Parenthoodroutine.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Scouting for the best Children Rocking Horses Toy

Likes:
Views:
21
Last Updated: 21 March 2023
wooden rocking horse

Are you looking for a toy that will keep you child engaged and happy for a long time, then you should introduce the timeless and best children rocking horses into their toy collection?

Toys are a great memory of our wonderful childhood days. I am sure most of us have this one toy that we hold on to very dearly. It has a very special place in our hearts. If you are reading this article, you are sure going through this nostalgic feeling. There is this rocking horse toy that is quite popular from the yester years. Today satisfying your child is a big challenge as they tend to lose interest in a particular thing or toy very easily.

In the olden times, this toy was mostly made of wood. Over the years this toy has witnessed a lot of changes and additions like music, battery powered, soft cushion material seat etc. Let’s take a detailed look at the various types of rocking horses we have in the market today. This review article aims at finding the best children rocking horses 2023.

Top 10 Best Children Rocking Horses: Comparison Chart

Most Attractive
Radio Flyer Interactive Riding Horse
Best Safety
Little Tikes Rocking Horse
Animal Adventure Real Wood Ride-On Plush Rocker
Labebe - Baby Rocking Horse
Little Bird Told Me Rocking Unicorn
Radio Flyer Chestnut Plush Interactive Riding Horse
Little Tikes Rocking Horse Magenta
Animal Adventure | Real Wood Ride-On Plush Rocker | White and Pink Unicorn | Perfect for Ages 3+
labebe - Baby Rocking Horse, Ride Unicorn, Kid Ride On Toy for 1-3 Year Old, Infant (Boy Girl) Plush Animal Rocker, Toddler/Child Stuffed Ride Toy (Pink)
Little Bird Told Me Celeste & FAE Rocking Unicorn, Pink
$169.99
$29.99
$59.99
$126.99
Price not available
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Material
Plastic, Steel, Fabric
Plastic
Polyester Fabric , Wood
Cotton
Fabric, Wood
Item Dimensions
36 x 41 x 21 inches
33.5 x 11.5 x 16.5 inches
28 x 12 x 22 inches
25 x 12 x 27 inches
30.3 x 12 x 26 inches
Item Weight
23 Pounds
8 Pounds
3.7 Pounds
11 Pounds
16 Pounds
Most Attractive
Radio Flyer Interactive Riding Horse
Radio Flyer Chestnut Plush Interactive Riding Horse
$169.99
-
-
Material
Plastic, Steel, Fabric
Item Dimensions
36 x 41 x 21 inches
Item Weight
23 Pounds
Best Safety
Little Tikes Rocking Horse
Little Tikes Rocking Horse Magenta
$29.99
-
-
Material
Plastic
Item Dimensions
33.5 x 11.5 x 16.5 inches
Item Weight
8 Pounds
Animal Adventure Real Wood Ride-On Plush Rocker
Animal Adventure | Real Wood Ride-On Plush Rocker | White and Pink Unicorn | Perfect for Ages 3+
$59.99
-
-
Material
Polyester Fabric , Wood
Item Dimensions
28 x 12 x 22 inches
Item Weight
3.7 Pounds
Labebe - Baby Rocking Horse
labebe - Baby Rocking Horse, Ride Unicorn, Kid Ride On Toy for 1-3 Year Old, Infant (Boy Girl) Plush Animal Rocker, Toddler/Child Stuffed Ride Toy (Pink)
$126.99
-
-
Material
Cotton
Item Dimensions
25 x 12 x 27 inches
Item Weight
11 Pounds
Little Bird Told Me Rocking Unicorn
Little Bird Told Me Celeste & FAE Rocking Unicorn, Pink
Price not available
-
-
-
Material
Fabric, Wood
Item Dimensions
30.3 x 12 x 26 inches
Item Weight
16 Pounds
Happy Trails Rocking Haley Horse
Happy Trails Plush Rocking Pony
Qaba Kids Metal Plush Ride-On Rocking Horse
Rockin' Rider Turbo Rocking Horse
Happy Trails Dusty Rocking Horse
Happy Trails Rocking Haley Horse Ride On
Happy Trails Plush Rocking Patricia Pony
Qaba Kids Metal Plush Ride-On Rocking Horse Chair Toy with Realistic Sounds - Dark Brown/White
Rockin' Rider Turbo Rocking Horse Ride On, White
Happy Trails Dusty The Rocking Horse Ride On
$49.85
$50.98
$101.11
$73.95
$65.32
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Material
Wood, Fabric
Wood, Fabric
Polyester, Metal
Polyester
Wood, Plush
Item Dimensions
28.5 x 13.5 x 26.5 inches
28.75 x 11.125 x 26.5 inches
27.95 x 19.69 x 9.25 inches
30 x 12 x 25 inches
25.6 x 29.14 x 11.03 Inches
Item Weight
1 Pounds
8.64 Pounds
3.74 Pounds
7 Pounds
6.15 Pounds
Happy Trails Rocking Haley Horse
Happy Trails Rocking Haley Horse Ride On
$49.85
-
-
Material
Wood, Fabric
Item Dimensions
28.5 x 13.5 x 26.5 inches
Item Weight
1 Pounds
Happy Trails Plush Rocking Pony
Happy Trails Plush Rocking Patricia Pony
$50.98
-
-
Material
Wood, Fabric
Item Dimensions
28.75 x 11.125 x 26.5 inches
Item Weight
8.64 Pounds
Qaba Kids Metal Plush Ride-On Rocking Horse
Qaba Kids Metal Plush Ride-On Rocking Horse Chair Toy with Realistic Sounds - Dark Brown/White
$101.11
-
-
-
Material
Polyester, Metal
Item Dimensions
27.95 x 19.69 x 9.25 inches
Item Weight
3.74 Pounds
Rockin' Rider Turbo Rocking Horse
Rockin' Rider Turbo Rocking Horse Ride On, White
$73.95
-
-
-
Material
Polyester
Item Dimensions
30 x 12 x 25 inches
Item Weight
7 Pounds
Happy Trails Dusty Rocking Horse
Happy Trails Dusty The Rocking Horse Ride On
$65.32
-
-
Material
Wood, Plush
Item Dimensions
25.6 x 29.14 x 11.03 Inches
Item Weight
6.15 Pounds

