The 78 must-have toys this Christmas for every age group and budget - as picked by John Lewis, Amazon and children's gift experts

Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn moreChristmas is fast approaching – and with it the panic of buying presents, especially for the little ones in your life. What do you get children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and kids of friends that seemingly already have it all? Well, we've got the answer with our comprehensive, curated gift guide.We've asked the best retail minds at Hamleys, John Lewis, Amazon, Argos, The Entertainer and an expert panel at industry body CIJ to tell us the hottest presents and trends for this festive season.They have each picked out toys they believe will be big sellers this Christmas – and we have categorised them into age groups, making it easy for you to pick out the perfect gift. All price points are catered for – with gifts from just a few pounds to more than £400.We have also highlighted toys picked by more than one of the retail experts – making them a star buy.Alongside that, as a parent of two daughters who heavily encourages playtime away from screens, I've put in a few personal picks too.We also unboxed many of the toys to see the quality and show you what they look like outside of the packaging.Whether you want to blow the budget or buy something small – but guaranteed to produce a smile on Christmas morning regardless – we have you covered. Christmas sorted: We've curated a list of star buys from a range of top retailers Unboxed: Some of the recommended toys our team took a closer look at for the guide What are the trends this Christmas?The hot trend this year, according to John Lewis, is families swapping screen time for play time. This means collaborative building, role play, imaginative storytelling and outdoor adventures are the key themes this year. Think premium toys made to last.Meanwhile, Argos predicts a shift towards retro-inspired toys but also favourites from the big screen – think KPop Demon Hunters, Paw Patrol and Toy Story 5.The Entertainer too has highlighted nostalgic comebacks as a strong theme, alongside interactive toys, viral sensations and toys that stand the test of time.Hamleys says there is a growing trend for 'persona play', where toys aren't defined by what they do, but by the figure at their centre – essentially, inviting children in, handing them a persona and letting them build their own stories and adventures…Perfect toys for toddlers1. STAR BUY: Peppa Pig Ready Pedal PeppaPicked by three of the experts, this interactive figure reacts with 75 sounds and phrases, depending on how she's used. Suitable for toddlers over three. Picked by: Argos, The Entertainer and Hamleys Oink: This activity toy comes with a range of accessories including a detatachable stick handle, helmet and a sheet of stickers to personalise Peppa's bike 2. Wooden Breakfast in Bed Set by John LewisJohn Lewis says this will spark 'imaginative family role play' tapping into a growing desire for 'slow morning'. Suitable from the age of two. Picked by: John Lewis3. Mon Ami PlushExclusively at John Lewis, it says these plush toys reflect a wider shift towards choosing value over volume and make a perfect 'heirloom nursery piece'. Suitable from birth. Picked by: John Lewis4. Chad Valley Alfie and Jo Wooden Train SetThis train set brings Alfie & Joe (two Argos hedgehog mascots) into the world of play with easy connect tracks and smooth-rolling carriages. Suitable from the age of two.Picked by: Argos5. Chad Valley Wooden Classic KitchenA wooden kitchen has been a staple in the Boyce household for many years – and this one from Argos is a great choice to spark imaginative play. Suitable for over the age of three. Picked by: Argos6. Early Learning Centre Wooden KitchenAnother wooden kitchen makes a list – but this one is double the price. It comes with a little pretend microwave and gold taps. Suitable for over the age of three.Picked by: The Entertainer7. Paw Patrol The Dino Movie Megasaurus Dino VehicleThis vehicle features sounds from the film and a 76.2cm dinosaur that automatically inflates at the press of a button. Suitable for over the age of three.Picked by: Argos8. Goodnight You, Goodnight Everyone BookThis personalised book makes the child the star – you can add up to seven names to the book so they can say goodnight to the special people in their life. Suitable from birth.Picked by: CIJ9. Tickit Lighthouse IslandThis wooden lighthouse comes complete with a wooden lighthouse keeper, seagull, seal, dolphin, fish, crab, stone and seaweed – to let imaginations run wild. Suitable for over the age of three.Picked by: CIJ10. Movers and Shakers Soft ToyThese interactive soft toys are the