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65 Gifts for 6-Year-Olds That Will Keep Them Entertained and Engaged

These age-appropriate gifts are a sure bet.

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Your 6-year-old has a lot going on. Now at a stage called “middle childhood,” they’re starting to gain independence, develop their personalities, and discover their primary interests. And while this is an exciting stage of childhood, it also means they can be pretty particular when it comes to gifts.

So, what do you get a kid just starting to discover who they are and what they like? We've got you covered with this assortment of unique gifts for 6-year-old girls and boys. We also turned to expert Chris Byrne—known as the Toy Guy—to share his top tips for finding gifts 6-year-olds are sure to love.

His biggest piece of advice is to keep in mind how kids will interact with the gift in question, especially when it comes to toys. “One of my little soapboxes has always been [that] toys should serve three functions for kids, and it's especially true for kids who are 6 years old,” Byrne says. “Toys should give children new experiences, allow them to explore their world, and give them an opportunity to express themselves."

Here are a few types of toys and gifts for 6-year-olds Byrne recommends:

  • Collectible items: Now that 6-year-olds are interacting with their peers at school, collectibles allow them to bond even more over their shared hobby. “Kids are beginning to have their own personalities, so things that they can share within their peer group are often really great,” Byrne says.
  • Arts and crafts: Kids can further bond with their peers by making things together, too, which is why DIY kits are particularly popular for this age group.
  • Imaginative play: When they were 4 or 5, kids loved mimicking their parents, but as they get older, imaginative play dolls and figures provide them with the opportunity to create different scenarios and process information on their own terms.
  • MESH toys: MESH stands for “mental, emotional, and social health,” says Byrne. Items like fidget toys and cuddly stuffies fall into this particular category.
  • Board games: The classic board games we enjoyed as kids are a perennial favorite for 6-year-olds. “I think it's also a good time for games, as kids are beginning to understand interacting with one another and becoming a good loser and a good winner,” Byrne says.
  • Books: Of course, another stimulating activity for 6-year-olds is reading. Books and reading-related gifts can encourage them to keep learning.

With all of this in mind, we put together a list of the 65 best gifts for 6-year-olds in 2023, including everything from classic games and craft kits to the latest and greatest toys on the market.

And if you're shopping popular gifts for other age groups, make sure to check out our gift suggestions for toddlers, teens, and stocking stuffers for any aged kid. Thanks to our Amazon gift ideas, many come with speedy shipping, while most others will still arrive at your door before Christmas if you order by December 16.

1
All-in-One Watch

Phyulls Kids Smart Watch

Kids Smart Watch
1
All-in-One Watch

Phyulls Kids Smart Watch

Now 15% Off
$29 at Amazon
Credit: Amazon

Byrne says at 6, kids are starting to understand the concept of time—so why not get them a colorful watch? This one plays music, engages kids with fun games, has a built-in alarm and flashlight, and it can even record videos and take photos.

2
For Aspiring Astronauts

LeapFrog Magic Adventures Telescope

LeapFrog Magic Adventures Telescope
2
For Aspiring Astronauts

LeapFrog Magic Adventures Telescope

Now 24% Off
Credit: Amazon

Your nighttime routine can get a lot more interesting with this telescope set. It also includes fact cards about space and a fun adventure game.

3
Best Family Board Game

Taco vs Burrito Family Board Game

Amazon’s Choice
Family Board Game
3
Best Family Board Game

Taco vs Burrito Family Board Game

Now 36% Off
Credit: Amazon

Spice up family game nights with this laugh-out-loud Taco vs Burrito card game. It's easy to learn and a great group activity for sleepovers, too.

Related: Best Board Games for All Occasions

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4
For a Gooey Good Time

Play-Doh Nickelodeon Slime Brand Compound Stretchy Green Tub

Amazon’s Choice
Nickelodeon Slime Brand Compound Stretchy Green Tub
4
For a Gooey Good Time

Play-Doh Nickelodeon Slime Brand Compound Stretchy Green Tub

Credit: Amazon

What little one doesn't love Nickelodeon's infamous green slime? Play-Doh makes a reusable and non-messy! version that tots and parents both can enjoy.

