Toys My 4-Year-Old Actually Loves to Play With
"Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I may earn a commission if you click and make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. Thank you."My daughter just turned 4 years old, and while she’s not officially in school yet, she’s attending a prep class and tutoring to get ready for preschool. This is such an exciting milestone for us! By the time she’s home, she’s ready for some well-earned downtime — which usually includes screen time (because let’s be honest), creative play, and some fresh air when we can.
Over the past few months, I’ve noticed which toys consistently hold her attention — a mix of old favorites and a few new finds. I thought I’d share what’s working in our home right now, in case you’re looking for real-mom toy inspiration for your own little one’s play corner.
Pretend Play Favorites
Target Shopping Cart + Basket
She lives for pretend shopping — these get used daily, filled with play food, random household items, and of course, her favorite dolls and plushies.
She loves pushing her doll or plush around in her little stroller — it’s a key part of her daily play! We couldn’t find the exact one, but here are similar sets.
Princess Dress-Up, Mermaid Tail & Pretend Makeup
My daughter loves a transformation. Whether it’s a costume change or a pretend spa day, she gets into character like a little diva.
Kitchen Playset
Still going strong! Her pretend meals are elaborate, and she plays “chef” daily.
Princess Tea Party Set
This was one of her 3rd birthday gifts, and it’s still a favorite. She hosts tea parties with dolls and plushies nearly every week.
Cleaning Play Set
Whenever I’m cleaning, she grabs this Melissa & Doug set and “helps.” So cute!
Creative + Sensory Play
Play Dough + Slime
Not my favorite for cleanup, but excellent for sensory play and unwinding.
Coloring, Tracing, Drawing & Painting
She loves all things art! We rotate supplies to keep it fresh.
Handwriting Practice Books
We recently ordered a reusable tracing book set — she's hooked, and it’s helping prep for school!
Mega Blocks Toys Set
Tried-and-true favorite for years — she builds towers, cities, and whatever she dreams up.
The Play Kits by Lovevery
One of the best investments. These kits grow with her and promote open-ended play.
Outdoor Play
For outdoor play, I try my best to take her to the park or go for walks around the neighborhood as often as I can—kids need sunlight and fresh air too.
Kick Scooter
A gift from her aunt, and we take it to the park almost every week. She’s improving her balance and confidence each time.
Sidewalk Chalk, Bubbles & Balls
These have been around since she was younger, I believe — and honestly, bubbles are always a win-win for any kid. She’s just recently started playing with balls at the park too, which has been fun to watch.
Books for Bedtime
We read 2–5 stories every night, and books are still part of our daily rhythm — just like when she was a baby. Each child has their own favorite, but we’ve loved the Dr. Seuss collection, from the little board books to the larger storybooks. We’re still reading them now, enjoying a mix of her favorites…
Final Thoughts
As a working mom, I do my best to make time for her. Watching her play and grow reminds me how quickly she’s changing — and how precious this stage really is.
Sure, there’s mess, noise, and cleanup. But through it all, I see her learning, creating, and becoming more independent every day.
These everyday moments — books, play, laughter, and even the chaos — are the ones I’ll always treasure.
She has plenty more toys that come and go, but these have truly become the constants in her daily play — the ones that consistently spark her imagination and keep her engaged. If you’re looking for reliable, fun toys for your preschooler, these favorites might just make the cut in your home too!
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