educational gifts 2 year old boy

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• Gifts for babies and kids

The 36 Best Gifts for 2-Year-Olds

By Caitlin Giddings and Wirecutter Staff

When you’re trying to keep up with the developing skills and interests of a 2-year-old, it can feel like you’re sprinting (sometimes literally) or playing a guessing game.

The most engaging toys for 2-year-olds offer lots of different options for hands-on, manipulative play. Kids this age may be able to use their fine motor skills in more-precise ways, such as for stacking, fitting, and twisting smaller pieces. Some 2-year-olds are still engaging primarily in “parallel play.” And some are now interested in playing with others, so simple board games may help them to practice sharing and taking turns. Toys that let a 2-year-old slide, wiggle, scoot, bounce, or otherwise expend some of their boundless energy are also likely to be a hit.

Playful pegs

Skoolzy Peg Board Set

These simple, rainbow-colored pegs encourage young kids to build tall towers or weave them together with string.

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Soon after my oldest daughter started preschool, I asked her (then 2) what she liked to play with in the classroom, and she answered, “Pegs!” I bought Skoolzy’s Peg Board Set for our home, and I was fascinated to see how intently she and, subsequently, her younger siblings played with them on their own. The brightly colored, stackable pegs offer 2-year-olds just the right level of challenge and open-ended play: Kids can fit the pegs into holes on the included foam mat, stack them one on top of the other to see how high they can go, or string them on a shoelace. Despite the simplicity of these pegs, my kids would pull them out of the toy bin again and again.

—Courtney Schley

A first piggy bank

Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Piggy Bank

This cheerful pink piggy bank makes a rewarding sound each time one of the 10 plastic coins is dropped through the slot.

When my daughter was a toddler, she received the Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Piggy Bank as a gift, and as far as noise-making plastic toys go, this one is a winner. She liked being rewarded with the pig’s cheerful responses and songs when she pressed its snout or dropped the large coins through the slot. And I liked how mercifully brief—and not too loud or grating—the songs and noises were. The pig helps kids develop motor skills and also teaches colors, numbers (in Spanish, too), and other important stuff. I’m impressed by how well this bank held up through years of rough treatment (and that it used just two pairs of CC batteries in all that time).

—Winnie Yang

Music together

Welcome to the Symphony: A Musical Exploration of the Orchestra Using Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5

Kids learn about classical music and hear the sounds of the clarinet, trumpet, and other instruments in this entertaining, interactive book.

Combine Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 in C Minor with some charming mice narrators and— da-da-da-dum! —you’ve got Welcome to the Symphony: A Musical Exploration of the Orchestra Using Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 . This accessible, interactive introduction to classical music is written by Carolyn Sloan, author of the similarly structured Welcome to Jazz (featured in our guide to the best gifts for 3-year-olds ). The book covers the orchestra, musical terms (such as dynamics , tempo , and harmony ), and groups of instruments (strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion). And while the excitement of pressing the 19 sound buttons may initially overshadow the rich text and lovely illustrations, kids can appreciate this book on deeper levels over time—think of it as an evolving performance. And grownups can’t help but feel proud when their kids are able to recognize Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 out in the world—even if it is while watching an episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood.

— Barbara Kimberly Seigel

Boats for bathtime

Boon Fleet Stacking Boats, Set of 5

Add some fun to the tub with these sleek vessels that float, pour, and stack.

May be out of stock

The Boon Fleet Stacking Boats , favorites in our guide to the best bath toys , consist of five simple vessels in refreshingly non-kiddie colors, like navy and eggplant. Small holes on the top of each boat create a gentle rain-shower effect with the bathwater, which my toddler loved, and the rims work well for scooping and rinsing. The boats nestle on top of each other, though they must be placed in the correct order to achieve a flush stack—something my daughter found either frustrating or rewarding, depending on the outcome.

— Ingela Ratledge Amundson

A soft photo album

Urban Kiddy Baby’s My First Family Album

This eight-page, double-sided cloth photo album holds 17 of your favorite 4-by-6 photos, and there’s a mirror at the end.

Filled with photos of the family we were leaving behind, Urban Kiddy Baby’s My First Family Album was a treasured gift from a relative when we moved across the country. Made with a soft, durable fabric, it holds 17 printed photos, and it’s cute enough to attract your average 2-year-old. For months after our move, my son loved flipping through the photos of “Grandma Mimi,” and he would study shots of himself with all of his cousins. And I loved that he could see family members’ faces without getting my phone involved.

— Kerry Davis McGuinness

Acrobatic robots

Schylling Wooden Stacking Robots

With notched hands and feet, these nine wooden robots can be stacked and balanced in all sorts of acrobatic ways.

When my son was a toddler, a friend gave him Schylling’s slightly sinister-looking Wooden Stacking Robots , and he still has them on display in his room at age 13. The tiny angles allow for all kinds of wacky creations, and the more robots you get (we later added a second pack), the bigger your robot trees can become. Creating a simple pyramid may make a 2-year-old feel triumphant, while older kids can construct some truly impressive designs. These blocks are the type of thing adults may find themselves leaving out on the coffee table—and even playing with themselves.

—Kalee Thompson

A toddler’s tape measure

Constructive Playthings Big Tape Measure for Kids

Made for small hands, this vinyl tape measure rolls out like a real one, with markings for inches and centimeters.

With Constructive Playthings’ Big Tape Measure for Kids , there are lots of possibilities for role-playing. This sturdy, oversize tape measure is a favorite among young kids at Toybrary Austin (a local toy-lending library in Texas), according to owner Liza Wilson. Two-year-olds enjoy pulling out and winding back the easy-rolling vinyl tape, which makes a satisfying clicking sound. Older kids love to measure and compare everything in the room using the toy’s real inch and centimeter markings; this is a great way for them to begin developing spatial awareness and concepts related to numbers, counting, and math. ( Note: This toy is recommended for kids ages 3 and up because the tape can be a choking hazard. )

—Caitlin Giddings

A fun intro to games

Educational Insights My First Game: Bears in Pairs

In this seek-and-find memory game, kids look for matching bears behind the doors of a two-story playhouse.

My daughter received Educational Insights’ My First Game: Bears in Pairs for Christmas when she was 21 months old. And she adores it—for reasons that have progressed with every passing month. At first, she simply liked to match each of the three sets of twin bears and open and shut all six compartments on their 3D plastic playhouse. Eventually she started to play the actual game, which involves flicking a spinner and trying to find the coordinating bear set. Bears in Pairs is a perfect introduction to memory matching games—without the need for reading or card shuffling.

An indoor tunnel

IKEA Dvärgmås Play Tunnel

This simple play tunnel is fun to crawl through, and it cinches up for easy storage.

When my older son was 2 years old, I found a classic, collapsible IKEA Dvärgmås Play Tunnel at a secondhand store. Five years and another kid later, it was still in good enough shape to be handed down to a different family. The littlest kids can simply enjoy the challenge of learning to crawl from end to end. Later, the tunnel becomes a cozy spot to play with other toys or a fun addition to an elaborate living-room fort (which was my kids’ favorite use for it). IKEA’s colorful polyester Cirkustält Tent also offers long-lasting fun at a low price, and we recommend it in our guide to the best gifts for 3-year olds . Availability at IKEA stores varies by location. 

A Lego starter set

Lego Duplo Number Train

An age-appropriate introduction to Lego, this Duplo set comes with a little bit of everything: Duplo people, numbered bricks, connecting trains, and a cat.

With its delightfully chunky pieces, the Lego Duplo Number Train is excellent for introducing toddlers to the joys of building with Lego bricks. The train-themed set includes blocks that are numbered from 0 to 9, four wheeled bases, and two figures (plus a cat for good measure). Kids can arrange the pieces in all sorts of configurations, all while developing their fine motor skills and immersing themselves in imaginative play. When my son turned 2, he happily took over his older brother’s collection of Duplos (numbered blocks and numerous vehicle bases included), and he never looked back—no doubt all but guaranteeing himself a Lego-filled future.

—Ingrid Skjong

Bright, bold flash cards

Mudpuppy My ABCs Ring Flash Cards

These colorful alphabet flash cards are held together with a plastic ring, which can be opened and closed.

At age 2, my son thought identifying objects was the greatest form of entertainment. As we approached the, oh, 500th reading (who’s counting?) of his 10 favorite board books, I realized we needed something new. I also realized that we didn’t own flash cards. To remedy the situation, I bought the Mudpuppy My ABCs Ring Flash Cards . The letters and words are printed in a pleasing, sans serif–like font. The bold, colorful artwork spoke to my kid—and he spoke back. Our favorite? F: A frog playing a flute for a fly.

A puzzle with a sense of place

Mudpuppy Jumbo Puzzle Map of the U.S.A.

Once assembled, this 25-piece puzzle displays a map of the 50 states, along with what each one is known for, like Idaho potatoes.

It feels as if we now own every children’s puzzle that’s ever been stamped and laser-cut into cardboard. But the Mudpuppy Jumbo Puzzle Map of the U.S.A. remains the one I pull out the most. For starters, this 25-piece puzzle is suitably challenging for my preschooler, who can confidently wield the thick, oversized pieces and eventually match together the colors and shapes of the United States. This one also serves as a stellar geography lesson and conversational jump-off for the two of us. We discuss all of the states we’ve been to, point out where our friends and family live, and plan future road trips by tracing our fingers from the image of cowboy boots (representing Texas) to the sunflowers or flamingos near her grandparents’ houses.

All creatures great and small

Schleich Farm World 4-Piece Set

Schleich’s small animal figurines are beautifully detailed and wonderful for imaginary play.

My 2-year-old is totally into cows (“moo moos”) and other farm animals, and introducing him to the realistic-looking figurines from Schleich has taken that fascination to new heights. Each tiny replica in its collection has intricate, hand-painted details, and the plastic is molded to show features like tiny bits of hair and the texture of feathers. (If you’re curious, a New England toy company provides a wonderfully detailed primer on Schleich’s history and manufacturing process; Schleich also offers some background on how it designs its figurines.) The Schleich Farm World 4-Piece Set —which comes with a cow, a sheep, a rooster, and a donkey—is an excellent place to start your collection. But Schleich also makes a variety of dinosaurs , wild animals , and fantasy creatures , sold individually or in sets. Clutching a critter in each chubby hand, my toddler happily runs around our home and places his animals in toy tractor carts and dump trucks—or just moves them around the sofa.

—Kerry Davis McGuinness

A tougher truck

Green Toys Dump Truck

Made with a rugged, long-lasting plastic, this dump truck includes a roomy, moveable truck bed.

When my kids were little, we accumulated a sizable pile of toy vehicles. The truck, plane, and boat from Green Toys are simpler (and quieter) than most. And I found that they aged better than similar toys from other companies, even when they were left for months outside in the beating Southern California sun. The Green Toys Dump Truck is a classic gift for a 2-year-old. We also had the popular Red Fire Truck and the Submarine , which carried a zoo’s worth of Duplo animals around the bathtub for several years. Everything from this company is made in the US from recycled plastic and is dishwasher-safe. (At Wirecutter, we’ve also found that the Green Toys Sand Play Set is far superior to disposable sets made of brittle plastic, and we recommend it in our guide to the best beach and pool toys .)

Puzzle plus

Melissa & Doug Race Around the World Tracks Cardboard Jigsaw Floor Puzzle

This oversize puzzle features famous landmarks and doubles as a race track.

My 2-year-old son is entranced by the Melissa & Doug Race Around the World Tracks Floor Puzzle , which brilliantly does double duty as a racetrack for wind-up cars. Assembling the 48 pieces is just half the entertainment, which is good, because he’s not yet old enough to do this without a lot of help. But he loves trying to find pieces with familiar pictures (like a lion, a croissant, or the Statue of Liberty) and then fit them together. When we’re done with the puzzle, the real fun begins: winding up two little race cars and watching them zip around the twisting, grooved track (or across the living room). I just have to be careful not to let the cars disappear into my son’s expansive collection of vehicles, since they’re the only ones that work with the track.

—Marguerite Preston

Animal lover

Melissa & Doug Pet Vet Play Set

Keep (stuffed) pets healthy with this kit that includes a stethoscope, thermometer, and cast.

My daughter has always loved animals, so she was immediately taken with the Melissa & Doug Pet Vet Play Set , a hand-me-down from her older brother. The 24-piece kit comes with everything a child needs to play veterinarian, including a stuffed dog and cat, and it’s heartwarming to watch her show care and empathy for others. She also uses the tools on (human) family members, and I think the exposure has made her more comfortable at her own doctor visits.

—Amy Miller Kravetz

Powerful picture books

We Are Little Feminists Box Set

This boxed set includes five award-winning board books that showcase photographs of children and families from diverse backgrounds.

A picture is worth a thousand words. And the We Are Little Feminists Box Set , with five board books featuring photographs of real people, sends a message about the importance of respecting others and embracing our differences. Each book covers a distinct theme— Hair , Families , Celebrations , How We Eat , and On-the-Go —with an emphasis on representation and inclusivity. The photos—which feel intimate and joy-filled, as if you’ve been granted access to other families’ photo albums—depict kids and parents of many races, LGBTQ families (including a trans man who's pregnant, prompting curious questions from my 9-year-old), children with disabilities, and various ceremonies and faiths practiced throughout the world. The books are recommended for infants through 5-year-olds, and there are age-appropriate questions at the end to help encourage discussions about the material. It will likely be a while before my 2-year-old fully understands some of the bigger issues at play. But for now, I can confirm—with apologies to Sandra Boynton and company—that these books have surpassed my daughter’s other board books to become her new favorites.

A chunky puzzle

BeginAgain Animal Parade A to Z Puzzle and Playset

This animal puzzle’s 26 wooden pieces are assembled in alphabetical order, and they fit into a decorative storage box.

My son received the clever BeginAgain Animal Parade A to Z Puzzle and Playset as a baby gift. The chunky wooden creatures nest together in a single block, and reassembling the menagerie may provide a slight challenge even for grownups (we assembled it together over the years, but my son was 5 or 6 before he could complete it on his own). Each animal is printed with the letter that corresponds to its name (A is for Alligator, U is for Unicorn) and guides a kid into puzzling out the proper placement. The completed oblong puzzle makes this one a bit novel, and it stands upright in its wooden box—a nice decoration for a nursery shelf. The same company also makes similar puzzles with city and outer space themes. But I think the classic animal parade makes the nicest decorative piece.

An in-tune music maker

Basic Beat 8-Note Resonator Bells with Case

Unlike many other models, this rainbow xylophone set has correct pitch and plays a full scale.

For banging and making noise, just about any kids’ xylophone will do. But many of these instruments (which are actually glockenspiels, since they have metal and not wooden bars) are out of tune and terrible for learning about music. Most are toys, not tuned instruments. Our toddler played the Basic Beat 8-Note Resonator Bells in a music class, and we got a set for home. They’re durable, sound good, and allow for all kinds of musical (and other) exploration. Kids can get a hands-on feel for the sequence of a diatonic octave by ordering the blocks by size or note (each bell is marked with its letter on the scale) or by grouping two or more blocks together to experiment with intervals or chords. The bells come in a sturdy carrying case and are made to last—the ones at the music school have taken a beating from tons of kids, and they’re all still in good shape.

For the sandbox boss

Tomy John Deere Big Scoop Tractor

Tough and durable for outdoor play, this oversized tractor can scoop up large mounds of rocks and dirt.

For the kid who loves scooping sand and rocks, the Tomy John Deere Big Scoop Tractor (which has a sturdy steel-and-plastic frame) provides tons of outdoor fun. Indoors, this tractor is also fun to scoot around and scoop up toys with. My 2-year-old nephew—for whom trucks are less of a passing interest and more of a lifestyle—was equally excited that the 21-inch-long tractor is large enough to sit on. There is also a smaller, 15-inch model .

—Signe Brewster

A cooperative board game

My Very First Games: First Orchard

In this toddler-friendly board game, players work together to gather fruits from the orchard before the hungry crow reaches them.

My Very First Games: First Orchard is a cooperative board game, so rather than competing, players work together. It’s designed to teach the youngest players the fundamentals of board games: how to set up a board, roll a die, make choices, and take turns. (This game is a favorite in our guide to the best board games for kids .) To play, you match different-colored apples, pears, and plums to their respective trees, and then roll a die to try to gather all of the fruits in a basket before a pesky crow reaches them. I started playing First Orchard with my daughters when they were 4 and 2, and I was always amused to see how the race to beat the crow created just the right amount of dramatic tension to hold their interest (and, at times, it provided an opportunity to navigate the disappointment of “losing”). And even if your 2-year-old doesn’t yet have the patience or interest for the game structure, they can simply play imaginatively with the brightly hued wooden fruits.

Ball pit of fun

Kiddey Ball Pit Play Tent

This indoor/outdoor pop-up ball-pit tent offers a contained space for active play.

We purchased the Kiddey Ball Pit Play Tent a few years ago with the hope of giving my then-2½-year-old an outlet for his energy—and it came through. The tent has six sides (five of them mesh and the sixth a “door”) and an open top, so it doesn’t feel claustrophobic and is easy to clean up (you can order the tent alone and buy balls separately, or choose an option that comes with balls). Warning: At some point, expect your kid to start diving in from the top. My son loved burying himself under the colorful balls, tossing them around, and “swimming” through them. As he’s gotten older and a little sister has joined in the fun, this tent has also become a receptacle for stuffies and a favorite location during hide-and-seek. It comfortably holds two kids (and an adult). When you want to put it away, the tent folds down and fits in an included storage bag (you’ll need a separate container to hold the balls).

An endlessly versatile thingamajig

Bilibo by Moluk

This plastic, curiously shaped bowl can be a helmet, a turtle shell, a spinny seat, or whatever your child imagines.

It might not be immediately clear what a child is supposed to do with the Bilibo by Moluk , and that’s precisely the point: All ideas are valid when it comes to this sturdy, shell-shaped plastic object. Is it a helmet? Is it a seat? Is it a spinner? Yep, yep, and yep. Research shows that open-ended play fosters creativity and resilience in children, especially toddlers who are not yet accustomed to more-programmed activities with a “right” and “wrong” way. My daughter started occupational therapy when she was 15 months old. The Bilibo—which measures 15 inches across and comes in a range of bright colors—was hands-down her favorite prop. At the beginning of each session, the therapist plopped my daughter’s butt into the cupped seat and slowly twirled her around in circles (if a kid is younger than 2, they will likely need an adult’s help to keep from toppling). She’d giggle uncontrollably, all the while developing the core and neck strength needed to balance and sit up on her own. The Bilibo also comes in a miniature (4.7-inch) size ( sold in a set of six ), and it’s perfect for shoveling, scooping, and serving tea to stuffed animals; we also like it as a bath toy .

A first bike

Guardian Balance Bike

This top-notch bike is sturdy and easy to assemble, with air-filled tires, a steering limiter, and a handbrake that gets kids one step closer to riding a pedal bike.

A balance bike can help kids learn to steer, brake, and keep themselves upright on a two-wheeler from a very young age. Many families find that balance-bike riders graduate to pedal bikes earlier, skipping the training-wheels phase altogether. The Guardian Balance Bike (the top pick in our guide to the best balance bikes ) is best for kids age 2 to 4 and offers easy-to-grip handlebars, a low stand-over height, air-filled tires, and a well-constructed handbrake; the brake slows both the front and back wheels and gets kids one step closer to riding a pedal bike, since they learn how to stop without dragging their feet on the ground. My son started riding a balance bike at age 2. The Guardian quickly became his favorite because it’s easy to ride, comfortable, flashy, and that handbrake felt powerful.

—Jenni Gritters

A doll that delights

American Girl Bitty Baby

This baby doll, from the popular American Girl doll brand, is available with various skin tones, hair colors, and eye colors.

First released in 1995 to help children acclimate before the arrival of a baby sibling, this American Girl classic has evolved over the years. Today’s American Girl Bitty Baby is available in different combinations of skin tone, hair color, eye color, and outfit color; you can even customize a set of Bitty Baby Twins . The doll, a pick in our guide to the best dolls , is a hard-to-find hybrid: Its soft fabric torso and brushed-knit outfit offer some of the cuddliness of a plushie, while the molded face and operable eyelids provide the interactivity of a doll. We learned through our research into doll manufacturing that it takes great skill to design a face (including Bitty Baby’s) that’s realistic without being creepy—many cross the line . And although every Bitty Baby comes packaged in American Girl’s signature bright pink boxes, the dolls themselves aren’t assigned a gender or traditionally gendered names. Also, you can choose between pink, blue, and gray sleepers. (Note that for an additional $20, this doll comes with an optional board book and knit stuffed lamb .)

A classic hopper

Gymnic Rody

Young kids can climb onto this colorful vinyl horse, grab its ears, and bounce away.

The Gymnic Rody is a rounded, inflatable vinyl pony that’s perfect for a toddler who’s bouncing off the walls. My little kids loved to hop, scoot, and bump around the house on it. And because the Rody is soft and springy, I loved not having to worry about my children scuffing the floor or banging into walls. It’s hard not to smile at the pony’s cuddly shape, poppy colors, and cartoony cuteness (it kind of looks like a Jeff Koons sculpture). The Rody comes deflated, so you’ll need a bicycle or hand pump to start bouncing.

A desk of one’s own

ECR4Kids Bentwood Multipurpose Kids Wooden Table and Chair Set

These pint-sized wooden chairs and a table can be configured in multiple ways, including as a desk, a bench, or multiple stools.

Little ones who want a grownup space of their own will be eager to get to “work” with the ECR4Kids Bentwood Multipurpose Kids Wooden Table and Chair Set . The three-piece station—it comes with a table and two chairs—is compact and convertible. And it’s made of an attractive birch plywood. So it won’t scream “kids’ table” if you choose to keep it in one of the common areas of your home (this is something I have especially appreciated since I’ve spent a lot of time looking at it in our family’s New York City apartment). The table serves as a shallow desk with a wraparound backboard; when flipped over, it becomes a high-backed bench. The chairs can also be flipped for different seat heights as kids grow, and when the chairs are not in use, they can be tucked neatly under the table to save space. My now-5-year-old son has been using this set for almost four years, and it has survived plenty of messy art projects and snack times with minimal wear and tear. The set doesn’t require any assembly.

—Barbara Kimberly Seigel

Clattering cars

The Wooden Wagon Cascade Tower

Small wooden cars go clickety-clack as they zip down this tower’s rainbow track.

Sometimes it seems like the simpler the toy, the more engrossing it is for babies and toddlers (a theory supported by my child’s love of playing with a bookmark above all else). Of all the toys in our pediatric audiologist’s waiting room, The Wooden Wagon Cascade Tower (made of beech and birch plywood) is the one that draws the biggest and most competitive crowd of little ones. Kids can place the three-part “millipede” car at the top and watch as it works its way down to the base of the wooden tower, making a satisfying clicking sound at every turn.

To the moon and back

Lakeshore Play & Explore Rocket

This large plastic rocket opens up to reveal a homey space station.

I did not expect to love this rocket. It was a gift to my son, and at first I was like, “Okay … here’s a giant plastic thing.” But I should have had more faith. The Lakeshore Play & Explore Rocket is giant and plastic; the chunky, 16½-inch-tall behemoth stands at nearly half the height of my 2-year-old. It was also an immediate hit with our toddler playgroup. My son will do a countdown to blast-off, happily move the two peg-sized astronauts in and out of the four-wheel moon rover, and then steer them around for at least 20 minutes at a time. The red, white, and blue rocket has three pleasing levels—doors swing open to reveal the cockpit, a kitchen, a computer station, a shower area, sleeping quarters (with a fold-down bed), and a mechanic’s garage. When my son is done exploring for the day, the astronauts and moon rover can be conveniently tucked inside. (Note that this toy is recommended for ages 3 and up, though I was unable to identify any choking hazards.)

A speedy slider

PlaSmart PlasmaCar

Kids can zip around with ease just by turning the handlebar—no pedaling required.

If, like me, you live much farther south—where snow is just a mythical ground cover kids see only in holiday books—the PlaSmart PlasmaCar is the ultimate toddler toy for gliding around. The brightly colored ride moves almost as quickly as a sled across flat surfaces, without any batteries, pedals, or gears. The wheels work much like in-line skates or cross-country skis, so when the handlebar is wiggled rapidly, the car moves forward through lateral friction force. Toddlers can achieve exhilarating speeds with just the occasional push and steady cranking of the handlebar. The PlasmaCar is sturdy enough to hold up to 220 pounds, so adults may be able to tear around the house a few times too—strictly to conduct safety checks, of course.

Slumber-party snuggles

Pottery Barn Kids Shaggy Head Bear Sleeping Bag

Great for indoor sleepovers, this sleeping bag features a snuggly bear-head pillow, as well as adorable little paws.