Best Overall - Radio Flyer Interactive Riding Horse Review

Radio Flyer Interactive Riding Horse
  • 3 LEVELS OF RIDING: Chestnut responds to your toddler’s motion with life-like sounds triggered by three levels of riding action: walking, trotting and galloping.
  • PLUSH FABRIC: The deluxe plush coat and padded head are soft to touch and invite hugs.
  • SAFETY FRAME: The innovative steel “X” frame base with the EZ climb step allows easy on and off for riders. The springs are also covered for protection.
  • ACCESSORIES INCLUDED: The comb, carrot and bandana accessories are included. The carrot activates chewing sounds when “fed” to Chestnut. The comb allows the horse to be groomed and encourages imaginative play.
  • SPECIFICATIONS: Assembled product dimensions: 36” L x 41” W x 21” H. Maximum weight capacity 60 lbs. For ages 2 – 6 years.

Perfect for Small Indoor or Outdoor Play - Little Tikes Rocking Horse Review

Little Tikes Rocking Horse
  • One of Little Tikes' classic items is back!
  • Small size
  • Perfect for small indoor or outdoor play areas
  • Seat is designed to keep kids from falling forward or back
  • Easy grip handles; Made in USA

Cool Design: Animal Adventure Real Wood Ride-On Plush Rocker Review

Animal Adventure Real Wood Ride-On Plush Rocker
  • STURDY: Well-crafted to handle everyday usage
  • COOL DESIGN: Soft embroidered details & added seat accessories bring personality to each character. And movable reins sized for small hands are sure to ignite the imagination.
  • KIDS 3+ YRS: Animal seat suitable for children 3 years and older.
  • SPOT CLEAN: Damp cloth allows for quick surface wash.
  • ASSEMBLED: Delivered complete and ready to play.

Award Winning: Labebe - Baby Rocking Horse Review

Sale
Labebe - Baby Rocking Horse
  • AWARD WINNING - The unicorn design won the award from Melbourne and Nuremberg toys exhibition for the fabulous plush animal design. The structure and rocking horse appearance are all originally designed by our French team . It is specially cute and sturdy. You will only find those ride on unicorn, plush rocking horse at Labebe store and your kids will be extremely surprised and happy to have such a wooden rocking horse for birthday gift or Christmas gift.
  • Perfect Soft for Baby Skin - The filled PP cotton are all well stitched inside the plush fabric, sewing are neatly done, baby's little butt is completely protected by softness and you won't find any fiberfill come out from corner, Unicorn will stay solid even when roughly pulled by babies. The abundant pp cotton are spread evenly at every corner, this ensures the comfort. Your child will enjoy it with this baby ride, baby rocking horse. This animal rocker, rocker toy will be a BFF.
  • Sturdy Structure - Solid wood and MDF (Medium Density Fiber) are used to make the structure, solid but not too heavy to rock. The wooden structure and rails are rounded and examined manually, to give a smooth surface, not to scratch kids' clothes and skin. All the Materials are strict to the Toys Safety Standards ASTM/CE F963 in USA and EN75 CE in Europa. This unicorn ride on , child rocker will make you child safe growth as a baby riding toys,rocker infant.
  • 3-Side Seat with Belt - Seat designed for small kids who have less balance capability than older kids, a 3-sides high rack seat guarantees that kids will be always protected while rocking, also the racks are well stuffed with pp. cotton, leaning against it won't hurt a hair, just pure comfort! Also it is a suitable rocking horse chair or toddler rocking horse, a must-have rocking horse 1 year old girl. So the girls ride on, riding unicorn is suitable to you baby dut to it's plush rocker.
  • Certified Safe Material - The 3rd generation plush fabric is soft, stain-resistant and pill-free. Stains can be removed by wet rag with baking soda powder. The PP cotton used is breathable in summer. Solid wood and MDF (Medium Density Fiber) are used to structure but not too heavy to rock. Material are strict to Toys Safety Standards EN-71 CE in European and ASTM F963 in US. All of these make it a suitable rocking horse nursery or rocking chair for kid.

