The 31 Best Gifts for a 3-Month Old Baby of 2023

Best Gifts for 3-Month Olds — Verywell / Chloe Jeong

At 3 months old, a baby is graduating from the newborn stage and quickly developing important milestones, like following moving objects or grasping and shaking toys. Now that they’ve been welcomed by their family, this is a thoughtful time to give a gift.

According to Neonatal Occupational Therapist, Clinical Specialist Lauren Ashley Quinn OTD, OTR/L, "Three-month-old play activities can include time spent in tummy time (on their stomach) to promote strengthening and motor development, as well as time spent engaged with caregivers while talking, reading, and singing for cognitive [and] intellectual development. Mirror play can encourage visual skills and enhance motivation for play," so opt for toys and gifts that encourage their stage of development.

Whether you’re gifting your new addition or that of a close friend or relative, items that help simplify parents’ routines or aid their transition are likely appreciated. Gifts like developmental toys that encourage baby’s growth are beneficial as well, as long as they’re age-appropriate and safe. We considered toy safety, age recommendations, ease of cleaning, and design when reviewing products. A pediatric psychologist from our Review Board reviewed the contents of this article for accuracy in terms of safety concerns and practicality.

In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected
What to Look For
Why Trust Verywell Family

Walmart

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Pros

Machine washable
Develops sensory skills
Safe and soft material comforts children

Cons

Design could be more sturdy

The Bright Starts Tummy Time Prop & Play Mat ranks high on our list because the mat can be used as a child grows to help promote developmental milestones, like raising their head or grasping toys. Suitable from birth to 3 years old, the mat helps develop sensory skills with its crinkle sounds, rattle, teether, baby-safe mirror, and comfortable prop pillow. The soft and plush material makes it the perfect place for little ones to hang out.

Price at time of publication: $30

Amazon

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Pros

High-contrast images encourage visual skills
Helps teach meanings of words
Attachable link for on-the-go activity
Easy-to-flip pages

Cons

Some might not find images highly stimulating

With high-contrast black and white colors, this soft book will easily catch the attention of little ones. Each page features a different image and pattern to help babies connect to the things they see around them. The crinkly sound and easy-to-flip pages will encourage them to strengthen their hand-eye coordination as they explore the book. It's recommended for babies who are newborns and older.

Price at time of publication: $9

Amazon

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Pros

Podiatrist-approved
Light and portable to move around home
Natural bouncing develops stronger gross motor skills
Turns into a soft chair

Cons

A bit expensive for some

Surround a little one in a cozy, soft, and ergonomic seat. With proper support and natural rocking action, it’s quite comfortable for the baby. Highly rated, the chair folds flat for easy storage and is safe for 8-pound newborns to babies up to 29 pounds.

Price at time of publication: $210

Dyper

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Pros

Made from soft, hypoallergenic, responsibly sourced bamboo
No chlorine, perfumes, alcohols, latex, and toxins
Has pH wetness indicator for easy detection

Cons

Can run larger than other brands
Design could use some more work

By the three month stage, babies are running through up to 12 diapers or more per day. Help the parents out with a subscription to high-quality, premium diapers that will arrive at their door on a schedule that suits their needs.

Dyper provides bamboo diapers that are free of chlorine, latex, and other toxins. With a mission to limit their impact on the environment, Dyper even offers a program where parents can send their used diapers back to be composted responsibly.

Price at time of publication: Starts at $18

4.2

Amazon

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Pros

Has convenient music control
10 melodies total
Easy to wipe down and clean

Cons

Musical sound may be unfavorable to some
Speaker could use some work

Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes Musical Toy Review

Easy to hold and fun to play with, this musical toy is a hit with most babies. It’s safe for ages 3 months and up, and many parents find it’s a great distraction tool to use when a baby is crying or fussy. With volume control options and 10 delightful tunes, little ones will love this toy for years to come.

Price at time of publication: $10

Verywell Family / Michelle Piccolo

Neiman Marcus

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Pros

For bedtime and leisure
Snap detail creates easy diaper changing
Machine washable

Cons

A bit expensive for some

What is more adorable than a tiny human in a pair of classic pajamas? This onesie from Petite Plume will move from bedtime to lounge time thanks to the delightfully soft brushed flannel fabric. The snap detail makes diaper changes super easy, so they can wear it all day long.