Over the years, my mom has given each of her grandkids one of these Pottery Barn Kids personalized sleeping bags as a crafty enticement to stay over at her house. More of a slumber-party sleeper than the kind of bag you’d take camping , the soft zip-up rolls easily and has two straps for carrying and storage. My daughter loves the Shaggy Head Bear Sleeping Bag ’s pillow and cotton shell—it’s ideal for cozying up on the floor to play games or to watch a movie. She also adores that her name is on the bag. But be warned: The monogram font is a bit cramped and hard to read compared with her cousins’ earlier editions. If you decide to personalize, I’d recommend one of the blockier fonts.

A ride for the snow

L.L.Bean Kids’ Pull Sled and Cushion Set

This high-quality, easy-gliding sled should last through multiple kids (or even generations).

Babies and toddlers don’t need to tear down hills at breakneck speeds to have a blast in the snow—they’re mostly content with being pulled around in a comfy, well-constructed sled like the L.L.Bean Kids’ Pull Sled and Cushion Set . I’ve had this classic wooden sled for nine years—through four kids—and it’s still in great shape (it’s a top pick in our guide to the best sleds ). This sled has smooth-gliding wooden runners that are reinforced with metal bars, for durability. Its supportive side rails keep tots from tumbling out; they also make this sled an accessible option for kids working on their trunk strength. So with its classic red cushion, this sled is like a snow stroller. It’s expensive, but it will last through many winters—or even generations.

—Doug Mahoney

An indoor trampoline

The Original Toy Company Fold & Go Trampoline

Kids can jump, exercise, and release excess energy with this indoor trampoline.

Our pediatrician recommended a mini trampoline, like The Original Toy Company’s Fold & Go Trampoline , as a tool to combat toddler constipation. I can’t say definitively that it was effective for that purpose, but it worked great for bouncing out a lot of pent-up energy. And it was generally a big hit with our own kids as well as with any visiting friends. The trampoline obviously takes up some space, but our two kids used it just about every day from the ages of (roughly) 2 to 5.

—Dan Koeppel

A kid-size kitchen

IKEA Duktig Play Kitchen

Play kitchens inspire fun, imaginary play, from whipping up a tasty meal to washing the dishes.

The compact, white-and-birch-colored IKEA Duktig Play Kitchen is enduringly popular for good reason: It’s sleek, relatively durable, costs less than most play kitchens, and is neutral enough to blend seamlessly into nearly any decor, like a sneaky Scandinavian chameleon. If you’re more of a play-kitchen maximalist, KidKraft kitchens come in a variety of sizes and configurations, including ones with refrigerators with built-in ice makers. Whatever play kitchen you choose, your young chef is sure to stock it with all kinds of ingredients, edible and otherwise, soon enough (think stray socks, rotting strawberries, forgotten field-trip permission slips). You can add Learning Resources’ baskets of colorful fruits and veggies to that treasure trove. Or get your kid’s collection of cookware started early with Melissa & Doug’s Let’s Play House Stainless Steel Pots & Pans Playset , featured in our guide to the best gifts for 3-year-olds . Availability at IKEA stores varies by location. 

A chair (and then some)

Children's Factory Cube Chair

This sturdy chair can be flipped around and used in multiple ways: as a 6-inch seat or, when a child grows taller, as a 9-inch seat. Turned on its side, it can also become a table or stool.

My toddler needed a more-supportive (read: less flimsy) first chair. And as her parent, I needed the peace of mind from knowing she wouldn’t tip over while sitting in it. A physical therapist introduced us to the Children’s Factory Cube Chair , which is stable without being heavy. It’s made of a lightweight plastic that’s much easier to maneuver than the Montessori-style wooden furniture we’d tried before. But what makes this chair a true winner is the 6-inch seat height with cozy “walls” on three sides; when she grows out of the lower height, I can flip the chair over and have a higher, 9-inch seat with less enclosure. Available in bright primary colors as well as more-muted “woodland” tones, the Cube Chair can also double as a side table or stool, and this versatility helps take the edge off the price tag.

A family membership to a children’s museum

Thinkery Gift Membership

Children’s museums provide a kid-friendly space where they can play, explore, experiment, and learn.

For me and my wife, the gift of annual membership to the Thinkery children’s museum in Austin, Texas, was an immense relief from cabin fever when the summer heat made it impossible to be outdoors. Suddenly we had a bright, educational fortress to escape to with our then-2-year-old daughter. She loved the water science room’s cascading series of water tables, the earth science exhibit’s hurricane and tornado simulators, and the Light Lab’s magnets and mini LEDs. Memberships to children’s museums like the Thinkery make excellent gifts. They offer educational play spaces and workshops for kids. And they have special events that include adults and families, such as Pride nights and parents’ night out.

Additional reporting by Julie Kim. This article was edited by Ellen Lee and Kalee Thompson.

Meet your guides

Caitlin Giddings

Caitlin Giddings is a freelance writer based in Austin, Texas. Her work has appeared in Bicycling, Runner’s World, Lonely Planet, Outside magazine, and more.

Wirecutter Staff

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Further reading

The 30 Best Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Kids

by Ingrid Skjong and Wirecutter Staff

Stocking stuffers can be small but meaningful presents. Whether they’re traditional, whimsical, or practical, they add a final touch to gift giving.

The 28 Best Gifts for 7-Year-Olds

by Ellen Lee and Wirecutter Staff

Many 7-year-olds are ready for more challenging games and toys, including puzzles and STEM-related activities.

The 33 Best Gifts for 4-Year-Olds

by Kelly Glass, Caitlin Giddings, and Wirecutter Staff

Toys that encourage building, puzzling, role-playing, and creating will engage curious 4-year-olds.

The 34 Best Gifts for 6-Year-Olds

by Kelly Glass and Wirecutter Staff

DIY kits, craft activities, and board games make great gifts for 6-year-olds who are ready to tackle projects and follow more-complicated instructions.

Mommy Maker Teacher

From Pregnancy To Toddlerhood

75+ Best Educational Toys and Gifts for 2-Year-Olds

As a certified K-12 teacher, I am all about educational toys! My core value as a teacher was to “sneak the learning in.” I wanted to make learning so much fun that my students didn’t realize they were learning in the process!  So, I wanted to do the same regarding my own kids.

Now that I’m a seasoned toddler (boy) mom, I have also picked up a few tips for choosing the best educational toys for two-year-olds, which I’ll share.

Feel free to browse the list visually–that’s how I find ideas for my own kids–or read the little blurbs with each toy to see how I use them for teaching. Stick around at the end for important developmental milestones to look for at this age and my recommendations to meet them! 

This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase something through one of these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for the support!

⚠️ SAFETY WARNING: Always supervise your children when playing. Many of these toys contain small parts that could be choking hazards. Do not play with toys with small parts if your child still puts things in their mouth. Anything that fits through a toilet paper tube is considered a choking hazard. Many of these toys are rated for 3+ and while my child is developmentally ready for them, your child might not be. Always read the manufacturer warnings and labels to understand age requirements.

Tips For Choosing Educational Toys

Often, I go to friends’ houses and see their dolls and trucks scattered all over the house while the puzzles, flashcards, and books collect dust on the shelf. It’s so important to carefully choose your educational toys with these tips in mind so that they become the *most* used toys in the house!

• Toys you want to play with: You will spend the most time with these toys. If you think it’s awesome, your kid will too. 
• Multipurpose: Find toys that can be played with in many different ways (I’ll give examples). 
• Your child’s interests: My older son (4) has always loved blocks. Instead of changing his interests, we broadened his idea of what blocks are. We have Magnatiles, Duplo, Lego, Squigz, Tinkertoys, Melissa and Doug construction blocks and MegaBloks.
• Brand trustworthiness and durability: If you’ve got a toddler at home, I’m sure you’ve been burned by discount toys that have broken within a few uses. At this point in my career and parenting, I go with brands I trust (you’ll start to see a pattern with my recommendations!) and opt for the most durable option. Educational toys are an investment , so you want them to last. 
• Ignore gender stereotypes: Your little girl might love dolls, and your little boy might love trucks, or the opposite might be true. At this age, it’s all about creating a well-rounded human who feels confident as an independent problem-solver, leader, and caregiver as they age.
• Variety: You shouldn’t expect to hear Beatholven on a mini piano at two years old… But you should explore music , science, art, and literature with your little one to tap into their uncovered interests and talents. 

Pro Tip: Looking for toys and activities for babies and toddlers of other ages ??

Check Out My Other Toy and Activity Guides:

• Activities For A 4 Month-Old
• Toys And Gift Ideas For 9 To 12 Month Babies
• Activities For a 14-Month-Old Busy Toddler
• Educational Toys and Gifts for 2-Year-Olds
• Outdoor Toys for 2-Year-Olds
• Airplane Toys for Toddlers
• Music Players For Toddlers

Side Story: I recently got weird looks at my son’s birthday party when his gifts were about nurturing. I got him a baby carrier for his doll, a feeding set (you know, those “magic” bottles), some doll clothes, and diapers. Of course, his other presents included Hot Wheels, Spiderman, and a GIANT garbage truck. He barely looked at my toys while we were at the party. And everyone assumed that he would never play with dolls, even if I wanted him to… But guess what? As soon as everyone was gone, the *first* thing he did was find his baby, put him in the carrier, and feed him a bottle. These are the nurturing skills that I want to teach my children! Regardless of what everyone else thinks ?. 

Books 

You might think your two-year-old has no interest in books, probably because you haven’t found the right ones yet!

My two-year-old is obsessed with books … But it wasn’t until recently. He discovered one of my older son’s Pop-Up Peekaboo books, one of his favorite things to do since. Before that, he would try and tear the pages or chew on the spines!

These interactive books captivate little learners.

• Huge, detailed pop-up displays.
• Cute story lines.
• Themes for all interests (animals, vehicles, trucks, holidays, and more).

The pages are filled with pokable dots (they remind me of the push tabs on soda cups!).

At 2-years-old these books are great for engaging toddlers and developing hand-eye coordination.

As your child ages, Poke-a-Dot books have hidden games and challenges to do (like counting, Eye Spy, and more).

• Every page has a unique texture to feel.
• Children are eager to turn the pages.
• Teaches kids about their sense of touch.

I love these lift-a-flap books because your toddler can hold on to them themselves without worrying about ripping or tearing the page.

Each page has a hidden object to find that goes along with the storyline.

• Doubles as a search and find.
• Lets children learn authentic sounds of animals, automobiles, nature, and more.

Puzzle books are new to the scene and so much fun for little kids.

• Move the puzzle pieces to their slots throughout the book and become part of the story.
• Use the book as just as puzzle.

$25.99	N/A	$19.32

Pro Tip: Get your books from the library! Especially if you’re not sure what kind your child likes. Check out a few different types, see what they like, and invest in that series. 

Puzzles 

Recently, I’ve been loving puzzles that double as other things (like that Melissa & Doug puzzle book!).

Puzzles can teach pattern and shape recognition, fine motor skills, and problem-solving. Puzzles can also be a bit boring for toddlers . Look at these puzzles that teach your kid all the skills while maintaining an element of play. 

• Use the magnetic spoon to pick up scoops and toppings and place the scoops into the cones and bowls! The cone and bowl pieces have slots to stick ice cream.
• Give your child custom ice cream orders and watch them make it.
• In the end, solve the puzzle to clean up!

Note: I was disappointed that the entire puzzle isn't magnetic (that would make storing it so much easier!). Only the ice cream scoops and toppings are magnetic.

• Fish with the included magnetic fishing rod!
• Practice colors and name recognition with your toddler ("can you catch the blue one?" or "can you catch the turtle?").
• When you're ready to clean up, complete the puzzle to put it away.

You might not think of Velcro food as a puzzle, but it is! Recognizing the shapes and colors that go together and connecting the pieces is what puzzles are all about.

Teach your child fine motor skills associated with cutting and preparing food as well.

This is a quality set and another example of a hidden puzzle. The menu lets your child see pictures and recreate the cones. They can also see which pieces fit together and which don't.

Coding and STEM Toys 

Do you wish you knew Javascript and or HTML? Me too! (although I’ve had to learn a lot as a blogger over the years). Teach your child coding and immerse them in science and engineering with my favorite STEM toys .

• These little guys are the cutest (see their fox and lizard also!).
• Create paths using PUZZLE pieces.
• Coding Critter will follow your path.
• Teach engineering symbols like straight lines, loops, turns, and wavy lines.
• Open-ended play: Coding Critter will follow any black line. Grab your masking tape and create tracks all around your house!

• Things I love: It's super-simple (only goes forward and only turns left), never runs out of battery, and is virtually indestructible.
• Things I don't love: It's super simple (yes, this was also something I originally loved!). Once my son got a little older, he outgrew this toy. I prefer toys that last a little longer. The range is short. Stand too far away, and your car won't go.

Final Verdict: Although my son outgrew this in about a year, I would still purchase it again. The simplicity made it easy for him to learn the controls in one sitting. The speed was perfect, and it is heavy-duty but never scuffed my walls!

I have to admit, I might have a little too much fun with this toy as a 30 year old woman!

Take the car apart and build it back together with the functioning drill.

Teacher Take: This drill wins over some of the others on the market because it has a novice-level drill bit that makes it easy for even little hands to operate.

It also has a reverse function (for taking apart or fixing mistakes).

Finally, you can use the toy car for pretend and imaginative play.

The fun of tools, without the worry of small pieces for toddlers still putting things in their mouth.

Teach your child how to use different tools and the motions associated with them.

Each card has a theme with several learning modes and games.

• Teach your child about touch screens and buttons without screen time.
• Only offer one card at a time to make the toy seem new and exciting for each user.

Note: This is not a toy that I own or have used. I found it online while looking for another toy. I think it's really awesome and might become a birthday present in the near future!

Musical Instruments 

• Strum mode lets you strum the strings like an actual guitar.
• Turn off strum mode and "play" pre-made songs.
• The buttons on the guitar neck play musical notes.
• Select between acoustic, electric, and "barking" guitar sounds.

My kids have a blast with this guitar. They can make their own songs or play along to existing ones!

If you haven't yet bought this for your child, now is a great time!

Not only does this double as a musical instrument and pull toy, but you can also practice colors by having them hit the colors as you say them. Teach them songs this way!

My kids can't get enough of this music player ( one of many we own ).

They can sing pre-recorded Cocomelon classics or sing their songs through Bluetooth. It teaches kids about music and singing for joy.

All of the fun of a drumset without the noise!

• Play the drums by hitting the pads with the drumsticks.
• Several modes allow your child to play their own songs, stick to a beat, recall patterns, and more.

We have an actual piano at home that my two-year-old loves to play. We can play simple songs together.

I love this kid's piano: It has color-coded keys matching the included color-coded songbook. The color-coded notes are shown on a lined sheet of music and identified with a color and letter. Kids can learn music notes by color first, letter second, and finally on sheet music.

I can't say enough good things about the Tonie player. It's a top music player for children, and they've now introduced audiobooks!

We have a Toniebox and a Yoto player . I love them both, and so do my kids.

The Toniebox is great for younger children with shorter attention spans (shorter tracks) and who are more clumsy (it has soft sides that land with a soft bounce).

• Buy character song soundtracks and audiobooks.
• Listen through the speaker or connect headphones.
• Creating your own characters lets you upload custom playlists with infinite possibilities.
• Record your voice and "read" stories to your child.

I have the Yoto Mini , but I recommend the Original Yoto player for children under 3. It's bigger and can sit on a shelf, vs. the Mini, which could be easily dropped or lost. We also have a Toniebox player , which we love, but Yoto offers more variety and customizability for parents.

• Listen to endless free content (daily podcasts and radio stations are free!)
• Create your own Yoto Cards with up to 100 tracks.
• Control the Yoto player remotely from the parent app.
• Connect headphones with a wire or Bluetooth.
• Set daytime and evening parameters (including turning it off after bedtime).
• Use it as a white noise player.
• Built-in alarm clock.
• Built-in okay-to-wake clock (lets children know when it's time to be in bed and when to get up with different colored lights).

Arts and Crafts 

Arts and crafts can be messy, time-consuming (to prepare and to make), and elaborate. OR they can be simple to set up, mess-free, and require no parental help. We enjoy both types of arts and crafts in my house, so I’ll give you my favorites for each!

$22.99	$18.80	$12.95

Practice colors, shapes, numbers, patterns, and stringing beads with this kit.

Teach sewing skills with this lacing toy.

The board is velcro-like (although dust and debris don't stick to it ?) and comes with colored cords of different sizes that stick to it.

Tracing cards come with it, or you can use the blank cards to create your own design.

I love that the cards and cords are stored within the board, making it easy to store.

$44.99	$12.99	$16.97

Paint sticks are so much fun!

They go on buttery-smooth and have a paint-like feel, but they are half as messy as traditional paint.

Does your baby Hercules have a habit of snapping ordinary crayons in half?

Or wind up eating more than they are coloring?!

These twistables have hard plastic outer shells, so no more snapping!

Some two-year-olds aren't ready to hold pencils and crayons. These eggs fit right in their hands and make for a traditional coloring experience.

Designed just for toddlers, these easy-grip markers teach proper finger placement.

Are all kids in love with markers? Or is it just mine!?

If your little one has mastered holding markers and you're ready for the real deal, these are my top recommendations because they don't dry out!

• Chunkier than standard dot markers (perfect for tiny hands).
• Washable (from a trusted brand!).
• 30 activity pages included to practice numbers, letters, shapes, and pattern recognition.

Pro Tip: Stock your craft supply kit with foam shapes, stickers, tempura paint, paint brushes, glue, construction paper, and more from Dollar Tree. They have a great selection of kid-friendly supplies for $1.25 each!

I could go on and on about how much we love Water WOW products from Melissa & Doug!

• Fill pen with water.
• Color pages.
• Watch the picture appear.
• Watch it dry and fade back to white.

$7.98	$7.42

If you're tired of your toddler dumping over paint pots or your paints always drying out, switch to Pop & Paint. It has a self-moistening paintbrush, eight paint colors, a palette, and a cleaning disk.

It's not the same as traditional paint, but we love this set for quick craft sessions!

$7.70	$14.97	$54.88	$7.97	$16.99

Parent-to-Parent: I love the Crayola Mess-Free system much more than my kids. There is a 1-2 second delay between using the colorless ink, and it appearing on the special paper. For my oldest, this was a deal-breaker. He never created with these. For my second, he’s more receptive to it but prefers traditional coloring and painting. They make great travel activities that you don’t have to worry about making a mess.

• Color, paint, stamp, and doodle with water
• Colors appear when wet and disappear when dry

Teacher Take: This mat stands out to me from others because of all of the extras that are included: pens, rollers, stamps, foam shapes, etc. It's also from a brand that I know and trust. 

Sorting and Stacking 

Teach hand-eye coordination, building, balance, and more with blocks galore.

I love this toy so much.

• Stack the cars on top of each other
• Recognize colors
• Count how high the cars go
• Lift the exit gate and pull the cars out by the little pegs
• Match the car colors to the levels
• Play with the cars all on their own

Sort, count, and stack all in one.

• Learn shape placement and recognition
• Fine motor skills to put the pieces in the peg
• Teach body parts

• Practice stacking

Play with the animals in their barns to encourage pretend and imaginative play.

Related Posts:

The Best Screen Free Music Players For Toddlers

The Best Baby Toys And Gift Ideas For 9 To 12 Month Babies For Learning And Development

43 STEM Toys for Toddlers

The #1 Best DIY Homemade Playdough Recipe [Secret Kool-Aid Hack!]

Makeblock mTiny Coding Kit Review

Yoto Mini Review: a Must-Have Audio Player For Kids

Blocks 

Are they creative toys? Engineering? Fine motor? Gross motor? Blocks are everything ! We have so many blocks that I think my head might explode. If you’ve never branched out beyond traditional blocks, you’re in for a treat!

WARNING: Many of these block sets have small pieces that are choking hazards. Remove any pieces that fit through a toilet paper tube. They could be choked on.

and was even featured in with tons of ideas for ways to play and teach your child with Duplo.
$19.39	$44.99	$18.79	$9.99	$9.99

I am a huge Lego Duplo advocate and was even featured in Parent's Magazine with tons of ideas for ways to play and teach your child with Duplo.

Everything you need (including a storage case) to start building with Duplo. Dozens of designs that are ready to make or create your own! Encourage pretend play and imagination with all of the characters included.

Are they expensive? Yes.

Are they worth it? Yes.

The name brand is worth it here. Knock-off brands don't have the magnetic power for building. If you stack too many together, the creation will collapse from the weight.

I love our particular set because you get the car base, some road pieces, functional cranes, and spinning bases. These can be used as pictured or re-configured into your designs.

Pro Tip: When looking for Magnatiles for 2-year-olds, look for sets with mostly square shapes . Triangles are tricky to build, while even young toddlers can grasp building with squares.

Full Disclosure: We don't own them, and I've never played with them, but I see them all the time and think they are so cool as a block-alternative for children who aren't interested in traditional blocks. 

Trains are blocks, too!

They encourage problem-solving, building, connecting, engineering, and more.

We have all BRIO trains and tracks. Just like Magnatiles, I feel the brand is important here. We experimented with several other train sets that crack, splinter, or don't fit well together.

Nurturing Toys 

Let’s normalize teaching our children to nurture. Some might be naturally nurturing souls, while others think that baby dolls should be used to squirt imaginary explosive poop all over everyone–not that I’m talking from experience ?.

I don't know why this is rated 5+ (let me know in the comments if you know why!) . The bottle doesn't seem like a choking hazard to me. The leash is longer than 6", so it could be a strangulation hazard and should be monitored closely. But you could certainly remove the leash.

We LOVE this lamb. It reacts to being petted, asks for attention when lonely, and drinks its bottle. My boys love feeding her (her name is Toot ?) and listening to her burp!

This is rated for ages 6+, and I would use extreme supervision with a toddler doing this activity. You don't want them to eat the dirt or seeds. This would have to be an activity done largely by the parent.

Why I like this set:

• Teaches patience
• Nurturing (watering)
• You can see the plants growing (so it helps our impatient growers!)
• Teaches life cycles
• Teaches about cultivating food for eating

Care for sick animals and nurse them back to health.

Pretend Play

Your fondest memories of playing as a child likely involved pretend play. It’s a chance for children to let their imagination take over and be whoever they want to be. This type of imaginative play should start in children around two years old, but it may take longer for some. 

This also falls under nurturing: preparing food for people.

• Have your child prepare pretend meals
• Pretend to clean dishes
• Take orders from friends and family

Pro Tip: I'll use uncooked pasta or rice (if I'm in the mood to vacuum ?) and let them "cook" with it.

Let their imagination (and carpentry skills) soar with this fun workbench!

The power tools actually work and make sounds.

Toddlers love creating their own little spaces. Use it as a barn, a reading nook, or a place to be silly!

Melissa & Doug have dress-up costumes for whatever your child could imagine. Their costumes are well-designed and sturdy and come with fun accessories to let their imagination run wild.

sets for every interest your child could have. It's great to teach them about new interests, careers, skills, and vocabulary related to the different sets. I love that these sets are open-ended with infinite possibilities to play.
$17.28	$30.32	$26.76	$29.99	$35.79	$27.99

There are Little People sets for every interest your child could have. It's great to teach them about new interests, careers, skills, and vocabulary related to the different sets. I love that these sets are open-ended with infinite possibilities to play.

This barn playset also sparked some early independent and creative play with my toddler. We also enjoy singing farm-related songs and making animal noises. I teach him to nurture the animals by feeding them and petting them ?.

Independence Tasks 

I’m sure you’ve noticed by now that your two-year-old loves to do everything you do. This behavior is adorable and can be great for teaching your child to become independent and self-reliable. Use these toys and everyday objects to teach young children to care for themselves, their surroundings, and others.

This sink has running water but you don't have to fill the reservoir if you don't want to. The accessories that come with it are too cute. Give your toddler some dishes of their own to clean.

You'll be happy to know that these toys aren't just for show! The toys actually function so your little one can help with household tasks.

Yes, this vacuum will suck up dirt and debris but don't count on it for doing any major cleaning.

Disclaimer: Ours was a different color, and the motor eventually burned out after two years of extensive daily use. We then bought the actual "Dyson" toy vacuum, and that broke after only a few weeks of use, so this is still my recommendation.

$9.89	$11.49	$16.17	$4.79

We have smaller bathrooms, so I love these folding step stools. They can be tucked away when not in use and easily moved from the toilet to the sink.

We've tried a few potty training seats, and this one seems to have the snuggest fit for our toilets. It's a trial-and-error thing!

We use these command hooks to hang a hand towel and their bath towels at toddler height.

Make brushing their teeth a fun experience with their favorite characters and a spinning toothbrush!

