As children get older, they start to gain more independence, and three-year-olds especially love to do things for themselves. At this age, kids start hitting some major milestones, develop language skills and vocabulary, and soak up tons of new information.  Toys that foster this growing sense of independence are always an excellent choice for gifts for three-year-old girls.

Plus, when it comes to the toy aisle, you’ll notice your options grow significantly between two and three years old. Think about all of those toys that were once off-limits (you know, the ones labeled “not for children under 3”). Now, you can add them to your list of potential gifts for that special someone.

Still, it’s important to keep the child in mind when you’re choosing a gift. Just because something is safe for a three-year-old doesn’t mean it’s appropriate. Look for gifts that provide opportunities for both fun and learning or ones that spark imaginative play. You can start right here with our list of toys and gifts that will make any three-year-old girl smile.

Related: Top 50 Most Sought After Toys & Gifts For 3-Year Old Boys


The Best Gifts This Year For Three Year Old Girls

Magnetic Blocks

Magnetic Blocks

Magnetic Blocks

These colorful blocks will keep kids busy and engaged as they create structures with the magnetic tiles. This set is a great introduction to the world of S.T.E.M toys, delivering an age-appropriate way to explore the world of engineering. It includes 103 tiles of various shapes, including wheels, and features a guidebook with building suggestions. Plus, the heavy-duty magnets make it easy to build tall towers and monumental castles. You can also buy these in advance for a 3rd birthday party building activity!

Build A Garden

Build A Garden

Build A Garden

These cute and colorful sets of plants and flowers help facilitate pretend play and a variety of skills. Children can develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, work on color and shape recognition, and practice patterns as they “grow” a beautiful garden. The kit includes 4 connectable bases, 22 stem and leaf pieces, 1 watering can, 16 vibrant flowers, and 8 flower cores. It features non-toxic materials and smooth edges making it safe for little hands.

Baby Shark Bedtime Book

Baby Shark Bedtime Book

Baby Shark Bedtime Book

Make bedtime something to look forward to with the Pinkfong Baby Shark Bedtime Songs Sound Book. It features everyone’s favorite shark song along with 16 bright pages and 10 press-and-play buttons. In addition to the popular song, you’ll also get to hear 7 other fun melodies to sing along with. The book has an on-off switch to help preserve the battery and a safety lock that keeps the battery secure.

Stylish Tool Set

Stylish Tool Set

Stylish Tool Set

Tool sets are a great way for kids to engage in imaginative play while developing critical skills like hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. The set comes loaded with all sorts of fun tools and accessories, including a toolbox to carry it all in. Kids will love the electric drill that turns just like a real one and the flower-shaped tape measure that really measures. Other tools like a saw, screwdriver, pliers, and a series of nuts and bolts add to the work-and-play fun.

Whack a Frog

Whack a Frog

Whack a Frog

You’ve heard of Whack-a-Mole? Well, this interactive game lets kids go after frogs as they light up in the pond. This classic game is a great way to develop hand-eye coordination and focus, plus it’s just tons of fun. It features two game modes with 38 different speed levels to keep kids challenged and engaged. It also comes with two soft hammers, so there’s no worrying about hurting little fingers, and two can play at once. This makes it great for learning cooperation and sharing skills. And it’s also a great gift for boys as well!

Matching Letters Game

Matching Letters Game

Matching Letters Game

Many three-year-olds are starting to get more into letter recognition and building words as they practice early literacy skills. This educational letter matching game provides an excellent opportunity for kids to practice these skills in a fun way. It comes with 30 flashcards and a total of 60 words, 8 letter cubes, and a practice tray. It’s a great way to engage in play with children, helping them reinforce skills as they learn.

LCD Writing Tablet

LCD Writing Tablet

LCD Writing Tablet

Give kids a way to practice handwriting and drawing skills in a different way with this fun LCD writing tablet. The black screen shows off the vivid colors as kids move the stylus over the pad. You won’t have to worry about wasting paper, messy markers, or charging a tablet. This pad has everything you need in one fun toy. And, when they’re ready to draw something new, they can erase it with the press of a button.

