The best gifts for kids (all parent-approved, too) – National

If “icky sticky sticky sticky bubble gum” lives in your head rent-free, delight your kiddo with a plush version of their favourite YouTube teacher. The recently released (and once-waitlisted) doll plays 20 different Ms. Rachel songs and phrases.

Pull-back cars are a hit even at super young ages (and a great intro to fine motor skills and language like, “ready, set, go!”). This soft set is cleverly designed without the small parts that can be choking hazards for babies.

This one’s got all the makings of a parent-approved gift: versatile for a wide range of ages (from early crawling and peekaboo to fort-building later on), a tire-them-out indoors toy for bad-weather days, and completely collapsible for easy storage.

Foster pretend play—and maybe some early fix-it skills—with this wooden workbench (that won’t clash with the home décor!). It comes with a matching hammer, saw, wrench, ruler, hardware and blocks for hours of building fun.

Another gift both kids and parents will be thrilled about: screen-free entertainment, courtesy of this popular audio player. Littles can listen to songs, audiobooks and podcasts by loading different cards, plus it doubles as a nightlight and alarm clock.

Pizza night is every night (at least when it comes to playtime) with this realistic set. The oven looks just like a mini-sized Ooni, complete with a “flame” light. Kids can freestyle their own toppings or practice following the included recipe cards.

Extra points for educational toys that keep kids busy for hours, and this interactive globe fits the bill. With a tap of the stylus, kids can learn about capital cities, languages, cultures, animals and more as BBC videos play on the screen.

In the latest version of the viral Cookeez Makery toys, kids mix up dough for a frozen cake, then pop it in the fridge. Ten seconds later, out comes a surprise scented plushie, shivering from the cold and ready for a hug.

STEM toys have long topped toy recommendations lists, but the newer progression is STEAM (for science, tech, engineering, art and mathematics). Enter, this programmable robot. Kids learn to write code, then Artie will draw their creation.

There’s a reason this is one of the most popular holiday gifts for kids: it can keep them busy for hours as they build intricate mazes to send their glow-in-the-dark marbles through—then switch up the design over and over again.

Though we’re nearing the end of an Era(s tour), the friendship-bracelet trend will live on. This loom has everything needed to make 20 projects, including wrapped, knotted and beaded designs.

Level up their LEGO skills with this elaborate three-storey castle-turned-bed-and-breakfast. Once built, tweens (OK, and grownups too) can have fun decorating the rooms with the included beds, chairs, lighting—even a claw-foot tub.