If this year’s holiday shopping already feels particularly stressful, take a deep breath: Waiting until Black Friday to shop for your nieces, nephews, grandkids, and kids is actually a really smart move. There are plenty of great deals on toys and games that will definitely ship in time, despite what you might’ve heard about those (very real) supply-chain issues.
To make sure we’re bringing you nothing but the best gift ideas, we’ve prioritized products we’ve written about before, ones that have been recommended to us by child-development professionals, toy experts, and some of the coolest parents around. Then we searched for the biggest discounts on items from some of our favorite brands and sorted them by age bracket for added ease. Note that everything will be on sale only until supplies last, so don’t linger — especially if you’re looking to score something highly covetable like a Paw Patrol fire truck or anything Pokémon. Lastly, be sure to check back frequently because we’ll be updating this story with new bargains throughout the day.
If you’re looking to score on more than just toys, you can find all of our Black Friday coverage here, and be sure to sign up for our email newsletter for extra sales coverage, too.
Best deals for infants and toddlers
This paddle boat bath toy has a kid-size handle and is made of recycled plastic milk jugs. It’s also BPA- and phthalate-free.
This fuzzy rattle is a perfect gift for occupying babies that get fussy when you have to run errands, meet friends for coffee, or sit in traffic.
An actually nice-looking activity center and baby walker that’s good enough for parents with strict anti-plastic-toy rules.
A sturdy and realistic shopping cart for stocking up on tea party supplies.
Tiny tiger fans will be entertained for hours by this cuddly plush rocker.
Best deals for 4- and 5-year-olds
There are a ton of Paw Patrol–themed toys, but this transforming fire truck has the added cool factor of being just like the one featured in the Paw Patrol movie.
Also from the movie, this beginner remote control motorcycle features Chase and can be operated from up to 100 feet away.
Future mail carriers will love this ride-on truck with functioning foot pedal and FM radio/MP3 player input.
Osmo kits are known for serving up educational play that doesn’t feel educational at all. This kit focuses on letter formation, phonics, and vocabulary.
Foodie-kids can create restaurant quality pretend meals with this sleek play kitchen.
This playhouse transforms from BBQ joint to coffee shop in no time. Just swap the velcro signs, menus, and illustrated ads to welcome your “customers” in for delicious ribs or a hot oat latte, depending on your mood.
The most stylish ride on toy we’ve seen yet.
Everything you need to whip up your very own all natural, plant-based playdough.
Best deals for 6- and 7-year-olds
One of last year’s hottest toys, Power Treads lets you create sprawling racetracks using everyday materials like books, pillows, and basically anything kids can think of.
A super pack of 6 inch action figures including: Iron Man, Black Panther, Thanos, Hulk, and Captain America.
In between the smallest LOL dolls and the brand’s full-size fashion dolls, the new tween version will appeal to serious kid collectors.
Best deals for 8-year-olds and up
A card game designed for kids that’s also extremely entertaining for adults.
This teacher-recommended guessing game is a lifesaver on long car rides.
An upgrade to the ubiquitous (non-electric) razor scooters.
This kit teaches kids about planets, stars, meteors, and more as they work to create a giant 3-foot poster detailing the solar system.
If your kid is a fan of the Ninjago universe this posable dragon set will keep them busy for hours. It can fire missiles from its spring-loaded shooters and comes with 5 minifigures.
The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, natural anxiety remedies, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