Piano and Microphone

Piano and Microphone

Piano and Microphone

It’s time to make some music with this little grand piano and built-in microphone. Music is a great way for kids to learn about tone, rhythm, and self-expression. The microphone adjusts and plugs in easily to the side of the piano. The piano features 22 demo songs, different instrument sounds, and lets kids record and playback their musical masterpieces.  You can also use the included audio cable to connect it to your phone, MP3 player, or tablet.

Princess Chef Set

Princess Chef Set

Princess Chef Set

Who’s ready to whip up something tasty in the kitchen? This chef set is perfect for any princess with its Royal Recipes cookbook and matching storybook. It comes with a pink apron and chef hat featuring a polka-dot and heart design and made of durable, machine-washable fabric. The recipes are easy and fun, including whimsical concoctions like Fairy Fudge, Castle Cupcakes, and Her Majesty Mac ‘n Cheese. They all feature step-by-step instructions and photographs so you can help your little chef bake and cook to her heart’s content.

Minnie And Daisy Magnetic Dress-Up Set

Minnie And Daisy Magnetic Dress-Up Set

Minnie And Daisy Magnetic Dress-Up Set

Best friends Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck take center stage in this cute wooden dress-up set from Melissa & Doug. The pieces are magnetic, making them easy to switch out so kids can try out different fashion looks on Minnie and Daisy. It comes with over 45 pieces, including tiaras, dresses, shoes, and more. Plus, there are display stands, so girls will love to show off their fashion creations when they’re done.

Dance Mat

Dance Mat

Dance Mat

Time to dance with this interactive musical dance mat. The surface features heavy-duty vinyl that makes it easy to show off her moves and a breeze to clean. It offers roughly 40 by 34 inches of dance space and has 6 built-in songs along with 5 dance modes. You can try out challenge mode or dance along with nursery rhymes or choose your own music. It’s a great way for kids to show off their creative side while getting valuable exercise and building muscle strength.

Pink Princess Tent

Pink Princess Tent

Pink Princess Tent

This pretty tent is any little girl’s dream, making her feel like a princess in her very own pink castle. It features a roomy interior that can comfortably fit up to three kids. It also has sheer curtains surrounding it and star lights that give it an extra whimsical look. This tent can be a hideout, tea-party-setting, or just a cozy place to relax, whether playing outside or in. Plus, the material is durable and easy to clean.

Quiet Busy Book

Quiet Busy Book

Quiet Busy Book

Busy books like this one from deMOCA are an excellent way for kids to practice various skills and develop fine motor abilities. Children can match shapes, practice zipping, buttoning, and buckling, and even learn how to tie shoes. Plus, the soft construction creates a pleasant hands-on experience that’s perfect for winding down after some active play. All the pieces attach so you don’t have to worry about losing any small parts, and it has a handle for on-the-go fun. It’s also machine-washable.

Kid Fire Tablet

Kid Fire Tablet

Kid Fire Tablet

By three years old, kids are starting to get more in-tune with technology, and a little practice is a good thing. The Fire 7 for kids is a great way for kids to practice technology skills in moderation through various educational games. It also includes 1 year of Amazon Kids+ which gives your child access to over 20,000 games, apps, books, and more. The included chunky case adds durability and an easy grip for small hands.  And you get a 2-year warranty, so you can replace it for free if anything happens.

Water Doodle Mat

Water Doodle Mat

Water Doodle Mat

You don’t have to worry about markers getting on your rug or paint making a mess with this water doodle mat. Kids can let their inner artists take over and create all sorts of masterpieces on this mess-free, reusable mat. The set comes with a 40 x 28-inch drawing mat, 6 water pens, 8 drawing molds, 4 templates, and more. Plus, you get a handy storage bag to keep everything together in one place.

Camping Adventure Set

Camping Adventure Set

Camping Adventure Set

Camping is a great adventure, and with this ToyVelt Camping Set, kids can learn how to camp like a pro. It comes with everything they need for an adventure in the woods (or at least their backyard or living room). Let them explore with the telescope, watch, compass, flashlight, and shovel, then take a rest in the pop-up tent. You can keep in constant contact with the working walkie-talkies or have a pretend picnic with the food and accessories set.

Remote Control Unicorn

Remote Control Unicorn

Remote Control Unicorn

Kids love remote control cars, but they’ll adore this remote-controlled unicorn that prances, does tricks, and makes sounds. She dances, neighs, and more in response to hand motions, or you can just let her do her own thing. The set also includes program treats if your child wants to try her hand at programming as she gets older. This cute unicorn comes complete with the treats, a bowl, a comb, and a USB charging cable that charges the unicorn for up to 1.5 hours.

