The best stocking stuffers are small, safe and actually used once the wrapping paper is gone. For toddlers, that usually means things for the bath, the walk, the table and bedtime. Here are ideas that fit in a stocking and don't end up forgotten under the sofa.
For bath time
A wind-up swimmer
The Paddle wind-up bath toy is pocket-size, about 4 inches long, and runs on clockwork with no batteries. Choose a duck or a car. An adult should wind it for little ones.
A little water wheel or spinner
The Ripple bath toys come in 24 styles, from water wheels to swimmers and spinners. Check loose pieces like balls and scoops, and stay close during play.
For cold-weather walks
A knit hat and scarf
The Bow knit hat and scarf set is a matching ribbed beanie and scarf with an embroidered bow, in five colors. Remove the scarf for car seats, naps and playgrounds.
First shoes, for younger toddlers
For a baby who's just started walking, the Kick soft-sole sneakers are a sweet stocking gift, in sizes up to 13–18M. They're for indoors and light use. See our guide to baby's first shoes for sizing.
For bedtime
A soft glow makes the room feel cozy at story time. The Glow animal night light is a cordless bunny, panda or black sheep with a warm-toned glow and three brightness levels. It's a night light, not a toy or teether, so it lives on a dresser, out of the crib.
Classic small gifts
- Board books, especially lift-the-flap and touch-and-feel
- Chunky crayons and a small sketch pad
- Stickers (the big, easy-peel kind)
- A toothbrush in a fun color
- Mittens
Keep stockings toddler-safe
- Skip anything with small parts for children under 3, including coins, marbles and small candies.
- Avoid button batteries and magnets, which are very dangerous if swallowed.
- Hang the stocking where a toddler can't pull the holder down on themselves.
Questions parents ask
What do you put in a toddler's stocking?
A bath toy, a book, crayons, a cozy hat or a small night light are all practical and fun.
How many stocking stuffers should a toddler get?
Just a few. Toddlers enjoy unwrapping, so three or four small things feel like plenty.
What should I avoid in a toddler's stocking?
Small parts, button batteries, magnets and hard candy are choking or swallowing risks for young children.
Looking for a bigger gift? See our gift ideas for 2-year-olds.