Pro Tip: Kids think washing themselves is a blast, and it’s life-changing when they can dress themselves and brush their teeth! You don’t need anything fancy. A few bathroom additions will set them up for success.

	idk if it's just me, but I LOATHE high chairs. When my little one was in a high chair, I felt like I was constantly cleaning clunky trays that got water all over my kitchen. We decided to replace our high chair with this booster seat, and we never looked back. I am actually with this seat for all of these reasons: no mystery crust and goop in the cushion crevices. there are three height positions. you can slide this seat under most tables so it is out of sight. start your little pushed up to the table with a tray (like a high chair) and eventually remove the tray. the additional trays are and are dishwasher safe. We bought 3 extras (one for each meal of the day plus a backup), which was life-changing! easily take this on and off of any chair. The backrest folds down to save space. The feet are retractable to save space. It even comes with a tray lid to use your tray as a storage container.		A wise mom once told me, never fill your toddler's glass more than you're willing to clean up. It's the best advice I've gotten for .	As the mom of a toddler who threw his plastic plates and high chair trays, I was hesitant to introduce glass plates as a part of ... But we've never had an issue with him trying to throw a glass plate. They understand that glass plates are a privilege, making them more responsible at the dinner table.
$54.98	$37.00	$15.75	$21.75 ($2.72 / Count)	$17.18 ($2.86 / Count)

Get your little ones involved in real food preparation. I love this set because it has two wooden knife options to teach kids to cut soft foods (think banana, avocado, etc.). This set has everything they need to cook alongside you in the kitchen and will grow with them as they get older.

Mamas, idk if it's just me, but I LOATHE high chairs. When my little one was in a high chair, I felt like I was constantly cleaning clunky trays that got water all over my kitchen. We decided to replace our high chair with this booster seat, and we never looked back. I am actually in love with this seat for all of these reasons:

• It's plastic: no mystery crust and goop in the cushion crevices.
• It grows with your child: there are three height positions.
• It fits at the dining table: you can slide this seat under most tables so it is out of sight.
• Convertible: start your little pushed up to the table with a tray (like a high chair) and eventually remove the tray.
• Additional trays: the additional trays are $6 each and are dishwasher safe. We bought 3 extras (one for each meal of the day plus a backup), which was life-changing!
• Portable: easily take this on and off of any chair. The backrest folds down to save space. The feet are retractable to save space. It even comes with a tray lid to use your tray as a storage container.

Make your tiny tot feel like everyone else in the family with utensils that look like grown-up ones.

Just like with plates, our toddlers drink from glasses at mealtime. It's important to find glasses that are their size. A shot glass makes a perfect training glass when you're just starting with open cups!

Pro Tip: A wise mom once told me, never fill your toddler's glass more than you're willing to clean up. It's the best advice I've gotten for baby-led drinking .

You might be surprised to learn that my two-year-old sits at the table with us and eats from a glass plate and drinks from a glass cup at mealtime!

• Glass plates teach responsibility
• Grab plates that are 6-8" for two-year-olds
• These triple-layer plates are shatter-resistant

As the mom of a toddler who threw his plastic plates and high chair trays, I was hesitant to introduce glass plates as a part of baby-led weaning ... But we've never had an issue with him trying to throw a glass plate. They understand that glass plates are a privilege, making them more responsible at the dinner table.

Tips for Teaching Success

If you aim to teach your child skills and concepts with educational toys, here are my recommendations to get the best results.

Avoid Screens, Plastic, and Noise as Much as Possible 

You’ve probably noticed that most of these toys don’t make noise, don’t have screens (in fact, none of them do), don’t have buttons that light up, and are wood as much as possible. 

Don’t get me wrong, if you go digging in our toy closet, you’ll find all those things! You’ll even see my 2-year-old watching his favorite TV shows after nap while he wakes up and has a snack. It’s not that I’m against these things in general; it’s just when it comes to educational toys. 

Open-Ended 

Educational toys are most beneficial when they are open-ended. I was famous in my school for giving my students problems to solve that I wasn’t even sure there was an answer to! You’d be AMAZED at the things that children come up with when they aren’t given specific instructions, directions, corrections, or looking for a particular outcome. 

Today, your broomstick is a rocket ship; tomorrow, your books are building blocks; and on the weekend, it’s all hands on deck in the “ER” as your child performs surgery with their hard and screwdriver. 

Developmental Milestones For 2-Year-Olds

Remember that 75% of kids can achieve these developmental milestones for two-year-olds  by a certain age . Don’t be discouraged if your little one takes longer to master these skills. 

• Social/Emotional Looks at your face to see how you react. | Notices when others are hurt or upset. | Recognizes familiar people. | Happy to see other children. | Wants to be independent. | Shows defiance. | Has episodes of separation anxiety.
• Language/Communication Points to objects you name. | Says at least two words together. | Knows at least two body parts. | Uses gestures beyond waving and pointing (like nodding, shaking, etc.). | Follows instructions.
• Cognitive (learning, thinking, problem-solving) Can use both hands at once. | Tries to use switches, knobs, or buttons. | Plays with multiple toys at once. | Begins to stack and sort. | Make-believe play.
• Physical ( outdoor toys are perfect for this) Kicks a ball. | Runs. | Walks (not climbs) up a few stairs without help. | Eats with a spoon. | Climbs up and down furniture.

My best advice? Let your child play without rules . It can be hard sometimes, but they will learn more by experiencing their toys and learning what doesn’t work independently.

My four-year-old would now tell you that brooms are for sweeping, books are for reading, and tools are for building. He figured this out all independently from learning and exploring the world on his terms.

Don’t damper their imagination by only allowing certain toys to be played with the “right” way. 

57 Best Outdoor Toys for 2-Year-Old Boys of 2023

50 Best Airplane Toys for One-Year-Olds (2023)

I am the founder of Mommy Maker Teacher and a mom of two toddlers. With a degree in education, 12+ years of experience as a K-12 teacher and curriculum developer, and courses in childhood psychology and language acquisition, I share research-backed parenting tips and advice. I provide helpful content for moms on all stages of motherhood—from trying to conceive and pregnancy to postpartum, breastfeeding, and parenting.

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

The 43 Best Gifts for 2-Year-Olds of 2024

Practice shapes, sorting, colors, numbers, and more with these engaging gifts

Julia is the Associate Commerce Editor at The Spruce, covering all things seasonal, which means gift guides and holiday decor in the winter and patio furniture and gardening essentials in the summer. She's on a constant hunt to find the perfect gift for everyone in your life, from new dads to 5-year-old girls, through extensive research and testing as a product reviewer.

Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics including environmental science and houseplants.

The Spruce / Lecia Landis

Buying the perfect gift for a 2-year-old can be difficult when you're trying to find something beneficial to their developmental health and growth but it is also engaging, fun, and unique.

Think about your child's interests, whether they love reading books, building with blocks, snuggling with stuffed animals, or dancing and singing to their favorite songs. Use these interests to guide you to the perfect gift for the toddler in your life .

We know that the options can be overwhelming, so we tested and researched the best gift and toy options on the market for 2-year-olds, considering the recommended age, safety, educational value, and longevity.

Sesame Street Learning Letters Bus

Looking for a fun way to teach your little ones the alphabet? Check out Elmo's interactive bus-shaped activity board! It's designed to play Sesame Street phrases and the "Alphabet Song" to help kids practice their ABCs and spelling. After playtime is over, simply store the letters back on the bus. It's a great way to make learning engaging.

John Deere Talking Toolbelt

It’s tot tool time thanks to this set from John Deere. It includes a belt and six tools, including a screwdriver, wrench, and hammer. All of the tools feature rubber handles that are easy for little hands to grip. What’s really awesome is that the belt makes tool sounds and even says two phrases.

b. Toys Toy Drum Set

Kids will be marching to their own beat with this fantastic music set that’s as cute as it is functional. Included are silly centipede drumsticks, jingle bell ants, a busy bee maraca and clacker, a caterpillar tambourine, and a shaker egg—plenty to make up a whole band. They all come packed in a bright drum with a handy carrying strap for some music on the go.

Learning Resources Spike The Fine Motor Hedgehog

Perfect for tiny hands, Spike the Fine Motor Hedgehog comes with pegs that perfectly fit into his body as spikes. Two-year-olds can practice their fine motor skills by placing the correct pegs in each spot, then practice counting and sorting with the different color "spikes" that come with this kit. The adorable critter is bound to keep kids entertained and engaged as they solve the mystery of his missing spikes.

Radio Flyer Bubble Buddy Walker Wagon

Radio Flyer reimagined its classic red wagon as a pull- and push-able bubble mower for toddlers. One 4-oz bottle of bubble solution is included; just pour it into the reservoir in the wagon and it will produce bubbles as the wheels turn. This is a great outdoor toy for little ones practicing walking and need a bit of motivation to get moving.

Gund Toast Bulldog Plush

Toast is ready to become the 2-year-old in your life's new best friend. The adorable plush from Gund has realistic bulldog features and a soft exterior that's ideal for cuddling and hugging. At 10 inches, this stuffed animal easily packs into a purse or backpack so you can take Toast with you on the go.

Lego Duplo Town Alphabet Truck

These oversized Lego Duplo blocks fit perfectly in a 2-year-old's hand as they build, destroy, and play. Each block has a different letter of the alphabet that encourages little ones to learn as they play. Practice the sounds of the letters, sort the blocks by color, or build them into a tower to foster fine motor skills. Once built on the truck, it actually drives around the room with just a push.

Munchkin Fishin' Bath Toy

Bath time will become playtime with this fun bath toy. Kids use the lightweight, magnetic fishing pole to catch the three sea creatures. The pole even makes a clicking sound. Not only is this fun but it can also teach kids hand-eye coordination. 

Lovevery Play Kits

Loverey play kits consider your child's age and developmental stage to provide the best toys, lessons, and supplemental material to promote learning and growth. Kids complete different projects and activities, delivered in the mail every three months, to support your child's creativity, independence, problem-solving skills, and so much more. They also provide a great bonding opportunity for toddlers and parents to complete together.

Pottery Barn Kids Wooden Shopping Cart

Pottery Barn Kids makes beautiful wooden toys that double as nursery decor when not in use. This stunning shopping cart is the perfect toy for little ones practicing their walking and storing skills. Keep toys, clothes, or other items in the shopping cart for extra storage, or purchase some pretend food to go along with the cart. You can even bring it to the grocery store so your 2-year-old has a matching mini cart for cuteness overload.

GOODNIGHT ME

You can add a little fun to your toddler's bedtime routine with Goodnight Me . This book takes your little one on a magical journey filled with dancing dogs, leaping sheep, chirping crickets, and hooting owls. And the best part? You can personalize the book to feature their name on the cover, story, and illustrations, making them feel extra special every time you read it together.

LeapFrog Scoop & Learn Ice Cream Cart

Kids can mix and match the flavors and toppings on their very own ice cream cart to create the perfect cone, all while learning and laughing. This set comes with recipe cards so toddlers can build their memory and sequencing abilities while also practicing their fine motor skills through giving and receiving money for the tasty treats.

Mr Potato Head Create Your Potato Head Family

A classic toy with a new twist, Mr.Potato Head is sure to give your little one hours of imaginative play—especially since this is a family set. The Create Your Potato Head Family toy includes 45 pieces to customize potato families, including 2 large potato adult bodies, 1 small potato baby body, and 42 accessories. The best part? When playtime is over, your 2-year-old and store the parts in the backs of the larger potato bodies, making clean up simple.

Step2 Up & Down Roller Coaster Ride On

If your toddler is a thrill seeker, they will love this ride-on coaster with ten feet of tracks. With a seat that can hold up to 50 pounds, it also includes a high back, handrail, and footrests for a safe and secure ride. You'll be able to bring the amusement park straight to your home.

Pottery Barn Mackenzie Disney Princess Castle Water Bottles

Get your little one excited to stay hydrated with this adorable Disney bottle. Featuring some of their favorite Disney Princesses like Cinderella and Belle, this bottle is designed to keep their drinks hot or cold for up to six hours. Plus, the push button pop-up lid makes it super easy to open, and it even has a lock to prevent spills. The best part? You add their name for a special touch.

3 Bees & Me Dinosaur Toys

This rolling herd of dinosaurs will provide a roaring good time for tiny toddlers. Four dinosaurs, come in this value-priced pack. Each dinosaur is modeled after a real prehistoric dino. There’s a brontosaurus, a stegosaurus, a triceratops, and of course, a T-Rex, all in bright primary colors, perched atop wheels.

Disney Mickey Mini Waffle Maker

Looking to make breakfast time more magical? Check out this Mickey Mouse waffle maker. It cooks waffles in the shape of everyone's favorite mouse and features a convenient light to let you know when they're ready to eat. While it's not meant for your toddler to use on their own just yet, it's the perfect activity for parents or guardians to enjoy with their kids.

Fun Little Toys Kids Play Tent

Bring the outdoors in with this toddler camping set by Fun Little Toys. The set comes with 17 accessories including a pretend-play battery-powered gas stove and oil lamp, a cooking pan, plates, a shovel, a pop-up tent, and more—practically everything you need for hours of imaginative play indoors.

Nuby Octopus Bath Toy

This brightly colored toy is sure to make your kid smile. It’s perfect for 18 months and older. The purple octopus floats in the tub and includes three rings so kids can place them on the tentacles. The material is BPA-free and because the toys are sealed (no holes), there’s no worry about mold. 

First 100 Words

This book is such a classic and is ideal for kids ages 1 to 3. It features 100 photos to accompany each word. Kids will expand their vocabulary all while enjoying the colorful pics. The book is made of durable material and the cover is slightly padded, making it easy for kids to hold.

Coogam Matching Eggs Sorter Puzzle

This carton of (fake) eggs is packed full of educational enrichment. The dozen eggs open to reveal six colors and 12 shapes, which kids have to match. The eggs are made of durable material and they’re the perfect size for smaller hands. 

Pottery Barn Kids Kids Anywhere Chair®

Give your 2-year-old a throne of their own with the well-known Anywhere Chair by Pottery Barn Kids. With a monogram option as well as slipcovers in multiple colors, this customizable gift will really make your 2-year-old feel special.

Little Tikes EasyScore Basketball Set

To say this gift will be a slam dunk would be an understatement (and a silly pun), but it’s true. Budding ballers can shoot and score over and over again with this sturdy basketball hoop designed just for them. Perfect for hoopsters 18 months to five years old, it's easily adjustable and can go from 2 feet up to 4 feet. It also has an oversized rim for maximum points. The best part: the set comes with not one, but three, rubber balls, so if one rolls away to places unknown, the game doesn’t have to come to an end.

Pottery Barn Kids Giraffe Plush Nursery Rocker

Let your child embark on a wild adventure with this cute giraffe plush nursery rocker. Standing at 30 inches, toddlers can enjoy a smooth and gentle ride with precision-shaped runners and solid wood handles. Unlike other toys, this rocker is recommended for ages up to 5 and will last for years to come. Best of all, personalization is available to make this gift extra special.

Skillmatics Thick Flash Cards for Toddlers : First 100 Animals

Perfect for road trips, plane rides, or sitting through siblings' sports games, Skillmatics' flash cards keep toddlers engaged and learning at the same time. The high-quality, non-bending flash cards feature realistic images and names of 100 animals. The box also comes with three learning games for 2-year-olds to sort, name, and learn more about fascinating animals from land to sea.

KayLe Spinning Top Sensory Toys for Toddlers

This suction cup spinner toy will create hours of enrichment for your 2-year-old's little mind. The suction cup feature allows this toy to stick to most surfaces, making this an easy toy to move from playtime to bath time. The soothing rattle sounds will get the interest of your little one and with three different designs included in the set, you can't go wrong.

Battat Deluxe Doctor Kit

The smallest doctor in your family now has their own kit to take care of any pretend bumps, bruises, or scrapes. The 11-piece set has colorful gear like a stethoscope, thermometer, tweezers, and a needle. Everything fits in the plastic case for easy storage. 

Britannica's Baby Encyclopedia

Explore big ideas in a digestible way for toddlers with the Britannica baby encyclopedia. Learn about animals, food, art, numbers, science, and so much more for read-aloud, home-school sessions, and family bonding times. Everything was reviewed by early-years specialist Dr. Amanda Gummer and the book features beautiful and engaging illustrations by Hanako Clulow.

Step2 LifeStyle Custom Kitchen Playset

Your 2-year-old has some time before they actually start cooking, but this kitchen set is a fun start. The stove has cool sound effects like water boiling and a sizzling pan, while shelves and drawers provide plenty of storage space for the 20 included accessories.

Moonlite Mini Projector with 5 Mickey Mouse and Friends Stories

A new way to enjoy classic stories, Moonlite brings iconic tales and characters to life through a projector that attaches to your smartphone. This set comes with five Mickey Mouse and Friends stories you can find on the compatible app, then display with the included projector and your phone's flashlight. Nightly story times will never be the same.

Tender Leaf Toys Carrot Count Stacker

Tender Leaf Toys makes charming, friendly wooden toys that foster important skills in your little one. Join the adorable bunny and learn to count to 10 with this wooden counting toy. Each carrot ring represents another number your 2-year-old can stack, sort, and count as they practice problem-solving and motor skills. Plus, everything is made from a renewable resource with water-based paint, so you can feel confident in what's going into your child's toys.

Melissa & Doug Nesting and Sorting Garages and Cars

Rev up the fun with this set of sorting cars and garages from Melissa & Doug. It comes complete with seven numbered wooden cars in graduated sizes. There are also seven garages included, each with a number and color that matches one of the cars for endless counting, sorting, and matching opportunities. All of the garages can be stacked on top of one another as well for stacking (and knocking down) and building.

Little Tikes Look & Learn Window

With Little Tikes, your toddler gets their own mini window to explore weather, numbers, and other educational concepts all while staying inside. The two different sides represent day and night as you introduce temperature, greet the window by saying "good morning," listen to music and songs, and so much more.

Schwinn Roadster Tricycle

Introduce your toddler to their first bike with the Schwinn Roadster tricycle. It features a retro look, a low center of gravity for easy riding, and an adjustable seat to accommodate different-sized little ones. It comes in many colors sure to delight any 2-year-old, and tassels are attached to the handles.

Melissa & Doug Grocery Cart Push Toy and Puzzles

New from a leader in wooden toys, Melissa & Doug, comes a new educational and adorable grocery cart, perfect for 2-year-olds. Little ones explore shapes and colors while challenging their sorting and problem-solving skills with all of the moving elements. The 16-piece set also comes with chunky wooden puzzles that are stored right inside the cart. It also doubles as a stabilizing walking toy for toddlers just getting on their feet.

CoComelon Ultimate Learning Bus

Kids that love CoComelon will flip for this interactive learning-filled school bus. The learning bus uses sounds and lights to teach vital lessons for toddlers' development, including colors, numbers, letters, and more. It includes over 300 phrases and fun, recognizable songs, guaranteed to provide hours of entertainment for little ones.

My Hair, My Crown Board Book

It's never too early to teach kids to love every part of themselves. My Hair, My Crown celebrates the magic of Black hairstyles. Whether you're building confidence in your child or introducing them to diverse styles and appearances, the board book features a surprise mirror on the last page for little ones to admire their beautiful hair, no matter how it looks.

Learning Curve Vegetable Prep Board Playset

One of the ways toddlers learn and grow is by mimicking what they see their parents do. Gift your 2-year-old their own cutting board and kid-safe knife for chopping vegetables while you prep dinner every night. The adorable set comes with four veggies that pull apart and attach with velcro that act as mini learning puzzles. Or use the included wooden knife to test their dexterity and fine motor skills.

Mega Bloks Green Town Build & Learn Eco House

Build, learn, and play with the Mega Bloks green town eco house play set. The buildable set features a greenhouse, solar panels, electric cars, bicycles, figures, and more, as a great introduction to important ecological efforts. Plus, all green town building sets are certified carbon neutral, so the products and the concepts are equally eco-conscious.

Play-Doh Play 'n Store Table

This Play 'N Store table by Play-Doh is a parent's dream, providing all the Play-Doh your 2-year-old needs for hours of play and a place to conveniently and neatly store it away. This set comes with over 25 Play-Doh tools for hours of imaginative play. Little ones can make basic shapes, animals, Play-Doh ice cream, or even burgers—anything their little brains can imagine can be made with this set. With eight different colors to play with, this kit is sure to satisfy them.

Mega Bloks 80-Piece Big Building Bag

“Wow!” will be their reaction when they see this mega bag of Mega Bloks. It comes with 80 brightly colored blocks in a variety of shapes. They’re the perfect size for little hands and versatile enough for them to dream big with their creations. From castles to cars and so much more, there’s no limit to the things they may create. This is a perfect starter set, but it also works with all other Mega Bloks sets. During testing, we loved how the large size fit easily in little one's hands for hours of engaging play.

 The Spruce

Fat Brain Toys Dimpl Baby Toy

The fun and interactive pushable buttons on the Fat Brain Toys Dimpl toy may act as a stress reliever for a teenager or adult, but for little ones, they provide a fun, stimulating sensory experience that will keep them entertained for hours. Dimpl toys come in various shapes and sizes, but this basic model is ideal for 2-year-olds developing sensory and motor skills. The simple mechanism will capture your toddler's attention immediately. Once they pop all the bubbles on one side, flip it over and start again.

Peppa Pig Cruise Ship

Peppa Pig lovers' imaginations will sail away with this cruise ship set inspired by the show. With 3 levels, 13 accessories, and 3 posable figures, the playtime potential is limitless! The set even features a functional elevator that kids can push between the ship's first and second levels. This 17-piece set is a great gift for little fans of the show.

Other Great Gift Options

If you have a little one, you know how eager they are to learn and explore the world around them. Toddlers around the age of two are like sponges, ready to absorb new experiences and skills. While toys are great, giving experiential gifts can be even better for their growth and development.

For example, taking your toddler to the zoo is a fantastic idea that shouldn't be overlooked. Not only will it create unforgettable memories, but it can also start conversations about different animal facts, sounds, and colors. This kind of hands-on learning is incredibly helpful in their cognitive and social development, and it's a lot of fun too!

How We Picked the Gifts for 2-Year-Olds

We've been finding the best gifts for everyone on your list, including little ones, for years. To compile this list, we polled parents on our team to discover the toys their kids can't put down. We monitor new launches from notable brands we love, including Lego, Hasbro, VTech, and more to constantly keep this list fresh and updated.

We picked toys with an educational aspect or multiple ways to play to keep 2-year-olds entertained for hours (let's be honest, minutes) at a time. In an effort to provide a comprehensive selection, we try to target all interests a toddler might have from playing outdoors, being creative, or seeing characters from their favorite show or movie.

We're proud to include sustainable wooden toys, toys from BIPOC and women-founded brands, and small companies you may not see at your local big box store as well. As we continue to test toys, speak to more parents, and research new releases, this list will change to reflect that.

Tips on Choosing a Gift for a 2-Year-Old

When picking out toys for your little one, pay attention to the age recommendations. These suggestions are really important because they help ensure the toy is safe and a good fit for your child's developmental level. Kristin Morency Goldman , Senior Advisor of Strategic Communications for The Toy Association, says that this info is crucial. So, make sure you choose toys that are appropriate for your child's age range, so they can build skills and be challenged healthily.

You also want to avoid toys labeled 3+, says Morency Goldman, since these toys may contain small parts that pose a choking hazard, even to older toddlers. Also avoid toys that are too heavy, hard, or difficult to handle. Building blocks are a common example of this, but Mega Bloks are a great choice because they're the perfect size for little hands and don't pose a choking hazard.

When kids turn two, they're usually super curious and eager to learn new things. Toys that promote the development of fine motor skills, walking, talking, music or critical thinking can be both educational and entertaining. For instance, the Munchkin Fishin Magnetic Bath Toy encourages children to practice hand-eye coordination during bathtime.

It's also worth noting that two-year-olds love to explore the world around them! So, toys that let them move around and explore are usually a hit. Dr. Natasha Burgert , a pediatrician in South Overland Park, Kansas, says that these kinds of toys can help kids build their physical skills too.

Young children grow at an astounding rate. Consider whether the gift you buy for a 2-year-old can grow with them—it might be much better to invest in something a child can use for a long time, as opposed to a toy they’ll grow out of in a few months. One gift we love: the Skillmatics Thick Flash Cards  are suitable for ages 18 months to 4 years old.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by  Julia Fields , an associate editor for The Spruce, covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, and the holidays since October 2021. For this story, she aimed to create a comprehensive list of gift suggestions for every toddler, including active, educational, and creative options.

Other Experts:

• Kristin Morency Goldman , senior adviser of strategic communications for The Toy Association
• Dr. Natasha Burgert , a pediatrician in South Overland Park, Kansas.
• Daniela Galvez , a senior editor for The Spruce
• Aliyah Rodriguez , an associate editor for The Spruce

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31 Best Educational Toys for Toddlers, Preschoolers and Big Kids

Parents, kids and Good Housekeeping Institute pros agree these learning toys are the most fun!

