In short: the best first birthday gifts encourage movement and exploration: a balance bike suitable from age 1, stacking and posting toys, soft books, a ball pit or a table and chairs. For a personal touch choose a personalised gift, and if you don't know what the parents already have, a gift card.
Author: Eva Birsa, mum and co-founder of Evitas · Updated: 27 September 2026
A first birthday is a big milestone. Your little one is pulling up to stand, loves taking things apart and copies everything grown-ups do. We asked our Instagram community which first birthday gifts were the biggest hits, and sorted their ideas by category and budget.
First birthday gifts by budget
| Budget | Ideas | Examples from our range |
|---|---|---|
| up to €20 | soft book, cuddly toy, bath toys | Little Dutch Forest Friends activity book, Done by Deer Croco soft toy |
| €20–50 | musical toy, ball pit, first backpack, play mat | Little Dutch musical TV (12 m+), Bieco ball pit with 50 balls, Trixie Baby MINI backpack, Evibell play mats |
| €50–100 | table and chairs, play kitchen, activity table | FreeON Athena table and 2 chairs, play kitchens |
| over €100 | 2-in-1 balance bike, movement furniture (Pikler triangle) | Scoot & Ride Highwaykick 1, motor development |
Prices and stock change; please check the product page.
1. Toys for movement and motor skills
One of our followers' top picks is the Pikler triangle – a climbing frame where toddlers practise balance and tackling obstacles. You'll find similar products in our motor development collection and among our Montessori furniture. Place climbers on a soft surface and always supervise play.
A ball pit is always a favourite. According to the manufacturer, the Bieco ball pit is suitable from around 12 months, once the child can sit unaided, and only under adult supervision. See more in our ball pits.
2. Balance bikes and trikes
The Scoot & Ride Highwaykick 1 is a balance bike that converts into a scooter without tools; the manufacturer recommends it from 1 to 5 years, so it grows with your child. More models, including KikkaBoo, are in our balance bikes, scooters and trikes. Add a kids' helmet and choose a flat area away from traffic for first rides.
3. Wooden and activity toys
Bead mazes, shape sorters and busy boards with buttons and latches keep little hands busy for ages. Browse our bead mazes and activity tables, wooden toys and Modu soft blocks. To match toys to developmental stages, read our guide to Montessori toys by age.
4. Pretend play and practical life
A table and chairs is a gift children use every day – for drawing, building or snacks. A play kitchen and pretend play toys are great too, as toddlers love copying adults. A learning tower that lets your child help at the kitchen counter should always be used with adult supervision.
5. Books
At one, sturdy board books and soft activity books with different textures are ideal. Reading together is also the loveliest bedtime ritual.
6. Personalised gifts
A gift with the child's name becomes a lifelong keepsake. In our personalised gifts you'll find, for example, Trixie Baby backpacks and other items that can carry a name.
7. Gift cards
They may feel less personal, but parents really appreciate gift cards, which let them choose a bigger piece of gear, clothes or toys themselves. For newborn gift ideas, see our best baby shower gifts.
What to look out for
- Check the manufacturer's age label and CE mark. Toys for under-3s must not have small parts.
- Movement toys (balance bike, climber, ball pit) need adult supervision.
- Less is more: one thoughtful gift that grows with the child beats a pile of toys.
Frequently asked questions
What to buy a 1-year-old who has everything?
A gift card, a personalised gift with their name or an experience for the whole family – no risk of duplicates.
Is a balance bike suitable at one year?
Some models are – the Scoot & Ride Highwaykick 1, for example, is recommended by the manufacturer from age 1. Your child should reach the ground with flat feet and ride under supervision, wearing a helmet.
How much should I spend on a first birthday gift?
You'll find lovely gifts under €20 (books, soft toys). Bigger gifts such as a balance bike or table and chairs make a great joint present from relatives.
Which toys are most useful at 12 months?
Stacking and posting toys, push-along walkers for first steps, soft books and simple musical toys.
What can I give the parents for their baby's first birthday?
Useful gear for the next stage, such as a table and chairs, or a gift card so they can choose what they need.