My First Foam Pogo Jumper

My First Foam Pogo Jumper

My First Foam Pogo Jumper

It’s time to get some exercise and have some hopping good fun with this foam pogo jumper from Flybar. It comes in all sorts of colors and provides lots of fun to help kids develop gross motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and balance. It features high-quality, durable foam, won’t scratch floors and has comfort-grip handles that make it easy for little hands to hold onto. It also squeaks when you hop, making it extra fun for kids.

Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone

Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone

Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone

This microphone has everything a little diva needs to sing her heart out, including 30 famous Motown songs. The Bluetooth connection allows kids to sing along to any song they please, acting as a speaker so you can connect it to YouTube, Apple Music, and more. It delivers quality sound and also offers four voice effects, including high pitch, low pitch, chipmunk, and echo. The microphone can go for up to 8 hours before it needs a charge, then charges fully in 2 hours.

Dress-Up Accessories Boutique

Dress-Up Accessories Boutique

Dress-Up Accessories Boutique

Costumes and dressing up have always been a favorite for kids, especially when she has all kinds of accessories to add to the mix. This boutique set has everything she needs to give her favorite princess dress some pizazz. It has 4 pairs of toddler-sized heels, 2 crowns, 2 pairs of gloves, 2 rings, 2 pairs of earrings, 2 bangles, and 2 necklaces. Everything fits easily in the storage case with easy carrying handles.

Unicorn Tea Party Set

Unicorn Tea Party Set

Unicorn Tea Party Set

This precious tea set fits inside of a cute unicorn-themed lunch kit, making it the perfect way to take your tea party on the go. The materials are durable and non-toxic so children can play safely as they enjoy socializing over pretend treats. The set includes a teapot, serving tray, 4 cups and saucers, 12 pieces of pretend desserts and other treats, and 4 plates. Not only are tea sets great for imaginative play, but they help build social skills, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills.

Pool Time

Pool Time

Pool Time

Take the fun outside on a warm, summer day with this kiddie pool that measures 48 inches by 12 inches. It’s made of durable vinyl that is 40% thicker than other pools’ materials and non-toxic. It also features a drain hole on the bottom for easy draining. If you don’t feel like swimming, this pool also makes a perfect ball pit to jump around in on cooler days or even inside. Other ideas are to turn it into a sandpit or a pretend fishing pond.

Pet Care Playset

Pet Care Playset

Pet Care Playset

This cute pet care center has everything children need to engage in some fantastic pretend play.  They can gain valuable knowledge about caring for pets as they learn about the world of animals and develop various skills. It consists of 16 pieces, including a plush pup, pet carrier, stethoscope, dog treats, food bowl, hairdryer, brush, and more. It’s made of durable ABS plastic and has smooth edges to keep it safe for kids. The case can convert from a handheld style to a backpack, making it super easy for kids to take with them for on-the-go play.

Stacking Peg Shapes

Stacking Peg Shapes

Stacking Peg Shapes

Stacking toys like these peg manipulatives are a great way for children to develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. They also teach children about a variety of concepts like balance and cause-and-effect as they investigate how to stack different pieces. The assortment of colors are not only fun to look at but can help with color recognition and sorting. And the different shapes reinforce shape recognition. The set features 36 pegs with 12 different colors and shapes, a foam pegboard, and a drawstring storage bag.

Three Wheel Scooter

Three Wheel Scooter

Three Wheel Scooter

It’s time to give it some speed with this three-wheel scooter that’s perfect for beginners. The learn-to-steer technology lets young children make turns easily as they maneuver on the three sturdy wheels. It’s a great way to develop gross motor skills and balance while getting some all-important exercise. Other features are an easy braking system and amazing LED lights on the wheels that light up as you go. Don’t forget to add some knee pads, helmets, and safety gear to the list — safety first!

Pretend Store And Cash Register Playset

Pretend Store And Cash Register Playset

Pretend Store And Cash Register Playset

This playset is full of all sorts of items that can provide hours of pretend play and loads of fun. Playing store has always been a favorite of young children, and it’s a great way to practice early math skills and social awareness. The set includes a toy cash register that has sound effects, a mic speaker, and a working cash drawer. It also contains fun accessories like a play basket, toy money, credit cards, and a 5-piece food set.

