Little People Toy Sets Review — The Best Toddler Gifts for Christmas & Birthdays
When it comes to buying gifts for toddlers, I always look for something that’s easy to play with, durable, and actually sparks their imagination. For our family, that’s been Little People toys by Mattel.
We started collecting them around my son’s first birthday, and I can honestly say these are the most played-with toys in our house. Whether it’s the farm, the school bus, or the camper, they all get used daily — and they’ve held up through everything from bathtub play to muddy backyard adventures.
These sets also make amazing Christmas gifts, birthday presents, or first toys for toddlers, especially between the ages of 12 months to 4 years old.
Why We Love Little People Toys
There are so many reasons why Little People sets have become our go-to gift:
- They’re great for imaginative play — toddlers can create stories, drive cars, and pretend all day.
- Durable and waterproof — perfect for bath time, outdoor play, or car rides.
- Easy to clean (and indestructible — trust me).
- Designed for small hands with rounded edges and safe materials.
- Endless options for themes — from farms and school buses to princess castles and collectible sets for adults.
And maybe best of all — these toys are truly timeless. Whether your child is one or four, they’ll find new ways to play as they grow.
Our Family Favorites
We’ve slowly built a little collection over the past couple of years, and here are the sets that have been the biggest hits in our home.
1. Little People Farm Set
Ages: 1–4 years
Why we love it: This was our son’s very first Little People set, and it’s been played with every single day since.
The Mattel Little People Farm comes with adorable animals, sounds, and tactile features — there’s a chute where kids can send animals (or toy cars… or blocks) sliding down, plus a few small levers for movement.
It’s interactive without being overwhelming. I was hesitant at first about a big red barn taking up space in our playroom, but it fits perfectly in cube cubbies and is such a classic toy.
💡 Parent Tip: It makes various sounds, but the volume is soft — a rare win for a kids’ toy.
2. Little People Yellow School Bus
Ages: 1–4 years
Why we love it: This one is a toddler dream! The Little People School Bus plays songs, has lights, and even includes three sound levels — perfect if your little one is sensitive to noise (ours is).
We fill the bus with Little People figures or even stuffed animals for “rides” around the living room. It’s easy to carry, has working doors, and keeps kids busy for ages.
💡 Parent Tip: Turn off the sounds for quiet play or car trips.
3. Little People Camper & RV Set
Ages: 1–4 years
Why we love it: This RV camper is a favorite for imaginative play. It comes with a small blue truck to tow the camper, two characters, a dog, and even a campfire setup.
Our son loves pretending they’re going camping or going on road trips — it’s such a sweet way to introduce adventure and storytelling.
4. Little People Animal Train
Ages: 1–4 years
Why we love it: The Animal Train combines two things toddlers love — animals and music. It comes with animal figures, moves on wheels, and plays cheerful songs.
It’s one of the few sets with a variety of animals, which makes it extra fun for pretend play.
Little People Sets for Girls
While most of the sets are gender-neutral, these princess and fantasy options are perfect for the little ones who love castles, carriages, and pink everything.
5. Little People Princess Castle
Ages: 1–4 years
Why we love it: This castle is truly adorable. It has interactive features, lights, and sounds, and it comes with a few princess characters to start your collection.
It’s large enough for multiple kids to play with together and makes the perfect birthday or Christmas gift for a toddler who loves fairytales.
6. Barbie Little People Convertible
Ages: 1–4 years
Why we love it: The Barbie Little People car is part of Mattel’s collaboration line and comes with two Barbie-style Little People figures.
It’s pink, fun, and durable — a great introduction to vehicles for toddlers who love pretend driving.
7. Little People Princess Carriage
Ages: 1–4 years
Why we love it: This sweet pink carriage is a smaller set that complements the castle perfectly. It rolls smoothly, and kids can easily place their princess figures inside.
It’s simple but magical — an easy add-on gift for birthdays or stocking stuffers.
Little People Sets for Parents (Yes, Really!)
Let’s be honest — we spend a lot of time in the playroom, so why not make it fun for us too?
Mattel has released several collectible Little People sets based on iconic shows and movies — perfect for parents who love a little nostalgia during playtime.
We currently have the Stranger Things Little People Collector Set, which my husband had to have. Our son calls the Demogorgon a “flower,” which feels very fitting. While that specific version is now discontinued, you can still find new limited edition sets every year.
Here are a few others worth collecting (and playing with):
Wizard of Oz Little People Collector Set
For the Wicked fans — this set includes Dorothy, Tin Man, Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion. It’s such a fun crossover for parents and kids alike.
Harry Potter Little People Collector Set
The cutest version of the Hogwarts crew you’ll ever see. Includes Harry, Hermione, Ron, and Dumbledore.
The Office Little People Collector Set
A hilarious addition to any playroom — Dwight, Jim, Pam, and Michael all make an appearance.
💡 Parent Tip: These also make great gifts for collectors or coworkers who love the show!
Why Little People Make the Best Birthday or Holiday Gift
If you’re searching for Christmas gifts for toddlers or birthday ideas, Little People toys truly check all the boxes:
- Affordable (most sets are under $50 — many under $25)
- Easy to wrap and gift
- Durable and long-lasting
- Encourage independent and imaginative play
- Perfect for both boys and girls
And as a parent, I love that the pieces are interchangeable — all the characters fit in all the vehicles and buildings. It keeps play simple and cohesive (and cleaning up even easier).
💡 Organizing Tip: Instead of collecting dozens of toy types, stick to one or two categories that can mix and match — like Little People. It simplifies storage and keeps play focused.
SALE TIP: Prices often drop during Black Friday and the holiday season, so it’s worth keeping an eye out if you’re shopping for Christmas gifts early.
