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The holiday season is coming up, and it’s time to start double-checking your gift list. If you’re shopping for families with kids, I’m excited for you! Not just because you get to be an important part of a young person’s life, but also because finding presents for babies, toddlers, and kids is the best. Tiny slippers, silly toys, and charming little outfits—they’re almost as fun to pick out as they are to receive.
Carter’s is one of our favorite places to get high-quality gifts for young kids and their families. With a strong following of dedicated fans and loads of glowing reviews, Carter’s makes it easy to find something for every member of the family, from newborns to caregivers.
1. A cute glove pack to keep little hands warm
These grippable gloves are too cool.
Maybe this is just me, but glow-in-the-dark clothing is still pretty cool. These super fun gloves come in four different design options, but this dinosaur bone pattern is one of the cutest. The textured design makes these gloves perfect for gripping slippery monkey bars as the weather gets colder—and since each pack comes with two pairs, it’s no big deal if one glove gets forgotten on the playground. Made of acrylic and polyester, they’re perfect for fall and mild winters.
Get the 2-Pack Glow Gripper Gloves for $5
2. Dapper suspenders that can adjust for growth spurts
Time to teach the kiddos about functional fashion!
Everyone knows one of the biggest challenges of dressing kids is keeping up with their nonstop growth spurts. These adorable suspenders help ease that problem by making it possible for kids to rock pants that are still a few sizes too big. The straps are made of adjustable elastic, so they should fit for months or years. Reviewers report that these suspenders have worked for kiddos from six months through toddlerdom.
3. A sweet two-way zipper onesie
These onesies with two-way zippers make diaper changes quick and easy.
These absolutely adorable onesies are designed with ease and comfort in mind—for both little ones and their caretakers! The two-way zipper supports diaper changes without needing to wrangle the baby in and out of an entire outfit, and the soft, 100% cotton flaps over the zipper protect baby skin from uncomfortable metal. Reviewers say the cotton onesie feels perfectly soft and durable, and the design is a hit. "The 2-way zipper is a game changer!” Lee50 writes. “Easy for those middle of the night diaper changes!"
Get the 2-Way Zip Cotton Sleep & Play for $7
4. Adorable strawberry boots to brighten rainy days
If they made these boots in adult sizes I'd wear them every day.
Every little person deserves the freedom to stomp around in muddy puddles. These super-sweet strawberry rainboots are the perfect gift for any family plagued by waterlogged baby shoes. They’re a hit with both kids and parents, who agree that they are, as reviewer Zaykate writes, “good quality and so beautiful!” If this particular design isn’t your (strawberry) jam, Carter’s offers plenty of other rain boots, for lovers of dinosaurs, tigers, firemen, and more.
Get the Strawberry Rain Boots for $40
5. Stylish sunglasses to protect little eyes
Grown ups aren't the only ones who need to protect their eyes.
It’s never too soon to start protecting little ones from the sun—especially when that involves accessories as cute as these tortoise shell sunglasses. Lightweight and comfortable, these won’t bug kids who aren’t used to wearing glasses. Reviewer JDay0721 writes that they’re "very comfy for my four- and three-year-old to wear often and for long periods of time." And at just over $10 a pop, they’re easier to replace than pricier shades.
Get the Tortoise Shell Classic Sunglasses for $7
6. A pair of flip flops that promise summer fun
We might be heading toward wintertime, but these flip flops are a great reminder that summer always rolls around again. Water-resistant, easy to wipe clean, and comfortable to wear, they’re everything flip flops should be. Most sizes also come with an ankle strap across the back, keeping them securely attached to slippery feet. According to buyers, these flip flops last way longer than comparable brands—although some people recommend taking an extra moment to snip off the plastic toe protector on the strap for increased comfort.
Get the Carter's Flip Flops for $8
7. Matching pajamas for the whole family
Want to give the gift of family unity? Okay, that might be impossible, but this set of soft matching pajamas can at least symbolize harmony. These fleece PJs fit babies, toddlers, big kids, and grown-ups—and since you can select the pieces individually, they’ll work for any kind of family. (Or any group of friends. Live your truth.) Our very own resident dad TJ Donegan loves these jammies, and especially likes the fact that Carter’s offers footed PJs for older kids and adults. Those aren’t easy to find!
Get the Family Matching Paid Holiday PJs
8. A cozy snowsuit to warm head to toe
This soft snow suit will keep little ones warm while sledding or sculpting their first snowman.
Baby’s first winter shouldn't be painful. This fully lined snowsuit with a water-resistant polyester shell will help keep the little one wrapped up warm—and the snaps, zippers, and adjustable buckles help ease the hassle of putting on snow clothes. Reviewers say the suit isn't just adorable, it’s also nice and warm. Winterreadymom writes that the affordable price clinched the deal, but “the fabric is soft and feels warm for the true Minnesota winter. Can’t wait to see my peanut wearing this on her first snow day.”
