Must-Have Toys for 3+ Year-Olds to Skyrocket Their Development 

Imagine a world where kids are more interested in playing with toys that keep them active and healthy rather than just sitting in front of a screen all day. Well, that world can become a reality with these top 10 toys for 3+ year-olds!  

Yes, with the world becoming more digital and passive, it is important to encourage our little ones to stay fit and active. These toys provide endless hours of fun and help develop gross motor skills, coordination, balance, and strength. So, let’s look at these amazing toys for 3+ year-olds that will keep them on their feet and moving.

Different Toys Categories For Your Kid 

If you have the question, “What are the best toys for a 3-year-old?” in your mind, this list will surely help you. 

• Educational Toys For 3-Year-Old Kid: Connetix Magnet Blocks, LEGO, Osmo, Bath Letters and Numbers, Inchimals, and Rhyming Words Match & Learn.

• Brain Development Toys for 3+ Year-Olds: Learning Puzzles, Dado Cube, MightyMind, 2-in-1 LeapTop Touch, Wooden Latches Board, Robot Engineer (Level 1), Mexco Sensory Busy Board, Seenda Activity Cube, and iPlay Stacking Sorter.

• Toys for Your Kids to Keep Them Fit: Bean Bag Toss, Football Swing Ball, Adjustable Basketball Set, Indoor Trampoline, Hula Hoop, Wobble Balance Board, Squap Catch Ball Game, Ring Toss, and Indoor Bowling Set.

• Top Fun Toys for 3-Year-Olds: Skip Hop Zoo Bark-Ista Coffee Set, T-Ball Set, Bees & Me Dinosaur Toy Set, KiwiCo Marble Run and Art Easel, Musical Mat, Pogo Jumper, Sit n Spin Toy, Hopping Ball, Riding Horse, Activity Cones

• Art, Crafts, and Music Toys: Getting Creative with Art Supplies, Using Playdough, Making Recycled Collages, ZMLM Scratch Paper Art-Craft for Girls, Paint Your Own Wooden Kids Heart Treasure Box Kit, and Sorting Stickers by Color.

Educational Toys For 3-Year-Old Kid

1. Connetix Magnet Blocks

Connetix Magnet Blocks stand out as a top choice for educational play among 3-year-olds. These types of toys encourage creativity and learning in various ways. Children can build diverse structures, from castles to car garages, allowing their imagination to flourish. 

Also, it’s simple to encourage letter and number learning with the blocks, as they can be written with chalk markers. The blocks facilitate color sorting activities, promoting fine motor skills and color recognition. These engaging educational features make Connetix Magnet Blocks an excellent choice for young learners, combining fun and learning seamlessly.

2. LEGO

LEGO is another popular educational tool among children and parents. They can build different structures, enjoy letter building, and much more. These blocks are bigger in size; hence, kids can easily handle and play with them. 

It has been found that playing with LEGO can enhance a child’s problem-solving skills, creativity, and fine motor skills. It also helps in improving hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness. Children can use their imagination to create unique structures or follow instructions to build replicas of famous landmarks or vehicles. 

3. Osm

One of the best toys for 3+ year-olds is Osmo! Teachers who use Osmo in their classrooms always say good things about it. It is a fun way for kids to learn through games! Can you believe it? 

Kids love Osmo because they get to play games. It’s okay for them to have some screen time when they’re learning with Osmo. When kids play with Osmo, they do hands-on learning games about math, science, and art! It’s a cool way for kids to have fun and learn simultaneously!

4. Bath Letters and Numbers

What if you could turn shower time into learning time? Sounds interesting! Well, with Bath Letters and Numbers by Munchkin, it’s possible. These foam toys are great for bathtime fun! 

They float in the bath and stick to tub walls when wet. When they’re dry, they come off easily and don’t leave any mess. There are 26 letters and 10 numbers in six fun colors. Kids can learn the names of colors, letters, and numbers while playing in the tub. 

The toys are soft, durable, and safe because they’re made of non-toxic foam. With 36 colorful letters and numbers, this is a cool way to add learning to your daily bath routine!

5. Inchimals

Inchimals by Fat Brain Toys make math super fun! It’s like going on a safari adventure with animal blocks. These special blocks help kids learn about math stuff like numbers, measuring, adding, subtracting, and even a bit of pre-algebra. 

There are 12 wooden blocks, all sizes from 1 to 12 inches. Each block has a cool animal, lines to measure inches, written numbers, and dots that match its height.

These blocks are not just fun; they also help measure things and show how to add and subtract visually. You also get a puzzle book where you can write and wipe off stuff to learn even more about pre-algebra and balancing equations. 