Plush Pal Included: Little Bird Told Me Rocking Unicorn Review

Little Bird Told Me Rocking Unicorn
  • This ethereal unicorn is sure to take little girls on an enchanting imaginative adventure!
  • Celeste the rocking unicorn features an exquisite starry printed fabric body in delicate shades of pink and grey.
  • Silvery soft chenille mane, tail and saddle.
  • Heirloom quality rocking unicorn
  • Includes a plush pal beautiful fairy bunny fae, who lives in the unicorn's pocket

The Most Realistic - Happy Trails Rocking Haley Horse Review

Sale
Happy Trails Rocking Haley Horse
  • Age: 2-3 years
  • Stands on sturdy wooden rockers
  • Dimensions: 28.5" L x 13.5" W x 26.5" H inches
  • Seat Height:17 inch

Gallop Around the House: Happy Trails Plush Rocking Pony Review

Sale
Happy Trails Plush Rocking Pony
  • Dimensions: 28.75" x 11.125" x 26.5"
  • Age: 3-4 years
  • A Happy Horse and a Happy Trail

Lightweight and Long-lasting: Qaba Kids Metal Plush Ride-On Rocking Horse Review

Qaba Kids Metal Plush Ride-On Rocking Horse
  • CLASSIC TOY WITH AUTHENTIC SOUNDS: Combines a traditional plush horse design with updated features such as electronic neighing and galloping sounds when the ears are pressed.
  • SOFT HUGGABLE PLUSH BODY: A softly padded polyester plush body and comfortable riding saddle recreate the look and feel of thrilling horseback riding adventures.
  • SAFE AND GENTLE ROCKING: Smooth rocking runners let your child feel like they are actually riding a galloping horse without the danger of actual riding.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT AND LONG-LASTING: Features a solid and stable metal frame that weighs only 4 pounds while still supporting up to 88 pounds of weight.
  • PERFECT FOR AGES 3 AND UP: This quality Qaba toy is recommended for children age 3 and up and provides a fun experience for older kids as well.

Meet your new Rocking Horse - ockin' Rider Turbo Rocking Horse Review

Rockin' Rider Turbo Rocking Horse
  • Soft stuffed plush rocking horse
  • Beautiful wood base
  • Press left ear to hear the exclusive "I'm a little Pony" song
  • Press right ear to hear 6 fun talking phrases and realistic horse sounds
  • Moving mouth

Enjoy Hours Riding with Happy Trails Dusty Rocking Horse Review

Happy Trails Dusty Rocking Horse
  • Dimensions: 29.14" x 11.03" x 25.6"
  • This soft, plush Rocking Horse from Happy Trails is sure to be your cowboy or cowgirls favorite toy
  • It is hand crafted with a wood core and stands on sturdy wooden rockers
  • Your little one will enjoy hours riding the range on this wonderful Rocking Horse from Happy Trails

Buyer’s Guide: All You Need to Know About the Best Children Rocking Horses

Why is it so important to go through so much research and comparison prior to purchasing a toy for your little one? The simple answer would be to get the best for your tiny tot. You need to make sure that it is safe, age appropriate and most importantly understand if your child will like it or not. I am sure most parents will agree that it is no easy task to choose a toy for your child. There are many considerations you will have to look into to make sure you are making the right choice. In the buyer’s guide we will discuss in detail some of the points to keep in mind while looking for a rocking horse for your little one.

what is a rocking horse

What is a rocking horse?

