Appropriate gifts for a 3 y/o boy?

**Kitten20** · 11-26-2009, 12:17 PM

I have a close friend who, due to unfortunate circumstances beyond his control, has not been able to see his son for the last year or so. His son will be 3 in January. We were on the phone last night and he was asking me for my opinion on what to get his son for Christmas/birthday. Not having any children of my own, I wasn't really sure either, so I thought I would ask here. You guys always have great ideas.

Anything with toy guns or swords, etc. is out. Also, his son lives in an apartment and doesn't have a yard. I suggested a play mat (like a town-scape) for cars, Little People farm set, blocks, etc. but I really have no idea what is age appropriate.

Any suggestions that I can pass along?

Thanks.

**AmyBoz** · 11-26-2009, 12:51 PM

Trucks and cars are always a great idea for 3-year old boys. They can be imaginative and turn anything into a parking lot or speedway, etc.

My guys liked garbage trucks at 3. They are absolutely their favorite things in the world.

**craftypam** · 11-26-2009, 01:10 PM

I have to respond to the toy, guns, swords. People have definate opinions on this subject. I had 3 boys. I also have a grandson. My boys had toy guns. It didn't matter. If they didn't have a gun they would pick up another toy and use it as a gun. My grandson doesn't have guns, but picks up other items at my house all the time and pretends that it is a gun.

A really good idea for choosing a toy for a 3 year old would be to go to a toy store. They usually have ages on the toys as to what is appropriate. My grandson is 2-1/2 and loves to play with block type toys that stick together. Also loves ride on toys.

**Kitten20** · 11-26-2009, 01:57 PM

Originally Posted by craftypam

I have to respond to the toy, guns, swords. People have definate opinions on this subject. I had 3 boys. I also have a grandson. My boys had toy guns. It didn't matter. If they didn't have a gun they would pick up another toy and use it as a gun. My grandson doesn't have guns, but picks up other items at my house all the time and pretends that it is a gun.

Oh, I know. I didn't mean anything by it at all. It's just his personal preference. In fact, he was telling me that his son does the same thing (pretends other toys are guns).

Thanks for the ideas.

QM · 11-26-2009, 02:23 PM

I don't have a son, but DD1 loved dinosaurs at that age. They sell lots of those at the dollar store...that's an idea.

**monkeywrangler71** · 11-26-2009, 02:26 PM

My son got a remote control car from Tonka that flips over and goes both ways. He is five, but all the boys at his birthday party went nuts for it, aged 3 and up. I think it's called a flip car, it's red on one side and blue on the other.

**monkeywrangler71** · 11-26-2009, 07:29 PM

Sorry, I had the name wrong, it's called a Bounce Back Racer.

**carlitasway** · 11-26-2009, 11:39 PM

Mega Blocks, books, Fisher Price has good stuff for 3 yo. Age appropriate remote control car, Radio Flyer Tricycle.

**brennasmom** · 11-26-2009, 11:42 PM

How about a superhero cape?

I would also suggest cars and trucks...those are always a hit with my little guy.

**imagine** · 11-27-2009, 12:20 PM

At three they are officially old enough for hot wheel and match box. I remember my son loving those at that age. That is what I am giving my 3 year old nephew.

**geckoace** · 11-27-2009, 12:22 PM

3 is when the train-love starts LOL i would get him an inexpensive wooden train set (try target) and maybe one thomas train.

i agree about the superhero cape, mega blocks and RC car my son loved all of those things and still does at 6