Price at time of publication: $48

Amazon

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Pros

BPA-free
Included Soothie pacifier used by doctors calms newborns
Pacifier and toy detach for easy cleaning

Cons

Pacifier not sewn in to toy

This toy and pacifier combo is perfect for curious yet fussy 3-month-olds. The adorable detachable elephant plush gives babies something soft to hold in their hands while the soothing pacifier relaxes them. When the plush gets extra slobbery and dingy, you can remove it and pop it in the wash.

Price at time of publication: $16

Amazon

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Pros

Unisex
Machine washable
Easy-on yet secure hook-and-loop closure

Cons

Runs small

Kiss missing baby socks goodbye! These highly rated baby booties will keep little feet warm, and thanks to a secure hook and loop closure, they won’t get kicked off. A choice of six colors and three sizes make these a great gift, especially for cold winter months.

Price at time of publication: $40

Coco'Pie

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Pros

Snap detail creates easy diaper changing
Four sizes to grow into
Black-owned business; handmade item

Cons

No sizes for babies under 3 months

Give the gift of style with a cute onesie featuring a beautiful school girl, handmade by a Black-owned business. The snap closure creates easy access to diaper changes for parents. Three onesie color options and four different sizes mean you can choose a size that fits right now or one to grow into.

Price at time of publication: $16

Courtesy: Amazon

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Pros

Adjustable dividers offer seven compartments for keepsakes
Ten acid-free files protect childhood documents
Convenient, built-to-last magnetic closure

Cons

A bit expensive for some

Sentimental parents will love this keepsake box. They will be able to neatly store all the mementos that don’t fit in a baby book. Organize all of the baby's heirloom treasures like first shoes, first tooth, and more in two caddies, two drawers, and seven other compartments.

Price at time of publication: $75

Amazon

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Pros

Name tag side pockets to retrieve from a filing cabinet or bookshelf
Convenient and easy snap closure
Nursery-colored labels

Cons

A bit expensive for some
Plastic design could crack over time

Gift new parents with the gift of organization! This baby briefcase has a spot for all of baby’s important papers, medical records, and more. Made of frosted plastic, it has a sturdy clip and snap closure, a photo pocket, and a handy pen slot.

Price at time of publication: $35

Amazon

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Pros

Made from soft, warm cotton
Neckline to feet snap for convenient diaper changing
Includes matching hat

Cons

Runs big

Little girls will look so sweet in this cute floral print footie onesie. Made of 100 percent cotton, it snaps from neck to toe for easy diaper changes. This comes with a matching hat to make it the most adorable set.

Price at time of publication: $16

Amazon

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Pros

Made from super soft cotton
Great finishing touch to any outfit
Includes three headbands with designs

Cons

No larger sizes

Darlyng and Co, a Black-owned business, has created the perfect accessory for any adorable outfit. Each knotted headband is made from velvety soft cotton and has a cool design. They’ll fit kiddos from 0 to 24 months old.

Price at time of publication: $13

Amazon

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Pros

Safely made from food-grade-painted natural rubber
For ages 0 to 5 years
Encourages sensory development and imagination

Cons

Hand wash only

Getting the baby to munch on their greens will be a breeze with this kale-inspired teething toy. Made of 100 percent baby-safe, natural rubber derived from the Malaysia Hevea trees and painted with food-grade paint, you won't have to worry about the baby chewing on this toy. Perfect for sensory play and imaginative play, this toy is designed for babies from newborns up to 5 years old.

Price at time of publication: $20

Amazon

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Pros

Bestselling author-illustrator booklet
Rich artwork for visual stimulation
Fosters early reading skills

Cons

Thin construction

Stock a newborn’s baby library with one click with this awesome box set of classic Eric Carle board books. Filled with classic stories and stunning artwork, baby's attention will be captured by the swirl of colors. The six books are all engaging and will instill a love of books and reading from an early age.

Price at time of publication: $49

Amazon

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Pros

Comes in thirty-plus colors and seven sizes
Light, flexible sole encourages natural foot movement
Stylish in design yet supportive in material

Cons

Runs small
Construction could use some work

These ultra-soft leather moccasins are so cute and stylish. Perfect first shoes, the flexible leather helps to promote the natural movement of tiny feet for supreme comfort. Choose from over 30 colors and seven sizes.

Price at time of publication: $30

Pottery Barn Kids

View On Potterybarnkids.com

Pros

Made from soft, 100 percent organic cotton
Safe yet comfy for fun play
Washable for easy cleanup
Has handles for rolling up and going

Cons

White color can easily appear dirty
Can be a bit expensive for some

Heading to Grandma's or a friend's house will be easier with this roll-and-go play mat. Made of uber soft, 100 percent organic cotton, this muslin play mat gives the baby a comfy place to play no matter where they are. After playtime is over, this mat can be just tossed in the wash for easy cleanup.