6. Rhyming Words Match & Learn 

This Rhyming Words Match & Learn Puzzle set is excellent for 3-year-olds learning! The puzzles are fantastic because they correct themselves and show real pictures with words underneath. Besides, you can flip the pieces, and the word is only on the back for a more advanced game – it’s like having two games in one!

The rhyme words have the same color to help kids figure out the right matches. Playing with these puzzles helps kids get better at using their hands and fingers. The puzzle pieces are big enough for little hands to hold and play with easily. It’s a fun way for kids to learn and play simultaneously!

Brain Development Toys for 3+ Year-Olds 

7. Learning Puzzles

Puzzles have been one of the most famous toys for 3 year old kids for a long time, and what could be better than using them for brain development? Puzzles provide entertainment and help develop problem-solving, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills. 

At the age of 3, a child’s brain is rapidly developing, and puzzles are a great way to stimulate their cognitive growth. These learning puzzles come in different shapes and sizes, with varying difficulty levels, making it an ideal activity for children of all ages.

8. Dado Cube

Another excellent toy for brain development is the Dado Cube. This unique building block set allows children to explore their creativity and problem-solving skills by stacking, connecting, and interlocking pieces to create different structures. 

You can easily find your kid spending hours playing and experimenting with the Dado Cube. This is why Dado Cube is one of the best toys for 3+ year-olds, helping them develop spatial awareness and critical thinking.

9. MightyMind

MightyMind isn’t just a game; it’s a vibrant odyssey through a spectrum of design challenges. Your child will progress through a series of increasingly complex puzzles, encouraging them to think logically and creatively.  This toy also helps with hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills as kids manipulate the colorful shapes to solve the challenges. It’s perfect for 3-year-olds who are ready to take on more advanced problem-solving tasks while having fun at the same time. 

10. 2-in-1 LeapTop Touch

What if you can combine fun and learning in one toy? The 2-in-1 LeapTop Touch does just that! This interactive laptop is designed to introduce preschoolers to letters, numbers, shapes, and basic computer skills. With colorful buttons and a touchscreen feature, children can navigate different activities such as games, music, and pretend play. It also has a detachable mouse for added fun and learning.

11. Wooden Latches Board

These are perfect for teaching children how to manipulate objects and develop fine motor skills. The colorful latches, locks, and doors attract a child’s attention and keep them engaged while they learn crucial skills like hand-eye coordination, finger dexterity, and problem-solving. This toy also helps develop patience as the child learns to unlock each door or latch precisely. 

12. Robot Engineer (Level 1)

Immerse your child in the captivating world of robotics with the Robot Engineer (Level 1) kit – a gateway to a thrilling exploration of gears, circuits, and the joy of creating. This isn’t just about play; it’s an opportunity for your child to dive into the fundamentals of innovation.

As your child assembles and plays with their very own robot, they’re not just having fun; they’re taking their first steps towards understanding the building blocks of technology. It’s more than a toy; it’s a chance for them to experience the excitement of crafting something from scratch.

13. Mexco Sensory Busy Board

This toy is a perfect combination of fun and learning. It is designed to engage a child’s senses with different activities like zipping, buttoning, lacing, and sorting. The various textures and colors stimulate sensory development while improving their dexterity and hand-eye coordination. It is especially beneficial for children with trouble sitting still, as it keeps them engaged in various tasks.

14. Seenda Activity Cube

Say hello to the Seenda Activity Cube – a multifaceted playground for the curious mind. From counting beads to turning gears, each side offers a new avenue of exploration. It’s not just a cube; it’s a versatile realm where every twist and turn unravels a new facet of learning and play. This turns learning into a fun adventure, like taking a colorful trip through the world of curiosity.

15. iPlay Stacking Sorter

The last brain development toy for a 3-year-old on our list is the iPlay Stacking Sorter. This toy is designed to help kids learn colors, shapes, and sorting skills while developing hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. The set includes different colored blocks in various shapes that can be stacked on top of each other or sorted into their corresponding holes. 

Toys for Your Kids to Keep Them Fit 

16. Bean Bag Toss

This is one of the best indoor activities to keep your kid active and fit. It involves tossing bean bags into designated holes or targets, which improves hand-eye coordination, muscle strength, and balance. 

You can even create a DIY version using cardboard boxes or baskets as targets for added creativity. Besides, you can buy bean bags in different sizes and weights to make the game more challenging as your child grows.

17. Football Swing Ball

It’s another great indoor toy that can keep your kid physically fit. This game involves kicking a small football attached to a rope suspended from the ceiling, and the goal is to keep it moving without touching the ground. 

It’s an excellent way to improve leg muscles, coordination, and reflexes while providing fun and active playtime for your child. Additionally, you can set up different obstacles or makeup rules to make it more challenging and engaging for your little one. 

