Preschool may seem like it's all just fun and games, but it can be hard work! When your little student graduates from preschool to kindergarten, it's definitely a milestone worth celebrating. But gifts for kids that age can be tricky, and finding one worthy of a graduation can be even tougher. Are you looking for an educational toy or a STEM toy to keep the learning going at hoe through the summer? Do you want to give them outdoor toys to kick-start the vacation fun? Or do you want something that just screams, "I made it through the year!" (Okay, maybe that last one is for you.)
If you're looking for inspiration for the best preschool graduation gifts, we’ve thought of a few ideas. Why should you trust our picks? Many were recommended by the Good Housekeeping Institute's Parenting Lab, which tests and vets toys and other gear to find presents that are high quality, safe and won't break immediately. Other gifts we included because they were personalized, graduation-themed gifts, and preschoolers love nothing more than to see their own names in writing. (The probably learned to spell them this year, too.) No matter which one you choose, these thoughtful ideas will show your kids that you’re proud of them, and that you think they’re ready to go on to the exciting journey that is kindergarten. (Start thinking of a kindergarten graduation gift!)
This inspirational book is all about fostering curiosity and wonder. Preschool graduation is a perfect milestone to share this book with your child or loved one as it is such a positive, uplifting story for parents and kids alike. You can also have it personalized with your child's name. Ages 5+
Get them ready for next year with these cards, which feature activities like picture puzzles, math challenges, tongue-twisters, mazes and vocabulary builders geared for their age group. It's the perfect thing to throw in a backpack and break out whenever you have an unexpected wait, like a long line at the grocery store. Ages 5+
They're going to need a place to sketch out their hopes and plans for next year (or just doodle). This notebook also functions as a fidget toy, with those irresistible popping bubbles on the cover. No age recommendation given
This book will help your young scholar prepare for the next exciting stage of education ... kindergarten! It includes subjects like letters and words, numbers and counting, shapes and directions and other kindergarten classroom staples. Ages 5+
They'll be delighted to open this box of crayons and see the crayons shaped into the letters of their name (plus an additional shape, if you desire). You can choose from a bunch of different color effects, like tie dye or marble, which will get their creative juices flowing. No age recommendation given
You can choose the birthstone-inspired crystal and the initial charm that hangs from this stainless-steel bangle. If she gets another one for kindergarten graduation, she can stack them and wear them together!
In Good Housekeeping Institute tests, this machine just made so many bubbles (the company claims 4,500 bubbles per minute). If you're planning a backyard graduation party, this is an easy way to kick the festivities into high gear. Ages 3+
These cute, diploma-bearing animals are customized so they have your child's name on one paw and the graduation year on the other. You can choose either the white or the brown bear and either a black, pink or blue graduation robe. No age recommendation given
The idea of going to kindergarten might be intimidating, but your student might feel better that someone they know very well has done it already: Clifford. This book details everything that happens when Clifford goes to Emily Elizabeth's first day of school, and gets them comfortable with what might go on in the classroom. Ages 3+
This shirt comes customized with so many ways to personalize it, including every detail you'd put on a "last day of school" chalkboard sign. Choose either a white, navy or black shirt with colorful lettering. Sizes 18m through Youth S
Squishmallows aren't just stuffed friends — they're room accessories, splitting the difference between a plushie and a pillow. No wonder why kids are head-over-heels for them! Plus, they come in a huge variety of characters, so you can probably find your graduate's favorite animal in there. Ages 0+
A T-Rex has been captured, but the treasure hunter has been trapped inside! The only way to save him is through a dino dissection. Kids can dig through gooey compounds to find the figure and any other treasures that might be inside. Ages 5+
Kid testers were entertained for hours with this cute little activity book. It includes four glossy panels and 76 puffy stickers that kids can reuse over and over again. Available in a bunch of different themes, this particular one includes reusable clothing stickers like pants, skirts, dresses, shoes and accessories, so kids can get used to picking out their own outfits for school. It's great for fostering fine motor skills, creative expression and independent play.
They're probably going to get some cash as a gift from some generous relatives, so it's best to give them a safe place to put it (while learning about spending and saving to boot). The face is transparent, so they can track their savings progress without opening it. Ages 3+
Instead of a card, why not try a jigsaw puzzle? These come in other styles and designs, including boy styles. All of the puzzles can be personalized with the graduate's name.
Keep their love of science going throughout the summer with this science set. The voice of Bindi Irwin give kids scientific facts as they look through slides of plants and animals. Ages 4+
Even though they're moving on to a more academic classroom, pretend play is still so important for preschoolers. This wooden tea set will have them serving, stirring and brewing pretend treats, and parents love that it's made from sustainable rubberwood. Ages 3+
Learning Resources' Coding Critters area great early entry into coding for young kids, and a way to keep kids interested in STEM over the summer. If your kids don't like dinos, you can also get a coding cat, dog, bunny, dragon or unicorn. Ages 4+
If you're celebrating with family and friends or with the class, this set comes with 25 cupcakes perfectly sized for preschoolers. You can choose the assortment of flavors, too. No age recommendation given
Start a new tradition where you add a handprint to the back of this tee at the end of every year. As the hand gets bigger — and as the shirt fits better — you can see how much they've grown. You can personalize it with a name and class year. Size S through 3XL
So many books about kindergarten focus on the nervousness and anxiety of starting a new school but, in this book, the hero is enthusiastic to start his new school year! After the day is over, he can't wait to tell his proud parents about his day. Ages 3+
School's out for summer, and if you're hoping for a season of outdoor time, it might be time to upgrade from the toddler scooter. In Good Housekeeping Institute tests, this scooter was found to have a stable ride for those still getting the hang of it. Ages 5+
Keep their creativity sharp with this set, which lets kids use glitter without making a mess. Just put in a piece of paper, add glue, throw in the sparkles — and shake! The extra glitter is collected inside the set, so it can be re-used. Age 5+
Pre-k graduation means the summer has officially begun! This garden-themed sprinkler will have them cooling off in no time. All you have to do is hook it up to a hose. Ages 3+
Now that they've mastered the ABCs, give them a place to practice the alphabet as they play. This canvas cotton play mat is 53" in diameter, giving them lots of room to spread out. No age recommendation given
Marisa LaScalaSenior Parenting & Relationships EditorSenior Parenting & Relationships Editor Marisa LaScala covers all things parenting, from the postpartum period through empty nests, for Good Housekeeping; she previously wrote about motherhood for Parents and Working Mother.
Rachel Rothman, Good Housekeeping InstituteChief Technologist & Executive Technical DirectorRachel is the chief technologist & executive technical director at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all labs.
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