Get the 2-Piece Heart Snowsuit for $40
9. A cuddly sherpa onesie for chilly nights
Cuddling up in front of the fire has never been cozier.
Soft and cuddly from head to toe, this sherpa onesie is perfect for both indoor and outdoor comfort. With built-in feet and mittens, it’s great for fall stroller rides—and the onesie design means there’s no chance little socks might get kicked off on the way home. Reviewers are impressed by how warm the material really is. KatrinaHickmott writes, "My son plays fall baseball and it gets really cold in the evenings, but this kept my daughter comfortable during the game!"
Get the Hooded Sherpa Pram for $20
10. A baby gym to keep the little one busy
Get ahead of cabin fever with this super fun baby gym.
This baby gym is a total bonanza of playtime entertainment. It features at least seventeen interactive elements, including hanging toys, rattles, and a light-up arch to help familiarize babies with colors, sounds, and textures. It’s machine-washable, too—just remember to remove the battery pack! With so many different activities, this gym will keep kiddos entertained for a good long time. Buyer Darcy S is impressed with the durability of the gym, saying, "Our baby has been playing on this for six months and it's holding up beautifully! The lights really entertained her when she first starting playing on it around three weeks old, and now at seven months she loves rolling around on it and tugging on the toys above.”
Get the Vibrant Village Smart Lights Activity Gym for $90
11. The perfect outfit for super-cute comfort
The floral embroidery on this outfit is beyond adorable.
There’s really no beating an adorable two-piece outfit for a surefire gift. I love every detail of this little bodysuit: the sweet little shoulder ruffles, the matching floral pattern on the top and bottom, and the seasonally appropriate long-sleeved shirt and cozy tights. This outfit is 100% cotton, and the bodysuit features snap details for quick dressing. Every review is aglow with positive things to say, with buyer Danielled83 writing, "Love the long sleeve and pants combo for cooler days! So cute and well made. Definitely worth the good price!"
Get the 2-Piece Bodysuit Pant Set for $9
12. A full gift box, if you just can’t make up your mind
Just can't choose? Try this gift box for a little bit of everything.
There’s such a thing as too many choices. Sometimes, trying to pick a single gift out of hundreds of possibilities is just overwhelming. If your in that situation, why not hedge your bets? This gift box includes fourteen soft cotton items for newborns: pants, socks, onesies, blankets, and more. At $75, that comes out to just about $5 per item, and reviewers say it’s definitely worth it. Buyer Brooklyn94 echoes many others when they say the box has “perfect variety, and you definitely can’t beat the price!!"
Get the 14-Piece Baby Gift Box for $75
13. A waterproof game to make bathing a ball
With a fun game to play, there's a better chance little ones will be willing to stay in the tub long enough to actually rinse their hair.
Bathtime can be painful for some kids. There’s no reason to make the tub a combat zone, and a few actually fun bath toys can help smooth things out. This waterproof basketball hoop is a great option. The back of the hoop sticks onto tile or glass with the help of a few suction cups, and the bottom of the basket ends in a drawstring, so parents can easily stow the mini basketballs away when they're not in use. With a toy like this, it’s actually possible for fussy toddlers to look forward to bathtime.
Get the Zoo Bathtime Basketball for $10
14. Soft baby blankets for almost any purpose
The uses for these gentle blankets are practically unlimited.
For swaddling, burping, or just cozy time, you can't have too many baby blankets on hand. These ones are made of super-soft cotton flannel, with adorable patterns adding some sweet personality. At 30" by 40", reviewers say these are just the right size. They wash really easily (vital for a blanket that might turn into a burp cloth), and are incredibly soft to the touch.
Get the 4-Pack Receiving Blankets for $16
15. A cool dinosaur zip-up with handy features
This hoodie is comfortable, sturdy, and super cool.
This fleece-lined dinosaur hoodie runs from size 4 to 14, and the fleece-lined interior will keep your favorite raptor-enthusiast nice and warm on their first archaeological dig. The generous front pockets offer plenty of room for saving artifacts—and if you’re really feeling it, you can even throw in matching fleece pants. Buyer Anna bought this jacket for her grandson, and seems thrilled with every aspect. “He loves it!” Anna writes. “It fits to size, washes well, and is adorable."
Get the Dinosaur Zip-Up Fleece-Lined for $14
16. A hat and mittens for the little bear cub who isn't planning to hibernate
Reviewers say these hats and mittens fit snugly on little heads and hands.
