Finding the perfect Christmas gift for a five-year-old can be a challenge, but our expert toy testers have put dozens of toys through their paces to find the ones that truly engage young minds. From audiobook players to magnetic tiles, these presents are designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and provide hours of repeat play.
At the top of the list is the Yoto audiobook player, which our tester calls 'the best toy I've bought for my children.' Children insert story cards to play audiobooks, with a vast library ranging from lullabies to Harry Potter. The device also offers free content like the Yoto Daily podcast and can be controlled remotely via smartphone. Its built-in nightlight can be set to change colour at bedtime or wake-up time, making it a versatile addition to daily routines.
Another top pick is Magna-Tiles, magnetic building tiles that click together for endless constructions. 'Open-ended toys encourage creativity, problem-solving, imagination and adaptability,' says early-years specialist Laura Moore-Williams. Testers built jails, train stations, ball runs, and more. The 32-piece set includes squares and triangles, with larger sets available. Durable and easy to store, these tiles grow with children and are used repeatedly.
Sustainability is a key consideration in our selections. 'Open-ended toys last longer and are more sustainable as they get reused and reimagined time and again,' explains Sydney Piercey, author of Sustainable Play. Toys like the glitter wand and crown set sparked elaborate role-play games, keeping children engaged for extended periods.
All toys were tested by real five-year-olds, with attention to how long they held interest and whether they encouraged different types of play. Screen-based options were included only if they added genuine value to play. The result is a curated list of gifts that will be played with every day, not just on Christmas morning.