To find toys that strike the right balance, the Good Housekeeping Institute Little Lab tests toys throughout the year. For parents, they look for quality of construction, ease of use and frustration level. For kids, they make sure that the toys are fun (the most important factor), and something kids return to and are engaged with for long periods of time. They're mostly geared for little ones but there are a few selections for older kids to keep in mind for the future (or for older siblings). If these aren't enough, you can also check the Good Housekeeping Institute's age-by-age guide to toys and gifts for more recommendations, including STEM toys , sensory toys , family board games , and gifts for 1-year-olds and 2-year-olds (including gifts for toddlers and even stocking stuffers for toddlers !) all the way up to gifts for teens .

These are the the best educational toys for toddlers, preschoolers and elementary school students in 2022:

Learning Resources Spike the Fine Motor Hedgehog

This cute hedgehog helps with fine motor coordination, since kids have to put the colorful spikes in the holes at different angles. It's also great for counting and color recognition. Parents loved that the quills easily store inside the back so you won't lose pieces! And if the kids become Spike fans, there's now a whole line of Spike toys, including a fidget toy , a sensory playset , a rainbow stacker and a puzzle . Ages 18 months+

RELATED: The Best Sensory Toys for Exploring Different Textures, Sights, and Sounds

Peaceable Kingdom Button, Button, Belly Button Game

Kids learn same vs. different, matching, colors and turn-taking when they play this board game, which challenges players to match their cards to the buttons or bears on the board. Good Housekeeping's testers requested this one over and over again. Ages 2+

RELATED: The Best Board Games for Kids, According to Parents and Experts

Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Piggy Bank

Kids open the piggy bank to remove the colorful, numbered coins. The toy can play more than 40 fun songs, tunes and phrases to interact with your child. In the baby stages, kids use it to practice their fine motor coordination skills while putting the coins into the bank. As they get older, they can use it to learn counting and adding. Ages 6 months+

RELATED: The Best STEM Toys for Kids, According to the GH Institute

LEGO Education SPIKE™ Prime Set

Let your imagination run wild with this open-ended playset. After constructing with colorful Lego building elements (bricks, sensors, motors, etc.), kids can layer on drag and drop coding based on the popular Scratch platform to create endless unique configurations, or use one of the 40+ guided lessons to learn more about the basics. As they develop their coding knowledge, they can explore text-based Python coding. While testing, we saw first-hand how early exposure to engineering and physics can help kids get excited about STEM. These products are a fun way for kids to learn through play, and help reinforce skills like experimentation and problem-solving. Ages 10+

Mega Mega Bloks Big Building Bag

This classic 80-piece building set includes blocks of different shapes and colors for kids to construct whatever their minds' dream up. Testers whipped up everything from towers and trains to castles and animals. This set is great for helping to develop gross motor skills and promotes open-ended creativity . Plus, you can easily store pieces in the travel-friendly bag when playtime is over. Ages 1+

Educational Insights Design & Drill Creative Workshop

This construction kit helps foster STEM learning as budding builders learn about different drill bits (Phillips, socket and flathead) for their motorized drill to use on their colorful bolts. The toy also includes a screwdriver and combination wrench to help complete the activity cards or create their own designs. For younger ones, the Design & Drill Bolt Buddies adds in colorful characters and playsets. Ages 3+

The Learning Journey Count and Learn Cookie Jar

Kids learn to recognize numbers and count to ten with this electronic cookie jar. They practice fine motor skills to insert the cookie and when they do, the jar says the number that's on the cookie, so the number-learning is reinforced. Ages 2+

Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Talking Microscope

Kids can insert the slides to see beautiful, up-close images of wildlife. Then the voice of Bindi Irwin explains what they're looking at , so kids can learn science even if they don't know how to read yet. Ages 4+

Magna-Tiles Magna-Tiles 32-Piece Clear Colors Set

Offering endless hours of fun, Magna-Tiles are a creative way to introduce educational topics like shapes, colors, engineering, principles of magnets, symmetry and more. They're also great for helping develop fine motor skills. Various sets are available with different piece counts and color options (think clear or glow-in-the-dark ). Ages 3+

Melissa & Doug Wooden Peg Puzzles

This set includes three wooden peg puzzles designed for tiny fingers and helps develop fine motor and hand-eye skills . The 10-piece number set has illustrations of each numeral, the 26-piece alphabet set has illustrations of words starting with the letter it corresponds to, and the fish puzzle has the name of the color for each. Ages 2+

Shifu Orboot Augmented Reality Interactive Globe

The best-selling globe on Amazon, this interactive world map pairs with an app that will let kids focus in on any region that interests them and learn more. There are more than 1,000 world facts loaded up in the app for them to explore. Ages 4+

Step2 Great Creations Art Center

This art center has it all: an art desk station with built-in storage, as well as a double-sided easel that has one side chalkboard, and the other a large whiteboard . Ample storage areas allow for crayons, markers, Play-doh, paint and more to be readily accessible and organized. Bonus: Three kids can easily create at once! Ages 3+

HABA Symphony Croc Music Band Set

This cute croc includes a drum with two mallets, a xylophone, a guiro wooden block (played by rubbing stick along notches on snout) and a bell. Multiple kids can play at once to help foster a sense of rhythm while developing motor skills . Ages 2+

LeapFrog LeapFrog Fridge Phonics Magnetic Letter Set

Compatible with any magnetic surface, this set features interactive alphabet tiles. Placing a letter on the bus window enables your kids to hear the letter and related words . Plus, it includes fun, kid-friendly songs like the "Alphabet Song" and "Wheels on the Bus." Ages 2+

Melissa & Doug Learn-to-Play Piano

Have a budding Mozart? With 25 keys spanning two octaves, kids can experiment with high and low notes as well as loud and soft sounds. It includes a color-coded songbook that's great for older kids to use to play real songs. It comes in blue, pink and multi-colors. Ages 3+

Learning Resources Learning Resources Coding Critters

Kids can get into the basics of coding without using a screen. The 22-piece set comes with coding challenges that do things like help the bunny find its carrot or pull the cart. A storybook walks kids through the challenges. In addition, there's a "play mode" where kids can use the pieces for imaginative free play. Different animals are available, including a dog, cat and dinosaur. This year, they've added MagiCoders, which come in the form of a unicorn or a dragon . Ages 4+

ThinkFun Roller Coaster Challenge

This is both a building toy and a board game all rolled up into one. Players pick a challenge card that asks kids to use certain pieces to build their roller coaster track. If they can use them to build one, and then have the car ride from start to finish with no disasters, they win! It helps them develop engineering and logic skills at the same time. Ages 6+

Good Housekeeping Good Housekeeping Amazing Science

Kids get to play the role of at-home scientist, going from room to room and looking into the science behind phenomena like why bathroom mirrors get foggy or how to de-stink shoes. There are more than 80 hands-on experiments for them to try, using items that are commonly found around the house. Ages 7+

hand2mind Numberblocks MathLink Cubes

If you know little fans of Numberblocks on Netflix, they'll love this counting set, a 2021 Good Housekeeping Best Toy Award winner. Kids can build their favorite characters from the show with the linking cubes, practicing counting in the process and also play with the math-based, wipe-clean activity cards included in the set. Ages 3+

RELATED: The Good Housekeeping Best Toy Awards

VTech Get Ready for School Learning Desk

This desk is basically a command center, loaded with parts that let them practice time-telling, track the weather and the days of the week or learn about the alphabet, numbers, counting, music, shapes, colors, the human body. But the true stand-out feature is the light-up projector, which lets kids trace numbers and letters with a stylus on a built-in interactive writing pad. Flip it over and there's also a chalkboard and easel. Ages 2+

Marisa (she/her) has covered all things parenting, from the postpartum period through the empty nest, for Good Housekeeping since 2018; she previously wrote about parents and families at Parents and Working Mother . She lives with her husband and daughter in Brooklyn, where she can be found dominating the audio round at her local bar trivia night or tweeting about movies.

Rachel Rothman was the chief technologist and executive technical director of the Good Housekeeping Institute for over 15 years , overseeing testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all GH Labs. She also managed GH's research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems. 

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The 34 Best Gifts for 2-Year-Olds to Ignite Their Imagination

These toys can engage your toddler's curious mind and encourage the development of their motor skills.

In This Article

Our Favorites

Our review process and experts.

• Factors to Consider
• Your Questions, Answered

Parents / Jaclyn Mastropasqua

At 2 years old, kids still surprise us with how much they’re growing every day. Toddlers at this age are learning new ways to use their bodies and minds. They can kick and throw a ball, run, climb, scribble, and build with blocks (and topple what you build). Two-year-olds are honing their communication and cooperation skills and starting to imitate you, engage in pretend play, and understand the stories you read to them. The best gifts for 2-year-olds are ones that help foster these burgeoning skills through imaginative, active play .

“Using play to help foster things like communication and social skills is teaching these things in the child’s native language,” says Neal Petersen , LPCC, a registered play therapist (RPT) and clinical operations director for Greater Minnesota at Ellie Mental Health. “For example, model sharing between two toys as you play with your child. That will help them retain the information and make those neuropathways in the brain nice and strong.”

Play has a profound impact on child development, especially at the pivotal age of 2, according to Katie McCann , a mom of two, breastfeeding counselor, and paramedic. "Play is a child's primary job, and it's through this medium that they understand the world, develop essential skills, and grow both mentally and physically," says McCann. "Choosing the right toys and understanding the developmental milestones can significantly enhance this journey."

From outdoor and pretend play to books, games, and blocks, we've rounded up the best toys we're sure 2-year-olds will love. To create this list, we considered each toy's age recommendations, features, quality, materials, durability, value, and engagement potential. We also reviewed guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on milestones for 2-year-olds and toy safety tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). We're sure our list has something for everyone.

American Girl Bitty Baby Doll #1

• Mr Potato Head Create Your Potato Head Family

Sherilyn Kids Play Tent with Mat

Lovevery music set, mega bloks first builders big building bag, 80 pieces.

• Me and My Mama: Celebrate Black Joy and Family Love Book
• Sarah's Silk Rainbow Enchanted Mini Playsilk

Green Toys Tool Set

• Radio Flyer 4-in-1 Stroll 'N Trike

Melissa & Doug Deluxe Pounding Bench Wooden Toy

American Girl

Know a child always stealing their older sibling’s American Girl Doll? Or maybe one who will soon have a new sibling? The Bitty Baby Doll from American Girl Doll is a great doll option for younger children. It’s recommended for ages 18 months and up. We love that you can choose dolls with various skin tones, and hair and eye colors, and children will have fun caring for and dressing the doll. 

The Details:

• Recommended ages: 18 months and up
• Batteries: n/a

Mr. Potato Head Create Your Potato Head Family

Give a nostalgic toy parents might enjoy just as much as their child with this Potato Head set. It comes with 45 pieces, which might be annoying to some adults, but it means it’s full of ways everyone can create their own Potato Head families, with two “parent” potatoes and one baby spud. Plus not only does this Potato Head set encourage imaginative play, but it helps children practice hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.

• Recommended ages: 2 years and up

One of my child’s all-time favorite gifts is an indoor play tent. Role-playing toys, like kitchen sets, doctor’s kits, and play tents can help children understand the world around them and foster imaginative play, says Katie McCann. 

We love that this tent will fit into any design style and is geared towards children 18 months and older as many play tents have an older recommended age. It does take some assembly so if you’re giving it, offering to help the parents set it up would likely be appreciated. Plus then you can play too once it’s all set.

• Recommended ages: 18 months and up 

Beloved by parents for its Playkits and Playgym, popular brand Lovevery recently introduced the Music Set which helps children explore music with real instruments, including a metronome, bells, pan flute, concertina, shakers, and jingle bracelet. Keep in mind this noisy toy might not be the best gift for parents who work from home, but if they don’t mind the jam sessions, this is a gift that will grow with children, allowing them to become more proficient and explore their love of music.

These classic blocks will carry your child from toddlerhood through their preschool years. The pieces are plastic yet durable and big enough for small hands to manipulate, so parents won’t have to worry about choking. The colorful 80-piece set includes a wheelbase, so kids can create any vehicle their imagination can design. A zip-up storage case makes cleanup as easy as, um, prying blocks out of your kiddo’s hands at nap time.

• Recommended ages: 12 months and up 

Me and My Mama: Celebrate Black Joy and Family Love

We’re big fans of board books for their durability and how easy they are for young hands to grasp, and we love the joyful messages of this one from writer Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrator Ashleigh Corrin. With vibrant illustrations and happy rhymes, the book beautifully shares the story and feeling of love and family.

• Recommended ages: 0-3 years

Sarah's Silk Rainbow Enchanted Mini Playsilk

Sarah's Silk

We’re big fans of these sustainably made, Waldorf-inspired play silks. My daughter has several of them and uses them for all sorts of imaginative play, wearing them as a cape or using them in her fort. The smooth texture and vibrant color help with sensory exploration and fine motor development. And you can make this a part of your yearly birthday celebrations with the included song.

• Recommended ages: All ages

Encourage your kids to help fix things around the house with this tool kit. With 15 different tools, this sustainable play tool set encourages creativity and role play while also promoting fine motor skills development.

• Recommended ages: 24 months-6 years 

Radio Flyer 4-in-1 Stroll 'N Trike

This stroller-tricycle hybrid converts to a big kid tricycle for a toy that will last longer than almost anything you can buy at this age. A child starts out sitting in the infant trike with grownups’ help. Then they learn to steer and pedal. Soon enough, they’re off! It has a three-point safety harness, a storage bucket for snacks and toys, a stroller-like push bar, a sun canopy, and a removable footrest. 

• Recommended ages: 12 months-5 years 

Parents and toddlers love this colorful, classic wooden toy that features pegs that go up and down but don’t come out, so they can’t get lost (rejoice!). The pounding bench helps children learn cause and effect, and hitting the peg with the mallet encourages hand-eye coordination and fine motor skill development. Plus, it’s fun for a 2-year-old to hit stuff, so there’s that.

• Recommended ages: 2-4 years

LeapFrog Learning Friends 100 Words Book

Animals aid in language development with this interactive toy. It features pages toddlers can flip, fun songs, and 12 categories of new vocabulary, including pets, food, colors, and vehicles. There’s a Spanish mode, too, which makes this a great gift for bilingual children. 

• Recommended ages: 18 months-4 years 
• Batteries: 2 AA batteries (included)

The Snowy Day

First published in the 1960s by writer and illustrator Ezra Jack Keats, The Snowy Day is a classic children's book that warms you up on a cold day, or makes you long for winter on a warm one. I remember my parents reading me the beautiful story as a child, and I love reading it to my own kid decades later. The story and illustrations are simple yet magical, detailing the excitement of a day exploring the snow. 

• Recommended ages: 1-5 years

LeapFrog Scoop & Learn Ice Cream Cart

Toddlers almost always get a kick out of pretending to make and serve treats to friends and family. This colorful, movable cart includes an attached ice cream scooper that won’t wander off, as well as make-believe ice cream, cones, and toppings. Voice prompts call out orders for kids to fill while they work on memory skills and matching, all mess-free!

• Recommended ages: 2-5 years 
• Batteries: 3 AA batteries required (included)

VTech Touch and Learn Activity Desk Deluxe

This is a great time to introduce kids to their very own activity table for independent play. This interactive version from VTech incorporates educational activities with music, vocabulary, and writing-focused interchangeable pages. It can also transform into an easel and chalkboard. You can even purchase separate expansion packs with more pages to extend the fun.

• Recommended ages: 2- 5 years
• Batteries: 4 AA batteries required

The Wonderful Things You Will Be

This charming book from Emily Winfield Martin, an artist and writer whose work is inspired by fairytales, imagines all of the things a young child can grow up to be while encouraging them to be whatever they want to be. The rhyming text makes the storyline fun to read out loud, and my child adores picking a new thing she wants to be each time we read it. Every family with a small child will cherish receiving this sweet book as a gift. 

• Recommended ages: 0-3 years 

Top Bright Wooden Shape Sorter

There are so many ways to play and learn with this cement-mixer shape sorter. Two-year-olds will learn their shapes and colors, develop fine motor skills, and even hone hand-eye coordination as they push and pull the truck, rotate the barrel, and grow their little imaginations. Parents will love that the toy is made with nontoxic materials.

iPlay, iLearn Kids Bowling Toys Set

This gift brings the fun of the game of bowling home in a safe, age-appropriate way. Made of soft foam, the colorful set contains two balls and 10 pins. Bowling—or whatever games 2-year-olds come up with using this set—helps develop gross motor skills and hand-eye coordination. 

• Recommended ages: 12 months and up

Manhattan Toy Baby Stella Doll

At the age of 2, kids start mimicking the behaviors of adults. That often comes in the form of pretend caregiving, which you can encourage with a sweet, soft doll that comes in a variety of skin tones and hairstyles. This also makes a great present for a soon-to-be big sister or brother. Every doll includes a magnetic pacifier, a diaper, and a cute outfit. Tons of super adorable accessories are sold separately. 

• Recommended ages: 12 months-6 years

Little Tikes Rocking Horse

The classic rocking horse toy gets an upgrade from Little Tikes. Available in blue or pink, this plastic version is sized just for toddlers and features easy-grip handles and a seat designed for safety—no pinching little fingers or falling all the way back. We love that this is suitable for indoor or outdoor play, too.

• Recommended ages: 12 months-3 years 

VTech Care for Me Learning Carrier

VTech’s interactive puppy and kennel set features dozens of songs and phrases to entertain your animal-loving little while they care for their furry friend. The plush puppy’s carrier lights up, and it comes with toy food, a bottle, a comb, and a ball for playing fetch. It’s available in pink or orange.

• Recommended ages: 9 months-3 years 
• Batteries: 2 AAA batteries (included)

Fat Brain Toys Wooden Personalized Name Puzzle

This precious name puzzle is a much-loved gift that combines fun and learning. Personalize this wooden toy with up to nine letters. It not only helps toddlers learn how to spell their name but also helps develop their fine motor skills and self-esteem as they play with their very own, made-just-for-them puzzle day after day. After they’ve outgrown it as a puzzle, it makes a great decorative keepsake, too.

Little Tikes First Slide

For simple, age-appropriate outdoor play, you can’t beat a slide, and this one is plastic and right-sized for your active 2-year-old. It’s small enough to be used indoors in a playroom or rec room, while still being stable, but it’s durable enough to use outside, too. Parents love that assembly is tool-free and that you can fold it down for easy storage.

• Recommended ages: 18 months-6 years 

Yookidoo Submarine Spray Station

Grown-ups may be tempted to get in on the fun with this colorful (battery-operated) submarine and spray station that makes bath time more like playtime. The shower head sprayer, which is continuously fed by the sub, is designed for small hands to grip, and the colorful cups, faces, and gears will be welcome playmates any time your kiddo needs to wash off a day of being a kid. You may have a hard time getting your kid out of the bath from now on.

• Recommended ages: 2-6 years 

Moluk Bilibo

What is this thing? Well, we can tell you that it’s a durable, non-toxic, shell-shaped piece of plastic. But beyond that, it’s entirely up to your kiddo to decide. This beloved toy inspires endless imagination and creativity among toddlers. Available in a variety of bright, fun colors, the Bilibo helps little ones improve their balance and coordination as they sit in it, stand in it, stack it, wear it, or stow things in it. Parents of children with special needs rave about the many benefits of this seemingly simple toy for children of all ages.

B. toys Beautifloor Alphabet Foam Tiles

This play mat will last for as long as your kids are into it—and probably longer. The easy-to-clean, colorful, interlocking foam tiles with removable letters create a soft play space while teaching letters, sequencing, and spelling. It’s especially important that 2-year-olds can't chew off pieces when you're not looking.

• Recommended ages: 0-24 Months

Little Tikes EasyScore Basketball Set

A 2-year-old can score big with this basketball set that adjusts from 2.5 feet to 4 feet in height to become more challenging as they grow. Future ballers can practice layups, hand-eye coordination, gross motor skills, sharing, and taking turns. The mini B-ball set comes with three junior-size balls and is suitable for indoor or outdoor play. Weigh it down with sand for added stability.

• Recommended ages: 18 months-5 years
• Batteries: 1 AA battery required

Midoneat Kids Cleaning Toy Set

This pretend cleaning set is a win-win for kids who love mimicking their grownups and grownups who hope this turns into a lifelong love of cleaning. It comes with six pieces: a broom and bunny dustpan set, a mop, a smaller broom and dustpan, and a microfiber cleaning cloth. And yes, they do all really clean, too!

• Recommended ages: 18 months-5 years 

Crayola Washable Triangular Grip Crayons

Encourage creativity with this eight-pack of triangular-grip crayons made for little fingers that are just starting to get the hang of holding crayons. Manipulating crayons and coloring helps toddlers develop hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, and it’s a great opportunity for children to learn their colors and express themselves. 

KiwiCo Color Wheel Racers and Ramp

Kids will love letting the wooden cars zoom down the ramps of this toy from Kiwico. And parents will love the durability of the wooden design. With engaging, pleasing colors, the toy helps children practice hand-eye coordination while teaching them about cause and effect and how gravity works. Plus it’s independent play, which is always a bonus. 

• Recommended ages: 19 monthsand up

Fat Brain Toys Animal Kingdom Peg Puzzle Set

Have a child in your life who is obsessed with animals? This peg puzzle set will be a delight. Beautifully designed and with easy-to-grab pieces, the set of four puzzles (“Down on the Farm,” “Buggy Friends,” “My Pet Friends,” and “Let's Go on a Safari”) introduces children to different animals while encouraging fine motor skill development.

• Recommended ages: 1-3 years old

PAW Patrol Marshall Plush Toy

PAW Patrol is a favorite of many kids (but not all parents so keep that in mind if you’re not sure if a child watches it) and the latest movie has fans super hyped about the rescue pups. While there are plenty of rescue vehicles and sets to buy, we also think a super soft plush Marshall, Skye, Chase, Rubble, Rocky, Zuma, or Everest is sure to be a hit, especially at bedtime. Plus, stuffed animals help to spark imaginative play and encourage tactile exploration.

Melissa & Doug Extra-Thick Cardboard Building Blocks

Parents may remember these jumbo cardboard blocks from their own school days, and it’s no wonder why they’re still a favorite. Lightweight yet surprisingly durable, the blocks can be stacked into towers to knock down, into fences for stuffed animals, into usable forts, and so much more. They’ll help little ones learn their colors, while practicing hand-eye coordination and being creative. 

• Recommended ages: 2-5 years old

Fisher-Price Little People Friends Together Playhouse

A dollhouse makes a classic gift for a 2-year-old. It encourages imaginative play and exploration, allowing children to create their own stories and worlds. This one from Fisher-Price is also interactive and exposes children to letters and numbers.

• Recommended ages: 1 - 5 years
• Batteries: 3 AA batteries (included)

Bluey Pop 'N' Fun Play Tent

Raise your hand if you know of a Bluey-obsessed child (or parent). With this play tent, children can create their own adventures, with or without Australian accents. More than one kid can fit inside the colorful structure, which is easy to assemble for hours of indoor fun—and even easier to store when they’re done.

To create this list of the best toys for 2-year-olds, we researched shopping trends, reviewed CDC information regarding 2-year-olds' development, and read up on the AAP's toy safety recommendations. We assessed each product based on its features, quality, materials, value, safety, age-appropriateness, and engagement potential. To find out more about what to look for in toys for 2-year-olds and toy safety, we also interviewed some experts:

• Neal Petersen , LPCC, a registered play therapist (RPT) and clinical operations director for Greater Minnesota at Ellie Mental Health.
• Katie McCann , a mom of two, breastfeeding counselor, and paramedic. 

Factors to Consider When Buying Gifts for 2-Year-Olds

• Developmental Milestones: Children begin to reach several important milestones around age 2 . Children are working on their fine motor skills, language development, and imaginative play abilities, so look for gifts that help them practice those skills. You can find out more about your child's developmental stage and what kind of toys they'll like by playing with them. "It's important for parents to consider their child’s psychological or emotional maturity, and know their child’s play style,” says Petersen. “To know what is age-appropriate, you first need to play with your child!”
• Safety: When choosing a gift for a 2-year-old, start with the item’s age recommendations. Toys targeted at older children may have small parts that can detach and pose a choking hazard, especially if the child still regularly puts things in their mouth. You should also consider the materials used in the product. Look for options that are BPA-free and made from nontoxic materials in case the toddler chews, bites, or sucks on the item. All painted toys should be labeled as not containing lead. This is especially important when purchasing toys made outside the U.S. and certain plastic toys, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• The Child’s Interests: Selecting a gift for a 2-year-old can be tricky if you don’t get to spend a lot of time with them. Ideally, you’d want to consider the child’s interests, something you could learn by observing how they play. If that’s not possible, start by asking their parents if there is anything they’d like. Ask questions about the child’s favorite colors, activities, animals, and characters.
• Noise, Batteries, etc.: While choosing gifts for 2-year-olds, you'll want to also consider their caregivers. Toys that are overly noisy, require extensive assembly, have tons of small parts, or require lots of batteries can all be frustrating. When in doubt, ask. Many caregivers keep a wishlist of items they think their child will like, and most have preferences about which toy annoyances they find least annoying.

