The holidays are fast approaching, and if you’re a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or family friend, you’re probably wondering: what toys are kids into these days? With the evolving trends in pop culture, social media, and technology, choosing the right gift for the children in your life has never been more exciting – or more challenging. Kids today are influenced by a variety of factors, including their interests, extracurricular activities, favorite characters, and the latest digital content they engage with.
Together, we’ll explore what kids are into this year and highlight the best holiday toy picks for every interest, age group, and budget. From collectible toys and dolls to interactive role-play sets and outdoor play essentials, JAKKS has got something for every kid on your list!
Understanding What Kids Love
In order to pick the best holiday toys for 2024, it’s important to understand what influences kids’ toy preferences today. While some classic toys remain popular, today’s children are shaped by a range of modern factors that influence their choices.
1. Their Interests and Hobbies
Whether it’s arts and crafts, sports, or building with blocks, kids’ toy preferences are strongly influenced by their personal interests. A child who loves to draw may be excited by a set of markers or a creative drawing kit, while a child who enjoys playing with animals may appreciate a realistic pet or horse-themed toy.
2. Pop Culture, TV Shows, and YouTube
Kids are often drawn to toys based on their favorite characters from TV shows, movies, and video games. The influence of social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok also plays a huge role. Many kids watch unboxing videos or product reviews, which influence their toy preferences. Popular characters like Moana, Elsa from Frozen, or Mario from Super Mario Bros. are often at the top of their wish lists.
3. Extracurricular Activities
Whether it’s dance, sports, or music, a child’s extracurricular activities can also shape their toy preferences. Kids who are into science and robotics might enjoy STEM-based toys that encourage learning through play, while those who love sports may appreciate outdoor toys or mini versions of their favorite gear.
Top Holiday Gifts For Every Interest
Now that we understand the key factors influencing kids’ toy preferences, let’s dive into the top gift options for various interests. Whether you’re shopping for a child who loves collectibles, dolls, or outdoor play, you’re sure to find something perfect for the holiday season.
Collectible Toys
Collectibles are all the rage this year, with many kids building their toy collections based on characters and themes they love. From food-themed collectables to popular game characters, these toys are highly collectible and make perfect gifts.
● Sundae’s Ice Cream Social: This fun set allows kids to create their own ice cream sundae with collectible characters. It’s a perfect gift for those who love to collect food-themed toys and create mini play scenes. ShopSundae’s Ice Cream Social
● Zoey’s Pretzel Twists : A collectible set that lets kids create their own bakery with miniature pretzel treats and cute characters. It’s a fun and interactive collectible toy for young bakers. Shop Zoey’s Pretzel Twists
● Lana’s Donut Shop: For those who enjoy sweet treats and collecting, Lana’s Donut Shop offers endless ways to design and display donuts while adding characters to the collection. Shop Lana’s Donut Shop
● 4-inch Pom Pom Figure with Boomerang : A fun and collectible action figure with a playful boomerang accessory, perfect for kids who enjoy characters and interactive play. Shop Pom Pom Figure with Boomerang
● 4-inch Yellow Toad Figure with Question Block: For fans of the Super Mario franchise, this collectible figure allows kids to interact with the iconic question block from the game. Shop Yellow Toad Figure
● 4-inch Mario with Power-Up Mushroom: Another Super Mario collectible toy, this set includes Mario and a power-up mushroom, ideal for fans of the franchise. Shop Mario with Power-Up Mushroom
Doll Toys
Doll toys are timeless classics that continue to captivate imaginations of all ages. Whether it’s a fashion doll, a singing doll, or a character-based doll, these toys allow kids to engage in imaginative play and storytelling.
● My Singing Friend Moana & Heihei Doll: This Moana doll sings and interacts with the included Heihei character, bringing the magic of the movie into playtime. Shop Moana & Heihei Doll
● Little Sis Simea & Pua Doll: A smaller-sized doll featuring the beloved characters from Moana, perfect for younger children who love Moana and her loyal companion Pua. Shop Little Sis Simea & Pua Doll
● Inspired by Ariel Fashion Doll: For fans of The Little Mermaid, this Ariel doll is perfect for creating underwater adventures with its detailed design and fashion accessories. Shop Ariel Fashion Doll
● Inspired by Jack & Sally Fashion Doll: Fans of The Nightmare Before Christmas will love these Jack and Sally dolls that let kids explore the Halloween Town duo’s world. Shop Jack & Sally Fashion Doll
● 18-inch Inspired by Stitch Doll: This Stitch doll offers an adorable take on the character from Lilo & Stitch, with a larger design that makes it perfect for hugging. Shop Stitch Doll
Outdoor Toys
Get the kids outdoors and moving with fun outdoor toys. These gifts promote physical activity while allowing children to enjoy the great outdoors.
● Jungle Gym: A great gift for toddlers and preschoolers, this jungle gym is designed to help kids build strength, balance, and coordination through climbing and playing. Shop Jungle Gym
Interactive and Role-Play Toys
Kids love interactive toys that let them engage in imaginative play. From pretend shopping to playing cashier, these role-play sets encourage creativity while teaching kids real-world skills.
● Target Cash Register: This interactive toy set lets kids role-play as a cashier, scanning items and making transactions with realistic sounds and motions. Shop Target Cash Register
● Target Shopping Cart: Pair the cash register with this shopping cart, so kids can push their toys around, pretending to shop at their favorite stores. Shop Target Shopping Cart
● Target Toy Checklane: For a complete shopping experience, this toy checklane set allows kids to pretend they’re checking out their groceries with a real working conveyor belt. Shop Target Toy Checklane
Game Character Toys
Toys based on game characters are highly popular with kids who love to play video games or collect related merchandise. These figures bring video game worlds to life in a tangible way.
● 4-inch Mario, Luigi & Boom Boom Figures 3-Pack: These iconic figures from the Super Mario series are perfect for collectors and fans of the game. Shop Mario, Luigi, Boom Boom 3-Pack
● King Boo Multi-Figure Set: A set of figures from Luigi’s Mansion, featuring the mischievous ghost King Boo. A must-have for Luigi’s Mansion fans. Shop King Boo Multi-Figure Set
● 5-inch Action Figure 4-Pack: A set of 5-inch action figures featuring characters from the world of Mario, perfect for kids who love to recreate their favorite game moments. Shop 5-inch Action Figure 4-Pack
Group Play Toys
Toys that promote group play encourage social interactions, teamwork, and collaboration. Whether it’s a kitchen set or a toy cash register, these toys are perfect for kids who enjoy playing with friends and family.
● Fresh Prep Gourmet Kitchen: This toy kitchen set allows kids to cook up imaginative meals while playing with friends, making it ideal for group play. Shop Fresh Prep Gourmet Kitchen
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect holiday toy for kids in 2024 is easier than ever, thanks to the variety of options available here at JAKKS! Whether you’re shopping for a budding artist, an aspiring chef, or a little gamer, there’s something for every child’s unique interests. Remember, toys that encourage creativity, learning, and physical activity make for the best gifts, ensuring kids have fun while developing important skills.
By considering the interests, hobbies, and preferences of the child you’re shopping for, you can select a toy that not only brings joy but also helps them grow and explore the world around them. From collectible characters to outdoor play gear, the best toys of 2024 are sure to delight and inspire kids of all ages.
