31 Best Baby Christmas Gifts, According to Parents
The holiday season is a special time for celebrating traditions old and new, but if it happens to be baby’s first Christmas—well, that calls for pulling out all the stops. Ornament? Check. Photo? Check. Outfit? Check. Baby’s first Christmas gifts? If you’re still working on that list, you’ve come to the right place. As a millennial woman, I’m at the age when many of my friends and family are settling down and having kids, which means I’ve bought many Christmas presents for babies in recent years.
For the record, you don’t need to go overboard on gifts for baby’s first Christmas. While some parents decide to skip gift giving if their little one is teeny-tiny, most people like to include baby in the festivities. “I don’t think they will be too young to know what is going on at Christmas,” says one member of The Bump forum. She adds that although her son is only 8-months-old, “he can distinguish a new toy from an old one. He loves boxes, ribbon, and crinkly paper. I know he won’t understand the meaning behind it all; I know adults who still don’t ‘get’ it. But I do think at almost a year old our babies will pick up on the excitement and be able to participate on Christmas morning.”
Ready to start shopping? From festive threads to seasonal toys and keepsakes, any one of these baby Christmas gifts is sure to be the star on top of this special milestone. And while you’re making your list (and checking it twice), browse our seasonal gift guide for toddlers and preschoolers for even more inspiration.
We get it—holiday shopping can feel like a chore. To help you find the perfect gift for baby’s first Christmas, my goal is to do the bulk of the research, so you don’t have to spend hours searching online. Here are the steps I took to create this article:
- I leveraged my experience buying Christmas presents for babies in my own life. And to find the best possible options I combed through countless gifts online and looked for items from leading baby brands as well as small businesses.
- I researched what was being said about baby Christmas gifts in The Bump community and forums to learn what parents gifted their children and their reasoning behind the presents.
- To see how these products have worked for families, we conducted exhaustive market research, scouring forums and message boards and reading user reviews to find out what parents nationwide looked for when choosing baby’s first Christmas gifts.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read about how The Bump develops and reviews all articles, including product reviews.
Personalized book
My best friend had a baby girl in June and I plan on buying a personalized board book as her first Christmas gift. I've used Wonderbly before and have always been a fan of the product offering. The books are well made with thick, high-quality paper. And, in terms of personalization, you can add baby’s name as well as a custom inscription. The book is filled with cute animal illustrations and read-aloud rhymes that countdown the days until Christmas. Talk about a jolly good gift! Bonus: Use code BUMP20 to get 20 percent of your book of choice.
Age range: 0 to 36 months | Batteries required: No
Teether gift set
Teether gift set Sophie The Giraffe Christmas Gift Set Cozy Hat and Slippers This festive teether set by Sophie la Girafe is surely one of the best baby Christmas gifts. The eternally popular giraffe toy comes in a beautifully presented gift box beside snug slippers and a seasonal beanie. Speaking from personal experience, I bought my niece a Sophie teether gift set when she was around the 3-month-mark. She absolutely loved gnawing on the giraffe's long limbs when her gums were sore, and my sister appreciated that the teether was made from natural rubber. Bonus: New customers get 10 percent off orders over $75 on Maisonette with code BUMP10.
Age range: 0+ months | Batteries required: No
Our community says:
I did get him a Sophie the Giraffe since he'll be teething soon around or after Christmas. - [shelbydd, The Bump forum member
Someone gave my [son] one as a gift and I thought it looked like a dog toy LOL but [my son] loves it! And once you read the packaging insert about it you realize how brilliant it is. - MrsJeffsWife2B
First teddy bear
“My go-to gift for this age is any of the ‘my first’ plush toys from GUND,” says Nicole, who is currently expecting her first child. She likes the entire range, but we think this plush gingerbread house is an ideal baby Christmas gift for boys or girls. The playset features four plush toys, including a rattle, squeaker toy, teddy bear and even a little gingerbread man.