perfect faux pet. They come in the form of a West Highland Terrier, Golden Retriever, Husky and a black and white cat. Suitable from 18 months old.Picked by: Hamleys Adorable: These plushies are interactive; they walk, sit and beg while making cat or dog noises noises triggered by movement 11. Hamleys Wooden London TaxiBring a piece of London charm into your home with this taxi – perfect for little hands to push and pull. Suitable for ages over 12 months. Picked by: Hamleys Quintessential London: The iconic black cab comes in play form in this adorable wooden taxi with a removeable roof that reveals four cute passengers12. Maped Jumbo Infinity Coloured Pencils 12 ColoursWe discovered these on a holiday in France and bought them upon our return. They are so much better than crayons and regular pencils for toddlers – my two-year-old uses them every day. A bargain. Suitable for toddlers. Picked by: Lee13. Disney Darlings Minnie Mouse Feature Doll This interactive doll makes sounds and responds to a magic wand. Each character comes with a character-themed outfit, headband and sparkly eyes. Suitable for ages over two years.Picked by: Amazon Each inspired by a classic Disney character, these baby dolls come with their own themed accessories, including a birth certificate and magic wandPerfect toys for ages 3-514. Le Toy Van Paddington Doll's HouseWe have had a wooden Le Toy Van doll's house for many years in our home – they stand the test of time (and toddlers). This Paddington special comes as classic dollshouses make a comeback.Picked by: John Lewis 15. Micro Scooter Gruffalo Scooter and accessories Micro Scooters have also been a staple in our household – and this new themed one comes to ride the wave of Gruffalo mania, after the launch of the new book Gruffalo Granny in September. Picked by: John Lewis 16. Hot Wheels City Ultimate T-Rex Garage Hot Wheels are always hot with kids – and this mega playset packs storage for 50 cars in a showdown against a car-hungry dino, complete with two 1:64 scale vehicles. Picked by: Argos 17. LLP My Magical Dragon Skye This new interactive dragon from Little Live Pets features 60 interactive reactions and an integrated LCD screen that rewards caring for the little creature. Picked by: Argos 18. Vtech Kidi 12-in-1 Guitar Superstar Complete with dazzling light-up frets, touch-sensitive strings, Bluetooth music streaming and rhythm challenges, this could be the gateway toy to turning your child into the next Jimi Hendrix or Slash. Picked by: Argos 19. Jupiter Workshops Four Storey Wooden Doll House Another wooden doll house makes this list, but at half the price of the John Lewis one above. This one is four-storey and comes with sounds and lights. Picked by: Argos 20. Flutter Monster 40cm Soft Toy This toy is a gentle way for children to talk about their emotions, according to Argos. It has four butterflies tucked into its tummy – each with a pocket for a feeling note card to write or draw emotions. Picked by: Argos 21. Toy Story 5 Bullseye Jumbo Plush This giant plush is a must-have for any Toy Story fan – and could make the perfect companion for snuggling up to in bed. Picked by: Argos22. Minions & Monsters Fart Blaster Pro Armed with eight stink settings and two scented formulas, this movie tie-in with Minions & Monsters might drive you a bit mad, launching real floating scent rings up to 6ft away. One to gift to a relative, maybe! Picked by: Argos 23. FurReal Gabby The Grow and Roar Tiger Interactive Pet This has been a frequent sell-out since launching this year, the toy responds to love and care with more than 100 combinations of sounds and movements. The Entertainer says she feels more like a real furry friend than a traditional toy. Picked by: The Entertainer 24. Bluey Muffin's Home Playset This two-level playset encourages imaginative storytelling – and if the children in your life are anything like mine, they love this little Australian family of dogs!Picked by: The Entertainer (exclusive)25. MicroMAGS Learn Numbers This toy has been earmarked as the number one pick by a panel at CIJ. Young children can build and explore basic structures through the magnatiles, while also learning numbers and letter recognition. Picked by: CIJ26. Playmobil Space ESA Mars Research RocketThis modular rocket with launch pad and two astronauts is perfect for any little space lover in your life. Comes with 71 pieces.Picked by: Amazon27. A Playful Day with Bluey: Tonieplay This turns eight favourite Bluey episodes into screen-free, interactive audio adventures for children and also includes mini games. You'll need a Toniebox 2 (£100) to use it.Picked by: CIJ 28. Pikachu Pokémon Holiday Plush – 10 ½ inches Kids are Pokémon mad again, with trading cards selling for big