5
For Dino Lovers

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Light Up Terrarium Kit for Kids

Amazon’s Choice
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Light Up Terrarium Kit for Kids
5
For Dino Lovers

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Light Up Terrarium Kit for Kids

Credit: Amazon

Is your 6-year-old obsessed with the Mesozoic Era? If so, consider ordering this STEM toy that allows them to create an indoor garden with miniature dinosaurs, plants, fossils, and more.

6
Best STEM Toy

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Microscope for Kids

Amazon’s Choice
Microscope for Kids
6
Best STEM Toy

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Microscope for Kids

Now 20% Off
Credit: Amazon

Imagine giving your future scientist their first microscope! This experiment kit has a pipette, specimen dish, tweezers, slides, and rocks and materials. Even more, the kit comes with easy-to-understand instructions and activities to continue engaging your 6-year-old.

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7
Activity-Oriented Gift

Chridark Ankle Skip Ball for Kids

Amazon’s Choice
Ankle Skip Ball for Kids
7
Activity-Oriented Gift

Chridark Ankle Skip Ball for Kids

Credit: Amazon

This skip ball is so fun, kids won't even realize they're participating in outdoor exercise. It also comes in four different colors, so you can easily find the one your 6-year-old will love the most.

8
Best Baseball Gift

Franklin Sports Kids Batting Tee

Amazon’s Choice
Kids Batting Tee
8
Best Baseball Gift

Franklin Sports Kids Batting Tee

Now 29% Off
Credit: Amazon

When your 6-year-old isn't watching MLB games, practice makes perfect with this best-selling batting tee set. It comes with a batting tee, a 21-inch plastic bat, and four self-stick balls. Several experienced parents raved about how much it helped their 6-year-olds practice their motor skills.

9
For Star Wars Fans

LEGO Star Wars The Mandalorian’s N-1 Starfighter Microfighter

Star Wars The Mandalorian’s N-1 Starfighter Microfighter
9
For Star Wars Fans

LEGO Star Wars The Mandalorian’s N-1 Starfighter Microfighter

Now 29% Off
Credit: Amazon

Your 6-year-old might not be ready to watch The Mandalorian, but you can't go wrong with a cool LEGO set. This one allows them to build and play with the ship, plus two mini figures (we see you, Baby Yoda!).

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10
Best Car Toy

Hot Wheels Track Builder Unlimited Fuel Can Stunt Box

Track Builder Unlimited Fuel Can Stunt Box
10
Best Car Toy

Hot Wheels Track Builder Unlimited Fuel Can Stunt Box

Now 43% Off

It's no secret that 6-year-olds love Hot Wheels, and this playset is a stimulating building toy. Plus, it's compatible with other Hot Wheels tracks, so they can create a unique set.

11
Recommended Reading

Scholastic Teaching Resources (Teaching Strategies) Buddy Readers: Levels E & F

On Sale
Buddy Readers: Levels E & F
11
Recommended Reading

Scholastic Teaching Resources (Teaching Strategies) Buddy Readers: Levels E & F

Now 39% Off
Credit: Amazon

Leveled books are another teacher-approved way to motivate budding readers. This set comes with 16 leveled books that are great for kids aged 5 to 7 years old. It also comes with a 32-page activity book and stickers.

12
For Karaoke Night

Singing Machine Karaoke Machine with Wired Microphone

Amazon’s Choice
Karaoke Machine with Wired Microphone
12
For Karaoke Night

Singing Machine Karaoke Machine with Wired Microphone

Credit: Amazon

Years before their Broadway debut, they can make memories with this best-selling karaoke machine. You can connect to all of their favorite songs via Bluetooth or with its built-in CD player.

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13
For Soccer Fans

Let Loose Moose Hover Soccer Ball

Best Seller
Hover Soccer Ball
13
For Soccer Fans

Let Loose Moose Hover Soccer Ball

Now 14% Off
Credit: Amazon

Any active 6-year-old will have an absolute ball with this hover soccer toy. Its soft bumper helps prevent accidents, and its flashing LED lights ensure it's easier to find when it gets dark outside.

