"It seems like our little, beautiful babies turn into big kids overnight. They’ll quickly start hitting the 5-year-old milestones, like speaking really clearly, becoming more vocal about likes and dislikes, and telling some amazing stories. But perhaps the most amazing is the burst of independence. They truly start to become their own little people and want to explore and learn on their own.
As they continue to grow, an upcoming birthday is the perfect opportunity to shop for some new toys. Toys that support development, independence, and curiosity are great for 5-year-olds.
And, despite our reluctance, we have to admit that they aren’t babies anymore. They are starting to grow into more age-appropriate toys. Toys that not only entertain them but also stimulate their mental growth. To aid in your 5-year-old birthday gift-shopping endeavors, we’re providing this list of the best 5th birthday gifts for any budget.
How we chose the best gifts for 5-year-olds
There are moms with kids of all ages on The Everymom team. They’ve conquered the baby phase, changed all the diapers, and celebrated 5th birthdays. On top of that, our commerce and editorial teams are always on the hunt for the best products for kids, moms, and families. If there’s a new must-have, must-try, or must-see in the kids or parenting space, we’re on it. Real-life experience combined with knowing the current trends allows us to put together a well-rounded list of gifts.
What makes a great gift for a 5-year-old?
Whether you have a soon-to-be 5-year-old of your own or a little one in your life with this exciting birthday coming up, we know you’ll want to pick out the perfect gift. Age 5 is such a fun one to buy toys for. They’ve well surpassed the “for 3-year-olds and up” disclosure on most games, they’ve got the basics of motor skills down to a science, and their curiosity is higher than ever. Needless to say, they’re ready for some fun.
The 5-year-old mark is extra exciting because the possibilities are wide open. So we included options in all price points, from budget to big ticket. These gifts were hand-picked because they inspire creativity, help development, and encourage meaningful playtime. Some of our favorite options are STEAM gifts that will help little ones learn and get excited for all of the fun lessons they’ll get in school. And, truthfully, some are just plain cute! Check out our picks below.
Gifts for 5-Year-Olds Under $50
Now that your little one is likely no longer in the phase of putting anything and everything in their mouth—and may be a huge Swiftie by now!—a friendship bracelet making kit will put a huge smile on their face.
This toy is great for children to work on their fine motor skills and introduce engineering concepts.
Flybars are a blast from the past that offer fun for kids and nostalgia for their parents.
3 colors available
Dinosaurs are a tried-and true-gift for kids at this age, and this one’s 3D appearance makes it extra special.
LEGOS are a classic for a reason. This box of nearly 800 pieces encourages children to use their creativity.
Montessori toys encourage independent play and this screwdriver set can help improve hand-eye coordination.
Kids will love getting creative with this DIY light-up unicorn costume kit that they can later wear during many play times to come.
Little explorers with curious minds will love this bug-catcher kit. With tools like a magnifying glass, compass, flashlight, and more, the world (or at least the backyard) is their oyster!
This camera is perfect for the kid who’s always asking to take pictures on your phone. Encourage their interest in photography with their own digital camera.
5 colors available
Puzzles are always a good idea, and this one has the added challenge of being double sided—which also means double the fun!
This fort-building kit offers endless imaginative possibilities while also boosting problem-solving and cognitive skills.
It doesn’t get much cuter than these personalized purses. Your little one will love carrying this around with them and showing it off wherever they go.
Kiddos love basketball, but it’s difficult for parents to love the constant bouncing sound. That’s where the Silent Basketball+ comes in! Perfect for when you need a little quiet time or if they’re allowed to have some indoor practicing.
Little fashionistas will love decorating their own trendy pouch. Great for carrying pencils when they head to school, cosmetics, accessories, and more.
“Speaking from experience, this pouch makes a great go-to gift for my kids’ friends’ birthdays as well.”
– Kathy Sisson, Senior Editor
Board games are entertaining fun for the whole family, and Blokus helps kids practice spatial reasoning and problem-solving.
Birthdays are made for pampering. Help them do just that with this adorable, customized spa set. There’s a robe, slippers, and more for the ultimate pampering experience.
