP)
The Large Stepped Pyramid has become an indispensable part of daily play for my son. His enthusiasm for these blocks has only grown. He now creatively combines them with Connetix tiles and Hot Wheels tracks to construct more elaborate and intricate designs. These versatile building blocks continue to foster his imagination, enabling him to build towering structures, intricate roadways, and complex cities. Their compatibility with other toys enhances their play value, making every building session a new adventure in construction and creativity. For any child with a passion for building, these blocks are a treasure. They provide endless opportunities for imaginative and complex play.
8- Kapla
This year, my son embarked on an exciting new journey with Kapla planks. Discovering the joys and challenges of constructing with these precision-crafted wooden blocks has been great. Each plank requires careful placement, demanding patience and a steady hand, which has been a rewarding developmental step for him. Starting with simple structures, he’s quickly grasping the vast potential these planks hold. Whether he’s building towering skyscrapers, intricate bridges, or balanced sculptures, Kapla planks are proving to be an excellent tool for enhancing his concentration and creativity. As he continues to explore and build, the possibilities for what he can create seem limitless. Each construction session is a wonderful adventure in patience and precision.
The Cuboro marble runs have been a delightful addition to our play collection. It has captivated my son with their intricate pathways and endless possibilities for creativity. Initially, we started with the standard set, which already offered a great introduction to the fascinating world of marble runs. However, since introducing the Cuboro Junior set, his engagement has deepened significantly. This version is specifically designed with younger builders in mind. So it is easier for him to construct and enjoy his creations.
The joy of watching the marbles navigate through the carefully assembled tracks is a source of continuous fascination and learning for him. Cuboro marble runs encourage problem-solving, planning, and spatial reasoning, all while providing immense fun. They are truly a marvelous tool for children to explore and grow their building and logical thinking skills.
10- Animal Figurines
Animal figurines have become a cornerstone of my son’s playtime. Particularly our collection of wooden Holztiger animals and detailed Schleich figures. He has shown a deep fascination with creating intricate small worlds, creating elaborate narratives that span from prehistoric dinosaur landscapes to mystical realms inhabited by dragons and bustling farm scenes.
These imaginative setups often incorporate other toys like Connetix tiles and Grimm’s wooden pieces. So they enhance the landscapes and making each play session a vivid and expansive adventure. Watching him orchestrate these worlds, where different species interact and stories unfold, is truly captivating. It’s inspiring to see how these simple figures can spark such creativity, helping him develop storytelling skills and an appreciation for the natural world through play.
11- Waytoplay
These flexible toy roads have been a constant since he was three years old. Although he is now expanding his car play and looking for more speed with the Hot Wheels, he also regularly comes back to the Waytoplay roads to build cities or roller coasters. He loves pairing them with Connetix, combining with Hot Wheels, and using all types of vehicles on them. The thing that Waytoplay offers that the rest do not: they can be played with anywhere! So these have been used in the bath, at the beach, in the snow, and at the pool. Really cool to have around!
12- Toy cars
Toy cars have been a constant and beloved feature in my son’s playtime this year, capturing his imagination and providing endless hours of entertainment. His collection includes the ever-popular Hot Wheels, versatile Waytoplay roads, and a variety of other vehicles that fuel his creative journeys. Whether he’s racing them down elaborate Hot Wheels tracks, navigating them across magnetic Connetix tiles, or cruising along the flexible Waytoplay roads, each session is filled with adventure and excitement.
These miniature vehicles not only enhance his motor skills and spatial awareness but also encourage him to create complex traffic scenarios and explore the dynamics of motion and speed. Toy cars, in their simplicity, continue to be a staple of his play, proving that sometimes the simplest toys are the most enduringly captivating.
13- Foam Swords – Sarah’s Silks
This year, our home has been transformed into a lively stage for epic swordplay adventures, with knights and ninjas reigning supreme in imaginative battles. Armed with foam swords from Sarah’s Silks and an array of Lego ninjas, my son dives deep into the medieval and mystical worlds he conjures up. His enthusiasm for these themed plays has even led him to craft his own cardboard shields, adding a personal touch to his heroic escapades. These play sessions are not only a blast but also offer a fantastic way for him to engage physically and creatively.
Finally, the Pokemon craze has reached my son’s class. He is loving them. The cards and this little action figures that he can use in his pretend play and adventures. He just placed them in his reusable balloons and turned them into the best Pokeballs ever. (We got him the original pokeballs and they were kind of a flop: hard to open, and not very child-friendly to play with – so I decided to get rid of them and keep the characters). The characters are great and he loves creating his Pokemon world, battles, and healing them.