14
For outdoor adventures

Selieve Walkie Talkies

Amazon’s Choice
Walkie Talkies
14
For outdoor adventures

Selieve Walkie Talkies

Credit: Amazon

Whether during family camping trips or daily backyard adventures, these walkie talkies will come in handy for kids and parents to stay in constant communication. They work within a 3-mile range and also come with a built-in flashlight.

15
For the science wiz

Puzzle Huddle Future Scientist Girl

Puzzle Huddle Future Scientist Girl
15
For the science wiz

Puzzle Huddle Future Scientist Girl

Credit: Amazon

Puzzle Huddle's unique designs are all about celebrating learning and inclusivity, focusing on sharing goals, values, and cultural themes. Whether they're interested in science or are a budding chef, there's a version that caters to their passions.

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16
Cool Craft

Skillmatics Art & Craft Activity Foil Fun Dinosaurs

Amazon’s Choice
Art & Craft Activity Foil Fun Dinosaurs
16
Cool Craft

Skillmatics Art & Craft Activity Foil Fun Dinosaurs

Now 20% Off
Credit: Amazon

Let their imaginations run wild with this fun foil art craft, which will allow them to peel and stick creatures onto their very own prehistoric-inspired canvas.

17
Best for Snow Days

Airsfish Snow Tube with Towable Leash

Snow Tube with Towable Leash
17
Best for Snow Days

Airsfish Snow Tube with Towable Leash

Credit: Amazon

When the weather outside is frightful, this waterproof inflatable will make the experience all the more delightful! It's a great ride for you and your tot, plus it comes with large, easy-to-grip handles and a leash to make transport a breeze.

18
For the Budding Photographer

Desuccus Kids Camera

Best Seller
Kids Camera
18
For the Budding Photographer

Desuccus Kids Camera

Now 28% Off
Credit: Amazon

This rechargeable camera will help the future photographer in your life capture sweet stills and videos. It even includes built-in games to keep them even more engaged!

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19
Interactive Reading

Readyland Owl & Dragon, A Magical Adventure

Owl & Dragon, A Magical Adventure
19
Interactive Reading

Readyland Owl & Dragon, A Magical Adventure

Credit: Amazon

One of the most creative gifts on the market today is Readyland, a book series that interacts with an Alexa device. "If you have Alexa in the home, you know that kids are conditioned to talking to it, and this gift actually interacts with them," Byrne says. "It plays games, and it's very empowering in its own way for kids because they really do enjoy making Alexa do things."

20
DIY Bracelet Kit

Rainbow Loom Finger Loom Party Pack

Amazon’s Choice
Finger Loom Party Pack
20
DIY Bracelet Kit

Rainbow Loom Finger Loom Party Pack

Credit: Amazon

Rainbow Loom is a popular item among "middle childhood" kids, and this party pack is recommended for 6-year-olds. You can use it to create colorful and glow-in-the-dark bracelets that kids can share and trade with friends. It also helps them build their fine motor and thinking skills.

Headshot of Blake Bakkila
Blake Bakkila
Freelance Writer

Blake Bakkila has been writing about everything from pop culture to lifestyle products for more than eight years. Her work has appeared on GoodHousekeeping.com, WhattoExpect.com, Health.com, and in the print and digital versions of Real Simple and People.

Headshot of Bridget Mallon
Bridget Mallon is a writer, editor, and content strategist with more than a decade of experience in the lifestyle space. She's worked at and led editorial strategy for home sites like The Spruce, MyDomaine, HGTV, Elle Decor, and Apartment Therapy and her words have appeared on Wondermind, Well+Good, The Everygirl, and Sunset.com. When she's not testing out new products or covering the latest trends, you can find her listening to folk music, getting lost in a book store, or working "Arrested Development" quotes into everyday conversations.
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Nashia Baker
Commerce Editor

Nashia Baker is a commerce editor at Hearst Magazines; she covers all things home and lifestyle across brands such as Oprah Daily, Cosmopolitan, Delish, and Esquire. Before joining Hearst, she highlighted small business owners, creatives, and the best shoppable content. 

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Gifts

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