bucks. This plush is perfect for any fan of the Japanese franchise. Picked by: CIJ 29. Thunder Unicorn This remote-controlled toy struts, glows and gallops with special effects – an exciting gift for any horse or unicorn-obsessed child you know.Picked by: Hamleys Magic: The unicorn itself was made of a foam but its 0.1g weight means it has no trouble getting - and staying - off the ground30. Play-Doh Stamp and Spin Pizza Playset Play-Doh is another staple in our home (even I'm often picking it out of my fingernails for hours after!) This version comes with five tubs of modelling dough and a pretend pizza oven that twirls out a pretend crust. Comes with eight tools for cutting, rolling and shaping. Picked by: Hamleys Easy assembly: The Play-Doh was ready to play with moments after unboxing. It has a bunch of stamps and stencils to make pizzas and a cute box to 'serve' them in31. Numberblocks Sing and Record Music Player This device has 15 sounds and songs and blends learning with fun. A built-in microphone records up to 90 seconds of singing for playback, and five character buttons teach counting, colours and shapes. Picked by: Hamleys Inspired by the maths learning TV show, Numberblocks, this colourful little gadget already comes with bartteries so it can be enjoyed the moment it's unwrapped32. Magic 3D Track Set With 171 pieces of electronic 3D track including colourful track cubes, traffic accessories and a USB-chargeable train, it encourages creativity and logical thinking. Picked by: Hamleys 33. Outfoxed Board Game We're big fans of board games – my eldest daughter and I are often busting out the Monopoly, Junior Cluedo and Family Trivial Pursuit. This game, however, is a great first board game for five and up, with the rules simple but the jeopardy providing plenty of fun and replay. Picked by: Lee34. Disney Yuyus Wave 3 Winnie The Pooh Blind Box Vinyl PlushBlind boxes are big business, and these ones are expected to sell like hotcakes according to Amazon. There are nine plush keyrings to collect – they are around 10cm and you don’t know which character you will get.Picked by: AmazonPerfect toys for ages 6-835. STAR BUY: Primal Hatch Megalodon Hatching Egg Shark ToyDrop the oversized egg into its tank, pour in water and await a 40cm Megalodon shark smash through – it's the follow-up to the big seller last year, the hatching dino. Picked by: Argos, The Entertainer and Hamleys 36. STAR BUY: KPop Demon Hunters Golden Singing Dolls (Rumi, Mira, Zoey) Bringing the Netflix phenomenon to life, these dolls from the film sing smash-hit Golden. Buy all three and they sync up for a full group harmony. Picked by: Argos and John Lewis 37. Marvin's Magic Treasured Tricks Wooden Set My eldest is magic obsessed (a local magician invited us to the Magic Circle to watch a show last year). Her gateway was a Marvin's Magic set, and this wooden version can help build confidence through imaginative role play. Picked by: John Lewis 38. Pokémon TCG: Mega Moonlit TinThese vastly popular sets sell out quick, so if they come in stock, you’ll have to act quickly. The tin includes one foil promo card featuring Mega Gengar ex. Picked by: Amazon39. Plus-Plus Learn To Build Space Superset This set lets children (and adults) build an entire universe, from simple 2D shapes to advanced 3D models like rockets, planets, astronauts and aliens. It comes with 1,000 pieces, baseplates, wheels and hubs.Picked by: John Lewis 40. Connetix Ball Run Launcher We love a marble run in our home – and this version adds a kinetic twist to construction, perfect for experimenting with gravity and design.Picked by: John Lewis 41. Toniebox Lite This screen-free storytelling device comes in a smaller, portable edition, with six hours of audio stories and music. Picked by: Argos 42. Lego Pokemon Smart Play: Sprigatito, Fuecoco and Quaxly Battle Another Pokemon product in the list, this starter kit features buildable figures with movable parts and smart tags, which trigger responsive lights and sound effects.Picked by: Argos 43. Star Wars Action Buddy Grogu 25-cm Animatronic, Interactive PlushStar Wars is still an incredibly popular franchise, as parents spread their love for the fictional universe. This 25cm plush has 50 sound and action combinations.Picked by: AmazonStar toys: This buddy Grogu was unexpectedly endearing. Press its head to trigger movements, sounds and play modes or lay him for a nap complete with snoozing sounds44. Pokémon Battle Action Pikachu Oh look, Pokemon again. This figure has touch sensors, a light-up tail alongside unique sounds and movements.Picked by: The Entertainer 45. Armosaurs Armor-Up Dinosaur T-Rex, Ajax This figure comes with seven interchangeable armour pieces and is sure to be a hit for any dino-loving