Indoor Bowling Set

Indoor Bowling Set

Indoor Bowling Set

Get some exercise while playing indoors with this fun indoor bowling set featuring vibrant colors and large numbers. Kids can work on counting and number skills while developing focus, gross motor skills, and hand-eye coordination. The set features 2 bowling balls with fun expressions, 10 pins, and a storage bag. The pieces are lightweight so toddlers can set them up easily and are made of durable but soft materials that won’t scuff up your floors.

Fidget Pop Purse

Fidget Pop Purse

Fidget Pop Purse

Fidget pops are all the rage and come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, but this one is extra special. It’s a purse, so she can carry around her favorite things while keeping calm and carrying on. The soft bubbles help relieve stress and anxiety as you pop them back and forth, and the bright colors are sure to make her smile. It provides a fun, tactile experience and features a pretty rainbow design.

Little Tikes Trampoline

Little Tikes Trampoline

Little Tikes Trampoline

Children love to bounce and jump, so a trampoline is a no-brainer when it comes to a great gift for a three-year-old. The Little Tikes Trampoline is a fantastic option for toddlers that need to burn off lots of energy and provides an excellent way to build muscle strength and develop gross motor skills. It’s for indoor use and has a handlebar for added safety, along with a large jumping surface.

Noah’s Ark Balancing Shape Sorter

Noah's Ark Balancing Shape Sorter

Noah's Ark Balancing Shape Sorter

This sweet shape sorter and playset features all sorts of fun things for kids to do. It provides hands-on experiences that help kids develop fine motor skills, balance, counting, math skills, matching, and more. It’s durably made to hold up to anything little hands can dish out and has fun colors and a popular Noah’s Ark design. Kids can explore a variety of concepts like shapes, logical thinking, animals, and more as they play and investigate all the different aspects of this versatile toy.

Play-Doh Ice Cream Party

Play-Doh Ice Cream Party

Play-Doh Ice Cream Party

Working with Play-Doh is a fabulous way for young children to develop their hand strength and grip. Doing this aids in important skills they’re learning at this age, like cutting with scissors and writing. Plus, it’s lots of fun, especially when you have a playset like this adorable ice cream set. Kids can make their own Play-Doh ice cream creations with 6 different colors of dough and 22 fun tools. Now all they need to decide is a cup or cone?

VTech Interactive Activity Desk

VTech Interactive Activity Desk

VTech Interactive Activity Desk

She’ll feel like a big girl when she gets her very own desk and stool set like the VTech Touch and Learn Activity Desk. This interactive desk features five activity pages that will immerse kids in engaging and fun educational content. The desk can also transform into a chalkboard easel, complete with storage space. There’s also a toy telephone, and kids can listen to music on the music player. It features over 100 vocabulary words and over 20 activities and songs.

Birthday Girl Shirt

Birthday Girl Shirt

Birthday Girl Shirt

Let everyone know it’s her special day with this cute, soft birthday girl shirt from Olive Loves Apples. You can choose from a variety of bright colors, including aqua, light pink, hot pink, purple, and more. The shirt is designed in the USA and features high-quality fabric and construction, handmade by moms for moms. It’s the perfect way to make her birthday extra special, and she’ll love how the fabric feels against her skin.

Xylophone And Harmonica Set

Xylophone And Harmonica Set

Xylophone And Harmonica Set

You can never go wrong when you give the gift of music, especially when it enables kids to make their own melodies. The xylophone features a durable construction of steel and plywood that is non-toxic and safe for young children. There are no sharp edges, and it includes wooden mallets to make a perfect sound. Also included are two music cards and a 20-tone harmonica so she can make music wherever she goes.

Doctor’s Kit

Doctor's Kit

Doctor's Kit

Kids love to role play, and taking on grown-up jobs is always a fun way to engage in imaginative play. This doctor’s kit lets children explore the world of medicine while developing skills like empathy, fine motor skills, and more. It includes 7 pieces, including a stethoscope, blood pressure cuff, otoscope, syringe, thermometer, bandage, and a fabric doctor’s bag. Plus, it’s a great way to get kids more comfortable with the idea of going to the doctor, too.

