Toys for Preschoolers & Kindergarteners (3-5 Years)

Preschoolers and kindergarteners are exceptionally adept at playtime -- they possess active imaginations and lots of energy. Channeling their intellect and enthusiasm with the perfect toy is a tall task; there are so many options out there. As an adult, it's up to you to do the research and select the right toy for your child. When shopping, be sure to note the manufacturer's age recommendations: every toy is geared towards a certain age group, both for safety and developmental reasons. Before buying a toy consider if you child is more or less capable than his/her peers and take recommendations from friends. Finally, rely on your instincts, no one knows your child better than you. If shopping for a child that's not your own, consult the parents before making a purchase. Some parents are adamant about only having educational   or wooden toys   in the home or the family may have other issues, such as space limitations.

Quick Picks


Three Years

LeapFrog 100 Hoops  

Inside/Outside Cook 'n Grill Kitchen  

Mega Bloks Pirate Ship  

Razor Bumper Buggy  

Savannah Doll House  


Four Years

Pisa Bamboo Game  

Barbie Jam with Me Karaoke Guitar  

Kid Tough FP3 Player  

Disney DVD Bingo  

Speed Stack Stack Packs  


Five Years

SmartGlobe 2.0  

Dinosaurs Extinct? Board Game  

Alex Sticker Factory  

Amazing Allysen  

Zoundz  


Popular Toy Categories

Educational Toys

Toys for this age group should help prepare kids to enter a structured learning environment as they prepare for kindergarten. It's the perfect time to consider educational toys , such as electronic learning games; VTech   and Leap Frog   are two major companies to think about.

Dress Up and Pretend Play

Children love to play make belive and to dress up in costumes.  Imitating adults is a natural pastime for preschoolers. Kids will get the opportunity to be just like an adult with miniature versions of household items like vacuum cleaners, telephones, and pots and pans. More elaborate toys can recreate an entire home or business.

Sports and Recreation

By age 3, most children are ready for outdoor activities. Some ideas for outdoor toys include: kites pools bikes and skates

Arts and Crafts

Arts and Crafts are wonderful rainy day activities. These playthings can introduce art, music, dance, and imagination to a child at an early age. Play Doh   and crayons   are basics.

Stuffed Animals   & Dolls and Dollhouses

Stuffed animals   and dolls   are marvelous companions and comforting sidekicks at this age.

Board Games

Basic board games   (for ages 3-5 years) teach children about sharing, taking turns, and expose children to simple concepts like colors and counting. Board games are a natural for family playtime or for playdates with friends.

Toy Cars  

Matchbox cars   and other toy vehicles are good for both boys and girls. They come in awide array of colors and sizes and are perfect for toting everywhere.

Building Sets & Musical Toys

Building sets   and musical toys   are good for developing dexterity and motor control. Get them moving with jumbo blocks   or try little pianos drums sing along   CDs or DVDs, and karaoke machines

Related Buying Guides

Children's Books

Educational Toys

Board Games

Toys and Games

Dolls and Dollhouses