1st Birthday Gift Guide
Lovely gift ideas for little ones turning one
Shopping for a one-year-old? Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, mate, or the honorary auntie/uncle, it can be hard to find something that’s fun, well-made, and doesn’t end up lost under the sofa after five minutes.
We’ve put together a list of great 1st birthday gifts, no gimmicks, no stress, just things that are useful and nice to look at. Everything’s sorted by budget to make it even easier.
Simple Gifts under €25
Tambourine
A wonderful first instrument that makes just enough sound to delight a one-year-old without driving anyone mad. This wooden tambourine is light to hold and easy to shake, helping little ones explore rhythm and cause-and-effect. The muted colours and smooth finish mean it looks good left out too.
Tambourine by Mamamemo - €10.95
Stacking Tower
Soft, safe, and endlessly stackable. The Vanja tower is made from food-grade silicone that’s gentle on gums and easy to grip. Each ring fits perfectly in small hands and can be chewed, squeezed, or stacked in any order. It’s the kind of toy that stays in play long after the first birthday.
Vanja Silicone Stacking Tower by Nuuroo - €20
Wooden Rainbow
A classic for a reason. The Ruby rainbow can be stacked, sorted, balanced, or turned into whatever a child imagines. Made from FSC-certified wood in warm, rich colours, it grows with your child from simple building to imaginative play. Beautiful on a shelf, even better in use.
Wooden Rainbow by Pinolino - €24.95
Luxe Gifts under €50
Dinner Set
Turning one means moving on from baby purées to proper family meals, and this set makes that stage feel special. The Marius dinner set is made from plant-based bioplastic and designed for real life — lightweight, dishwasher-safe, and durable enough for daily use. The muted colours and smooth shapes keep mealtimes calm and simple, even when things get a little messy.
Premium Gifts under €100
Motoric Cube
Curious little ones will love this cube of surprises. Each side offers something to twist, spin, slide, or sort. It builds fine motor skills while keeping their attention for longer than you’d think. Solid wood, smooth edges, and calm colours make it both durable and lovely to look at.
Motoric Cube Sanna by Pinolino - €69.90
Activity Walker
For those first wobbly steps. The Titus walker helps babies find their balance with a sturdy frame and smooth-rolling wheels. The front panel has small activities to keep hands busy when feet need a rest. It’s practical, steady, and beautiful enough to leave out in the living room.
Activity Walker Titus by Pinolino - €69.90
Balance Board
One simple shape, so many ways to play. The balance board can become a bridge, a slide, a rocker, or a quiet reading spot. It builds strength and coordination while inviting imagination. Made from responsibly sourced wood and finished in a gentle tone, it’s both sturdy and elegant.
Balance Board by Kinderfeets - €99.95
Seriously Special Gifts over €100
Pikler Triangle with Arch
Climb, crawl, rock, or rest. The Pikler set encourages movement and confidence at every stage. The arch doubles as a bridge or slide, turning everyday play into something adventurous. Built from solid wood with a natural finish, it’s designed to grow with your child for years.
Pikler Climbing Arch by Kinderfeets - €119.95
Learning Tower
For the child who wants to be part of everything. The Learning Tower gives them a safe way to reach the counter and join in with cooking, washing up, or pretend play. It’s adjustable, stable, and made from beautifully finished wood. A lovely way to turn daily moments into shared time.
Learning Tower by Pinolino - €129
In a nutshell
Looking for a first birthday gift that feels just right? This guide pulls together our favourite ideas from the Sāaru shop. Everything is well made, useful, and lovely to look at, the kind of things kids actually play with and parents are happy to keep around.
We’ve grouped them by budget: Simple, Luxe, Premium, and Seriously Special, so you can find something that fits what you’re after. Whether it’s a soft toy, a stacking tower, or a big-ticket gift like a learning tower or balance bike, there’s something here that’s ready to be unwrapped and enjoyed.
Cover Photo by Shayna Douglas on Unsplash