Minnie Mouse Remote Control Roadster

Minnie Mouse Remote Control Roadster

Minnie Mouse Remote Control Roadster

Minnie Mouse is ready to roll in her pink polka-dot roadster, and kids will love getting to make the car zip and zoom. The remote control is simple to use and a great way for beginning RC controllers, making the car go straight or spin. Take Minnie on the ride of her life as she speeds along with you in the driver’s seat. The car and control require 3 AA and 2 AAA batteries.

Marsha Mello Play Doll

Marsha Mello Play Doll

Marsha Mello Play Doll

Kindi Kids presents Marsha Mello, one of the cutest dolls you’ve ever seen. She’s extra sweet with her colorful hair and big eyes, and she comes with some tasty-looking pretend treats. Her head bobbles as you pay, and if you put the cake pop to her mouth, you can watch her take a bite. The other sweet treat has moving marshmallow pieces. She also has several friends that you can check out on YouTube, including Jessi Cake and Peppermint.

Ladybug Counting Pack

Ladybug Counting Pack

Ladybug Counting Pack

Let children practice their counting skills in a fun way with this ladybug counting set. It features a cute zipper bag decorated with daisies, and 11 wooden ladybugs with counting dots and matching numbers. Kids can work on counting, number recognition, ordering, and other math skills as they play with the brightly-painted bugs. It’s also a great way to develop fine motor skills as children pick up and manipulate the insects. The bag comes with an adjustable shoulder strap so kids can take it on the go and play anywhere.

Puppet Theater

Puppet Theater

Puppet Theater

Puppets are a great way for kids to explore their creative sides, express themselves, and build self-confidence. You can help them take it to the next level with this wooden puppet theater from toy leaders Melissa & Doug. The sturdy, non-tip base keeps pretend play safely while kids perform different puppet shows. The curtains keep things hidden until children are ready for the show to begin. Plus, a chalkboard and clock add extra ways to engage in fun and learning.

Ride-On Electric Jeep

Ride-On Electric Jeep

Ride-On Electric Jeep

Beep, beep! Here she comes down the street in her very own bright pink jeep. Kids can operate this jeep via battery power, riding on four durable wheels that can tackle many terrains. Or, parents can take the reins via remote control guidance. The jeep can move forward or in reverse and go at three different speeds. Plus, there are ports for your MP3 player or other devices so kids can enjoy some music as they go cruising.

VTech Rock-And-Bop Music Player

VTech Rock-And-Bop Music Player

VTech Rock-And-Bop Music Player

Want to give her something that plays music but not quite thrilled at hearing it play all day long? This VTech Rock-And-Bop Music Player is the answer to your prayers with noise-limiting headphones that will also keep the volume safe for little ears. It features a variety of fun songs and learning games that teach about numbers, letters, animals, time, and more. It requires 2 AAA batteries to keep the music playing.

Elsa Styling Head

Elsa Styling Head

Elsa Styling Head

It’s Elsa the Ice Queen, and she needs a new do! Disney’s popular Frozen star is ready for a makeover with this styling head toy that provides lots of fun and creativity. She has her long blonde hair in her famous braid, but girls can restyle it any way they choose using the included accessories. The set comes with a snowflake hairbrush, applicator, 4 hairbands, 4 elastic bands, 2 barrettes, 2 extensions, and more.

Bath Time Tea Set

Bath Time Tea Set

Bath Time Tea Set

It’s time for a bath, and it’s time for tea with this water playset from Munchkin. Make bath time fun and irresistible with this bright tea set and pretend sweet treats. It brings a whole new meaning to bubble tea. The set includes a teapot, two tea cups with strainers, and two cupcakes that can squirt water. When the teapot is empty, it rattles for added sensory fun, and kids will love to fill and refill the cups over and over.

Ultimate Kitchen Set

Ultimate Kitchen Set

Ultimate Kitchen Set

Kids will have a blast pretending to whip up some culinary concoctions with this deluxe kitchen set. It has everything aspiring chefs need to practice their kitchen skills, enabling them to engage in essential imaginative play. The set includes fun accessories like a pressure pot, induction cooktop, pan, knife block, utensil holder, and lots of pretend food.  There’s also a pretend shopping basket so kids can act like they’re going to the market before they prepare a meal.