18. Adjustable Basketball Set

Another one of the recommended toys for 3+ year-olds is a basketball set that can be adjusted in height as they grow. You can set it up in the playroom or even outside on a nice day. This game helps improve hand-eye coordination, agility, and cardiovascular endurance. It’s also a great way to teach your child about teamwork and sportsmanship. 

19. Indoor Trampoline

Trampoline is a fun and effective way to keep your kid active indoors. Its fun and bouncy nature makes it an enjoyable activity for children of all ages. Jumping on a trampoline helps improve balance, coordination, and cardiovascular health. You can also find mini trampolines perfect for indoor use and have handles for added safety. Just supervise your child while they jump to prevent accidents.

20. Hula Hoop

For those who don’t know what a hula hoop is, it is a circular toy that can be spun around the waist, arms, or legs. Your child will have so much fun trying to keep the hula hoop spinning and may not even realize how much exercise they are getting in the process! 

You can join in on the fun and have friendly competitions with your child to make it more engaging. With consistent use, hula hooping can improve balance, coordination, and core strength.

21. Wobble Balance Board

Another interesting toy to keep your kid fit is a wobble balance board. This toy requires your child to stand on the board and maintain their balance while it wobbles, which helps strengthen core muscles and improves coordination. It’s also a great way for kids to burn off excess energy while having fun. 

Plus, you can use it indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather. Besides, you can find wobble balance boards in various designs and colors, making them a fun addition to any playtime routine.

22. Squap Catch Ball Game

Among other toys for 3+ year-olds, Squap catch ball game is a unique and exciting option. This fun and active game lets your child experience the thrill of catching and throwing. Squap is a fast-paced catch ball game involving velcro paddle tossing and catching balls. It promotes hand-eye coordination, reflexes, and gross motor skills as your child tries to catch the flying balls. 

Plus, it’s compact and perfect for indoor playtime or outdoor adventures. With these types of toys, you can keep your child fit while having a blast together!

23. Ring Toss

Ring Toss is another great indoor activity to keep your kid fit. Like bean bag toss, this game improves hand-eye coordination and motor skills. It involves throwing rings onto a target, a peg, or a bottle. 

You can use different colored rings for added excitement and set up multiple targets at varying distances to make the game more challenging. This classic game is not only fun but also helps develop children’s focus and concentration.

24. Indoor Bowling Set

The last thing you want is your child sitting in front of a screen all day. An indoor bowling set is an excellent alternative to get them moving and burning off some energy. This toy includes a softball and pins, making it safe for indoor play. 

Your child will engage their muscles and improve their aim and coordination skills as they set up the pins and roll the ball to knock them down. Plus, it’s a great game to play with siblings or friends, promoting social interaction.

Top Fun Toys for 3-Year-Olds 

25. Skip Hop Zoo Bark-Ista Coffee Set

What if spending time with your child could also involve a little caffeine boost? This adorable coffee set from Skip Hop’s Zoo collection is the perfect toy for imaginative play. It includes everything your little one needs to host their own pretend tea party – a coffee pot, cups, saucers, and even cute animal faces on each piece. 

This toy is fun and educational as it teaches children about sharing, taking turns, and using their imagination. The bright colors and cute designs make it irresistible for any 3-year-old. So why not let your child serve you coffee while they enjoy staying active?

26. T-Ball Set

This is one of the most common toys for 3-year-olds and for a good reason! A T-ball set is perfect for your little one to practice hand-eye coordination while having fun. They can hit the ball off the tee with the bat, then run after it and practice throwing and catching. 

This toy is great for outdoor playtime and keeps your child active while improving their motor skills. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce them to sports at an early age!

27. Bees & Me Dinosaur Toy Set

Most kids love dinosaurs, and this toy set will surely be a hit with any 3-year-old or even older children. It includes several dinosaur figures, a play mat, and other accessories to create an exciting prehistoric world. Along with entertainment, this set also promotes hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills as children manipulate the figures and play on the mat. 

The durable construction ensures these toys last for years, making them an excellent investment in your child’s development. With endless possibilities for imaginative play, this toy set is a must-have for any young dinosaur lover.

28. KiwiCo Marble Run and Art Easel

Get creative and curious with the KiwiCo Marble Run and Art Easel. This toy combines two activities in one, promoting both artistic expression and problem-solving skills. Your child can design their own marble run using wooden blocks, ramps, chutes, and marbles. Then, they can switch gears and create a masterpiece on the art easel by drawing or painting with the supplies provided.

29. Musical Mat

A musical mat is another great toy for keeping your 3-year-old active and engaged. This interactive play mat allows kids to dance, jump, and move around while creating their own music. 