child.Picked by: Argos 46. Giftie Badge Maker My girls love crafting, and my eldest has asked for a badge maker for years (we're yet to buckle). This version comes with an app to customise templates and turn personal photos into custom pins.Picked by: Argos 47. Starbox Nook Nooks Series 1 Blind Box CollectibleAnother blind box. Each Nook Nook includes a unique miniature home that lights up. Designs range from retro TVs and washing machines to clocks and computers.Picked by: Amazon48. Clickeez Bubble Pops Keyboard Mega Mystery Figure Pack My daughter has mucked around with these Clickeez sensory things for a while. They click and clack like a real keyboard (or typewriter if you prefer). They are a social media sensation and the sort of toy you get pestered for but will never understand why.Picked by: The Entertainer 49. Santa's Express Train Set by Hornby Mention Hornby, and dad or grandad might get a little misty-eyed. This lovely set can go underneath your Christmas tree and is sure to keep any train buff satisfied. Picked by: CIJ 50. Kitsound HD Digital Camera, BM Stores At the bargain price of £20, this camera offers 4K Ultra HD with a flip screen to take selfies with an 8x digital zoom. This little camera packs a punch and comes with a 256MB memory card. Picked by: CIJ 51. Barbie in the Nutcracker Clara Doll and Sugar Plum Doll This Barbie comes in a shimmering tutu and glittering tiara – perfect for any dance lovers in your family.Picked by: Hamleys 52. Dr Doom Action Figure From Barbies to Dr Doom. This 15cm Marvel figure comes with 20 movable joints and is the perfect collector's item.Picked by: Hamleys Marvellous: This Doctor Doom action figure features a cape that fans out, light up chest and face as well as a projectile launcher from his hand53. Scorpix RC Transforming Car This sports car comes with LED head and tail lights, and compact wheels for precision turning. It transforms into a scorpion at the touch of a button and smoke is released from underneath. It can be driven in car or scorpion mode with a remote control distance of 25 meters. Picked by: Hamleys 54. Hatsune Miku T-Most PVC Figure This virtual superstar is a 'vocaloid'. Yep, you can catch her in concert next month in London – but she doesn't actually exist. This model captures her signature look.Picked by: Hamleys 55. The Big Squij Range Hamleys says this is the season's hottest trend – these small squeezy toys come in dozens of shapes. Duck, Fortune Cookie, Ghost, Croissant and Pig, just to name a few.Picked by: Hamleys Hot and squishy trend: These sensory toys were a bit bigger than we expected at around 22cm but are great fun squeeze and play with 56. Uno and Skip Bo My daughter picked up the rules of Uno at five, but doesn't realise it's a fun way of learning maths and numbers (sssh!). Our Mario version of Uno has travelled the world. We've now gone onto a harder number-based game as she is seven – Skip Bo – and we're loving it! Perfect stocking filler. Picked by: Lee57. Liar’s Uno with tinUno is incredibly popular in the Boyce household, and this spin on it is for those who have mastered the regular version and want to mix it up. Picked by: Amazon58. Schleich Horse Club – 110Pc Horse Camping Playset with carIdeal for any horse lovers in your life, this set Includes fully poseable Hannah and her dad, Quarter Horse figure Cayenne, SUV, trailer, tent, fencing and fun accessories for horse-powered adventures.Picked by: AmazonPerfect toys for ages 9-1159. STAR BUY: Mini Brands Really Works Vinyl PlaysetThese have been out for a few months; this mini record player can play tiny vinyls sold separately in 'surprise' mini vinyl capsules. Fun to collect, delightful, and they actually play music.Picked by: Argos and The Entertainer 60. Lego Icons 10361 Winter Village Collection Holiday Express Train Exclusive to John Lewis, this Lego set could be a fun build for old and young alike over the Christmas period. Picked by: John Lewis 61. Projector Karaoke Machine Listen, we're big karaoke fans in our household and have a Vtech karaoke machine which, to be honest, is great. You can cast your favourite music apps directly onto walls while singing. One of those – 'yeah, I bought it for the kids, but bust it out once they're in bed with a couple of wines' type presents. Picked by: Argos 62. Lexibook, ELO-StarCAM, AI Digital Camera This is a camera with an extra feature. Users can take a picture and choose an expert guide to explain discoveries through Artificial Intelligence object recognition. Picked by: Amazon 63. Lego Botanicals Rocking Plants Construction Set More Lego. This time, a buildable plant that doubles up as home decor. These two are pastel-coloured plants – a delosperma named Lumi and an echeveria named Ellie. It's a surefire way to keep a child busy for a few hours during a build. Picked by: The Entertainer and Amazon Keeping it classic: These cute botanical Lego sets had a manageable number of pieces and the instructions seemed easy to follow, too 64. 