Age range: 0+ months | Batteries required: No
Our community says:
They’re quality plush toys, affordable and adorable. - Nicole S., pregnant mom
DIY ornament
Keen to start new family traditions? Many families buy a new Christmas ornament each year in honor of their child. And this DIY option, that allows you to make an impression of baby’s hand or footprint, is a great way to start. The kit comes with non-toxic clay, a shaping ring, rolling pin, red and green ribbons and a pin to create the ornament hanging hole. We love a fun arts-and-crafts project!
Age range: 0+ months | Batteries required: No
Our community says:
I'm going to start a tradition of buying her a Christmas tree ornament every year. - gollygeeitsamy, The Bump forum member
We have a tradition in our family where kids get a new Christmas ornament each year, so we already bought little one a "Baby's First Christmas" ornament. - snarkylibrarian, The Bump forum member
Christmas outfit
These days many parents subscribe to the holiday gifting strategy—want, need, read and wear—which means you only buy four core Christmas gifts. However, infants can’t read and most likely don’t need or want anything beyond the necessities that parents already provide. This leaves you with something to wear, and what could be better than a sweet festive onesie? This option from finn + emma is made from organic cotton and has built-in mittens to keep their little hands warm on Christmas morning.
Age range: 0-3 months | Batteries required: No
Our community says:
This baby is due NYE, but I wouldn't be surprised if he came early. I want some kind of cute "1st Christmas" outfit. - jordieburd, The Bump forum member
Winter-themed activity toy
We’re in love with this darling dog activity toy by SkipHop. It has multiple textures, festive patterns and sounds that are ideal for multi-sensory play at home or on the go. Plus, the little snowflake doubles as a teething toy.
Age range: 0+ months | Batteries required: No
Holiday wrist rattles
Inspired by Santa’s favorite snacks, these milk and cookie wrist rattles are the perfect stocking stuffer for babies. The plush rattles are soft and gentle on delicate skin, and the straps adjust to fit little wrists and ankles.
Age range: 0+ months | Batteries required: No
Our community says:
I alternate putting them on her wrists and her ankles during kick time (diaper free) and it's a full on musical punch-out. - snowkiwi, The Bump forum member
Bath supplies set
This gift set from Honest has everything new parents need for diaper changes and bath time. It comes with diapers, wipes, shampoo, body wash, a soothing balm and more. Even if parents were gifted care essentials at their baby shower, it’s still one of the best baby Christmas gifts—these everyday items get used up fast.
Age range: 0+ months | Batteries required: No
Our community says:
What I didn't get that I really could have used was health care stuff…like a little health kit for baby. Someone gave me a travel pack of baby stuff (shampoo, soap, etc.) which I thought was a great idea because we both have family out of town. - sept9107bride, The Bump forum member
Holiday-themed baby book
As babies grow they’ll begin to explore the world with, often with their mouths! Luckily, this board book is virtually indestructible (the clue’s in the name!). The holiday tale is rip-proof, drool-proof and features bright illustrations that are perfect for the festive season.
Age range: 0-24 months | Batteries required: No
Our community says:
Daughter slobbers all over it and it doesn't dissolve or make the colors run or fall to pieces! - Hip2Bsquare, The Bump forum member
Baby is still so little we will be getting mostly books and things like rattles. Keeping it simple this year. - chelseajeanene, The Bump forum member
Hooded towel
Looking for practical Christmas gifts for babies? Consider this buttery-soft baby towel by LouLou Lollipop. The generously sized towel keeps baby’s head and hands warm, thanks to the hood and pockets, while the matching washcloth is gentle on delicate skin. And get a load of that whimsical winter print!
Age range: 0+ months | Batteries required: No
Our community says:
Baby got a really nice monogrammed hooded towel that I (and he) love! - Temp13436125005166,The Bump forum member
Christmas pajamas
Pajamas make great Christmas gifts for babies and kids of all ages—and Hanna Andersson is a brand known for high-quality PJs. Crafted from organic cotton, this cute sleeper suit has flatlock seams for added comfort and a practical two-way zipper. Plus, the quirky Fair Isle print, adorned with reindeer and snowflakes, is perfect for your little holiday helper.