With built-in instruments like drums, piano keys, and guitar strings, this mat encourages creativity and coordination as children step on different parts to create unique tunes. It’s fun to exercise indoors on a rainy day or even burn off some energy before bedtime. The vibrant colors and catchy tunes will keep your little one entertained for hours.

30. Pogo Jumper

Pogo jumpers comprise a foam base connected to a handle by a stretchy cord. Kids can pull and stretch the cord using an up-and-down bouncing motion on the foam. Some pogo jumpers even come equipped with a small squeaky device that emits a sound with each jump. 

These indoor activity jumpers provide a fun way for children to enjoy active play indoors. It’s a great alternative to traditional jump ropes or hula hoops and helps develop gross motor skills. Plus, it’s compact and easy to store when not in use. Your 3-year-old will have a blast hopping around the house with this toy!

31. Sit n Spin Toy

Let your child experience the ultimate spinning fun with the Sit n Spin Toy. This classic toy has been a favorite for generations, providing hours of entertainment and physical activity. The Sit n Spin features a sturdy base and a comfortable seat, allowing your child to sit and spin in any direction. It also has easy-grip handles for added stability and control. 

32. Hopping Ball

Hopping BallBall is one of the best toys that provides hours of fun for your little one. This Ball is not just a delightful toy; it’s an ideal gift for children aged 3-12. It offers a dynamic way to expend energy and enhances your kids’ coordination as they hop alongside friends during indoor or outdoor gatherings. Additionally, it doubles as a ball chair, offering a flexible seating option for your children both at home and in the classroom.

33. Riding Horse

Imagine a cute, bouncy horse that your little one can sit on and pretend to ride like a cowboy or cowgirl. It’s like having their very own horsey friend at home. They can hold on to the handles and bounce up and down, making playtime a little adventure. Of course, it’s not a real horse, but it’s a fun way for your kiddo to use their imagination and get some active playtime.

34. Activity Cones

Picture colorful cones your toddler can stack, knock over, or even use as imaginary obstacles. These cones are like building blocks but in a cone shape. Your little one can practice their stacking skills, play a mini bowling game, or create a pretend racecourse. It’s a simple but versatile toy that helps with motor skills and sparks creativity. Plus, the bright colors make it visually stimulating for your child.

Art, Crafts, and Music Toys

35. Getting Creative with Art Supplies

One of the best ways for children to express themselves is through art. From painting and coloring to sculpting and drawing, there are endless possibilities for your toddler to explore their creativity. 

Art supplies such as washable paints, crayons, finger paints, and markers are great options for toddlers because they allow them to experiment without fearing making a mess or damaging anything. So, let your little one get messy and have fun with their imagination! 

36. Using Playdough

Playdough is not only a fun and tactile activity for toddlers, but it also helps develop their fine motor skills. Rolling, squishing, and shaping the dough all require hand-eye coordination and strengthen the muscles in their hands.

You can add different tools, such as plastic knives or cookie cutters, to make different shapes and patterns. Besides, this will help improve your child’s creativity and imagination as they can make anything they want with the dough.

37. Making Recycled Collages

What could be better than teaching your child about the importance of recycling while having fun simultaneously? Collect materials around the house, such as old magazines, newspapers, and cardboard boxes. 

Then, let your toddler use their imagination to create collages with these items. You can allow them to use glue or tape to stick the pieces together, which will also help improve their hand-eye coordination.

38. ZMLM Scratch Paper Art-Craft for Girls

It is an excellent option for introducing your toddler to scratch art. They can use the included wooden stylus to reveal vibrant colors underneath the black coating on each sheet. 

Engaging in educational activities can divert your child from screens while enhancing their creativity, concentration, hands-on abilities, and social aptitude. Collaborating on delightful art projects fosters a stronger bond between parents and children, encouraging interaction and forging cherished memories.

39. Paint Your Own Wooden Kids Heart Treasure Box Kit 

Another great arts and crafts toy for toddlers is a paint-your-own wooden treasure box kit. This not only allows them to express their creativity by painting the box in any way they want, but it also teaches them patience and attention to detail as they carefully paint each side. Plus, once the box is finished, they can store their trinkets or keepsakes, making this a practical and sentimental gift.

40. Sorting Stickers by Color

Just imagine a lively and educational playtime scenario where your child explores the world of colors through the exciting activity of sorting stickers. The Sorting Stickers by Color activity is designed to entertain and stimulate your child’s brain, fostering an early love for learning. 

As they arrange stickers by color, your child is not just having fun; they are also developing essential cognitive functions such as categorization and visual discrimination. 

Final Thoughts

So, these were top toys for 3+ year-olds for different categories. From educational toys to brain development toys and fun toys that keep them fit, there are plenty of options. So, let’s make playtime more exciting and healthy for our little ones with these unique toys!

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