3D Puzzle Vase by Ravensburger Picked out as a must-buy by the CIJ expert panel, this jigsaw has a practical use – it can really be used as a vase, meaning it's labelled as very 'good value'. Picked by: CIJ 65. KPop Demon Hunters Derpy Glow Cosplay Crossbody Bagbu Loungefly Another KPop Demon Hunters entry. This bag is pricey and a little freaky, but could be the perfect 'wow' gift for a superfan. Picked by: CIJ 66. The Best of Christmas Game by Tomy This festive family trivia board game sees two teams race to decorate their Christmas trees by answering holiday-themed questions.Picked by: CIJ 67. Flip 7 With A VengeanceAnother numbers card game on the list, although for this one you need a minimum of three players. Again, perfect for those who have mastered Uno and Skip Bo! This is a spin-off version from its main base game.Picked by: Amazon68. Asteroid Electric Go Kart by Wilton Bradley Ltd This battery-powered Go Kart could be the gadget to inspire your new child to become the new Lewis Hamilton or Jackie Stewart. Picked by: CIJ 69. Articulate Under Pressure This new twist on the classic party game could be perfect light relief after that heavy Christmas dinner – you have to describe words as quickly as you can.Picked by: Hamleys Christmas games sorted: A new take on a beloved boardgame ups the stakes. This version has new twists, turns and rewards with three different game modes 70. Flashforge AD5X 3D Printer My nephew, 11, begged my brother-in-law for a 3D printer for his birthday earlier in the summer. He got this model and has had it for a few months. They both say it's great. You'll need to buy filaments to print with separately – and often have to pay to download designs. Picked by: LeePerfect toys for over 12s71. Mattel Brick Shop Hot Wheels Lamborghini Miura P400 SV Building Toy KitPicked by: AmazonBuild a luxury supercar – it's a 1:12 scale Lamborghini Miura P400 SV loaded with realistic details and including metal parts. It has 1,523 pieces, so will take some patience. On your marks: There were almost 30 bags of pieces in this Hot Wheels car-builder set - plus mini headlights, a steering wheel and real rubber tyres. Hours (or even days) of amusement 72. STAR BUY: Meccano Pro Limited Edition Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1 Construction Set This new 1:8 scale Aston Martin F1 set combines the classic appeal of Meccano with the huge newfound popularity of motor racing. Featuring 1,203 real metal parts, two tools and 15 hours building time, it could be a great Christmas project. Picked by: The Entertainer (exclusive) and CIJ 73. Momiji's Sugar Plum Wood Message Dolls Children can hide personalised messages inside and swap between siblings and friends – John Lewis says these will be popular, thanks to the trend of blind-box collectables. You don't know what design you're going to get. Picked by: John Lewis 74. Lego Donkey Kong Arcade Building Set You can create a Donkey Kong arcade level featuring Jumpman (later to be Super Mario), Donkey Kong figure and Lady (later to be Princess Peach). Pull the lever to release one of the 21 barrels at a time and you can make Jumpman jump over the barrels with a joystick. This one might go on my own personal Christmas list (I'm 39).Picked by: Argos 75. Star Wars Sith Lightsaber Umbrella by Menkind Look, an umbrella isn't exactly a toy or the most exciting Christmas gift, but sometimes, a practical but fun present is what a sulky teenager needs – and this Star Wars one fits the bill. Picked by: CIJ 76. Miko: Self-Moving AI Chess Set by Menkind The priciest gift on the list, I'd say check reviews and watch YouTube videos to ensure you know exactly what you're getting with this. Could be the perfect way to train up a new chess Grand Master though.Picked by: CIJ 77. Lego Doctor Doom Bust Doctor Doom gets a second showing here – and again, picked by Hamleys. It says the Christmas 'kidult' trend continues and this Lego version allows you to assemble a display piece. Picked by: Hamleys 78. Switch 2 + The Legend of Zelda While screentime is kept to a minimum in Casa Boyce, my eldest and I often have a little Switch time at the weekends. Currently, we love playing Super Mario Party Jamboree (perfect for Christmas family multi-player fun, £37.95), Mario Kart 8 (£37.99) and an old favourite of mine growing up... Rollercoaster Tycoon (£18.99), where you build and run virtual theme parks. This newest Switch is an upgrade on the original – and with a new Zelda game, the perfect combo. Picked by: Lee