Gifts for 5-Year-Olds Over $50
Encourage outdoor play and creativity with this one-of-a-kind gift. Kids will love making their very own kaleidoscope, either with the included plastic flowers or anything they find in nature. It’s easy for kids to make and is sure to be a gift they don’t want to put down.
The perfect duffle bag for camp, sports, sleepovers, or anything else your big kid is into. Plus, add a name or monogram to make it extra special!
Give little artists a gift they’re sure to love with this personalized art kit. With two lines of personalization on the front and filled with the essentials like colored pencils, crayons, and more, they’ll want to start creating right away.
A fun game that’s also educational, this word-building set includes nine different games for kids to practice phonics, spelling, grammar, and more.
Add a new favorite item to their closet with this adorable sequin bomber jacket.
“I love gifting special clothing items that feel like dress-up but can also be worn as clothes—it’s a 2-in-1 win every time.”
– Kathy Sisson, Senior Editor
Introduce coding concepts to kids with this next generation of the award-winning Botley robot toy.
Gift this three-crate KiwiCo set for hands-on learning and DIY fun. Designed by childhood development experts and educators, KiwiCo’s STEAM activities make it easy for parents to offer their kids something new and engaging with each box.
The Zoe Doll is a beautiful representation of Black children and helps teach kiddos and parents how to style Black hair.
There are few things more interesting than outer space. Get your 5-year-old learning about the solar system with this telescope that was designed specifically for kids.
If you’ve been waiting for a reason to pull the trigger on a Yoto, a birthday is the perfect time. The smart speaker offers over 1,000 pieces of kid-friendly content that inspires creativity and independent play.
Gifts for 5-Year-Olds Over $100
When they’re ready for a big(ger) kid bike, it doesn’t get much better than Guardian. Get it in their favorite color with a helmet to match!
6 colors available
For the car-loving kids in your life, this Hot Wheels track set is sure to be endless fun—and it’s over 3-feet tall!
When they’re looking to give peddling a break, a scooter is in order. The perfect ride to grow with your kid, Micro Kickboard’s scooter is made for ages 5-12. It has an adjustable handle and smooth gliding ride. Plus, this version comes with LED light-up wheels.
“Hands down, my favorite scooter for kids. Both my daughters received Micro Kickboards as gifts when they were 4 or 5 and STILL ride them (they’re 8 and 11 now!) So in addition to their high quality and longevity—the handle adjusts as they grow—these scooters have an exceptionally smooth ride and keep my kids active.”
– Kathy Sisson, Senior Editor
Trampolines make the days a lot more fun (and bedtime a lot easier for parents).
Tablets offer endless entertainment and educational options for children. A 5-year-old’s birthday could be an occasion to gift them one of their very own (with limits, of course).
4 colors available
Why You Can Count on Us
The Everygirl Media Group has brought valuable content to our readers for 12+ years. In 2018, The Everymom set out to ensure that all moms know they’re not alone. If you find yourself seeking advice on how to style the latest fashion trend or searching for the best kid-friendly coffee table, we have the answers. And if you’re wondering what’s actually worth it from a sale or looking for a review of the hottest new kids’ product, we’ve got that covered too. From our annual Registry Awards and beloved holiday gift guides to the shopping round-ups you find on our site every day, The Everymom commerce team is well-versed in sifting through thousands of products to curate a digestible list for you. We combine our own experience with in-depth research to bring you a selection that meets our high standards for both fashion and function.
Brett Nicole Hayden, Assistant Editor
As the Assistant Editor, Brett works with the editors of The Everymom on the content creation process by updating stories, sourcing images and graphics, and pitching and contributing her own articles. Her favorite topics to write about are culture, relationships, and living. She’s also The Everymom’s resident baby names and family movies expert!
Melissa Guida-Richards, Contributing Writer
Melissa is an author, adoptee, and mom of two boys. She has authored two books, Bedtime, The Ultimate Battle and What White Parents Should Know About Transracial Adoption, and runs a podcast, Adoptee Thoughts, in her spare time.