Drum Set

Drum Set

Drum Set

This interactive music set helps kids rock on with three rhythm and simulation drum pads, two cymbals, and a built-in microphone. The set lights up as music plays, making kids feel like little rock stars. It’s made of eco-friendly ABS plastic and lead and BPA-free, making it safe for little musicians. You’ll hear four fun sound effects, 10 songs, and can adjust the volume up or down to suit your mood.

Adjustable Tricycle

Adjustable Tricycle

Adjustable Tricycle

Before riding a bike, most kids learn on a tricycle, and this adjustable-seat trike is a great way for kids to learn as they grow. Children can learn a lot from riding a bike, like how to balance, hand-eye coordination, and they also develop gross motor skills. Plus, it’s a great way to get kids moving and exercising as they build muscle strength and stay healthy. It’s easy to assemble, so kids can start pedaling within 10 minutes.

Play Travel Suitcase Set

Play Travel Suitcase Set

Play Travel Suitcase Set

It’s time to go on the ultimate pretend vacation with this travel set from the Disney Princess Store. Kids can have a ball as they play pretend and also learn about different travel concepts like airplanes, passports, and more. The set includes everything she needs for her trip, including a rolling suitcase, passport, airplane tickets, ear buds, eye mask, and sunglasses. It also has lip balm and hand sanitizer, a travel map, and fun stickers.

Unicorn Bouncer

Unicorn Bouncer

Unicorn Bouncer

It’s time to bounce in style on this unicorn hopper toy made from thick, durable rubber. The sturdy design makes it safe for little kids to bounce and hop. It’s a great way for kids to practice their balancing skills while building muscles in their legs and developing gross motor skills. It’s available in three colors and comes with the pump so you can get the fun started right away. This delightful unicorn helps make exercise fun, encouraging movement and active play.

Realistic Babydoll

Realistic Babydoll

Realistic Babydoll

She’ll want to be just like mom as she cares for her very own baby doll with this realistic doll from Kaydora. It’s 18 inches and showcases extremely realistic facial features with lots of detail. The doll consists of high-quality material that is safe and non-toxic, while being super soft and huggable. She comes with a cute outfit, bottle, pacifier, and giraffe toy to help facilitate lots of pretend play. Playing with baby dolls is also great for building confidence, emotional development, and compassion.

Monkey Balance Game

Monkey Balance Game

Monkey Balance Game

This fun math-based game is a great intro to S.T.E.M. learning, teaching concepts like counting, adding, balance, and more. It comes with cards that help guide several different games in which kids try to balance the scales with monkeys and numbers. It’s also great for developing hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and problem-solving skills. It includes 19 monkeys, numbers 1 through 10, a scale, 30 double-sided cards, and an instruction booklet.

The Best Toys And Gifts For Three Year Old Girls [Buyer’s Guide]

Finding the perfect gift for a three-year-old doesn’t have to be as challenging as you may think. Yes, there are many options out there, but if you focus on a few key elements, you’re sure to pick a winner. Primarily, think about the intended recipient’s interests first; you want to give them something that will hold their interest.

 

Three-year-olds love to learn, and their work is play, so toys that provide an educational aspect are a plus. Look for interactive toys that encourage hands-on exploration, including puzzles, sensory boards, and musical instruments.

 

Books are always a big plus, as is anything that gets kids moving to build and strengthen gross motor skills and muscles. At three, many kids are starting to learn to write, use scissors, and improve their drawing skills. So, things like playdough and small manipulatives are great for developing hand strength and fine motor skills. When pursuing the toy aisle, keep your eyes out for toys that fall into the following categories.

Educational Toys

Learning toys that help reinforce concepts like number recognition, counting, ordering, shape recognition, and colors are excellent. These are all primary things kids are learning about at this age, so improving their knowledge and understanding through play is vital.

 

Continuing to read and interact with a variety of books is also important at this age (and any age). Look for books that have durable features and eye-catching pictures to help hold young children’s interest. Interactive books that play songs and founds are also a fun way to get kids excited about the world of reading.

Imaginative Play

Kids have blossoming imaginations that need opportunities to let loose and explore. Toys that encourage imaginative and creative play are essential to help spark creativity and develop social and emotional skills. Look for a variety of toys that can help offer a healthy mix of both realistic and fantasy-style pretend play.