This is a toy in the shape of a horse that is usually mounted on rockers. It is something similar to a rocking chair where kids can sit on it and rock back and forth. These rocking toys make for a great pass time similar to a swing. Kids can pretend like they are riding a horse which will further ignite a lot of creativity and imagination of the little one.

What age is a rocking horse for?

Rocking horse toys are ideal for kids aged 1 to 6 years. However, kids who are less than 3 years of age should always be accompanied by an adult while playing on this toy. It is best to look at the directions on the toy which will show the appropriate age for each type. Toddlers are quite restless and want to explore new things, hence a rocking horse will be the perfect thing to keep them busy for long hours.

Children rocking horse benefits

Apart from becoming your child’s favorite pastime, children rocking horses can give your child some amazing health benefits and cognitive skills. We will see how a horse rocking chair can help in your child’s physical and mental development.

  • Helps your child develop balance and mobility – Children will learn to use their legs, hands and core muscles to move the toy forward and backward. This will help them learn the concept of balancing which is an important step to initiating walking and running. These toys will also help them improve their motor skills as they hold on to the handles. It is a great toy to teach kids coordination of hands, arms, feet and legs.
  • Calms down or soothes kids – Today most kids are quite active and it is hard to keep them calm once they start crawling or walking. Using the rocking chair can help calm down their hyper activity. Even if they are a bit cranky or overwhelmed, the back and forth motion can soothe even the crankiest kid.
  • People also use rocking horses for children as a way to soothe kids with autism and as an organized way to start off their day.
  • Promotes thinking and imagination in kids – Your child will start a host of pretend plays once he is on this classic toy. This way he will assume to be a cowboy or an officer chasing the baddies or a pilot trying to negotiate his way through troubled skies. You will be surprised at the many ways this toy will improve his imagination and creativity. It will also help in developing language, emotional and social skills of your little one.

How to Choose the Best Children Rocking Horses

What age is a rocking horse for

Here are some of things to look out while buying this toy:

Size

Pick the size that would be ideal for your child’s height and weight. Having said that it is ideal to invest in one that the child can use over a period of time. Kids will never get tired of this toy and would want to have them even as they grow older.

Age range

This is very important as some of the variants may not be suitable for all ages. Especially the fancy plastic ones that come with small parts. This may not be safe for your toddler. Rocking horse for 1 year old will not have those small removeable parts and will be made of softer materials.

Weight limit

Check for the weight capacity of the toy to make sure it can hold your child. These details will be mentioned on the toy label or the cover. Most of the rocking toys that are available will support a maximum of 150 pounds of weight and the minimum being 15 pounds. Ones that have a lower weight bearing capacity is easily prone to wear and tear and may become unusable as your child grows. So, invest in one that has a good weight bearing capacity to ensure long term use.

Materials

Today you will able to find these toys made from different material such wood, plastic. Soft cushion materials etc. Plush rocking horse almost resembles a soft toy that gives your child all the comfort while playing on it. Whatever be the material used make sure it provides a sturdy frame and comfort.

wooden rocking horse
  • Plastic

These are affordable and come in different colors and designs. Plastic rocking horse are quite attractive with unique and innovative designs.

  • Wood

For those who love the classic look and feel of the ride on rocking horse, this is the best option. It will last longer and who knows you should also be able to pass it on to the next generation. There is one that comes with an antique and vintage look that will not only be a great toy but also a great addition to the décor of your child’s room.

Fabric

Pay attention to the type of fabric used on the cushion type of rocking horse. Make sure the fabric is not such that it collects a lot of dust as it might lead to allergies. Choose a light weight and washable fabric. Also if you are using it as an outdoor toy, it would be best to use a wooden rocking horse rather than one with fabric.

Durability

Best Rocking horse should be one that lasts for a long time. This is one toy that can be used over a long period of time. Wooden rocking horses are a matter of prized possessions that is usually passed on from one generation to the other.

Safety

You will need to pay special attention to the safety aspect while buying one for your baby. The best baby rocking horse should have all the safety gear such as a padded seat and security straps.

Extra features

Today you will find many fancy additions to the rocking horse such as rocking horses with sound, with wheels, spring rocking horse and so on.

girls rocking horse
  • Music – There are ones that come with preloaded music of hit numbers or rhymes. They will need batteries to operate. It also has the neighboring and galloping sounds of the horse which make its feel like an actual horse ride.
  • Lights – girls rocking horse come in bright colors with attractive lights and sound effects as well.
  • Automatic riding actions – rocking horse with wheels come with automated ride options, these would be ideal for older kids say 5 years and above.

Price

This depends on the quality and the material used. If durability and safety are of prime importance for you then you can go for slightly higher end models. You will also get cheap rocking horse made from durable plastic material that is good on your wallet and also makes sure your kid gets to enjoy the benefits of this toy.

