Finding the perfect gift for kids can be a playful adventure, especially when it comes to choosing the right toys. This holiday season, many shoppers turn to IKEA for creative and engaging toy options that spark imagination and curiosity.
Ever wondered why grown adults are fighting over stuffed toys in the IKEA checkout line? Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the adorable world of IKEA soft toys that have become global sensations!
1. BLÅHAJ: The Shark That Swam Into Our Hearts
Meet BLÅHAJ, the cuddly shark that’s causing a feeding frenzy worldwide. This soft, huggable shark has become an unlikely internet celebrity.
Why is everyone going crazy for a stuffed shark, you ask? Well, at nearly 4 feet long, BLÅHAJ is the perfect size for cuddling, using it as a pillow, or even as a makeshift body pillow. Plus, its derpy smile and soft blue color make it irresistibly charming, BLÅHAJ has truly become a cultural phenomenon.
2. DJUNGELSKOG: The Bear-y Lovable Giant
If you thought BLÅHAJ was big, wait until you meet DJUNGELSKOG. This massive brown bear is so huge, it’s practically furniture!
Standing at a whopping 3 feet tall, DJUNGELSKOG is less of a toy and more of a cuddly roommate. Its soft, fluffy fur and adorable round eyes make it impossible to resist. People have been known to use DJUNGELSKOG as a pillow, a chair, or even a stand-in dance partner.
3. JÄTTELIK: The Dinosaur That Didn’t Go Extinct
Who says dinosaurs are extinct? JÄTTELIK, the adorable plush dinosaur collection, is very much alive and taking over children’s rooms worldwide. From the long-necked Brontosaurus to the fierce T-Rex, these prehistoric pals come in various sizes and species. They’re perfect for budding paleontologists or anyone who wants to recreate “Jurassic Park” with a much cuddlier cast.
4. AFTONSPARV: The Green IKEA Alien
The IKEA AFTONSPARV alien soft toy has become a huge hit, and it’s easy to see why. Its quirky, colorful design is super fun and different from the usual stuffed animals you see. Kids love it because it sparks their imagination and makes playtime more exciting. Social media has also played a big role in its popularity, with people sharing cute and funny pictures of the toy. It’s often out of stock. So if you see one, get it before it goes home.
5. IKEA Play Kitchens
The DUKTIG Play Kitchen is a favorite among kids who love to mimic their parents in the kitchen. Its compact design is ideal for small spaces, which is perfect for families living in cozy apartments. The kitchen encourages creativity, allowing children to engage in imaginative play.
Accessories like the DUKTIG toy kitchen utensil set can further boost the fun, providing kids with tools that resemble real ones. These small additions make make-believe more engaging for little chefs.
IKEA has also introduced an upgraded play kitchen called SILLTRUT which looks very similar to the DUKTIG. However, this one has a few more bells and whistles — knobs that turn and make a sound, open shelving at the bottom, and a modern grey finish.
6. MÅLA Easel and Drawing Paper Roll
The MÅLA Easel is an IKEA staple that parents can’t resist and is a great solution to keep their young artists’ masterpieces off the walls. It offers flexibility with options like a blackboard and a whiteboard. It also accommodates a roll of drawing paper, which can turn the easel into a canvas for various art projects.
The easel’s design includes softwood material that is easy to assemble and move. It folds flat, making it convenient to store or transport. This feature ensures that even those with limited space can enjoy its benefits. The MÅLA Drawing Paper Roll, available in 32-yard lengths, pairs perfectly with the easel, offering ample space for children to explore their artistic abilities.
7. SKRATTMÅS Obstacle Course
The SKRATTMÅS Obstacle Course is a great pick for kids who love to move and explore. It provides a fun way for children to engage in activities like jumping, crawling, running, and rolling. Set up those hurdles and let the kids dribble a ball between cones for added excitement.
Perfect for both indoor and outdoor play, this obstacle course can be a hit during a rainy day at home or at a lively children’s party. If the young ones want a challenge, they can time themselves to beat their own records or compete with friends.
Another fantastic feature of the SKRATTMÅS set is its flexibility. The hurdles can be adjusted to suit different age groups, offering low positions for crawling or higher ones for jumping. So, whether the kids want a simple path or something more challenging, they can adapt it to their liking.
IKEA developed this course with insights from experts such as Swedish Olympic gold medalist Carolina Klüft. Their expertise ensures that the course not only offers fun but also helps in building confidence and promoting physical activity in children. For more details, check out the SKRATTMÅS obstacle course.
8. BYGGLEK LEGO sets
BYGGLEK LEGO sets are a delightful collaboration between IKEA and LEGO, merging the fun of building with practical storage solutions. These sets are more than just building blocks—they offer a creative way to keep play areas tidy. The boxes come in various sizes, each designed specifically for storing LEGO pieces or showcasing completed projects.
What makes BYGGLEK unique is its dual functionality. Kids can build directly onto the lids of the storage boxes, making them both play surfaces and preservation spaces for their creations. This feature allows children to seamlessly transition from play to storage, reducing clutter without halting their imaginative adventures.
9. LILLABO Train Set
The LILLABO Train Set from IKEA provides endless fun for kids who love trains. Designed to fit together easily, these wooden tracks can be rearranged into numerous configurations. Children can mix and match the cars and trains, sparking creativity and enhancing their problem-solving skills.
The train set also supports the development of motor skills, concentration, and hand-eye coordination. Its affordability makes it popular among parents looking for quality toys without breaking the bank. With prices beginning at $10 for a basic set, it’s easy to expand over time.
10. CIRKUSTÄLT Play Tent
The CIRKUSTÄLT Play Tent from IKEA is perfect for creating a cozy little hideaway for kids. With its vibrant red, blue, and white colors, it quickly becomes a favorite spot for imaginative play.
Setting up the tent is a breeze, making it easy to assemble and take down as needed. This feature is great for parents looking for toys that are both engaging and easy to manage.
The tent’s fabric is polyester, with at least 90% being recycled material, making it an eco-friendly option. It comes in a convenient mesh bag, simplifying transportation whether for indoor or outdoor play.
11. BARKBORRE 7-piece toy doctor’s set
The BARKBORRE 7-piece toy doctor’s set is perfect for kids who enjoy imaginative play. It helps them learn about health and medical tools, making it a thoughtful gift for children interested in becoming a doctor.
This set encourages role-playing between a doctor and a patient. This develops a child’s empathy and communication skills, which can be valuable in social settings.
Made from durable materials, the set includes tools like a toy stethoscope and syringe. These pieces are designed to be safe for little hands, offering a gentle introduction to the medical world.
12. FLISAT Activity Table
The FLISAT activity table is a versatile piece of furniture designed for children. Its main appeal lies in its ability to transform into a creative sensory table. Kids can use it for drawing, crafting, or even setting up their favorite toys.
What makes the FLISAT table unique is its compatibility with TROFAST storage boxes. These boxes fit neatly under the table, allowing children to store toys and art supplies. This design feature helps keep play areas organized, minimizing clutter in the room.
Parents love the simple yet flexible design of the FLISAT table. It grows with the child, adapting to various stages of development and interests. Whether used for coloring activities or building block towers, the table offers endless possibilities.
Moreover, the FLISAT table is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing with a natural wood finish, making it a great addition to any child’s room. It easily fits in with other furniture pieces, maintaining a cohesive look in the home.