Price at time of publication: $79

Amazon

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Pros

Encourages tactile and sensory development
Easily machine washable
Page details crinkle, stretch, and reveal pictures

Cons

Cloth not as sturdy as traditional paper

Promote sensory development and fine motor skills with a hands-on book that includes attached pieces that crinkle, stretch, and reveal hidden pictures. The brightly colored book features a different picture on each page that the baby will adore. The machine-washable soft book is safe for all ages.

Price at time of publication: $17

Amazon

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This carrot-shaped teether has just what little ones need for teething pain relief: soft material and different textures. It’s made of silicone, so you can toss it in the freezer for baby and easily wipe it clean when needed. Built-in handles allow tiny hands to navigate the teether with ease, while different textures provide sensory exploration.

Price at time of publication: $5

Lovevery

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As babies transition out of the newborn stage, toys like the ones offered in Lovevery Play Kits are key to helping children hit important developmental milestones. Subscribe to Lovevery, and babies will receive a box of age-appropriate toys, like a rattle or soft book, every two to three months as they grow up. Plus, it takes the guesswork out of finding that perfect gift, and you can cancel the subscription at any time.

Price at time of publication: Starts at $80

4.5

Amazon

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You get three toys in one with the Winkel—a teether, sensory, and rattle. The toy features soft, continuous non-toxic tubes for the baby to gnaw on, a center cube that doubles as a rattle, and a sensory experience when tiny hands explore the toy. The Winkel measures 5 x 4 x 3.5 inches, so it’s small enough to fit in the diaper bag but not too big for a 3-month-old baby.

Price at time of publication: $14

Amazon

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Gift little ones a day at the beach (sort of) with a tummy time mat that fills with water. Babies will be able to splash the day away without making a mess thanks to the leak-proof PVC material. Sea creatures inside the water tummy time mat move around with each move the baby makes. Plus, the mat measures 26 x 20 inches, so it’s big enough for a baby to grow with.

Price at time of publication: $28

Amazon

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Encourage tummy time play with this colorful toy bar from Baby Einstein that’s recommended for babies 3 months old and up. The toy bar includes three modes of play–animals, colors, and xylophone—all in three different languages. While the toy lays flat for tummy time, it also props up with the built-in stand as the baby begins to sit up.

Price at time of publication: $23

Amazon

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For a personalized baby gift, look no further than this adorable bedtime book that’s fully customizable. Choose the baby’s character and add their name to the cover and throughout the story to create a book they can cherish for the years to come. Plus, you can even add your own dedication on the first page and preview the whole book before buying.

Price at time of publication: $43

Amazon

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This double-sided activity board grows with little ones thanks to its multi-use options. One side of the toy features a sensory-packed boat filled with gears, beads, a mirror, and vibrant colors, while the opposite side has crinkle flaps that lift up to reveal numbers and fun sea-themed prints. The baby activity board even props up for functional play and folds in half for easy portability.

Price at time of publication: $17

Nordstrom

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Pros

Interactive
Doubles as nursery decor
Variety of animals available

Cons

Some elephants don't play "Do Your Ears Hang Low"

Say hello to your baby's new best friend: Flappy the Elephant. This adorable elephant plays fun songs, like "Do Your Ears Hang Low," and interacts with little ones through a game of peek-a-boo when you press buttons in the feet. If you're not a fan of the elephant, the company offers the same amount of fun in different animal options.

Price at time of publication: $45

4.3

Amazon

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Made of 100% organic cotton, the Burt’s Bees wearable blanket (aka sleepsack) is soft to the touch, comfortable, and available in a variety of sizes and fun patterns. A zipper closure allows uncomplicated access to change diapers, while the interior zipper guard and zipper cover provide extra protection. Plus, the wearable baby blanket is an ideal option for transitioning out of the swaddle, and it’s also machine washable for easy cleaning.

Price at time of publication: $25

Walmart

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This black and white baby play mat will keep littles entertained thanks to nearly 20 interactive toys and developmental activities. An adjustable arch creates a variety of modes to play, while attached animal friends provide babies with a companion during tummy time. And, because the mat is machine washable, it also doubles as a changing pad.

Price at time of publication: $70

Etsy

View On Etsy

Pros

All-night and nap time comfort
High-quality organic cotton for sensitive skin
Unisex design

Cons

One size option

Create your own matching set with swaddle blankets, knotted hat, and wooden teether. The gorgeous fabric is 100 percent organic cotton and has a lovely, gender-neutral botanical floral pattern. The wooden details give this set an heirloom-quality aesthetic that parents will adore.