Your Questions, Answered 

How much should you spend on a gift for a 2-year-old.

How much you spend on a gift depends on your budget and your relationship with the child. In general, you can expect to spend anywhere between $20 and $50 for a thoughtful, durable toy or gift. However, there are plenty of great options that fall below this price range, like board books, which often retail for less than $5, as well as gifts that fall above that range. When deciding how much to spend, consider their caregivers' preferences. Some parents may ask for no gifts or a donation to a child’s college fund instead of gifts.

What do 2-year-olds like to play?

While every 2-year-old is different, there are some general things almost every 2-year-old likes to do. “You can’t go wrong with building blocks,” says Petersen. “There is so much that can be done with them (building, counting, pairing), and there is very little risk with them. If your child tends to throw things, choose blocks that are maybe made of foam as opposed to wood.”

Assorted figurines like animals, dinosaurs, and people are also great for imagination and modeling conversation. Finally, don’t underestimate the awesomeness of paper and crayons. It's a great tool for active adult-child engagement. “Studies show that five minutes of child-directed play a day can have huge upsides in the parent-child relationship, so get some toys, get on the floor, and play with your kids,” Petersen says.

Bridget Shirvell is a Connecticut-based independent journalist. Her work focuses on parenting, food, and the environment and has appeared in Parents , Good Housekeeping , The New York Times , and more. The mom of a 4-year-old, she's always on the lookout for interactive, functional, and sustainable children's products. Before purchasing anything, she always asks: "Is this good for us, the planet, the people who made it?" When considering which items to include on this list, Bridget included many gifts her daughter was given, as well as recommendations from other parents and Parents editors.

Melissa Willets is a writer with over a decade of experience working for leading parenting and pop culture sites. Her work has been featured on Today.com, as well as The New York Times, The Washington Post, and the Daily Mail. 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Important Milestones: Your Child By Two Years .

American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org. How to Buy Safe Toys .

CDC. Lead in consumer products .

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Pregnancy > Parenthood

The 50 Best Toys for 2 Year Old Boys in 2023! [+ Toys of the Year]

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We handpick and review each item on our gift guides. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

I think most moms know that the terrible twos can be a little overhyped, the terrible threes … (now that’s a different story). Two is actually a pretty magical age full of make-believe play and boundless energy. I have 6 kids, ranging from two to twenty and the toddler years are some of my favorite!

If you are looking for a gift for your sweet toddler, you have to check out our list below. We pulled together some of the best parent and toddler-approved toys for 2 year old boys . It is exactly the list I will be using this year to shop for my 2-year-old!

The Best Gifts for Your 2 Year Old Boy

When picking a gift for any toddler, you will want to choose items that help them in their development yet are still super fun. Our Rookie Mom Squad found over 50 great options for 2 year old boy toys that do this! Check out the very best gifts for 2 year old boys below.

	Epic and affordable ride-on toy
	Timeless classic your little one will enjoy from 2-5 years old
	Magnetic fun that will encourage imaginative play
	Great for that 2 Year Old with a ton of energy!
	So cute it doesn’t even look like a toy
	Great for development, plus its art without the mess
	Keep the fun going all year long with play kits that arrive at your door monthly!

Toys for 2 Year Old Boy That Focus on Development

Toys are for fun, obviously, but they are also a big part of how little ones learn and develop new skills. Below are some toys that promote development! 

This CAT Digger is a great toy for little ones who love to play in the sand or love to build. It can be used as a stand-alone toy or they can ride on the back and scoop up with the giant claw.

Lovevery Play Kits

This is my top gift recommendation for 2 year olds!

I am obsessed with Lovevery Play Kits. All the toys that come in these kits are designed by experts and will support your toddler’s development.

I recommend getting a 1-year subscription so that you will always have new toys to rotate in. There is no commitment required, you can cancel at any time if it doesn’t work out.

Aqua Doodle Mat

Let their creativity run wild without all the mess with one of the best toys for 2-year old boys. It comes with two pens, that only work on the mat so they won’t ruin anything.

Bonus; the size of this mat is awesome and will give your toddler plenty of room to make a masterpiece.

Kids Bumper Cars

Yes, Bumper Cars!

As a mom of 5, I can’t believe I am saying this but I actually recommend this toy, in fact, it is one of the most used toys in the household. First off, I was very skeptical of such a device roaming through my house let alone putting my child in it.

There are honestly endless laughs with these bumper cars. They have a rubber outside, so they don’t scuff up any walls, and a seatbelt so that your child is safely inside the vehicle. There is even a remote control, so if your child can’t grasp the controls, which they will learn to do in no time, you can be the driver and just wheel them around.

MAGNOLIA 7-IN-1 PLAYSET

The Magnolia 7-in-1 Playset is an excellent choice for your two-year-old boy’s playroom! This versatile set includes a variety of features like monkey bars, a mini rock-climbing wall, a wooden ladder, a Swedish slide, a rope swing, a rope ladder, and a regular swing. These elements are thoughtfully designed to boost your toddler’s muscle growth, coordination, problem-solving skills, and spatial understanding in an enjoyable and interactive way.

This playset not only offers endless fun for your little one but also supports his developmental progress, perfectly in line with Montessori educational methods that emphasize self-led, tactile learning experiences. It’s a wonderful tool to encourage active, imaginative play while nurturing essential physical and cognitive skills.

Magnetic Blocks

Magnetic Blocks are the new craze when it comes to building block toys. Coincidentally, they are one of my absolute favorite toys for toddlers. I love them because not only do they entertain the little guy, all my older kids enjoy playing with them as well. Honestly, even I don’t mind sitting down to play together with these.

The possibilities of what you can build are endless, and knocking those creations down can be equally as fun. In addition, it is a great way to teach your little one about shapes and colors.

Fisher-Price 4-in-1 Robot Baby to Preschool Learning Toy – One of the TOP LEARNING TOYS for 2 Year Olds !

This friendly robot with chunky wheels, a 360° turn, and over 60 facial expressions. You press the light-up buttons on his head to get him to play fun educational games or dance. Keep in mind, it requires 4C batteries.

This is why it’s one of the most preferred choices- A lot of robot toys are best suited for older kids but not Movi! In fact, his color-coordinate games and fun sing-songs are ideal for younger ones. He’s quick on his feet, too. Moreover, it’s excellent for getting tots off their bums and running around.

KidKraft Everyday Heroes

There are 3 floors & 12 rooms of open space fun with a fire truck, motorcycle & helicopter. What is great for mom is it folds up nicely and easily for storage.

Our two-year-olds loved this imaginative play toy, especially the Firefighter’s pole for sliding from the top floor to the bottom

Just Smarty Electronic Interactive Alphabet Wall Chart

This is a great toy for helping your little one start learning his ABCs and 123’s. I bought this poster for my boys (3 and 1.5 years old). They love it! The baby loves listening to the songs and the toddler loves playing the various games.

Check out the over 4,000 reviews on this great educational toy!

PlanToys Blocks

This is definitely a classic (as in Grandpa probably even had a set when he was little), but that doesn’t mean your little one won’t absolutely love it. Nothing is wrong with tried and true. Your little architect can build castles, towers, and anything else they can imagine.

Leapfrog My Own Leaptop

Parenting choice learning toy.

Leapfrog is one of my favorite brands because it teaches my kiddos the basics like letters and numbers. With all the buttons and different noises this little play laptop can make, your child will have so much fun. In fact, they won’t even realize they are actually learning something.

Rainbow Stacking Toy

This adorable rainbow stacking toy is a great way to increase your toddler’s hand-eye coordination. You can check out this handmade toy on Etsy.

Color Shape Matching Egg Set

You may be wondering how a set of eggs can possibly be something that will educate and entertain your little one. Well, these actually encourage hand-eye coordination and recognition skills, and help preschoolers count, sort, AND match! They are frequently used in Montessori preschools, too.

Lincoln Logs

After 100 years, the classic Lincoln Logs are still a good gift. Why? Because you will find yourself and your little one lying on the ground for hours building different structures. We always get a set of animal farm figurines to go along with it and create barns.

Fisher-Price Think & Learn Chair

As a parent of many many two-year-old boys, it is nice to find a toy that encourages the little ones to sit down for a minute. This is a great toy that teaches and engages your kid and is perfect for a little downtime .

Children can flip through the book pages or push the light-up remote to hear about numbers, forms, and other topics. They can also lift the cushion to find more amusing surprises.

You can vary the learning as your child gets older. A range of developmentally appropriate songs, phrases, and sounds are included in each of the three play levels to entertain and teach your child. This is available in multiple colors

Interactive Toys for 2 Year Old Boys

The best toys for 2 year old boys are interactive, bright toys that aid their development! Here are some more of our favorites. 

Step2 Adventure Camper Playhouse  

The Adventure Camper from Step2 is so much fun! Both my 4 & 2-year-old love whipping up giant burgers and loaded hotdogs on their very own grill. 

You have got to love how Step 2 nails the small details from the skylight to the actual food with all the toppings and dishes. There is even a doorbell that works! Plus, like all of the Step2 products we have gone through in my household, it is sturdy and high-quality meaning your little ones can play endlessly with it before you see any sign of wear. 

Vtech Smart Shots Sport Center

Nothing is more exciting than scoring a goal! This is a great toy for any sporty kiddo with basketball and soccer all in one. It even keeps score, which helps your little one learn numbers, and cheers for them when they are doing well.

Melissa and Doug Magnetic Car Loader – Great Gift for Under $20

Little boys love playing with cars, which is why this item is included in our best toys for 2-year-old boy article. I am 99% sure it’s so they can constantly make a vroom-vroom noise to the point that they are driving you crazy! This little set comes with a wooden semi-truck to be loaded onto via magnet, which I know my toddlers would have gotten a huge kick out of.

Leapfrog Scoop & Learn Ice Cream Cart

This adorable ice cream cart is a new addition to our best toys for 2 year old boys. Our boys loved serving up ice cream when they were little. With the Leapfrog scoop and learn, t he magic scooper scoops up the ice cream and toppings to create tasty-looking combinations while introducing your child to colors and flavors.

The toy will help them practice counting to ten, teach them about flavors, and also have fun music they’ll enjoy.

Stomp Rocket

There are a lot of stomp rockets on the market and after numerous tests, this is by far the best one. This rocket can launch up to 100 feet (with the help of dad) but still can give a good launch with your little one.

There is just something so cute about watching the joy on a little kids’ face as the rocket soars in the air. The stomp rocket makes a great gift for the little boy in your life.

VTech KidiBeats Drum Set

I know you have probably teased someone about buying their child a musical instrument, well here is your chance! This little drum set will have any toddler rocking out in style.

Amazon Children’s Book Subscription Boxes

Amazon has some great book subscription clubs so that you and your toddler can have even more fun during storytime.

They are all organized based on your child’s age and you can choose how often you want the box distributed, once a month or 2 months or even 3 months. While this might not be a toy, it is a great gift for kids.

Little Tikes Trampoline

Best energy-burning toy for 1-2 year old boy .

This toy was a life saver with my second son who was a toddler with boundless energy! It’s also nice to have around on cold or rainy days when you don’t get the chance to go outside and your little one has extra energy to burn.

Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set

This is another toy that’s perfect for indoor or outdoor fun. It comes with a basketball made perfect for toddler hands, and the hoop can adjust as your kiddo grows.

Pottery Barn Chelsea All-in-1 Play Kitchen

If I have learned anything through being a mom of 5 it’s that all kids love a play kitchen ! With this toy kitchen, your 2 year old will be cooking up plastic pasta and burgers for you non-stop. The only question left is… how do I get a life-size kitchen that looks like this?

Best Bath Toys for Two Year Old Boys

No list of toys for 2 year old boys would be complete without a bath toy! Little ones have a knack for getting dirty, so having some bath toys is essential to coax them into getting clean.

Here are some of our favorite bath toys to make bath time fun.

Octopus Interactive Bath Toy

This toy is UNDER $10!

Think Ring toss in a bath and you’ve got the Nuby Floating Purple Octopus Interactive Bath Toy. This might be the best toy we have tried in 2023 as it makes bath time so much more fun with rambunctious 2 year olds.

The octopus is BPA-free for those kiddos who love to put everything in their mouth. My favorite part, is the toy is under $10, so it is super fun and super affordable.

Magnet Boat Set

The set comes with 4 boats, making these great toys for a 2 year old boy birthday gift!

Made with BPA-free, non-toxic materials, this fun, colorful playset comes with four boats that float. Each boat has safely enclosed magnets that attach to the next boat in line with numbers 1 2 3 and 4.

Best Gifts for the 2 Year Old Who Loves Exploring Outside

Have a little one who loves to be outside. We have some of the best toys for two year old boys who love to explore the great outdoors.

Little Tikes Spiralin’ Sea Water Park Play Table

Little ones love playing in the water and giving them an actual toy to do that with might just keep them out of your toilet and sinks. There are tons of different little activities to do on this table. Plus, you can set it inside or outside depending on the weather!

Radio Flyer Red Rider Trike

Look no further for the best toy for 2 year old boys! Get them started early on the whole bike-riding thing with this adorable trike. It will keep them balanced and safe in the comfy seat with a back.

Bug Catching Kit

If you have some adventurous little tikes running through your household who love to explore little creatures then this is a great gift. This outdoor bug kit lets your two year old go out on an exploration and find toy bugs or real ones.

Everything in here truly works, the binoculars are adjustable and you will find the binoculars one of the most used parts of this toy. Our little guy loved using these on our hikes and discovering everything from colorful leaves to tiny insects. This present can be good for kids up to 6 years of age in our opinion.

Green Toys Dump Truck

There is just something about dump trucks that little ones love! This Green Toys Dump Truck is perfect for little ones since it is BPA and phthalates-free. Plus, this is a toy that will help with their fine motor skills development. All you need to do is find a sandbox!

Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike

For those who want to get started on the whole bike thing but their two-year-old wants to be like the big kids, this is the perfect item for you. It looks like a normal bike minus the pedals because it’s made for your toddler to walk along with. Don’t forget a helmet though! Your daring little one might just try to lift his feet up.

Lydaz Bubble Mower

This one is a favorite among the two-year-old set and with good reason! Not only can your little guy pretend to help with outdoor chores, but he can get exercise and enjoy bubbles at the same time!

You’ll be amazed at how long he’ll play with this Bubble Mower, and it comes equipped with three bubble solutions so you won’t have to buy them separately. Check Current Prices Here!

Playskool Sit ‘n Spin

Wow, this toy will bring back lots of memories! A classic of the 1980s, kids are still enjoying this simple yet fun toy today. Besides being great for giggles, the Sit ‘n Spin helps toddlers practice skills like balance, coordination, and gross motor skills.

It can be used inside or outside as long as it’s on a flat surface, and your little guy will get a kick out of being strong enough to spin himself. Check Current Prices Here! 

Kid’s Golf Club Set

Start them early! Your 2 year old might not be ready for the golf course quite yet, but they will surely get a kick out of having their own little set. It is cute and really easy to set up and clean up.

It comes with everything you need; clubs, flags, balls, and a “golf bag”. Whether you are mom and dad, grandma, or just a good friend searching for the perfect gift for your little guy, he is sure to love this set! 

Award Winning Toys for 2 Year Old Boys

Now that we’ve talked about the best 2 year old boy toys for birthdays and development, let’s chat about great toy options that can serve as rewards. There’s nothing wrong with a little incentive for reaching big milestones like being potty trained! 

Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Grow-the-Fun Garden to Kitchen

This toy really takes farm-to-kitchen to a whole new level so it is no surprise this was the TOTY Infant/Toddler Toy of the Year winner last year. I mean, look at how cute this make-believe garden is! It has bright colorful lights to capture your little one’s attention and 30+ play pieces to keep them busy.

Dinosaur Car Toys for Boys and Girls

These little dinosaurs have wheels on their feet! How cool is that? Two year olds love being able to push things around on wheels and it’s nice for it to be something other than a car every once in a while.

Melissa and Doug Laundry Set

My oldest son’s absolute favorite toy as a toddler was this little vacuum he could push around. I’d say it’s because he wanted to be just like his mama, but let’s get real when he was two and I had a newborn…

I couldn’t even tell you where our real vacuum was. Anyways, your little dude might want a laundry. Who knows? It’s undeniably an adorable set.

Janod Super Rocket Magnet Kit

Do you have a kid who likes to put things together just to take them apart and put them back together again? This little rocket will make that a piece of cake. Plus it’s honestly the cutest little rocket that I’m sure they will love to play with even when it’s all put together.

Fat Brain Toys Personalized Name Puzzle

This makes our best toy for 2 year old boy list because it is a fun way to help your little one learn to spell his name. A great way to introduce letters and their sounds to your toddler is with their own name. You can order one of these puzzles to do just that! Check current prices here!

Mega Bloks First Builders 80-Piece Classic Building Set

Bring it back to the basics. Your toddler will be entertained with these blocks long enough for you to get at least one thing done. Just make sure they’re all picked up during clean up time so no one accidentally steps on one.

Leapfrog LeapBuilders Fruit Fun Elephant 

My daughter and nephew both love this toy, and I love that they are enjoying learning. You can check out our detailed review of the Fruit Fun Elephant here !

My First Crayola Touch Lights, Musical Doodle Board

Bring out the little artist in your child with this glowing doodle board. This is a great sensory toy that allows your child to really express themself. Best of all, this toy is mess-free, making it the best gift for a 2 year old boy (and mom & dad!).

Whack a Frog Game

Our two year olds loved the whack-a-frog game, especially when two players get involved. The game comes with two hammers so the kids can try to knock as many frogs as possible.

It’s also great as a way to help your kids with fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and it will provide plenty of giggles.

Green Toys Car Carrier Vehicle Set

All little boys are different, obviously, but when it comes to my nephew he can never have too many cars. He loves his carrier set because it is like having multiple toys in one. It lets him stack cars on top and inside, which allows for motor skill development and imaginative play.

LEGO Duplo Toy Story Train

Toy Story is a timeless classic, but little ones today still love it! This toy has the best of both worlds with building block elements and a train set. The Woody and Buzz figurines that come along with the set are perfect for pretend play!

Fill and Fold Taco Play Set

You really can’t go wrong with tacos! I remember my two year olds whipping up meals for me in their play kitchen frequently. I love that these tacos are so easy for little hands to make and that there are 43 pieces!

Play-Doh Pinkfong Baby Shark Set

Baby shark and play-doh combined into one; it’s every 2 year old’s dream come true! This toy is recommended for 3 and up, but as long as you are right there with them it should be fine for 2 year olds as well. It comes with 21 play-doh tools meaning you can create the whole shark family and 12 cans of play-doh.

Pretend Light-Up Vacuum

Imaginative play is one of the best ways for kids to learn, and your little guy has surely seen you vacuuming the floors from time to time. Now, he can mimic you and “help” with chores using his very own pretend vacuum .

It has a removable bag to make it seem even more real, plus a clicking button, knobs and wheels. It also comes with sounds that simulate a real vacuum, meaning he’ll get to feel independent and accomplished as he practices keeping the house clean and tidy.

Playskool Learn-to-Dress Activity Doll

At age 2, your boy is getting more independent every day – so build his confidence with a plush friend to help him learn to dress himself!

This Playskool Activity Doll teaches kids to zip, tie, button, buckle and more. It also comes with a handy attachment ring so it can be clipped to a stroller, carseat, backpack or gym bag.

Bonus: it’s machine washable for those inevitable spills!

Skoolzy Pegboard Toddler Stacking Toys

Technically, this is a Montessori educational manipulative. To your 2-year-old boy, however, it’s hours of stacking fun while he practices his pincer grip and improves dexterity. The Skoolzy Pegboard comes with 38 pieces in different shapes and colors, plus a handy storage bag.

The pegs are large enough that little fingers can easily handle them but small enough to still provide tactile challenges. This set can also be used for color or shape sorting, or to practice making patterns, meaning it can grow with your child.

Smoothie Maker Blender Set

Does your 2-year-old love to help you out in the kitchen? If so, this Smoothie Maker set from Melissa & Doug will be a big hit. My little ones always loved these sets! Melissa & Doug food toys are top-notch, for example with this set the velcro pieces can actually be “chopped” and there is even “protein powder” that can be added in.

Since the selection of foods includes fruits and veggies, it can also help to encourage them to learn about new healthy foods along with colors and counting.

Dreampark Wooden Jigsaw Puzzle Set

At age 2, puzzles can have a truly profound impact on your little guy’s brain development. In addition to practicing shapes and pattern recognition, this set of six puzzles also teaches your boy problem solving skills he’ll use often later in life.

These cute and colorful animals look friendly, rather than overwhelming to a young mind just learning puzzle skills, and the pieces are small enough to feel comfortable in little hands. Check Current Prices Here!

Plush Creations Barn Friends Farm House

Kids are picking up new language skills every day by the age of two, and this adorable Barn Friends Farm House features four animals that talk and make sounds your child can mimic.

Easily operated with a simple hug or squeeze, each animal fits nicely in a child’s hand, making this a frustration-free toy. Since the animals are plush, you can even use this toy to make naptime a learning environment, with your little guy resting sweetly with his new-found barn friends.

Eric Carle’s ‘Hear Bear Roar’ Play-a-Sound Book 

A book featuring Eric Carle’s beautiful illustrations is gift enough for a child, but this book also plays 30 animal sounds at the touch of a button. Easily operated by little fingers, Hear Bear Roar takes your 2-year old on an interactive adventure filled with colors and sounds.

The storytelling and imagery are great for developing his creativity and imagination, and pushing the sound buttons helps to build hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. You truly can’t go wrong with this gorgeously illustrated interactive story.

About the Author

If You Liked the Best Toys for 2 Year Olds Boys, Check Out Our Other Gift Idea Articles:

Best Toys for 2 Year Old Girls [15 adorable options for your little girl]

The Best Toys for 5 Year Old Boys [20 Great Options]

Baby Development- The 11 Best Gifts for 6 Month Old Baby

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Toys for 2 Year Old Boys

What is the best gift for 2 year old boy?

CAT Digger Magnetic Blocks Melissa and Doug Magnetic Car Loader Little Tikes Trampoline Aqua Doodle Mat

What toys should my 2 year old have?

The best toys for 2-year-olds help them in their development by having some educational elements yet are still super fun and can keep their attention.

What is the best educational toy for a 2 year old?

Magnetic Blocks Melissa and Doug Magnetic Car Loader Little Tikes Trampoline Aqua Doodle Mat Wooden Jigsaw Puzzle Set Pegboard Stacking Toy Megablocks

Pin for later: Best Toys for 2 Year Old Boys in 2023

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46 Gifts for 2-Year-Olds That Can Keep Up With Them

With toddlers, every day brings something new, and these toys will keep things even more interesting.

If you buy something from the links on this page, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

Ever since we were hunter-gatherers painting in caves, the “terrible twos” have been a challenging time for parents. At least that’s our guess: the power of this age feels positively primordial. But while tantrums, emotional rollercoasters, and fierce, stubborn independence do kick into overdrive at this age, it’s not all bad. After all, it’s a rollercoaster and not a downward spiral.

Some of these toys celebrate all the developmental milestones they’ve achieved in the past couple of years, which is monumental when you consider they were inside someone not too long ago. Others encourage them to develop further skills . But all of these toys, regardless of developmental importance, are just plain fun . Because they may not always know what to ask for (or how to count past 10), but they know what they like!

John Deere Ride-On Toys Sit 'n Scoot Tractor

Get your farmer-in-training their very first John Deere tractor in this sit-and-scoot design. It looks like the real thing but is safe for small riders. The wide wheelbase promotes stability, and with a weight limit of60 pounds, your child can have fun tending their fields on this for years.

TOP BRIGHT Magnetic Worm & Bird Toy

Your little one will have so much fun removing the magnetic worms from their tree and feeding them to the hungry bird that they won’t even know they’re building up their fine motor skills. Fun and educational? Yes please!

MOLLYBEE KIDS Scavenger Hunt Cards at Home

These sturdy, double sided cards provide simple questions and prompts to guide your toddler on an exciting game around the house. Can they find, say a piece of fruit? Can they find a pot and play it like a drum. Perfect for developing language, bonding, and having fun on a cold or rainy day.

Playskool Sit n’ Spin

Your toddler will love spinning themselves on this Playskool. Appropriate for indoor or outdoor play, this toy is the perfect outlet for working out energy while staying in one place. It’s all in the name — just sit and spin!

VTech VTech Drill and Learn Toolbox

This toddler-friendly toolbox is great not only for imaginative play but using the tools can help them develop fine motor skills. And because the toolbox even sings songs about how everything works, less-than-handy caregivers may find they learn a thing or two as well.

Royal Oak Platform Swing

We absolutely love this platform swing for hours and years of outdoor fun with friends. With a weight capacity of 700 pounds, this can provide an entire childhood of fun.

Honeysticks Bath Crayons

Toddlers have this unfortunate habit of drawing on walls. It’s a great sign of creative development, but not so fun for you to clean up.p.