Best Children Rocking Horses Types

All the different types of rocking horses available fall into the two categories mentioned below.

Classic rocking horses

These are the ones made from solid wood such as oak or maple. This traditional design is one that has been the best friend of kids for many generations. They come with supportive handles and railings for the safety of your child. You can assemble the parts easily with the help of the manual.

interactive rocking horse

Interactive rocking horse

These come with many additional features to make the rocking experience more fun and interactive. You will find rocking horse with sound that come with authentic sounds of a horse and the galloping. One fitted with wheels and lights, there are some that come with preloaded songs, music and rhymes to help kids develop their vocabulary and language.

Safety Tips When Using a Rocking Horse

Security is of prime importance while letting your child play on this functional toy.

  • Toddler rocking horse should have adequate padding and safety as your child might get hurt if the edges are sharp. It is best to invest in a plush version with good quality fabric so your child is both comfortable and safe.
  • Go for the one that has a stable base to avoid mishaps of your child tripping from the toy. If you child is using a spring rocking horse make sure it is covered properly to avoid any kind of discomfort from pinching.
  • Place it on a mat so that even if your child trips she/he will not land on a hard surface. For younger kids always make sure they are playing on the toy under adult supervision. Do not place it on surfaces that are smooth as it might easily slip sideways.
  • Outdoor rocking horses installed in your child’s outdoor play area should be cleaned properly to make sure it is not slippery.
  • If they are used in nurseries, daycare or preschools, the toys would have to be installed with adequate spacing so that children can make sure they do not hit other toys or objects while rocking.

Best Children Rocking Horses FAQ

Time for some Q&A session. Here are our answers to some of the commonly asked questions on the rocking horse toys. Most parents are often worried about the safety of such toys. This section will address all such fears and concerns parents have about this toy.

classic rocking horses

Is Rocking Horse good for toddlers?

Yes, they are good for toddlers. At this age they start exploring and love having animal lookalikes as their toys. This will help them develop their imaginative and cognitive skills. Kids will be able to improve their hand and legs coordination and social skills. It also helps in developing the muscles in their upper body. These are sure some of the best outdoor toys for toddlers.

What children's skills can rocking horses help to develop?

Best rocking horse will help your child learn how to balance themselves. They will learn to have how to get a firm grip using their hands and legs. It will teach them how to use their hands and legs to move objects. The interactive versions will introduce them to the world in speech and language.

Your child will develop his emotional and social skills by way of interacting with his imaginary friend and this will certainly qualify for the best toys for toddlers.

Are rocking horses safe?

Yes, if you use the child rocking toys with adequate safety considerations, it is not only safe but also the best toy for your child. Even if your child trips or falls from the toy make sure he/she lands on some soft materials like a play mat to avoid any injuries or sprains.

How to select the right size of the wooden rocking horse?

This is very important for the safety of your child. If your child is 18 months old, then it would be best to invest in one that is closer to the ground (less height from the base). This will help the child balance better in case he trips from the toy.

Verdict and Our Recommendation for 2023

After having gone through the best top selling options of rocking horses available, we have managed to choose this one that satisfies all the requirements of a perfect toy. Our top pick is a spring rocking horse that makes 6 different types of fun talk phrases, famous songs and sounds when you press his right and left ears respectively. He also has his mouth moving when the songs or phrases play. Your kid will soon become friends with this talking horse buddy that will take her for joyous rides. It has a soft and huggable design that makes it look like a stuffed toy in motion. Motion activated galloping sounds are fun and gives a realistic feel of horse riding. It comes with a durable steel frame and spring covers.

With all the safety, comfort and fun combined in one product, our recommendation for the best children rocking horses 2023 is Radio Flyer Interactive Riding Horse.

We hope you find our article helpful in choosing the right toy for your little bundle of joy. For more information on best toys for kids visit parenthoodroutine.com. Write to us in the comments section if you have any questions, suggestions etc.

Contents

Please rate this article

Current rating:
4.8/5
Based on 471 users feedback
PRODUCTS TESTED BY Parenthoodroutine.com
How We Tested

We have presented you with our rocking horse reviews to help you choose the best based on the best-selling variants in the market. Our reviews are based on the user feedback and opinions. We have used the inputs from experienced users to form the basis of our recommendations. Interviews with parents, day care managers, preschool teachers and caretakers have all been considered while formulating our opinion on the best varieties of rocking horses in the market. Our primary concern while preparing this article was the safety and comfort of children while they use this toy. So, you can trust our opinions without any concerns.

Share your thoghts
Please fill required fields
Please fill required fields
Please fill required fields