Price at time of publication: $10+

Amazon

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While each child develops at their own pace, some babies can begin solids as early as 4 months old. This feeding set helps littles transition to solid foods by including mealtime must-haves: Two bibs, two spoons, one bowl with a lid, one plate, and one reusable food pouch to hold homemade purees. Plus, the entire set is dishwasher- and freezer-safe and can be sterilized in boiling water for extra cleaning.

Price at time of publication: $30

Amazon

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Pros

Made from safe, soothing soft material
Easy to hold
Much room to find comfort in

Cons

Might be too small for older babies

One squeeze of this super cozy soother, and any baby will fall in love. The super-soft friend is like a stuffed animal and security blanket rolled into one. Plus, there are tons of adorable styles to choose from, like animals and flowers.

Price at time of publication: $24

How We Selected the Best Gifts for 3-Month-Olds

We chose the best gifts for 3-month-olds by studying the design and features of more than 60 baby products on the market and researching reviews from customers and competitors. We also monitored shopping trends to bring you the best and most up-to-date offerings on gifts for 3-month-olds. We considered toy safety, age recommendations, size, material, ease of use, design, milestones, and value when reviewing products.

We also spoke with Neonatal Occupational Therapist, Clinical Specialist Lauren Ashley Quinn, OTD, OTR/L, to find out what to look for in gifts for 3-month-olds, as well as how to keep babies playing safely. We chose gifts for 3-month-olds that are easy to use for the recommended age group, give parents and caregivers a little break, and help littles reach those important developmental milestones.

What to Look for When Buying Gifts for 3-Month-Olds

Age-Appropriate

The most important thing to be mindful of when shopping for a baby gift is whether or not it is age-appropriate, both developmentally and in terms of safety. At around this age, babies are able to lift their head and chest during tummy time, are able to open and close their hands and bring their hands to their mouth, are starting to recognize familiar objects, beginning to imitate sounds, and swipe at dangling toys. Based on these developmental milestones, soft rattles, tummy time activities, play gyms, board books with basic shapes and pictures, and toys with sound, such as the Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes Toy, make great options.

Since babies are learning how to grasp and bring their hands to their mouths, you’ll want to make sure there are no small parts on the toys you give them and that they are made from materials that are safe for babies to put in their mouths and easy for adults to wipe clean. Additionally, since most babies are not yet rolling over by three months, avoid any large toys, sleepers, bouncers, etc., that could be a suffocation risk.

Usefulness

At 3 months old, there are still plenty of products parents and caregivers need for their baby, so consider getting a gift that will help make their lives a little easier. A bouncer, such as the BabyBjorn Bouncer Balance Soft, can help soothe a fussy baby (which is truly a gift for tired parents), diapers and wipes are always in high demand, onesies and footies are daily attire at this age, and you can never have enough pacifiers for a 3-month-old.

Parents and caregivers are still in survival mode when their baby is 3 months old, so look for gifts that will help soothe the baby, save mom and dad some money, and will keep the baby entertained while encouraging development.

Toy Safety

Because babies love putting toys into their mouths, safety is of the utmost importance. When buying toys for a 3-month-old baby, skip the toys with small pieces as they pose a choking hazard. Instead, ensure the size of the toy and its parts are bigger than the baby's mouth. Additionally, avoid toys made with small batteries or loose magnets, which can cause serious, life-threatening injuries if ingested.

Why Trust Verywell Family

Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of a 10-year-old son, 7-year-old son, and 3-year-old daughter. Her go-to new baby gifts are classic books. She loves having her older kids pick out some special books for a new baby. Oh, and a homemade dinner (or sweet treat) for the new and very tired parents is always appreciated.

Additional reporting by:

Katrina Cossey is a commerce writer for Verywell Family with nearly eight years of experience under her belt. She is a parent herself and researched gifts that would provide parents and caregivers a small break without sacrificing the baby’s development. She recommends a couple of items on this list she has used herself, such as the Burt’s Bees Wearable Blanket and Splashin'kids Inflatable Tummy Time. Her son used the wearable blankets immediately after birth, while the water tummy time mat was a big hit when her son hit the 3-month milestone mark.

More Toys and Gifts for Kids

When it comes to toys and gifts for kids, our team has you covered. The Verywell Family team of editors (who are parents or have nieces and nephews of their own) have tested, gifted, and personally recommend every item we feature. Find more of our top gift and toy picks for every age and stage here: