The Trendiest Christmas Toys That Will Delight Your Kids This Year, According to Experts

Each holiday season, children everywhere express their excitement for the toys they hope make it under the tree. While there's always something new to take the spot of the previous year's most talked about item, one thing remains the same in many kids' eyes: They have to have the hottest toys for Christmas. For those responsible for shopping for the best Christmas gifts, however, knowing what's hot and what's not each year can truly be a challenge. But according to Allison Klein, former NYC preschool teacher and founder and CEO of Rose & Rex — a playful learning resource that gives toy recommendations, guides, and advice for families — the 2022 toy trends may be something that you are already familiar with.

What are the hottest holiday toys in 2022?

"One of the trends I am happiest to see is an appreciation for simple, old-school toys like a quality block set, simple doll, or rainbow stacker," Klein says. "I always say that you want to look for toys that do less so that children can do more, and I feel like many parents are on the same page."

Another trend that's big for the season? Toys inspired by big shows or blockbuster hits, according to Lindsay Hollingsworth, Vice President of North America Marketing for Universal Products & Experiences. "This year, we’re seeing character-inspired toys topping all the major retailers’ toy lists," she said. "Additionally, coming off the blockbuster success of Jurassic World Dominion, dinosaurs continue to be a top holiday favorite for fans of all ages."

But don't think that these recommendations only fit if you're looking for the best toys for 5-year-olds; they apply to gifts for kids of all ages — even if you're looking for gifts for teens! As Klein notes, you'll want to consider a few things when searching for the best Christmas toys: safety, the type of play it promotes, versatility, and longevity. This way, the hottest gift for this year can still be the best gift for years to come.