Age range: 0-3 to 18-24 months | Batteries required: No
Our community says:
Pajamas for Christmas eve (it's a tradition) and a Christmas day outfit. - jacksonsmomma11, The Bump forum member
Sensory pad
Shake Santa’s belly like a bowl full of jelly! This sensory toy boasts multiple textures and has a squishy pad in the center filled with colorful beads that baby can poke and prod. It’s the perfect Christmas toy for gifting under the tree this holiday season.
Age range: 3+ months | Batteries required: No
Taggy ball
At 3 months baby’s eyesight is still developing, so they’ll be drawn to high contrast colors like black, white and red. This sensory ball by Wee Gallery is sure to capture their attention thanks to the monochromatic woodland pattern, the textured tags and a hidden rattle inside. It’s a simple baby Christmas gift that’s sure to go down a storm with the youngest member of your yuletide crew.
Age range: 3+ months | Batteries required: No
Holiday sweater
Can’t get enough of holiday apparel? Then you’ll love this sweet, knitted sweater for baby. Full of festive flair, it’s decorated with a Fair Isle-style design complete with penguins. Just imagine your little one wearing this for pictures beside the Christmas tree—too cute!
Age range: 0-3 months to 3-4 years | Batteries required: No
Christmas hamper
How about a festive hamper for baby's first Christmas gift? This bundle includes a personalized stocking, bathrobe, pajamas, teddy bear and a keepsake book that you can fill in each year. It’s a beautiful present you can open up on Christmas eve to get the magic started early.
Age range: 3 to 12 months | Batteries required: No
Baby drool bib
Bibs are often overlooked on baby’s Christmas wishlist, but boy do they come in handy! After all, babies start teething as early as three months, which results in an endless supply of drool. This sweet bib commemorates baby’s first holiday and helps soak up dribble, spit up and food during festive mealtimes.
Age range: 0+ months | Batteries required: No
Crochet teddy
Baby Christmas gifts (the best ones, at least) magically charm infants with their brilliant simplicity. Here’s a prime example: This cheerful knitted teddy is super-soft and cuddly, not to mention cute—check out those mini holiday overalls!
Age range: 6+ months | Batteries required: No
Ring stacker
This stacking toy is cute and educational, making it one of the best gifts for baby’s first Christmas. The red and green color scheme is perfect for holiday festivities and each easy to grasp ring is fun to shake and stack. And the curved base can be batted back and forth for even more wibbly-wobbly fun.
Age range: 6+ months | Batteries required: No
Our community says:
I was thinking of getting a ring stacker and some blocks. - BC&LM, The Bump forum member
Fleece booties
These sweet baby booties are perfect for the holiday season. Made from soft fleece, the shoes will keep teeny toes warm in chilly weather. This pick comes in a range of sizes and designs, including reindeer and Santa styles.
Age range: 6-12 months | Batteries required: No
Musical wobbler
This sweet penguin wobbler will rock, spin and “waddle” whenever your kid bats at it. It also has a built-in bell that jingles a baby-pleasing sound. Together, the features are sure to entertain your little one for hours.
Age range: 6+ months | Batteries required: Yes
Toy projector
How sweet is this little plush fawn? Perfect for babies and toddlers alike, this toy projects a starry night sky onto bedroom ceilings and walls. Not only will it banish any night time fears, the soothing colors and celestial light show will inspire peaceful dreams.
Age range: 0+ months | Batteries required: No
Cuddly learning toy
This cuddly learning toy has been thoughtfully designed to introduce little ones to mindfulness, emotions, first words, animals and so much more. Bonus: Scout can even learn your child’s name before he’s unwrapped on Christmas morning!