Designate the bath as an OK place to scribble with these all-natural crayons. Just wipe away when they’re done.

Brio My First Railway Set

Known for their durable, super fun train sets, Brio has made this simple set perfect for first-time train owners. Magnets connect the different train cars as they ride around the simple wooden track. And when they’re ready for a bigger railway empire, it's compatible with other Brio products… and they will want more Brio products!

VTech Spin and Learn Color Flashlight

Anyone who has ever held a flashlight within 100 yards of a toddler already knows that those little guys love flashlights. So before they steal yours, go ahead and let them enjoy this one, which plays songs, sounds, and phrases.

More: Gift Ideas for 1-Year Olds That Will Entertain for Hours

Melissa & Doug Let's Play House 6 Piece Pretend Play Set

Toddlers love imitating adults, so why not set the right tone with this adorable, child-sized set, including a broom, mop, duster, dustpan, brush, and storage stand? They’ll love to help you throughout the house … and if you’re lucky, this behavior will stick as they get older! (Hey, we can dream.)

PicassoTiles Magnetic Tiles

Have fun building creativity and spatial intelligence with this simple but limitless toy. This is another one my kids got as toddlers, and they still play with them to this day. In fact, we bought a second set in the past couple of years because they kept fighting over them!

KidKraft Uptown Play Kitchen

I can say from personal experience that this play kitchen is where it’s at — and if I’m being honest, there were times when I wished my cooking space was this nice. Complete with a stove, microwave, refrigerator, cabinets, and more, there’s plenty of space to keep your little chef entertained through grade school.

Little Dove Play Tent

There are lots of play tents out there, but we absolutely love this one, both for its unique shape and for the aura of calm it exudes. Just imagine the chill space you can create with this for your 2-year-old to imagine, nap, and daydream.

Melissa & Doug Sunny Patch Snappy Turtle Lawn Mower

One day, your 2-year-old will be a salty teenager who groans when you ask them to mow the lawn, but it is not this day. Today they will love playing grown-up with their very own push lawnmower. The dials really click and the pull cord makes a realistic motor sound, too.

Bluey Jumbo Plush

The average 2-year-old is somewhere between 32 to 37 inches. This super soft, incredibly cuddly Bluey plush is 18 inches. That’s potentially more than half the size of your kiddo! They’ll love playing with their favorite Australian pup.

LEGO Duplo Mickey Mouse Birthday Train

Straight from the Clubhouse, Mickey and Minnie are all aboard the birthday train! The set includes everything your little one will need to build a train that really moves and Mickey and Mini figures. Hot dog, that’s a fun toy!

Melissa And Doug Jumbo Cardboard Blocks

True story: my oldest got these when he was a toddler. He’s now 12, and I just gave them to another family, which is amazing for two reasons. 1) Even though these fun jumbo blocks are made of cardboard, they hold up super well, even to toddlers, and 2) They can provide more than a decade of fun.

Little Tikes First Washer-Dryer

Kids can pretend to wash and dry clothes just like their parents with the super realistic washer-dryer set. It's packed with interactive features like a tumbling drum and built-in slots for storage baskets. Plus, it makes realistic sounds to really extend the pretend play for hours.

Manhattan Toy Double-Decker Celestial Star Explorer Wooden Activity Center

Fully equipped with lots of wire bead runs, gliders, and spinners, this large activity center boasts four quadrants of multi-level play and supports motor development, cause-and-effect learning, and imaginative discovery.

hand2mind Mindfulness Puppets

We love this set of five, soft cotton hand puppets. Not only are these toys fun, but, as each one conveys a different emotion, they can help your toddler identify and voice their feelings.

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20 Best Gifts for 2-Year-Olds That’ll Provide Hours of Play

Medical review policy, latest update:, quick summary, how we chose the best toys for 18-month-olds, why trust us, best music gift for 2-year-olds, fisher-price classic xylophone, best educational gift for 2-year-olds, sesame street elmo's on the go letters, best building blocks for 2-year-olds, mega bloks first builders big building bag, best book for 2-year-olds, ‘the very hungry caterpillar’ by eric carle, best train set for 2-year-olds, brio classic figure 8, best art gift for a 2-year-old, honeysticks 100% pure beeswax crayons, best play table for a 2-year-old, step2 dino sand and water table, best toy truck for 2-year-olds, green toys dump truck, best doll for 2-year-olds, corolle baby doll, best ride-on toy for 2-year-olds, strider 12” sport balance bike, best outdoor toy for 2-year-olds, step2 playhouse neat & tidy cottage homestyle edition, best art set for 2-year-olds, alex discover tots art start, best sports gift for 2-year-olds, little tikes easy score basketball set, best puzzle set for 2-year-olds, wood city toddler puzzles and rack set, best dollhouse for 2-year-olds, fisher price little people big helpers home, best bubble toy for 2-year-olds, fisher-price bubble mower, best stuffed animal for 2-year-olds, melissa & doug gentle jumbo dinosaur, best lego set for 2-year-olds, lego town truck & tracked excavator construction vehicle, best bath toy for 2-year-olds, bunmo textured suction bath toys, best food toy for 2-year-olds, leapfrog yum 2-3 toaster, our research.

American Academy of Pediatrics, How High-Powered Magnetic Toys Can Harm Children , July 2023. American Academy of Pediatrics, Ignore the Flashing Screens: The Best Toys Go Back to the Basics , December 2018. American Academy of Pediatrics, Toy Buying Tips for Babies & Young Children: AAP Report Explained , November 2021. American Academy of Pediatrics, Pediatrics, Selecting Appropriate Toys for Young Children in the Digital Era , January 2019. Kids Health From Nemours, Smart Toys for Every Age , June 2018. Kids Health From Nemours, Toddler Reading Time , August 2023. Natasha Burgert, M.D., F.A.A.P., Pediatrician, South Overland Park, Kansas.

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The Best Toys For 2-Year-Olds Help Them Learn And Have Fun

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Picking out playthings for a 2-year-old can be especially fun, because this toddler group is extra curious and eager to explore. The best toys for 2-year-olds appeal to their natural inquisitiveness, high activity levels and big imaginations. A few of our favorite toys for this group include playhouses like this tent from Little Dove , developmental toys like Melissa & Doug’s wooden block set and items that help them use up lots of energy like this micro kickboard scooter .

The best toys for 2-year-olds engage their natural curiosity.

“Play is such a great way for kids to understand how things work in the world,” says Dr. Robert Keder , a pediatrician who specializes in developmental behavior at Connecticut Children's Medical Center. He says that the best toys for 2-year-olds help them work on both fine motor and cognitive skills, like picking up puzzle pieces and trying to figure out how things stack to make certain shapes.

After speaking with Keder, researching top-rated toddler toys and gathering firsthand recommendations from other parents, I’ve curated this gifting list of the best toys for 2-year-olds in several key categories. For more toys that this age group loves, you may want to browse our recommendations for the best playhouses and the best outdoor toys for toddlers .

The Very Best Camping Cots To Sleep Off The Ground In Comfort

The best fans to keep you cool and comfortable, our editor picks: best toys for 2-year-olds.

• Best Educational Toys For 2-Year-Olds: Melissa & Doug ABC Block Cart , Petit Collage Follow + Spot Puzzle , Inno Pad Educational Tablet Toy , KiwiCo Panda Crate
• Best Montessori Toys For 2-Year-Olds: Mushie Stacking Cups Toy , Tender Leaf Stacking Forest , Crayola Easy-Clean Fingerpaint Set , Avenlur Hazel 5-In-1 Indoor Climbing Gym
• Best Imaginary Play Toys For 2-Year-Olds: Lego Duplo Dream Playground , Step2 Little Helper’s Shopping Cart , American Girl Bitty Baby Doll With Care And Play Set , Brio My First Railway Beginner Pack
• Best Outdoor Toys For 2-Year-Olds: Green Toys Wagon , Radio Flyer Deluxe Steer And Stroll Ride-On Trike , ArtCreativity Playground Ball , Step2 Pump & Splash Discovery Pond

Best Educational Toys For 2-Year-Olds

A multipurpose educational toy with wheels, melissa & doug classic abc wooden block cart.

This charming toy has 30 1-inch wooden blocks neatly arranged in a rolling cart that your child can pull around. All sides of the blocks feature different drawings, letters and numbers your toddler can experiment with and arrange in order. Of course, kids can also simply use the blocks to build towers and other structures to knock down when the mood strikes. This is a durable toy, too: My now-10-year-old had this when he was little, and his toddler sister still enjoys playing with it.

This Puzzle Has A Finger Maze Too

Petit collage follow + spot puzzle.

There are just 10 large pieces in this lively Petit Collage puzzle, but there’s much to explore. Little fingers and hands can work to fit the pieces together and then to find all the suggested objects, letting them flex their hand-eye coordination, puzzle and fine motor skills. We also like that it’s made with recycled paper and vegetable dyes.

This ‘Tablet’ Doesn’t Need A Wi-Fi Connection

Inno pad educational tablet toy.

Inno Pad is a really cool toy you can get a lot of mileage out of. The STEM media pad features themed sheets your child (or you) slides into the tablet. Kids quickly learn to insert the sheet and press the star button—it tells the tablet which sheet is in—before interacting with the lesson. The tablet teaches kids about different occupations, weather patterns, animals and more.

It’s also compact enough to fit into a backpack for on-the-go fun or as a travel day distraction. This might be the best gift my kids have ever received—and they all love to pass it around the car on road trips. However, some kids do find the buttons tricky to press.

A STEM Subscription Kit That’s Packed With Potential

Kiwico's panda crate subscription.

Engage all kinds of new skills with a subscription box to this STEM-focused company. The KiwiCo Panda Crate delivers an age-appropriate activity kit every month based on the birthday you enter for the child. The contents change each time to match your child’s developmental stage, but each box encourages hands-on exploration and play for young kids. KiwiCo’s website has a detailed description of each box, so parents can find out exactly what’s on the way.

There are three subscription levels: Essentials ($50 per crate), Plus ($80 per crate) and Deluxe ($90 per crate). The Panda Crate, which is aimed at newborns through 36 months (it still arrives tailored to your child’s exact age) comes with a guide for grownups, too, offering suggested activities for parents and kids to maximize the fun.

This Book Plays Songs And Makes Noises

Leapfrog learning friends 100 words book.

This Amazon bestseller features characters Turtle, Tiger and Monkey, who help walk kids through 100 early words across a range of categories including animals, food and colors. Toddlers hear words spoken when they touch them, along with sound effects and fun facts. It’s perfect for car trips and when you’re not immediately available to read a story. A built-in handle makes it easy to tote around.

Work On Those Fine Motor Skills

Learning resources spike the fine motor hedgehog.

Help your little one work on their fine motor skills with this hedgehog toy. Each “quill” is contoured for an easy grip, so your child can pull it out and rearrange them to their liking. You can also use the toy to work on color recognition, counting and sorting skills, and the whole thing has rounded, toddler-friendly edges. A nice bonus: The quills fit inside the hedgehog when playtime is over for easy storage.

A Bedtime Book That's Interactive

Find it bedtime: baby's first puzzle book.

Highlights is known for its fun hidden picture puzzles, and the brand has board books for the younger set, too. This story focuses on things kids see at bedtime and encourages them to point out objects like pajamas and the moon as you go along. Read it before bed or any time for a fun bonding experience.

A Tot-Sized Puzzle

Matchstick Monkey

Matchstick Monkey Wooden Animal Puzzle

“My 2-year-old son loves this sweet little puzzle,” says Margaret Badore Forbes Vetted baby and kids gear editor. “He likes to name each animal as he puts it together.” Made with non-toxic and water-based paints, this wooden puzzle is small enough to slip into a diaper bag, and is suitable for kids 18 months and older.

A Touch And Feel Board Book

Jellycat 'if i were a monkey' board book.

These cute animal-themed board books from Jellycat engage curious tots with visuals and touch. Kids can feel the fuzzy (or sometimes scaly) animal faces and tails and trunks as you read. Whether you choose this adorable monkey or any other animal from a giraffe to a unicorn , your little one is sure to want to touch and feel it.

A Musical Farm Book

Ditty bird farm animals book.

The Ditty Bird series of books offer toddlers a button to press right in the book you’re reading to them—magic for little ones. They’ll hear animal sounds and farm-themed songs in this one, offering them an early lesson in animal names and plenty of language skills.

A Cool STEM Toy That Works With Small Fingers

Guidecraft grippies builders (20-piece set).

This STEM toy features magnets, so your little one can easily construct geometric shapes. Each brightly colored piece has a comfortable grip in a different pattern for tactile play. Your child will love creating new designs and admiring their work, before wrecking it and starting over again. Choose from 20-piece, 30-piece or different shape sets—they all feature pieces that are a nice size for little hands to hold. This toy is rated for 18-months and up.

This Wooden Band Set

Hape pound, tap & shake music set.

We love a good multipurpose toy, as well as any baby gear that can pull double or triple duty in this case. The Hape wooden pound bench set comes with a xylophone they can play and a tambourine to shake or tap, along with the ever-popular hammer and trio of balls.

Count And Name Colors With Cute Gnomes

Learning resources peekaboo gnome homes.

Many parents notice a big jump forward in language skills right around their little one’s second birthday, and these cute gnomes give 2-year-olds plenty to talk about. They have colors and numbers to name, and there are lots of ways to mix-and-match the gnomes in their mushroom houses.

“My son adores matching the ‘gnome-ies’ to the house of the same color,” says Badore. “But he’s also very interested in seeing which caps caps fit on which base.” It’s also a good bath toy, she adds.

Best Montessori Toys For 2-Year-Olds

An indoor playground for your active tot, avenlur hazel 5-in-1 indoor climbing gym.

A Montessori indoor playground offers toddlers a way to get out all that energy and practice some key skills like balance. This Avenlur set includes a Pikler Triangle, climbing arch and a reversible rock wall and slide. As they get older, they can express their creativity by trying out different formations with this modular playset.

A Classic Wooden Block Set

Melissa & doug solid wood building blocks (60 pieces).

These solid wood building blocks from Melissa & Doug encourage open-ended playtime, and they’re just the right size for toddlers’ hands. I’ve had these blocks in my house since my firstborn was 1. He’s now 10, and his three younger siblings have all continued to play with them. Younger kids enjoy stacking them, while older children can use them to make ramps and buildings for toy cars and dolls.

Perfect For Busy Climbers

Pottery Barn Kids

Foamnasium Gymnasium

Some toddlers just love to climb. Indulge that love with the massively popular Foamnasium Gymnasium. It features four foam pieces—a block, toddler steps and two wedges—that kids can use however they want. My younger kids like to climb up and down the stairs and wedges, while my older ones use the block and wedges for Nerf gun wars and car obstacle courses, giving us plenty of mileage out of this toy. Choose from multiple colors.

A Whimsical Toy With Plenty Of Spacial Learning Potential

Tender leaf toys stacking forest.

This stacking toy is so adorable, children don’t even realize they’re learning. It features 19 wood animals that can be stacked and rearranged to make cool scenes. Bonus: It doubles as décor when it’s left out, as we’ve discovered in my house.

A Mess-Free Way To Paint

Crayola easy-clean fingerpaint set.

Painting is so much fun for little ones, but it unfortunately usually ends in a mess. This genius kit from Crayola keeps everything contained under a snap-on lid. Just dab on your paint, close the lid and let your child go to work. They get the feel of finger painting without you having to do a massive cleanup afterward. Once they’re done, simply rinse off the toy and stow it away. It’s perfect for those moments when you need a quick and easy busy activity.

Magnetic Blocks For Hours Of Fun

42-piece tegu magnetic wooden block set.

I bought this block set for my kids on the recommendation of a friend, and it’s a toy that gets plenty of repeat use. The wooden blocks are magnetic, allowing little hands to build precarious structures without fear of them easily falling down. There are magnetic wheels that roll too. The pieces are large enough that you don’t have to worry about younger siblings accidentally swallowing them. All Tegu sets work together, so you can add to your child’s collection over time.

Smarter Toy Storage For Rotating Favorites

Lovevery montessori playshelf.

The wooden Lovevery Montessori Playshelf isn’t a toy exactly, but it does allow for easier access and organization for all of your 2-year-old’s favorite playthings—which are likely starting to multiply at this age. This isn’t an inexpensive purchase, but what we especially love about it is the hidden storage compartment in the back. This makes it easier to stow toys away and rotate them in and out of playtime. It might just encourage independent cleanup time too. It doesn’t come with toys, but it does come with two storage trays and two bins.

For more toy organizing ideas, check out our list of the best toy storage .

Stackable Cups For The Bath Or Dry Land

Mushie 8-piece stacking cups toy.

Little cups come in handy during all types of children’s play and games. They can stack them, carry other toys with them, scoop water in the bathtub and more. This eight-piece set made in Denmark is also BPA, PVC and phthalate-free, and it comes in a range of colors. These versatile stacking cups tend to sell out, but they’re in stock at the moment at these retailers.

A Learning Tower To Bring Them Closer To The Action

Mini chef foldable helper tower.

Two-year-olds always want to help, but as caregivers, we worry about them hurting themselves in every which way. A learning tower helps them get closer to the action. This option made by Piccalio tops our list of the best learning towers . It has safety rails, a sturdy base, climbing steps and adjustable heights to let your little one play or “help” at counter level safely.

Best Imaginary Play Toys For 2-Year-Olds

Create their own private oasis, little dove play tent with mat: star light playhouse.

This indoor playhouse is large enough to accommodate a sibling, as well as all their playthings, from dolls to stuffed animals to tea or car sets. We expect plenty of exciting rainy and cold days to be passed in this play tent, which also comes with a coordinating banner and fun star lights. It’s rated for ages 24 months and up.

Work Off Extra Energy

Iplay ilearn bouncy pals zebra hopper.

The iPlay Zebra Hopper is a near-guaranteed jaw-dropping gift—and yet, it’s fairly affordable at less than $40. This toy inflates with the help of an included hand pump before kids can hop on top. Anti-slip feet and a low center of gravity lower the risk of accidental falls. It’s also covered in a removable and washable plush cloth cover that’s soft to the touch.

Instant Transformation With A Rainbow Cape

Great pretenders unicorn cape.

Tots will thrill to throw on this cozy and sparkly unicorn cape that makes dress-up a breeze with little ones. There’s just one Velcro clasp, no fussy ties or snaps and your child is transformed. We have found that this brand runs a little small, so you may want to size up to ensure it lasts. It’s also machine washable.

A Train Set For Little Hands

Brio my first railway beginner pack.

This Brio starter train set offers easily assembled tracks that can be rearranged however your toddler likes, along with a locomotive and caboose. The track pieces have rounded edges and the train is easy for smaller hands to grip. Bright colors make this set approachable and fun. Brio train sets are high-quality and let fans expand their track setup with additional pieces and trains as they build a collection.

“We’ve had my kids’ Brio train collection for nearly a decade, adding to it with each kid,” says Rose Gordon Sala, deputy editor at Forbes Vetted and mom of three. “They’ve each taken a turn enjoying building and zooming their trains on it.”

This Play Kitchen Is Seriously Chic

Pottery barn kids' chelsea all-in-1 toddler play kitchen.

Many kids gravitate toward pretend kitchens, and it’s easy to see why—they’re imagination centers. The Pottery Barn Kids Chelsea All-In-1 Play Kitchen comes in a range of colors, so you can match it to your home’s décor. It also has cabinets and knobs that work like “real” ones, along with a level of craftsmanship both adults and kids appreciate. This set looks so good, you won’t mind leaving it out.

A Duplo Playground With Plenty Of Interactive Elements

Lego duplo dream playground.

This action-packed Duplo set offers plenty for toddlers to check out. There’s a seesaw, a doggie to walk, a slide and swing and even a little skateboard. After the 75-piece chunky set is assembled, little ones can use their imaginations to create exciting scenes with the included figures. All Duplo blocks work together, so your child can build their collection, and any Duplo set is likely to be a hit with 2-year-olds.

A Sweet Doll With All The Right Accessories

American Girl

American Girl Bitty Baby Doll With Care And Play Set

Bitty Baby dolls are considered starter American Girl dolls and rated for ages 18 months and up. My daughters play with one that belonged to my now-17-year-old niece, so I can personally attest to their durability. My kids are especially fond of changing the fabric diaper for a “real” baby feel. Choose from a range of skin and hair colors to get the baby doll that appeals best to your child. This set comes with a few extra accessories, including a bottle, bib and changing accessories.

A Shopping Cart To Carry Must-Haves

Step2 little helper's shopping cart.

Kids love cruising around at home with this brightly-colored shopping cart. It’s roomy enough to hold essentials like pretend groceries, stuffed animals, books and more, while low enough to the ground for little ones to push around. The cart also comes in a pink color scheme if that’s more your child’s speed.

A Popular Puppy Who Is Perfect For Snuggling

Jellycat bashful black and cream puppy.

Jellycat makes some of our the best stuffed animals , and these 12-inch suffies are an ideal size for toddlers to wrap in a big hug. “My 2-year-old’s favorite stuffed animals are made by Jellycat,” says Badore. “He loves to carry his 12-inch bear all around the house with him, and of course it’s a must for bedtime.”

A Barbie Dreamhouse For The Younger Crowd

Fisher Price

Fisher-Price Little People Barbie Toddler Playset

It’s no secret that Barbie has made something of a comeback recently. Little ones can get into the action with this toddler-friendly version of the iconic Dreamhouse. It’s designed for Little People toys and features a working elevator, pool with slide, kitchen and bathroom with a toilet that makes flushing sounds. My 4-year-old can play pretend for long periods of time with this house, while my toddler just loves pressing all the buttons.

Their Own Stroller To Push

New york doll collection my first doll stroller.

Tots can push their special stuffies and baby dolls in this stroller—indoors or outdoors. I can confirm that it’s so much fun to watch your little one stroll their favorite pal down the hall or sidewalk in their very own stroller.

A Ride-On Toy For The Great Indoors

Wheely bug ladybug.

Ride-on toys are always fun, but they’re often best for outdoors. The Wheely Bug is specially designed to be friendly to hard floors, with casters and rounded corners that make it safe for indoor use, including accidental bumps. Choose from this sweet ladybug, or a mouse and bee designs. Sala says her tots enjoyed this uncomplicated ride-on toy indoors for years and that it “rolls smoothly” and held up well.

This Plush Chair Is Perfect For Cuddling And Reading

My first anywhere chair, ivory sherpa bear.

A stuffed animal and chair in one, this cozy plush is perfect for cuddling up and having quiet time. My daughter has a similar one in her room, and it’s her go-to spot for “reading” and other leisurely activities. It also doubles as a pretend friend, taking part in occasional tea parties. The plush is incredibly soft to the touch but also durable, and the chair provides plenty of support for little ones to sit in. Plus, you can choose to monogram it with your tyke’s name.

This Farm Set Is Packed With Fun Features

Fisher-price little people caring for animals farm.

This Little People sweet set has a bunch of elements toddlers love, which is possibly why it sold out a number of times in the past. The barn has room for a slew of animals to play, along with pretend carrots and hay they can snack on. The set comes with five figurines—four animals and a farmer—and offers fun electronic barn and animal sounds. It’s also compatible with other Little People toys and figurines, so kids can mix and match. Once playtime is over, just close the farm and carry it with the built-in handle.

A Doctor's Kit Designed For Younger Kids

Cocomelon official musical checkup case.

Many pretend doctor kits have a minimum age of 3 for the smaller pieces, but this Cocomelon kit is rated for ages 2 and up. The kit features the show’s musical checkup case, along with four play pieces—a stethoscope, thermometer, faux needle and hammer. Press the button on the outside for a fun song.

Take These Trucks Just About Anywhere

Green toys construction trucks.

These little trucks are ready to get to work in the sandbox, on the sidewalk and beyond. The Green Toys set comes with three fun trucks for their collection: a dump truck, a mixer and a front-loader. Its toys are made in the U.S. of 100% recycled plastic with no BPA, phthalates or PVC.

A Crime-Fighting Pup

Gund paw patrol: the mighty movie skye.

This 9-inched stuffed animal from Gund is straight from the pups’ movie— Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie —which heavily features Skye. If you have a little Paw Patrol fan on your hands, this is a great gift for them to snuggle with but also pretend play as they work the fearless Skye, Chase, Liberty or any of the new super-powered pups into their many fun scenarios.

Cups For The Bath, The Beach Or Wherever They Play

Skip hop zoo stack and pour buckets.

This versatile set of five animal-themed buckets are sized perfectly for little hands. They can use them in the bath and watch the water sprinkle out the holes in the bottom, dump them over or pour them out. I love that they’re PVC and phthalate-free with easy-to-grasp handles. We’ve taken this set to the beach and used it for backyard fun.

A Handmade Doll That's Extra Soft And Sweet

Cuddle + kind's eloise the elephant doll (13-inch).