As the weather takes a chilly turn, it's time to stock up on cozy supplies that will keep the little ones content and comfortable. This hat and mitten set is perfectly fuzzy, wildly adorable, and machine washable. According to reviewers, both pieces of this set fit well on most babies and aren’t prone to falling off. Buyer KWohlberg speaks to this, writing, "Hat fits snugly (even without velcro fastening) and the elastic on the mittens helps to keep them on her hands. Very pleased with my purchase."
Get the 2-Piece Sherpa Hat & Mittens Set for $16
17. A whole collection of bodysuits for everyday fun
No matter how much baby stuff someone might have, they can never have too many bodysuits
Carter’s snap-bottom bodysuits are beloved for their brightness, durability, and across-the-board cuteness. This collection of seven will be a boon for any busy parent, potentially giving them days of extra time before they have to deal with laundry. At just $19 for the whole pack, this amounts to less than $3 per bodysuit, which feels like an even better deal when you look at the happy reviews. "High quality material and durability, great fit, and look so incredibly adorable,” buyer Drinaldi22 writes. “Easy to match with leggings, shorts, skirts, sweaters etc. The colors haven't faded even after washing them a few times. They fit just as good as the first time she wore them! Love them!!"
Get the 7-Pack Rainbow Original Bodysuits for $19
18. A big, soft towel that will actually last
These hooded towels will look adorable in baby pictures.
When I was little, I had a beloved yellow bath towel with a duck’s face on the hood. By the time I outgrew it, the yellow had faded and the material was practically threadbare—but it still had to be pried out of my tiny hands, because for years, it had made bathtime (the worst) into a dress up game (the best). These precious hooded towels accomplish the same thing, while also being long-lasting, absorbent, and soft. Many of the reviewers are repeat buyers, saying that these towels are large, sturdy, and cozier than any other kids' towel on the market.
Get the Hippo Hooded Towel for $16
19. A denim jacket for the coolest kid on the block
For extra cuteness, considering giving matching denim jackets to the whole family.
There’s nothing better than a good denim jacket. It’s a basic that’s fresh and fun at any age—so it’s lucky Carter’s offers this medium wash jacket in sizes that fit babies, toddlers, and big kids. The cotton/polyester/elastane blend gives the jacket just the right amount of stretch without sacrificing durability. Buyer JJacket is happy with it, saying, "I bought this for my grandbaby and she loves it. It's true to size and fits perfectly. I love that she's able to pair the jacket with lots of outfits."
Get the Classic Knit Denim Jacket for $24
20. An adaptable scooter to satisfy their need for speed
Any on-the-go baby will love this adaptable scooter.
So they’ve mastered crawling, and maybe they’ve even started taking those first, shaky steps. This playtime scooter is perfect for helping little ones gain stability and mobility skills as they practice balancing on their own two feet. And once they’re walking comfortably, there’s no reason to throw it away—it works just as well as a standing scooter. It also features sound effects and lights, so the adults will always see the little guys coming. Reviewer ShyRonnie71 says their son loves the scooter and all its bells and whistles, but also warns that the wheels work “better on smooth floors than rough ones.”
Get the Zoo 3-In-1 Ride On Toy for $60
21. A pair of fluffy dinosaur slippers that are cozier than scales
These fluffy slippers cover feet and ankles for maximum coziness.
These bestselling dinosaur slippers will let the little ones play at being huge, stomping dinosaurs, while ironically protecting their soft tiny feet. They’re both playful and functional, which is always ideal, and super convenient. Designed to easily slip on, these slippers feature hidden velcro flaps to make them even easier to get them on and off. Reviewers say they last a long time, too—according to Twin_Wreck_Mom, "They are great quality. Our last pair lasted us 3 years!"
Get the Carter's Dinosaur Slippers for $28
22. Soft burp cloths to clean messy faces
These cloths are soft enough to gently clean sensitive faces.
As nice as it is to have a collection of multi-purpose baby blankets, it’s also great to have plenty of designated burp cloths on hand. These clothes are cute, but there’s never any pressure to keep them nice and clean. That being said, just because they’re meant for messes doesn’t mean they shouldn't also be good quality. Buyers like BrettAlt appreciate how gentle they are. Brett writes, "I got these as a gift, and immediately bought more because they are so soft against my baby’s sweet little milk-covered face. I wish they were wider, but it’s fine. They serve their purpose well."
Get the 4-Pack Animals Burp Cloths for $15.60
23. A snuggly plushie for physical and emotional comfort
There's nothing sweeter than a snuggly animal lovey.
There’s a whole world of kids' toys out there, but for babies and toddlers, you really can’t go wrong with a huggable toy. Find one that’s cute, soft, and durable enough, and it could even wind up going to college with them someday. (Yes, I had teddy bears on my dorm bed, what of it?) Buyer LadyStrick reports that her baby loves this sweet fox, saying that “the overall quality is very nice. Unlike other stuffed animals this one doesn't have any hard exposed seams nor does it have any signs of weak/loose stitches/threads. I think it also has the right amount of stuffing. Some stuffed animals are too floppy or hard but this one seems to be just right.” LadyStrick goes on to say it’s just the right size—big enough for a good cuddle, and small enough to take on a trip.