Age range: 6+ months | Batteries required: Yes
Surprise gift box
Everyday’s a holiday with this fun toy by Melissa & Doug. Baby can “unwrap” the wooden box to unveil a child-friendly mirror as well as a ball, a teddy bear, a textured crinkle cloth and a soft book. It’s a sweet baby Christmas gift that keeps on giving—plus you’ll save on gift wrap!
Age range: 6 to 12 months | Batteries required: No
Christmas hat
Pay homage to the classic jingle with this ‘Santa Baby’ beanie hat. The hand-knit hat is made from cozy natural yarn and topped with a red pom pom. It’s the perfect fashion accessory to celebrate baby’s first Christmas.
Age range: 0-6 months to 2-6 years | Batteries required: No
Climbing frame
The best baby Christmas gifts will stimulate kiddos well after the holiday season has ended. Cue: This wooden climbing triangle. Made from FSC-certified birch hardwood and stainless steel hardware, the toy will be a staple in your playroom for years to come. You’ll love this climber’s modern, minimalist design, and baby will love reaching new heights during playtime. Better yet, when this climber isn’t being used, it seamlessly folds flat for easy storage.
Age range: 6 months to 5 years | Batteries required: No
Bath toy
Looking for baby Christmas gifts that literally make a splash? This wind-up penguin bath toy actually swims through the water. Plus, it’s a small, affordable option, making it a perfect stocking stuffer or advent calendar filler.
Age range: 9+ months | Batteries required: No
Festive dress
Looking for a Christmas gift for little girls? Feast your eyes on this festive dress. The layered tulle skirt is decorated with a sprinkle of stars and colorful pom-poms. Top tip: The tulle fabric may not be the softest, so layer the dress over a long-sleeved cotton bodysuit to keep baby comfortable during family photos.
Age range: 1-2 to 5-6 years | Batteries required: No
Our community says:
I got obsessed with this Christmas tree dress for our baby's first christmas! Immediate purchase thanks to tiktok. - Haley V., mom of one
Museum gift card
Don’t want to send a physical Christmas gift for baby? Go for an e-gift card instead. Giftcards.com has a range of experiences on offer, including gift cards for local zoos, museums and family-friendly restaurants.
Age range: All ages | Batteries required: No
Our community says:
We love to get local passes to things like the zoo, the children's museum, etc. An ‘experience’ gift is often appreciated a lot! I usually go for either an experience gift or toys as opposed to practical gifts. - Kathy S., mom of two
Baby walker
Steady your little walker with this unique push toy. It’s tricked out with colorful blocks and has a sturdy wooden handle that your tot can lean on for support. Plus, the polar-bear design makes it a perfect Christmas gift for babies.
Age range: 12+ months | Batteries required: No
Our community says:
I figured anything to help with walking would be good since that won't be too far behind. Ideas I had were walkers and or a pull-behind puppy. - hudson202, The Bump forum member
Matching jogger set
“My go to gift is the personalized Zara sweatsuit sets—they are so well made and low priced and everyone I gift them to LOVES them,” says mom of two Molly. The matching set includes a round neck sweater with an embroidered motif and comfy joggers with an elasticated waistband. And it’s available in seven cute colors.
Age range: 12 months to 6 years | Batteries required: No
Festive puzzle
This puzzle is the perfect Christmas gift for babies on the verge of toddlerhood. Designed for beginners, the chunky wooden pieces are easy to manipulate and slot into place.
Age range: 12+ months | Batteries required: No
About the writer:
Martina Garvey is an editor at The Bump, where she writes and edits e-commerce content for pregnancy, postpartum and parenting. Over an eight-year career in educational publishing and digital media, Martina has developed a keen eye for detail and robust reporting skills. As a staff member on The Bump for over three years, she leverages an in-depth knowledge of must-have baby gear and postpartum essentials alongside a passion for the latest trends to create informative content parents can trust.
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