Best Tonies for 12 Month Olds: Gift Ideas for Toddlers They’ll Actually Use
If you’re searching for the perfect gift for a 12-month-old, look no further than the Toniebox. It’s screen-free, engaging, and grows with your child—and in our house, it’s been a huge hit.
My son got his Toniebox just after his first birthday, and almost a year later, he still plays with it daily. Some Tonies sing songs, others tell sweet stories, and all of them are toddler-friendly and durable enough to survive drool, drops, and endless replays.
This is my personal roundup of the best Tonies for 12-month-olds, based on what we’ve loved and played on repeat. Whether you’re a toddler mom yourself or shopping for a first birthday, these are the Tonies I recommend most.
Why We Love the Toniebox for 1-Year-Olds
- Screen-free entertainment that supports independent play
- Soft, durable figures that toddlers love to hold and line up
- Real music and storytelling from favorite characters
- Easy enough for tiny hands to use on their own
Our Favorite Tonies for 12–18 Month Olds
1. Daniel Tiger
Mom tip: It’s especially great if your toddler watches the show—they’ll recognize the music right away!
Why we love it: Plays the classic theme song + gentle stories
Perfect for: Wind-down time, car rides, or calm morning play
2. Tigger
- Why we love it: Fun, bouncy storytime that holds their attention
- Perfect for: Toddlers who love energetic storytelling
- Bonus: It pairs so well with the Pooh Tonie (see below!)
3. Olaf (from Frozen)
- Why we love it: Olaf’s real voice tells an adorable story
- What to know: Doesn’t have Frozen’s iconic songs—but it’s still a hit thanks to Olaf’s silly charm
- Perfect for: Frozen fans who love character voices and imagination
4. Winnie the Pooh
- Why we love it: Gentle stories in classic Pooh Bear style
- Perfect for: Naptime or slow mornings
- Sweet surprise: It’s a calm and cozy listen that toddlers really engage with
5. Encanto
- Why we love it: Plays real songs from the movie (yes, We Don’t Talk About Bruno is on it!)
- Perfect for: Dance parties, playtime, and when you need a fun reset
- Mom pick: This is probably my favorite—it’s the one I don’t mind listening to 10 times a day 😅
Why Tonies Make Great First Birthday Gifts
If you’re shopping for a 1st birthday, holiday gift, or just-because surprise, Toniebox figures are a toddler-safe, tech-free win. They encourage independent play and listening skills, and they grow with your child from 12 months all the way through preschool.
You can even build a collection slowly, adding new Tonies based on what they love—music, characters, animals, and more.