15- Wooden Scoop and Serve Ice Cream Counter – Melissa & Doug
This has been a hit this year as well! I especially love it because both my son and my 8-year-old daughter enjoyed playing together. They’ve been playing ice cream shop a lot! Making their own menus, pretending they were shop owners and customers, and playing with friends and family. This set is gorgeous. It helps you keep everything tidy, and the feel to it is lovely. I highly recommend it.
16- Melissa & Doug Pretend Food
What would you like: sushi, pizza, or a salad? My son does and he has enjoyed greatly playing with all these pretend play food. It has been great combining them also with the ice cream counter. My children have played together and made so many restaurants this year 😉 They have practiced writing skills creating menus and taking orders. It has been great for pretend play and also to develop communication skills. Here are the three sets that we own and love:
17- Construction Worker Play Costume – Melissa and Doug
My son has enjoyed this costume this year. Role playing and playing dress-up are something that he always loves to jump into. This set was lovely. It came with a vest where you can hang tools, a toy hammer and saw, a hard hat, security goggles, and a name tag for personalization. He’s worn it for many of his “construction” work and building this year, and it has been fun to watch.
Board Games & Puzzles
18- Monza – by Haba
The Monza board game has quickly become a favorite in our household, captivating my son with its blend of strategy and fun. In this engaging racing game, players advance their cars around the track by finding the best color combinations from the dice rolls to move the farthest. My son has delighted in planning his moves, thoughtfully considering each roll to optimize his progress and outpace his opponents.
The game is not only a fantastic way for him to practice critical thinking and decision-making skills, but it also provides an opportunity for friendly competition and cooperative play. Watching him analyze his options and strategize his path to victory has been a joy, making Monza a highly recommended addition to any family’s game collection.
19- Super Slide Puzzle – Giiker
The Super Slide Puzzle has been a great toy to take with us out and about and on road trips. It is a screen-free puzzle with over 500 challenges. It helps build critical skills like reasoning and planning, and has been great to improve his focus and patience. I know it is also considered a great toy for fidgeters and people who need to deal with anxiety or ADHD, so it is also a plus. And it is great for the whole family. I must confess I have played with it more than I imagined initially. I made a bag to carry all the different parts together, and it was great. It’s challenging and great fun!
20- Perplexus
The Perplexus maze has become a captivating challenge in our home, enchanting my son with its intricate network of paths and obstacles. It was actually a gift for his 8-year-old sister, but he has been playing with it a lot. This 3D labyrinth game, enclosed in a transparent sphere, requires careful manipulation to guide a small ball through various tracks and hurdles. Each twist and turn demands precision and patience, providing a delightful mixture of frustration and triumph as he navigates through the complex routes.
Not only is the Perplexus maze a great exercise for hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness, but it also teaches problem-solving skills and perseverance. Watching him engage with the maze, his concentration intense and his determination unwavering, highlights the educational and fun nature of this engrossing puzzle. It’s a game that offers endless hours of focused play and cognitive development.
21- Subbuteo
Subbuteo has become a thrilling addition to our playtime, captivating my son with its unique blend of strategy and skill. Flicking the miniature players to pass and score goals offers endless excitement and challenges his dexterity and tactical thinking. This tabletop soccer game has quickly turned into a family favorite, providing hours of competitive fun and enhancing his love for the sport.
Subbuteo is a fantastic way to enjoy soccer indoors, fostering both patience and precision in a fun, engaging way. He loves placing the mat on our Zonky Playsofa and using the Grimm’s LSP as barriers for the soccer field. He is not good at it – yet – but he loves it because he gets to play it with his dad. It’s “their” thing.
22- Go to the Pyramids puzzle – Londji
This year, my son has been captivated by the “Go to the Pyramids” puzzle from Londji. This 100-piece puzzle has ignited his curiosity about ancient Egyptian culture, leading to many fascinating conversations about the scenes and characters depicted. As we solve the puzzle together, we embark on an adventure to uncover hidden figures like the pharaoh, the fertile lands of the Nile, and the diligent scribe. This activity not only transports us back in time to the era of the pyramids but also provides an engaging and educational experience right at home. The puzzle’s sustainability adds to its charm, making it a cherished addition to our collection and a wonderful way to explore history through play.
Outdoor toys
23- Stapelsteins
The Stapelsteins continue to be an indispensable part of our home. Over time, their role has evolved, serving increasingly as sturdy stools that my son uses to sit on or stand on to reach higher places. This shift has significantly boosted his independence, and it’s been wonderful to see how these simple tools empower him daily. Initially a versatile toy for creative and active play, they now also fulfill practical needs, providing a reliable boost whether indoors or out. I am delighted by their sustained utility and how they facilitate both play and practical life skills. They remain a top recommendation for any family looking for versatile, open-ended toys that grow with their children.
24- Skates
This year has been a pivotal one for my son, embracing the challenge of playing hockey on roller skates—a beloved local tradition. The learning curve was steep; mastering balance, learning to turn, and even starting to skate backwards. The journey was filled with many falls, but each one taught him to rise again with renewed determination. Initially, the frustration was evident—there were complaints and whining with each tumble. However, as the months passed, his resilience shone through.
He no longer frets about falls or mishaps; instead, he pushes forward, showcasing not just improved physical skills but significant personal growth. Skating has not only built his athletic abilities but has also sculpted his character, teaching him valuable lessons in persistence and grit. We bought ours at a local store from a local brand, but I’m adding a link to the closest and best reviewed I’ve found on Amazon.
25- Bicycle
This year has marked an incredible milestone for my son—he’s finally taken off the training wheels and embraced the joy of riding on two wheels! After receiving his elder sister’s bicycle last year, he’s spent months practicing and persevering. Although the journey has been challenging, his determination has paid off, and at the age of five, he’s now confidently riding without stabilizers. Watching him thrive and gain confidence on his bike has been truly amazing. Each ride brings a new sense of freedom and accomplishment, and seeing him cruise around like a pro is one of the greatest joys!
26- Scooter
This past year, my son has had an absolute blast with his Micro 3-wheel scooter, zipping around with ease and confidence. This scooter has been instrumental in developing his balance and coordination, providing hours of outdoor fun and physical activity. As he approaches his 6th birthday, we’re excited to upgrade him to a 2-wheel scooter, marking a significant milestone in his development.
The new scooter will offer a fresh challenge, further enhancing his balance and boosting his confidence as he masters the new skill. The transition from three wheels to two is not just about a new toy, but about growing up and continuing to embrace active play. We look forward to many more adventures and increased independence with his new 2-wheel scooter.
Last year, we stumbled upon a remarkable gift that transformed our summer days, and it’s proven its worth again this season! These innovative splash balls, perfect for outdoor water play, have quickly become our staple for warm-weather fun. Their reusable design not only spares the environment but also keeps the excitement going all summer long. We simply dry them off and tuck them away until the next adventure. What sets these apart is their construction from soft silicone, ensuring they’re safe and gentle for all kinds of play. The magnetic closures make them effortlessly simple to use—just grab and go for hours of eco-friendly fun!
28- Archery Set
Last month, during a trip to the UK, we discovered a captivating archery set at Decathlon that quickly became a beloved addition to my son’s collection of outdoor activities. This set includes a user-friendly bow, two suction-cup arrows, and a target, all designed for safe, enjoyable play. Since then, he has spent countless hours honing his archery skills, delighting in the challenge of hitting the bullseye.
This archery practice not only entertains him but also aids significantly in developing his coordination, focus, and fine motor skills. Each arrow shot encourages patience and precision, qualities that are invaluable both in and out of play. The joy and concentration on his face as he lines up each shot are a clear indicator of his growing passion and skill in this classic sport.
This year has seen a remarkable transformation in my son’s interests—he’s become an avid soccer fanatic, a significant shift from his previous indifference to the sport. His enthusiasm is so strong that he now loves dressing up in soccer jerseys and playing whenever he can. We’ve found that a size 4 soccer ball is the perfect fit for his age, making it an ideal gift that he uses constantly.
To further support his interest, we’ve also purchased a foldable soccer net, which we keep in the trunk of our car, ready for impromptu games wherever we go. Whether practicing shots in the backyard or playing a casual game at a park, soccer has not only become a fun and engaging activity for him but also a wonderful way for him to develop teamwork skills, coordination, and physical fitness.
30- Tualoop
Tualoop has become a cherished part of our family’s outdoor activities, offering a delightful twist on the traditional ring toss game that captivates both children and adults alike. This innovative game combines the thrill of skill and precision with the joy of active outdoor play. It requires a blend of patience and practice to master, making each game an engaging challenge.
The simple yet genius design of the Tualoop rings adds a unique flair to our play sessions, encouraging everyone to step outside and enjoy some healthy, spirited competition. Whether we’re refining our throwing techniques or competing in friendly matches, Tualoop is more than just a game—it’s a reason for us to connect and have fun together in the great outdoors.
Musical & Tech
31- Yoto Player
The Yoto remains an exceptional choice for children’s gifts, offering them autonomy over their audio entertainment in a completely screen-free manner. This device has consistently impressed me! Among its standout features is the soothing built-in nightlight, perfect for bedtime, and its user-friendliness is unparalleled. The extensive library of cards and a captivating selection of podcasts make the Yoto an unrivaled audio companion for children. It’s a fantastic investment for families, and I enthusiastically recommend it to all parents looking for enriching, engaging options for their kids.
32- Walkie Talkies
Walkie-talkies have added a whole new dimension of fun and adventure to my son’s playtime this year, especially enhancing his bond with his sister. These compact, easy-to-use communication devices have sparked countless imaginative scenarios, from secret missions to outdoor explorations. Whether they are coordinating in a game of hide-and-seek or playing detective around the house, the walkie-talkies encourage teamwork, strategic thinking, and clear communication.
The thrill of talking to each other from different rooms or across the yard never seems to wear off. Beyond the entertainment, they also help develop important social and technical skills. The walkie-talkies have not only provided endless fun but also strengthened sibling play and cooperation, making them a fantastic and versatile addition to their collection of toys.
Arts & Crafts
33- Makedo
Makedo has proven to be an invaluable resource in our household, unlocking a world of potential from simple cardboard. These clever screws facilitate the construction of almost anything one can imagine out of cardboard, fostering innovation and creativity. This year, they have been instrumental in crafting sturdy shields for my son’s swordplay adventures and even a robot, which though a challenging endeavor, was a thrilling project for him.
The ease with which Makedo transforms everyday cardboard into durable creations is truly impressive. I am excited about the endless possibilities these tools offer, and I anticipate their continued use in our creative projects over the coming year. Makedo not only supports his imaginative play but also teaches important skills like design thinking and problem-solving in a fun and engaging way..
Experiments
34- Learning Resources – Experiment sets
We continue to dive deep into the fascinating world of science with the Learning Resources Experiment Kits! These kits have become our staple for endless exploration and discovery, both in the kitchen and during bath time. They serve as a catalyst for inspiration, sparking countless ideas and experiments. My young scientist is utterly captivated by the process of mixing various liquids, playing with food coloring, investigating different densities, and drawing insights from his experiments. It’s a truly hands-on approach that fuels his curiosity and deepens his passion for science. We absolutely adore these kits!
35- STEM Explorers™ Magnet Movers – Learning Resources
This Magnetic Experiment Set by Learning Resources has been a fantastic addition to our playtime this year. With its 39 pieces, including a magnetic wand and various accessories, it’s perfect for sparking curiosity and exploring the basics of magnetism. The set’s hands-on experiments and engaging activity guide make learning about magnets exciting and fun. It’s ideal for young scientists eager to understand how magnets work while enjoying interactive play. This set has quickly become a favorite, blending education and entertainment seamlessly! Both my 5-year-old and my 8-year-old have loved playing with it.
36- Play Tray – Inspire MyPlay
Initially, the idea of sensory play seemed daunting to me, given all the intricate and often messy projects I came across on social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. However, I soon discovered that it doesn’t necessarily involve chaos; you can tailor the cleanliness to suit your comfort level. The Play Tray continues to be an invaluable asset in our home. Its versatility and portability allow for use anywhere—on the floor, any table, or even outdoors, making it ideal for holidays or visits to grandparents.
The tray’s thoughtful design, featuring a deep base with a lid that doubles as a flat surface, and six compartments, makes it perfect for organizing and creating engaging play setups. It’s compatible with a variety of materials such as water, pasta, play dough, and rice. The possibilities are virtually limitless. For a wealth of creative sensory play and activity ideas, be sure to visit their website—it’s packed with free resources that inspire endless fun and learning!
Reflections on Choosing Gifts for a 5-Year-Old Boy
Finding the right gift for a 5-year-old can be both fun and fulfilling. At this age, there are countless options to spark their imagination and support their learning journey. From constructing with Connetix tiles to racing Hot Wheels cars or mastering new skills with a 2-wheel scooter, these toys are bound to bring excitement and joy.
The best gifts are those that promote discovery, creativity, and enjoyment. Pay attention to your child’s passions and choose items that will engage their interests and provide endless entertainment. Open-ended toys are particularly wonderful because they adapt to your child’s growth, offering multiple ways to play over time. This is why you’ll notice many such toys on our current list.
As your child grows, these gifts will not only be a source of fun but also aid in developing their cognitive and motor abilities. I hope this guide offers you some great ideas for your little one. Surprise your 5-year-old with something special that will create lasting happy memories.
Happy gifting! 🎁🌈🎉