 

For example, baby dolls, chef hats, and doctor’s kits are great to help young children imagine they’re grown-ups in the real world. You can teach them about these different topics through these games and playsets. But equally important are more whimsical items like unicorns, castles, and magic wands.

Outdoor Sports

It’s critical for young children to embrace activities that encourage movement and help them develop gross motor skills. Ride-on cars, tricycles, scooters, pools, pogo jumpers, and more are all great ways to get kids outside and improve their skills. These activities help with things like balance, muscle strength, running, coordination, and teach kids how their bodies move.

 

Playing outside every day is also an important aspect of a kid’s playtime, so these types of toys help facilitate that. Just remember to get the proper safety gear when kids are doing things like riding bikes or playing in a pool.

Playdough And Manipulatives

Playdough is loads of fun to squish, roll, and twist, but it also serves a very important purpose. It helps children strengthen their hands, which in turn helps them with their handwriting and cutting skills, and grip strength. It also encourages creativity as kids flex their artistic muscles sculpting various creations.

 

Manipulative, like sorting games, blocks, and puzzles, help improve children’s pincer grasp and fine motor skills. They’re also excellent ways for kids to practice hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness. Many manipulatives also allow extra skill development like color and shape recognition, counting, and sorting.

Musical Instruments

Instruments and music games are always a great gift for young kids who are still exploring their interests. Musical toys allow kids to develop their sense of tempo and rhythm. But they also improve hand-eye coordination and sensory development.

 

Kids can also engage in pretend play with instruments as they play in a band, march in a parade, or conduct an orchestra. Some children might even develop a deeper interest and love for music through exposure to these toys early on in life.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)

Q: Are S.T.E.M toys too advanced for my three-year-old?

Many people hear the word “S.T.E.M.” and immediately assume it relates to much older children. But, there are age-appropriate S.T.E.M. toys for many ages. Any toy that helps kids develop math, science, engineering, or technology skills is technically a S.T.E.M toy.

 

Consider things like blocks that encourage children to build and create structures as they practice early engineering skills. Or games like Monkey Balance that reinforce concepts like counting, numbers, and balance.

 

Just make sure you choose toys that the child can understand, manipulate, and handle appropriately at their age. It doesn’t make sense to get fancy S.T.E.M. toys for a child if she isn’t ready to use them.

 

Q: What can I get for a 3-year-old that has everything?

If you’re shopping for a three-year-old that already seems to have every toy under the sun, go in a different direction. You could opt for a cozy plush blanket for her bedroom or a soft glowing projection night light to make bedtime easier.

 

Another idea is to give the gift of experiences. You could go to a fun children’s museum, spend the day at the zoo, or have a kid-friendly spa day at home. Get creative and think about what she likes to do to help guide your gift ideas.

 

Q: Some of the toys for three-year-olds seem too young for my child. Is it okay to get something meant for an older child?

When kids are under three, this is usually a no-go. But, at three, a lot more options open up to you. Many toys are labeled “not for kids under 3” but might suggest a recommended age of 4+ or 5+. In these cases, it’s okay to choose a gift based on the recipient’s abilities and interests.

 

Some three-year-olds have more developed skills than others.  For example, a LEGO set for 4+ might be perfectly fine for an older three-year-old with an affinity for building.

 

Others might be more mature for their age and not be interested in certain toys that might be too “young” for them. Use your best judgment to find the ideal options for your specific three-year-old.

 

Conclusion: The Best Presents For Three Year Old Girls

Three-year-olds are still at a young enough age where they’re going to get excited about pretty much anything. But, you still want to give them something child-friendly that will hold their interest.

 

Toys that encourage hands-on experiences, reinforce important milestones, and spark imaginative play are excellent options for this age. Also, toys that get kids moving and using their bodies are vital for this age.

 

Overall, think about the individual child’s interests and abilities to choose the most appropriate gift.

Dan Wiener
Hey there! I'm Dan, the founder behind Kids Love WHAT. I started this blog as a way to document all of the things that my 4 kids love: crafting, science experiments, good food, fun games and of course lots of toys! When I'm not busy chasing them all around, you can find me scouring the web to find the next best thing to keep them busy and out of my hair!