The handmade animal dolls from Cuddle + Kind make an extra special, heirloom-quality gift for young kids. They’re knitted by hand in Peru and Nepal with Oeko-Tex certified cotton by local artisans. For each doll sold, the company donates 10 meals to children in need, so you can feel good about this splurge. Available in two sizes—13 inches or 20 inches—kids are often attracted to the extra soft fabric, sweet details and friendly animal and doll faces.

Best Outdoor Toys For 2-Year-Olds

A tricycle that converts from pushing to pedaling, radio flyer deluxe steer and stroll ride on trike.

Many 2-year-olds aren’t quite ready to pedal, but this Radio Flyer tricycle has that all figured out. Little ones can practice their riding position while a caregiver pushes (and steers) them using the removable handle. This is a big hit with my daughter when we’re out for walks—it allows her to feel like she’s “biking,” even though she doesn’t quite have the endurance for longer distances.

Once your child is ready to try it solo, remove the rear handle and kids can zoom along on their own. They’ll likely love ringing the little bell, as well as filling the rear trunk with their favorite possessions or new finds picked up during their ride.

This Bright Ball Is Easy For Tots To Use

Artcreativity rainbow playground ball.

This outdoor toy is incredibly simple, but that’s part of its charm. At this age, Keder says that kids are happy to kick and throw a ball around—and it helps work on their motor skills. The ArtCreativity playground ball is made of a sturdy PVC that can stand up to rough play, while a patterned exterior is easy for little hands to grip. My kids received this for Christmas a few years ago and still use it to play kickball, dodgeball and just toss around the yard. It’s soft enough for little ones, too.

A Durable And Beloved Scooter

Micro kickboard mini deluxe.

Named the best scooter for toddlers on Forbes Vetted’s Best Scooters For Kids list, this 3-wheeled scooter is wildly popular. It’s designed for little kids between the ages of 2 and 5, but can hold up to 110 pounds in weight. The handle bar is easy to adjust to your child’s height, with plenty of room for growth. It’s sturdy and has durable wheels for a smooth ride, and can be steered by leaning on the handle bar, a skill most 2-year-olds can master fairly easily.

“My son and many of his 2-year-old friends have these scooters and are big fans,” says Badore. “One of the best ways to avoid a tantrum when leaving the playground is to get my son excited about riding his scooter home. I also appreciate how well-made they are.”

A Wagon They Can Pull Themselves

Green toys wagon.

Light enough for a toddler to pull (it’s less than a pound), this Green Toys wagon can be used indoors or outdoors for all sorts of play. We love that it’s even dishwasher safe but also made in the U.S. and free of BPA, phthalates and PVC. Another perk: Unlike more traditional wagons, there’s no heavy handle that could crash down and injure little toes.

This Balance Bike Is Toddler Friendly

Strider 12 sport.

Balance bikes are now the preferred method for teaching kids how to ride, so if you have an extra active 2-year-old they might be ready for this Strider bike, which is great for beginners. Both the seat and the handlebars adjust up and down, allowing parents to get the perfect fit for their toddler. Choose from three bright colors.

A Toy Mower With A Hidden Storage Compartment

Melissa & doug sunny patch snappy turtle lawn mower.

That grass isn’t going to mow itself. Allow your child to pretend to aid in the lawn work with this cheery Melissa & Doug mower. The toy features a roomy storage compartment for toys, along with dials that turn and make noise, a pull-cord that makes a motor sound and even a plastic fuel can to pretend to fill up.

A Ride-On Toy That Grows With Its Owner

Skip hop kids' 3-in-1 ride on scooter and wagon toy.

Skip Hop is known for its adorable animal-themed gear, and this toy doesn’t disappoint. It features the face of the brand’s beloved dog cartoon on the front of a ride-on toy your little one can use for years. Stage one lets your child use it as a walking accessory, and stage two is a seated rider they can scoot around your living room or driveway, making it a great outdoor toy for 2-year-olds, too. For stage three, simply pop off the seat to turn the toy into a scooter. The handlebars easily adjust up and down with your child.

This was gifted to my 4-year-old and then passed down to her little toddler sister. It’s incredibly easy to pop the seat on and off, allowing them to switch between the two stages.

A Flashlight That's Just Right For Small Hands

Melissa & doug sunny patch giddy buggy flashlight.

This flashlight has been such a hit in our family that we bought several. It has a large body and easy-grip handle that small hands can hold with no issues. The flashlight is also incredibly durable, withstanding multiple drops with ease. The light goes on and off with the touch of a button, making it simple to operate. It’s also adorable.

A Sturdy Sandbox That’s Incredibly Cute

Little tikes turtle sandbox.

This sweet sandbox has been a fixture in my backyard for several years. It easily withstood snowstorms, rain and even a hurricane. The shell/lid goes on securely to keep out the elements (and critters) and extend the life of your sand. There’s also enough space between the sand and lid to keep some toys inside, so your child can start playing ASAP. This sandbox regularly sells out, but is in stock right now at several retailers.

This Water Table Is Packed With Features To Explore

Step2 pump & splash discovery pond.

Most kids love to splash around in the water, but this table from Step2 has multiple layers and interactive elements to keep them busy for a long time. Toddlers can get hands on with the hand pump, dump and splash section, waterfall and 10 small accessories that are just-right for little ones. It’s so fun and inviting, you might want to join in.

A Playhouse For All Their Games

Step2 neat and tidy cottage homestyle edition.

Step2 playhouses are known for their sturdy construction that can be passed down between kids. This adorable house has a swinging door, built-in faucet, ourdoor grills, doorbell and mail slot. There’s even a window box you can fill with real flowers. Another nice element: If you have space, you can move it inside when cold weather hits.

A Durable Bounce House For The Younger Set

Little tikes jr. jump 'n slide bouncer.

Many bounce houses are designed for kids who are at least 3 years old; This option from Little Tikes Jr. accommodates children as young as 2. It features mesh sides to keep kids safely contained while allowing you a full view of the action, along with a wide slide. The whole thing is lower profile when compared to big-kid bounce houses. Anchors allow you to firmly secure it in place in your lawn, while the included blower ensures this house is always at the ready. My sister bought this for her now-teenagers years ago and recently passed it down to my kids—it still works well, despite years of bouncing.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

Forbes Vetted’s parenting and kids gear team has an extensive history of researching and compiling toy guides and gift guides for kids of all ages, from 1-year-olds to teens .

• Our editors prioritize safety in the baby and kids gear category , taking into consideration any recalls, federal health guidelines and potential hazards before considering an item.
• Korin Miller , author of this story and regular Forbes Vetted contributor, has tried a number of these toys with her four children, who are under the age of 10. She also wrote our guides to the best outdoor toys for toddlers and best beach toys .
• This story is overseen by Margaret Badore , the Forbes Vetted’s baby and kids gear editor. She is a mom of a 2-year-old herself, and also contributed some of her son’s favorite toys to this list.
• We consulted with child development specialist Robert Keder , M.D., a pediatrician who specializes in developmental behavior at Connecticut Children's Medical Center.
• Our team frequently attends industry events to review the latest toys and kids gear, and closely follows the toy market. We regularly review this article for freshness and accuracy. It was most recently updated in June of 2024.

How We Chose The Best Toys For 2-Year-Olds

We curated this list of the best toys for 2-year-olds based on a combination of firsthand experience, expert input and consumer reviews.

• We took note of any consistent positive or negative feedback and prioritized toys with an average rating of 4 stars or higher.
• We gathered firsthand experience from parents to inform our selection of the best toys for 2-year-olds.
• We factored in each toy’s ease of use, durability and overall cost.
• We also considered age appropriateness in terms of safety, 2-year-old kids’ particular interests and their available skills as described by pediatrician Keder. All toys included here are deemed safe for children ages 2 and up.

What Toys Should My 2-Year-Old Be Playing With?

In general, Keder says that toddlers of this age are all about exploring things with their hands. Two-year-olds are still working on their fine motor skills, though, so you don’t want a toy that’s too complicated. Pretend phones, dress-up clothes and ride-on toys should all be considered. Blocks, magnetic toys and trucks are typical winners, especially if they’re in fun shapes or colors.

Another surefire hit that’s also budget-friendly? A ball. Snap one up in your 2-year-old’s favorite color—we like this multihued one from ArtCreativity .

Which Toy Would Be Most Appropriate For A 2-Year-Old Child?

There are a few things to consider when picking out an appropriate toy for a 2-year-old—and safety is a big one. Toys shouldn’t have areas that could pinch little fingers or small parts that can become choking hazards. (Kids of this age usually start to segue out of mouthing things, but this can still be an issue.) Often, toys will have a recommended age range on the package; it’s a good idea to check if you’re unsure whether a particular product is a good fit for a 2-year-old.

What Do You Get A 2-Year-Old For Their Birthday?

The best way to figure out a great gift for your toddler is to see what they already play with. If your 2-year-old has a favorite car or ride-on toy, something similar should be a success. If your tot likes to build things, consider an expansive block set or stackable cups. Another way to find ideas? See what your child gravitates toward on play dates, since it’s a time they’re exposed to new toys. Depending on how verbal your 2-year-old is, you could also ask them what toy they’d like.

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The 41 Best Toys for 2-Year-Olds to Make Busy Minds and Imaginations Run Wild

Build skills and learn new things with these toys for 2-year-olds

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Verywell Family / Sabrina Jiang

Two-year-olds are rapidly developing important milestones. By age 2 , children are likely trying to use buttons and knobs on toys, playing imaginatively, and running or kicking a ball. The best toys for 2-year-olds are the ones that take advantage of all these advances they’ve made and help them build upon their skills in a fun way. When deciding what to buy, consider whether the toy is entertaining, if it plays into their interests, and if it will help them practice developmental milestones.

We spoke with 875 parents to learn more about what toys and brands their families and children love most and why. We wanted to know how children play with the toys and what brings them back to buying from specific brands consistently. We also spoke with a pediatrician and reviewed guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) on toy buying safety and 2-year-old developmental milestones. When evaluating products, we carefully considered toy safety, age recommendations, design, material, and value . Lastly, a pediatrician from our Review Board reviewed this article for accuracy, advice about common behaviors at this stage, and rotating toys to keep a 2-year-old entertained.

• How We Selected and Tested
• What to Look For

Why Trust Verywell Family

Lego duplo my first number train.

All aboard! The LEGO Duplo My First Number Train teaches toddlers how to count, color recognition, and more . Each LEGO brick features a number from 0 to 9 and connects to the push-along train toy. Parents we surveyed recommend this toy because their children love to play with it, and they appreciate how it encourages imagination and creativity. In addition to the LEGO bricks, littles can play with the DUPLO figures , who double as great passengers or train conductors. 

Little Tikes First Slide

The Little Tikes Learning Slide ranks high on our list because there’s so much joy in slides , and this little one is the perfect introduction for a 2-year-old. It’s 3 feet long, just over 2 feet tall, and it can be played with inside or outside. Plus, when it’s not in use, it folds up for easy storage . This slide is made for kids between 18 months and 6 years old.

VTech Go! Go! Smart Wheels Spiral Construction Tower

The VTech Go! Go! Smart Wheels Spiral Construction Tower is full of twists, turns, and, of course, speed . One of our writers received a free sample of this playset from the brand, and her 3-year-old son loves pretending he’s working at a real construction site . While assembly isn’t intuitive, and instructions are unclear, the impressive result is worth it for the kiddos. 

Children ages 1.5 years and up can scoop with the backhoe, swing the crane, tip the bin, and more to strengthen their fine motor skills and encourage imaginative play . An included dump truck zooms down the spiral tower and over ramps throughout the construction site. An important note: This playset is large, so keep that in mind when considering the amount of space and storage you’re working with. 

Fat Brain Toys Rody Horse

Fat Brain Toys

Just one look at this toy and you can see why it would appeal to a toddler. Designed for kids between 18 months and 3 years old, this durable vinyl pony can withstand a ton of bouncing, moving, and riding. Just fill the little horse up with some air and let your kid hop on its back, grab it by the ears, and jump to their heart’s content.

Baby Einstein Magic Touch Piano

With this little magic piano, kids get three different sheets of music that help them learn how to play some of their favorite songs through color coordination. Between perfecting their favorite melodies, toddlers can also jam out to tunes that they make up. Ideal for kids between 6 months and 3 years old, this piano also features volume control to avoid hurting little ears (and grown-up ones).

Playskool Mr. Potato Head

Mr. Potato Head is a classic toy that has passed the test of time. Toddlers love playing with all the different parts and pieces—eyes, ears, and accessories—to create fun characters with unique faces and expressions . When playing together, the toy provides a great chance to practice identifying different body parts. Don't worry about losing all the pieces: The toy comes with a convenient suitcase for stashing everything. (Just make sure to keep an eye on your little one to make sure they’re safe with the small pieces.)

Melissa & Doug Monster Plush Bowling Game

What’s even better than bowling? Monster bowling! For kids between 2 and 6 years old, this set comes complete with six plush bowling pins and a plush ball that kids can either roll or throw to try to knock over the little monsters. Each piece is made from high-quality materials, so the toy is sure to last.

Orange Tree Toys New York Vehicles

Many toddlers love watching cars and trucks go by, so they’re sure to enjoy vrooming around with these sustainable wooden vehicles . The set includes a fire engine, police car, and a taxi cab (perfect for city kids!) in bright primary colors for fun, imaginative play. 

Pretex My First Find and Match Easter Matching Eggs

These fun little eggs are fantastic for strengthening fine motor skills, color matching , and shape identification . Kids get a toy carton filled with 12 eggs that pull apart to show different colors and shapes within. Designed for ages 18 months old and up, the eggs are durable and probably can be handed down to other children, too.

Lydaz Bubble Lawn Mower

Kids as young as 18 months old will love this little push lawn mower that blows bubbles with every step they take. In addition to the mower itself, you get three bottles of bubble solution , three bubble wands, and three AA batteries (which are required for the mower to run), so you won't have to worry about replacing any of the necessary components for a while.

Also, the mower folds up nicely when it’s not in use for easy storage.

Little Tikes Go and Grow Dino Ride On Toy

Many kids at this age love dinosaurs, and this tricycle features a particularly cute, toddler-friendly dino. They can ride this toy indoors and outdoors , and it includes a wide front wheelbase and oversized rear wheel , making it easier to balance. Note that the maximum weight limit for this trike is 50 pounds. 

Melissa & Doug Classic Jumbo Wooden Stacking Train

Melissa and Doug

Kids between 2 and 4 years old will enjoy this train that comes with 15 wood blocks in various shapes and colors . The train consists of three cars, each with a peg to stack blocks. When they’re ready to get moving, they can grab the attached cord and pull the train along with them as they go about their day. 

Yookidoo Bath Toy Submarine Spray Station

Add a splash to bathtime with this spray station, which draws water through a submarine toy to a shower head, which little hands can use to spray water through a variety of spinners and funnels. The toy helps with learning about cause and effect , and it’s a great way to keep a little one occupied during bathtime. Since it’s designed for ages 2 and up, your kiddo can enjoy it for years to come.

Educational Insights Plush Mixaroo Stuffed Animal

If you’re looking for a toy that involves imaginative play , then this is the one. It comes with 11 pieces that kids can mix and match together to create their own unique stuffed animals ; pieces include dragon wings, an elephant trunk, lion manes, fox ears, and more. This toy is made for kids as young as 2 years old and was designed by teachers to help foster kids' motor skills and cognitive development . 

Lily & River Little Climber

Pottery Barn

Two-year-olds can burn off some of their energy with this climber, designed for kids between 6 months and 4 years old. Additional accessories can be purchased separately, including the rock wall/slide , which is good for kids as young as 18 months, and the ladder/slide , which babies can use starting at 8 months.

Each piece is made from strong, sturdy bamboo or birch wood , so the toy won’t fall apart easily. Plus, when your kiddo isn’t playing with the tower, it folds for easy storage. Kids also get a copy of the board book “The Little Climber” with their tower.

Manhattan Toy Playground Adventure

There’s no way a toddler will get bored with this toy because it features four separate sections , each packed full of different ways to play. It includes gliders on tracks, an abacus, spinners, bead runs, and animals, among other little games, to help strengthen motor skills and expose kids to different colors, shapes, animals, textures, and more.

Step2 Sweet Baker’s Kitchen

Every toddler needs a play kitchen, right? This one is made for kids as young as 2 years old and features shelving, a play sink, little storage drawers, a pretend oven, and 30 different accessories . Plus, the frying pan and boiling pot both make realistic sounds , and the set even comes with a mini high chair for kids’ baby dolls or stuffies.

If you want to forego the bright pink and purple, Step2 offers dozens of play kitchens in various styles.

CoComelon Musical Bedtime JJ Doll

If your kid can’t get enough CoComelon, this little bedtime JJ doll is a great toy. It’s made for kids as young as 18 months old and can say seven different phrases with just a little squeeze of the tummy. Kids will recognize JJ’s footie pajamas and teddy bear from the show, and the toy makes a great, snuggly bedtime companion.

Manhattan Toy Musical Lili Llama

Manhattan Toy

Little ones as young as 1 year old can start exploring music with this little llama toy. It features several ways for kids to make music , including four spinners, a maraca tail, a xylophone , two gears, a washboard, clackers, and two mallets, which can be stored away in the llama’s head when they’re not being used. 

LeapFrog My Own Leaptop

Kids between 2 and 4 years old can stop trying to steal their caregivers’ computers and play with this little Leaptop instead. It’s available in either pink or green and features four different learning modes for kids to learn about different letters. When it’s in music mode, the toy can play 16 different songs, and in other modes, kids can learn different animal sounds and even practice spelling their names.

Pottery Barn Kids Wooden Cooking & Eating Set

pottery-barn

Little ones 2 years old and up who enjoy playing pretend will love this wooden eating set . It comes with 12 pieces , including salt and pepper shakers, plates, forks, knives, a pot, a pan, and more. All of the pieces are made from a combination of beech wood, fasal wood, schima wood, and engineered wood.

YGJT Baby Balance Bike

Balanced by four wheels, this little ride-on can help get your toddler more comfortable with riding a bicycle on their own. Use the bike indoors—or out—to help children develop confidence, learn balance , and familiarize themselves with the feeling of going both backward and forward. It comes in a variety of fun animals and styles , so you’ll find the perfect shade for your kiddo.

Playskool Sit ‘n Spin Classic Spinning Activity

Kids as young as 18 months old can enjoy this classic spinning toy, which is great for practicing balance and coordination , strengthening motor skills, and just getting out some of their endless energy. Even though there isn’t much to the Playskool Sit 'N Spin , there’s no doubt that your kid will have a lot of fun with it.

Cyiecw Piano Music Mat

It doesn’t get much better than dancing on a keyboard, does it? This mat consists of 19 different keys , each playing its own unique note. In addition to piano sounds, this mat can also play the sounds of other instruments , including the saxophone, violin, accordion, trumpet, harp, vibraphone, and guitar.

Made from durable materials, the mat has five different play modes and is safe for kids as young as 2 years old.

Learning Resources Spike The Fine Motor Hedgehog

Toddlers 18 months and up will love learning valuable skills with Spike the Fine Motor Hedgehog. The adorable critter has 12 removable quills to help toddlers practice their fine motor skills while maneuvering them in and out of the holes. Young ones can also practice counting and sorting with the toy’s different colored pieces. When playtime is over, place all the quills back in Spike for easy cleanup. Plus, the spikes are rubber, so you don't have to worry about hard pieces or sharp edges.

Melissa & Doug Wooden Animal Magnets in a Box

A simple yet engaging toy with plenty of educational benefits, your child will love arranging their very own set of 20 wild and pet animals , whether it's on the floor or a magnetic surface like the refrigerator. For the most valuable learning experience, play together, naming each animal and repeating the sounds they make. When you’re done, tuck everything into the sturdy wooden storage case .

Battat Bristle Blocks

This STEM-based building set offers hours of fun and imaginative play. With 112 interlocking pieces in assorted sizes and vibrant colors, the blocks are ripe for creating everything, from towers and cities to boats and cars. Unlike traditional blocks, these won’t topple and cause frustration—they securely stay together until your child decides to start anew.

Wee Gallery Bamboo Nesting Snail Toy

How cute is this little bamboo snail? Perfect for kids as young as 1 year old, the nesting toy, which is also available in other fun friends, comes apart into four separate pieces that can be stacked together or played with in totally different ways. With this toy, you also get a cute little cotton bag for storing and transporting the snail when it’s not being played with.

VTech Mix and Match-a-Saurus

This silly little dinosaur is like a pet, but better, since you won’t need to walk or feed it. It talks, moves, walks, and dance s based on the tiles you put into its back. The 27 possible tile combinations include a range of emotions, music choices, and characters to help your child identify and understand their feelings and how they affect their behavior.

Lovevery Play Kits

Academics, researchers, and healthcare practitioners carefully customize these Lovevery play kits according to your child’s specific age bracket, ensuring each toy is right on target in terms of development and interest. Subscription boxes for 2-year-olds include items like puzzles, matching games, and mini science experiments , and you’ll receive a new one every three months to guarantee your child is getting them right when they're at the appropriate developmental stage .

Hape Pound & Tape Bench

This high-quality wooden toy introduces your little one to the wonders of creating music. The multifunctional instrument can be played in several ways: use it as a xylophone or a keyboard or shake the balls together like maracas. No matter which way you play, there are benefits abound, including helping them practice dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and cause and effect .

WowWee Baby Shark Official - Singing Bath Time Bubble Maker

"Baby Shark" fans will have hours of fun playing with this puppet . Simply slip your hand into the back of the doll to move the puppet’s mouth up and down and play the beloved tune. The song plays at varying speeds , depending on how fast or slow you move your hand, providing fun for the whole family. You can collect all three song puppets, including Baby Shark, Daddy Shark, and Mommy Shark.

Battat Wooden Activity Cube

This expertly crafted, solid wood toy has five sides of fun to keep your toddler engaged longer. Depending on their mood, they can drive the tractor around, zig-zag the beads up and down, or move spinners to their heart’s content. You’ll love the Battat Wooden Activity Cube's rounded edges , which add an element of safety for children who aren’t fully steady on their feet.

Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table Playset

Promote hours of fun in the sun with this interactive water table . It’s a great choice for children with siblings, as there’s plenty of room for all, and it's suitable for a wide range of ages from 1 and up. The 13-piece kit includes maze-like spinners, ramps, and buckets for tons of beneficial STEM play.

Micro Kickboard Mini Deluxe 3 Scooter

Take neighborhood walks to new heights (and burn more energy!) by giving your child their very own scooter. Though your little one will still need to wear a helmet , this one is more toddler-friendly thanks to low-profile wheels, a wide standing board, and a sturdy, adjustable handlebar . It’s a way to help your child gain confidence on wheels and practice their balance and coordination skills.

Top Bright Race Track Set

This simple, high-quality wooden toy helps teach cause and effect while also promoting dexterity and hand-eye coordination as children watch their car zoom down the ramps to the finish line. Each of the four cars is numbered and painted a different color, so you and your child can practice counting and identifying colors , too.

LeapFrog Learning Friends 100 Words Book

Help your child grow their ever-expanding vocabulary with this fun, interactive book. Three cute characters—Turtle, Tiger, and Monkey—come to life to introduce more than 100 age-appropriate words chosen by learning experts. As a bonus, all words, songs, and instructions can be heard in both English and Spanish for a fully bilingual experience.

Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Food Truck

What child doesn’t love to play pretend , especially when there’s food involved? Your little one can drive and prep make-believe food from the Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Servin' Up Fun Food Truck, where they can sell dishes like pizza, burgers, tacos, cookies, and smoothies. Complete with over 20 removable toy pieces , it plays more than 125 songs, sounds, and phrases to help promote speech development.

The New York Doll Collection Soft Baby Doll

Let kids explore their nurturing side with this soft, lifelike baby doll . It’s an especially great choice for any toddler welcoming a sibling, as it’s a great introduction to caring for and playing with a baby. The 11-inch doll is just the right size for little arms, and it's soft enough to cuddle with during storytime. 

Tender Leaf Toys Touch Sensory Tray

Made for kids 18 months old and up, this little tray comes with four colorful wood pieces that are designed for sensory exploration. Kids can put the animal-shaped pieces on the tray like a puzzle , stack the blocks, learn about new animals and colors, or find other fun ways to play. 

Little Tikes Cozy Coupe

A timeless pick in the toy world, these little cars haven’t lost any of their appeal. Toddlers will feel empowered behind the wheel of this imaginative toy , thanks to a slew of fun features, like working doors, a steering wheel with a horn , a clicking ignition switch, a gas cap that opens and shuts, plus durable tires that spin 360 degrees. Ride-on toys are a great pick to use indoors and outdoors to burn off energy with your toddler.

