The Best Gifts for a 1 Year Old (2026)
One year olds are on the move: walking, climbing, stacking and starting to pretend. The best gifts now let them do and build, which is also the sweet spot for toys that last for years rather than weeks. Here are our favourite gifts for a 1 year old in Australia for 2026, with real picks and prices.
What a 1 year old loves
Open-ended play wins at this age. One year olds love to stack, post, push and knock things down, and they are starting the earliest pretend play. Look for chunky blocks, shape sorters, simple push-alongs and first role play. Wooden toys from our wooden toys range are ideal because they grow with the child.
Our picks for a 1 year old
- Le Toy Van My Little House Shape Sorter ($34.95) or ABC Wooden Blocks ($69.95)
- Tender Leaf Wooden Tortoise Shape Sorter ($39.95) or Bear Colours Clock ($34.95)
- A first push-along or activity walker, like the Le Toy Van Petilou Activity Walker ($179) or Rainbow Cloud Walker ($174.95)
- A Miffy First Light ($179.95) as a keepsake first-birthday gift
- Board books and a first activity toy
Browse the full gifts for 1 to 2 year olds collection for more.
Buying tips for a first birthday
At one, children often love the box as much as the toy, so do not over-spend on novelty. Pick one or two quality open-ended toys they will grow into, plus a keepsake to mark the day. Push-alongs and activity walkers support new walkers, while stacking and posting toys build the fine motor skills developing fast at this age.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best gift for a 1 year old?
Open-ended toys are best: wooden stackers and sorters, simple push-alongs, activity walkers and first role play. They suit a one year old now and still get played with at three. A first-birthday night light also makes a lovely keepsake.
What is a good first birthday gift?
Something with lasting value, such as a designer night light, a quality wooden toy or a personalised keepsake. A gift card is also perfect if you would rather the family choose.
What toys help a 1 year old learn?
Stacking, sorting and posting toys build fine motor skills and problem solving, while push-alongs and activity walkers support walking and balance.
What is a good gift for a 1 year old under $50?
A wooden shape sorter ($34.95 to $39.95), a set of blocks, or a board book bundle all make lovely gifts under $50.
Are activity walkers good for one year olds?
Push-along activity walkers can support confident new walkers and add play value with built-in activities. Choose a sturdy wooden one and always supervise use.