Get the Corduroy Fox Plush for $9.60
24. A rocking baby guitar for the future musician
Avocados have always made great baby food, but how about baby bops?
If I could regain one characteristic from my toddler self, it would be my absolute lack of inhibitions when it came to dancing, singing, and performing in front of a crowd. That kind of self-confidence is tough to maintain as kids get older, but supportive adults can at least encourage it. This smiling toy guitar does just that, letting kids know that there’s nothing wrong with being their own rocking selves. Reviewers say it’s obviously well made, not lightweight like some comparable toys, and that the buttons are easy for little people to press. Just as importantly, it’s not too annoying for the adults in the house—the light-up features aren’t excessively bright, and multiple reviewers say the music is surprisingly fun.
Get the Farmstand Rock-A-Mole Guitar or $16
25. A smart diaper bag for the savvy family
Who knew a diaper bag could be this compact and stylish?
Shopping for a young family, it’s easy to get stuck on cute baby outfits and toddler toys. This diaper bag, though, will make life easier for both babies and their caregivers. It's the most popular backpack on Carter's website, with plenty of zippered pockets to make sure nothing gets lost at the bottom. This bag is absolutely packed with thoughtful features: an insulated pocket to keep milk bottles the right temperature, a cushioned pad for diaper changes on the go, and buckles that easily attach the whole bag to a stroller. All round, reviewers rank this one as a win. JackieGigi writes "I bought this several months ago to use for my toddler. I did a TON of research and I am beyond happy with my decision. It is absolutely perfect in every way. Light weight, plenty of pockets to keep you organized, and holds a ton of stuff. Get it! You won't be disappointed."
Get the Forma Backpack Diaper Bag for $75
26. A soft barnyard toy set made for little hands
Teach little ones that the cow goes moo without any abrasive electronic sounds.
Encourage creative play with this sweet, soft barnyard toy set. Playing with small, textured, noise-making toys is good for a child's sensory and motor development, and even their intellectual development as they learn to rely on their own imaginations. Reviewers like that these toys are soft and non-hazardous, and that they provide a great opportunity to start learning animal names and sounds. They also say that the animals are just the right size to stick in a diaper bag and that every piece is easy to wash after a messy day.
Get the Plush Barn Activity Set for $16
27. A security blanket to keep them feeling safe
Why choose between a plushie and a blankie when you can have both?
Did you have a security blanket as a kid? If you did, you probably know it’s not about what the blanket looks like. Most babies just want something to cuddle, love, and imbue with a sense of safety. But why shouldn’t these lovies also be completely adorable? These blankets from Carter’s feature built-in plushie toys which take the cuddling to another level. With no small or hard pieces, it’s also perfectly safe for sleeping babes.
Get the Puppy Security Blanket for $10.80
28. A pack of soft mittens to warm and protect
These adorable mittens feature stretchy bands to keep them safely on baby's hands.
When it comes to vital, easy-to-lose items like baby mittens, more is more. This three-pack set will ensure that the baby in your life will never be without cozy mittens. Made of 100% cotton, they’re newborn-friendly, with a stretchy ribbing to keep them on baby hands. Baby mittens aren’t just great for warmth—they’re also an easy way to prevent the little one from accidentally scratching themselves when they fuss. Reviewers also confirm that they’re not prone to shrinking in the wash and hold up well with daily use.
Get the 3-Pack Mittens for $7.20
29. A pack of finger puppets to jumpstart their imaginations
These friendly snakes are just the right size to fill out a stocking.
For a quick and fun little gift, consider these funky finger puppets. Puppets are great for kids who still want to play but don’t necessarily gravitate toward traditional dolls, stuffed animals, or action figures. They’re super interactive, encouraging kids to rely on their imaginations and come up with their own stories. These slithery snakes would make great stocking stuffers or even a nice just-because gift to brighten a little one’s day.
Get the Snake Finger Puppets for $6
30. An incredible mini backpack for the toddler on the go
This backpack is so cool I'm tempted to buy it for myself as an ultra-tiny mini backpack.
Is it weird to admit I kind of want this? The holographic material, the rainbow straps—it's just too good. Unfortunately for me (but fortunately for all backpack-toting toddlers out there), reviewers confirm this bag is adorably tiny, the perfect size for small toys and trinkets. It’s great for little kids who are getting used to the idea of starting school in a year or two, or who just have too many beloved toys to carry in their own hands. If this backpack doesn't feel quite right, Carter’s has a whole line of other fun, kid-friendly options.