How We Selected and Tested Toys for 2-Year-Olds

• Expert Input: We spoke with Whitney Casares, MD, MPH , pediatrician, author of “Doing It All: Stop Over-Functioning, and Become the Mom and Person You’re Meant to Be” (releasing January 23, 2024), and founder of Modern Mommy Doc, to find out what to look for in toys for 2-year-olds. Moreover, we reviewed guidance from the AAP on how to buy safe toys and developmental milestones for 2-year-olds.
• Parent Survey: We surveyed 875 parents to learn more about what toys their children play with, how they play with the toys, and why they love them. We also wanted to know which brands families consistently buy from and what brings them back year after year.
• Design and Features Research: After reviewing guidance and insights from our expert, the AAP, and parents, we studied the design and features of more than 70 toys for 2-year-olds on the market.
• Safety and Convenience Assessment: We considered toy safety, age recommendations, ease of use, developmental milestones, and value when reviewing products.

What to Look for in Toys for 2-Year-Olds

At 2 years old, little ones are beginning to (if they haven’t already) develop interests and preferences in everything from colors to characters to activities. This makes it all the more fun to shop for toys for them, because any toy that plays into their interests is sure to be a hit.

Ideally, you will be able to find a toy that falls into one of your tot’s categories of interest and helps boost their development at the same time. For example, according to Dr. Casares, if your 2-year-old enjoys playing with their hands, then stem toys and activities that allow for finger exploration are great options for development.

Developmental Milestones

By the time a child reaches 2 years old, they’re still learning and mastering new skills all the time, but it doesn’t happen quite as fast as it did throughout their first years of life. That just means these toys will last longer, though. Toys can be great for fostering a toddler's development.

• Gross Motor Skills : At around 2 years old, many kids are able to climb unassisted. The Lily & River Little Climber gives them a safe and appropriate place to work their muscles.
• Social and Emotional Skills : “Pretend play with toys that have context [help to] build social and communication skills,” says Dr. Casares. The Step2 Sweet Baker’s Kitchen lets them pretend to whip up delicious treats and share them with friends and family.
• Fine Motor Skills : The Melissa & Doug Stacking Train gives kids practice manipulating shapes with the smaller muscles of their hands. It also encourages walking (a large motor skill) by allowing kids to pull the train behind them with a string.

Entertainment

Two-year-olds have short attention spans. A lot of what a 2-year-old will find entertaining will depend on where they are developmentally, and Dr. Casares explains that one thing these tots can’t get enough of is exploring the world around them. Toddlers learn emotional regulation skills and natural consequences in a warm, loving, and safe environment where they can explore to their heart's content, Dr. Casares adds. So, any toy that allows them to lean into their natural curiosity safely will be entertaining.

Sensory play is another great feature to look for in toys for 2-year-olds, Dr. Casares says. Consider toys like the Step2 water table that provide a sensory play experience and allow them to build their fine motor and proprioception skills with the included accessories.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to how many toys your 2-year-old should have, focus on quality over quantity. Too many toys in a limited play space can be overwhelming, so consider using a rotating system . Divide your little one’s toys into categories (for example, stacking blocks, musical toys , and kitchen equipment), select a toy from each category and create two or three rotation sets. Switching the sets around every few days (while keeping the other sets tucked out of sight) will help keep your toddler’s play space both accessible and stimulating. 

Remember, whether it is an expensive toy or a plastic container, exposing your 2-year-old to a wide range of different textures and objects will help them meet their developmental milestones. 

Parallel play is when young children play next to or near each other without actually interacting with one another. It typically begins at around 2 years old. While it might seem as though toddlers engaged in parallel play are unaware of each other, they are actually paying close attention to what the other is doing. They might play with similar objects, mimic sounds or movements, or move around the play space together. 

Through parallel play, your little one is learning all sorts of crucial social skills, making it an important step towards more advanced stages of play (like playing together).

Seeing your toddler snatch a toy from another child is unpleasant, but it is also an entirely normal developmental milestone. Between the ages of 2 and 3, your child is developing their sense of self, which means they view the world and its entire contents as theirs.

They might shout “mine!” or “me!” before grabbing a toy from another child's hands. When this happens, it is important to remember that they aren’t being naughty–they are learning. You can help show your 2-year-old how to share through positive modeling. Use phrases like, “Thomas was playing with the truck first. Let’s give it back and find another one for you.” Your child will likely object, but try to stay calm and be consistent. You can also use this opportunity to teach feeling words, like "Thomas feels sad that you took the truck."

Ashley Ziegler is a staff and freelance writer who covers lifestyle, home, parenting, and commerce for a variety of platforms. She’s a wife to a public school administrator and mom to 1-year-old and 3-year-old daughters. In addition to regularly scouring the internet to find the best things for herself, Ashley spends multiple hours a week researching, comparing, and writing about products specifically for kids and families.

Phoebe Sklansky is Verywell Family’s Associate Commerce Editor. Prior to joining the Verywell team, she was a freelance writer for outlets including Momtastic and The Kitchn. She loves toys that encourage solo or collaborative imaginative play, like the Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Servin' Up Fun Food Truck and the Step2 Sweet Baker’s Kitchen .

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:

• The Best Christmas Gifts for Kids
• The Best Newborn Baby Gifts
• The Best Unique Baby Gifts
• The Best Baby Gifts
• The Best Gifts for Baby Girls
• The Best Baby Boy Gifts
• The Best Infant Toys
• The Best Gifts for 2-Month-Olds
• The Best Gifts for 3-Month Olds
• The Best Toys for 4-Month-Olds
• The Best Toys for 5-Month-Olds
• The Best Toys for 6-Month-Olds
• The Best Toys for 7-Month-Olds
• The Best Toys for 8-Month-Olds
• The Best Toys for 10-Month-Olds
• The Best Toys for 12-Month-Olds
• The Best Gifts for 1-Year-Olds
• The Best Toys for 15-Month-Olds
• The Best Toys for 18-Month-Olds
• The Best Educational Toys for 2-Year-Olds
• The Best Gifts for 3-Year-Old Girls
• The Best Toys for 3-Year-Old Boys
• The Best Gifts for 4-Year-Old Girls
• The Best Toys for 4-Year-Old Boys
• The Best Educational Toys for 4-Year-Olds
• The Best Toys for 5-Year-Olds
• The Best Gifts for 5-Year-Old Girls
• The Best Gifts for 5-Year-Old Boys
• The Best Toys for 6-Year-Old Boys
• The Best Gifts for 6-Year-Old Boys
• The Best Toys for 6-Year-Olds
• The Best Toys for 7-Year-Olds
• The Best Gifts for 7-Year-Old Girls
• The Best Toys for 7-Year-Old Boys
• The Best Toys for 8-Year-Olds
• The Best Gifts for 8-Year-Old Boys
• The Best Toys for 9-Year-Olds
• The Best Toys for 10-year-Olds
• The Best Gifts for 10-Year-Old Girls
• The Best Gifts for 10-Year-Old Boys
• The Best Gifts for 12-year-old Boys
• The Best Gifts for Teens
• The Best Gifts for 14-Year-Old Boys
• The Black-Owned Gift Guide

American Academy of Pediatrics,  Developmental milestones: 2-year-olds .

American Academy of Pediatrics. How to buy safe toys .

Scott HK.  Peer play . In: StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing.

By Ashley Ziegler ​Ashley Ziegler is a lifestyle writer specializing in motherhood, family health, and consumer products. She has written for Romper, Moms.com, and more. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Purdue University and her Master of Science in Management from Indiana Wesleyan University.

Absolute Christmas

63 Best Toys & Gifts For 2 Year Old Boys

If you’re looking for the best gifts for 2-year-old boys, you’ve come to the right place.

We’ve rounded up the best toys and gifts for 2-year-old boys, from educational to outdoor playtime favorites.

Table of Contents

Little Tikes Dinosaur Ride-On Car

This Dinosaur Ride-On Car is perfect for your little ones!

They will have so much fun riding around in it; you can even remove the floor board so they can roll themselves.

The rooftop handle is great for parents to push, and it features a trunk with storage, horn, key, cup holders & dinosaur spikes on top.

Jurassic World 6V T-Rex Quad with Interactive Play Features

This Jurassic World T-Rex Quad is perfect for your little dino-lover.

They can drive around at 2 MPH on their personal T-Rex, complete with authentic Jurassic World graphics.

The interactive play features are what really bring this toy to life – the T-Rex chomp action and big dino roar will make your child feel like they’re right in the middle of the action.

Bubble Lawn Mower

Looking for a fun and unique way to encourage your little ones to get outside and play? Look no further than the Bubble Lawn Mower!

This adorable push mower features realistic sounds, and a bubble maker will keep your kiddos entertained for hours.

Plus, it comes with three bottles of bubble solution and three bubble wands, so they can keep the fun going all day long.

Toddler Race Track & Garage

This Toddler Race Track & Garage is the perfect gift for your little one!

They will love playing with the four bright-colored race tracks and the four mini wooden cars. The set includes three car garages, a gas station, and a repair shop.

This is a great way to help develop hand-eye coordination and motor skills.

Talking Flash Cards Learning Toys

The Talking Flash Cards are the perfect way to help your child learn words and improve their speech. The 112 flashcards feature 224 words, including animals, vehicles, foods, and fruits.

The cards are color-coded by category, making it easy for your child to find the word they’re looking for.

The included audio recordings help your child pronounce the words correctly.

Personalized My First Sports Bag by Baby Gund

This Personalized My First Sports Bag by Baby Gund is the perfect gift for any little sports fan in your life!

This adorably packaged set comes with a baseball sound toy, a basketball squeak toy, a soccer ball crinkle toy, and a football rattle – everything your child needs to get started on their athletic journey.

The best part? The sports bag can be personalized with your child’s name embroidered on the flap, making it extra special and unique just for them.

Wooden Stacking Boxes

These vibrant and fun wooden boxes are perfect for teaching your toddler basic counting and sorting skills and helping develop their creative thinking.

As they stack the nesting and sorting cups, they will learn to identify numbers, letters, and animals.

The possibilities are endless with these versatile blocks!

VTech Drop and Go Dump Truck

The VTech Drop and Go Dump Truck is a fun and educational toy for toddlers.

It helps them learn about colors, tools, and numbers as they play. The truck makes counting sounds as the boulders tumble into the bucket and play melodies and phrases.

The boulders shake when the truck is pushed or pulled, adding to the fun.

Wooden Vehicle Toddler Puzzles

These puzzles are the perfect way to keep your toddler entertained and engaged.

The 4 different puzzles feature a car, rocket, steamship, or train – each with its own bright and colorful design.

The wooden construction is safe for little hands, and the easy-to-grip pieces make it easy for them to put together.

36 pcs Wooden Toddler Tools Set

This set of 36 toddler tools is perfect for your little one to explore their creativity.

Made from premium wood, this set includes a wooden toolbox, 2 wrenches, pliers, hammer, saw, ruler, 9 assembly pieces, 3 building blocks, 4 wheels, and 6 bolts.

With this set, your child can build a balance scale, windmill, helicopter, airplane, or car.

Caterpillar 1.7′ Novelty Sandbox with Cover

This sandbox is sure to be a hit with your little ones!

They’ll love the caterpillar shape, perfect for sand, building blocks, balls, puzzles, and more.

The cover keeps the sand clean and dry, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor play.

Indoor / Outdoor Plastic Playhouse

This plastic playhouse is the perfect indoor or outdoor activity center for kids.

It’s shaped like a vehicle, with a climbing ladder, an extra wide slide, and 4 crawl-through “wheel” openings. The high rails on elevated platforms ensure safety, and the pretend steering wheel adds to the fun.

The easy assembly makes it a great choice for parents.

“My Son, My Pride, My Joy” Personalized Rotating Clock

This is the perfect gift for your son – a personalized rotating clock handcrafted with a metal disc featuring an analog clock on one side and a cross and blessing on the other.

His name will be engraved on the front, making it a truly special and unique gift.

Vibrant Personalized Toddler Socks

These socks make a perfect gift for any toddler in your life!

They are soft and comfortable, and the vibrant colors make them stand out from the rest.

The best part is that you can have them personalized with any name you want – making them feel extra special.

I’m This Many Old! Personalized Kids Tee

This adorable t-shirt is perfect for any little one who is proud of their age!

The shirt is personalized with the child’s name and age displayed in a cute hand with fingers, making it a unique and special keepsake.

Baby Shark Toddler Platform Bed

Make your toddler’s bedroom an undersea oasis with this Baby Shark Toddler Platform Bed.

The vivid decals of Baby Shark and his family will take your little one on an aquatic adventure every night before bed.

With low mattress height and attached guardrails, this bed is perfect for the transitioning toddler.

Kids Table And Bench Set

This Kid’s Table And Bench Set is the perfect addition to any playroom or classroom.

The two benches and large tabletop are perfect for arts and crafts, drawing, or even just a snack.

The non-ghosting write-and-wipe surface is great for little ones who are still learning to write, and the sleek design means it will fit in with any décor.

Dinosaur Reversible Bedspread Set

Looking for a way to make your child’s bedroom more fun and exciting? Check out our Dinosaur Reversible Bedspread Set!

This set includes a coverlet, pillow sham, and a pillow with volcanoes and dinosaurs in a mountainous landscape.

It’s perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to any room.

Personalized Earth and Space Nightlights

Do you have a little one fascinated by space and the stars? Or maybe they love animals and learning about different cultures?

Either way, these personalized nightlights are sure to please! Each nightlight comes with a wooden base and an LED-lighted acrylic plaque.

The plaque can be customized with your child’s name and features a rocket shooting past Saturn or a globe illustrated with animals and objects from every corner of the world.

Toy Organizer with Bins

The best way to organize your child’s bedroom, playroom, or living room is with this Toy Organizer with Bins.

It comes with 16 plastic bins that are perfect for storing stuffed animals, toys, books, and more. The bins are stackable and can be arranged to fit your specific needs.

This organizer is a must-have for any parent or caregiver who wants to create a safe and organized space for their children.

Kid Trax Recycling Truck Interactive Ride On Toy

This is one fantastic ride on toy for a 2 year old boy! The Kid Trax Interactive Recycling Truck is truly awesome as it can do over 100 voice lines and sound effects.

It comes with 9 recyclable goods that can be dumped from the back of the truck using a real working lever.

The truck is a safe ride as well as it has one forward speed and easy push button drive.

Twilight Turtle

The Twilight Turtle is ideal for kids who have fear of the dark.

It’s a smart nightlight that transforms bedroom walls and ceiling into a spectacular starry night sky.

The Twilight Turtle automatically shuts off after 45 minutes.

VTech Helping Heroes Fire Station

VTech Helping Heroes Fire Station is an awesome playset as the cool fire truck can be transformed into a fire station.

The set comes with a helicopter, a mini fire truck and 2 firefighters. Definitely a great gift for a 2 year old boy.

Construction Plate & Utensils

With this award winning construction plate and utensils set your little builder will always be excited to clean his plate.

Comes with a construction site plate, a forklift, a front loader spoon and a bulldozer pusher.

LeapFrog LeapBuilders Blue’s 123 School

The LeapFrog LeapBuilders Blue’s 123 School comes with 42 building blocks to build a school for Blue and his buddies.

This set is compatible with other LeapFrog building sets and includes a school bus and 8 double-sided educational blocks that feature objects & numbers.

Fisher-Price Grow-the-Fun Garden to Kitchen

The Fisher-Price Grow-the-Fun Garden to Kitchen is one of the best new pretend playsets out there.

This fantastic educational playset features a garden and a kitchen area and comes with over 30 accessories.

The colorful lights and music make it a really attractive toy for a toddler.

Dinosaur Duvet and Pillowcase Set

Make bedtime a Jurassic adventure with this awesome Dinosaur Duvet and Pillowcase Set.

Made by Dutch designers Peggy van Neer and Erik van Loo from 100% pre-shrunk cotton and a fantastic gift for a 2 year old dinosaur lover.

VTech Peppa Pig Learn and Go Alphabet Car

Next we have the VTech Peppa Pig Learn and Go Alphabet Car which is a fun educational toy for a 2 year old boy.

Choose from 4 play modes: Learning words and letters, Music, Quizzes and Safety.

VTech Go! Go! Smart Wheels Ultimate Corkscrew Tower

The VTech Go! Go! Smart Wheels Ultimate Corkscrew Tower is an epic race track that Rocky the Racecar has to complete.

The Ultimate Cork screw tower has 2 play configurations for even more play variations. There also are 5 Smart Points that play 40+ songs, melodies, sounds and phrases when vehicles ride over them.

Simba Plush – The Lion King

You can never have enough plush toys, especially if they’re as adorable as cuddly Simba from the Lion King.

Paw Patrol Deluxe Toy Box

This Paw Patrol Deluxe Toy Box is a quality toy box that will keep all their toys nice and organized.

The sturdy, durable wood construction can take a lot of abuse and its rounded corners and slow closing lid make it extra safe as well.

Kids Ride On 12V Police Car with Remote Control

This awesome ride-on police car has real working flashing red/blue lights, a realistic siren, headlights, horn, real megaphone, mp3 input, opening doors, and a low – middle – high-speed switch.

It can also be remotely controlled by the parent for maximum safety.

Brooklittles Toddler Bed Set

This complete Brooklittles toddler bed set from the renowned retailer Brooklinen includes: 1 pillowcase, 1 fitted sheet, 1 duvet cover,  1 comforter and 1 pillow.

The set comes in 6 different designs.

We All Scream for Ice Cream 25 Piece Set

Yummy! This pretend ice cream making set includes 25 colorful wooden pieces and develops fine motor skills & is also great for role & imaginative play.

Thomas The Train With Tracks

A wonderful Thomas the Tank Engine ride on toy that’s great for imaginative play.

The thing moms really like about this toy is that it can ride on the circular track (more or less on autopilot) or off track if your little one wants to check out the surroundings.

Love To Hug Elmo

Love to hug Elmo is a singing, talking and hugging toy for kids 18 months and up.

Elmo has several ways to interact with kids including kissing and hugging and he also is bilingual (English and Spanish).

Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Pull & Play Learning Wagon

The Fisher Price Laugh & Learn Pull & Play Learning Wagon lets a child take their puppy for a fun ride while learning about colors, shapes, letters & numbers.

Elmo Flip Open Sofa

Who doesn’t love Elmo? Little toddlers can lounge on this cute sofa and flip it open when they want to take naps.

KidKraft Building Bricks Kids Activity Table

A fun kids’ activity table that they can use to make their own creations and store their LEGO and toys.

The table comes with 3 storage bins and 200+ building bricks.

Little Tikes Wonderlab STEM Toy for Kids

Kids can do their own scientific experiments with the Little Tikes Wonderlab!

This STEM toy is perfect for boys age 2 and includes 20 STEM experiments included (using common household ingredients) and 40+ playful sounds and phrases.

Micro Mini Kick

The Micro Mini Kick is deigned with kids in mind. It comes with 3 wheels and a T-Handlebar that’s perfect for little hands and feet to learn to steer.

The scooter is well-made, light weight and easy to use.

Disney Mickey Mouse Flip Open Sofa

This Mickey Mouse sofa is the perfect place to hang out, eat snacks or nap. Flip it open and it turns into a comfy bed.

VTech Touch & Learn Deluxe Activity Desk

The VTech Touch & Learn Activity Desk is an interactive learning system for toddlers.

It features five interactive activity pages, with over 20 learning activities, and more than 20 songs, and covers over 100 vocabulary words.

It includes a cute little stool and can also transform into a chalkboard or an easel for doing artwork.

WowWee Pinkfong Baby Shark Puppet

The WowWee Pinkfong baby shark puppet is here! All 3 characters (Baby, Mommy, and Daddy) have been released as puppets that can sing the whole Baby Shark song.

Kids can control the tempo of the song by moving the puppet’s mouth faster or slower. Fun for everyone!

Lightweight Balance Bike for Kids – Banana Bike

The Banana bike lightweight balance bike for kids is an ideal training bike for young toddlers and kids.

The bike is lightweight and strong, making it easy to handle for small children. The bike comes in 3 vibrant colors: Blue, green and pink.

Fisher-Price Harley-Davidson Tough Trike

For the toddler who’s born to be wild we’ve got this awesome Fisher Price Harley Davidson tough trike.

The trike has that cool Harley Davidson styling and the big pedals make it a dream to ride.

Skip Hop Toddler Leash and Harness Dinosaur Backpack

This cute backpack is perfect for carrying school lunches.

It comes with a detachable harness and leash to keep kids safe on trips to the zoo and the park.

Pete the Cat Plush Doll

Your 2 year old will love holding Pete the Cat while reading a Pete the Cat book.

This plush toy is adorable and totally safe for your little one.

Little Tikes Cozy Coupe Dino

The Little Tikes Cozy Coupe ride on toy has been around for over 30 years and is still popular with kids today.

There are many options and designs available, but we choose this one for the little dinosaur fans!

Wooden Art Easel for Toddlers

This wooden easel comes with an adjustable paper roll, chalkboard and plenty of storage space for supplies.

The easily adjustable height makes this easel suitable for 2-6 year old kids.

Paw Patrol 5 Piece Dinnerware Set

A 5-piece Paw Patrol dinnerware set containing a plate, fork, spoon, bowl, and a tumbler.

There are many other designs to choose from, like Spiderman, PJ Masks, Peppa Pig, Frozen, Cars, Disney, and many others.

Made from child safe 100% BPA-free material.

LEGO DUPLO Town Truck & Tracked Excavator

The LEGO DUPLO Town Truck & Tracked Excavator are easy to put to together for little hands and then they can start digging, scooping, and driving away the rubble.

Great for cognitive development, creative building skills, and role-play!

Little Tikes My First Drone

• The Little Tikes My First Drone is specially designed for kids aged 2-5
• Totally easy to fly
• One-touch control for flying, turning, and landing
• Auto hover function
• Child-safe propellers with safety guards & auto shut off
• Cool lights and sounds
• Easy to charge via the remote control

Little Tikes Basketball Set for 2 Year Old

This Little Tikes Basketball set is designed for kids age 18 months to 5 years old and grows with the child.

It comes with 3 balls and is suitable for indoors and outdoors.

Related: Gifts for 3 Year Old Boys

Peppa’s Storybook Collection – Peppa Pig Books

A collection of the best Peppa Pig stories all in one Peppa Pig story book. A lovely gift for a big Peppa fan!

Monster Plush Bowling Game by Melissa & Doug

Melissa & Doug make a fantastic collection of gifts for 2 year old boys.

The monster plush bowling game is a fun bowling game for toddlers that develops balance, gross motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

The bowling pins and the bowling ball are a mix of colorful and totally lovable little monsters.

Mega Bloks First Builders Big Building Bag

A mega bag of 80 oversized building blocks specially designed for little hands.

The colorful building blocks will be an excellent way to promote a child’s eye-hand coordination, and fine and gross motor skills and stimulate creativity.

Needless to say that the building blocks are made of quality, child-safe materials. Building blocks do make fantastic gifts for 2 year old boys.

Definitely, a ca n’t-go-wrong gift!

Early Reading Program for Toddlers and Preschoolers

This early reading program for toddlers is one of the best educational gifts for 2 year old boys. It’s no secret that the most successful readers start learning to read at a young age and that’s exactly the reason why this program was developed.

The early reading program progresses through 3 levels, starting with learning the letters of the alphabet and phonetics.

Toddlers learn to read in a fun and relaxed way by watching 9 dvd’s that use of the renowned flashcard learning technique.

This technique involves stories, educational clips, and animated nursery rhymes.

What do we love about this product? It’s really simple actually, this will give a toddler a headstart in reading. What more is there to say?

John Deere Animal Sounds Hayride

A fun toy that teaches toddlers about farm animals and animal sounds.

The set features a push-along John Deere tractor, 2 wagons, and 4 farm animals (horse, sheep, pig and cow). The farm animals will make animal sounds when placed in their correct position on the wagons.

Another fun feature is that the tractor will play Old McDonald had a farm when the farmer is placed on his driving seat.

Fisher Price Bubble Lawn Mower

One of the best play and pretend gifts for 2 year old boys. Moms know that little boys love to help with all kinds of household chores, like mowing the lawn.

The Fisher Price Bubble Lawn Mower will make them feel like they’re really helping because it feels, looks, and sounds just like a real lawnmower.

The mower blows lots of bubbles while it rolls along the lawn or sidewalk which makes it great fun to play with.

Related: Christmas Gifts for 3 Year Old Boys

Deluxe Pounding Bench – Melissa & Doug

For toddlers that have too much energy, we have the Melissa & Doug deluxe pounding bench. This simple but great toy is an excellent way for your toddler to burn some energy.

Pounding the colorful pegs of this bench will also strengthen arm muscles, train reflexes, and improve eye-hand coordination.

The toy is also educational as it teaches a child to recognize and name different colors.

LEGO DUPLO My First Number Train

The Lego Duplo My First Number Train teaches toddlers how to count in a fun and playful way.

The set features 31 building blocks that can be used to build a colorful 1 to 10 number train. The building blocks can also be used to build a dog house, a tunnel, or a building.

The set also includes a Lego play figure and a cute little dog.

KidiBeats Kids Drum Set – VTech

Toddlers learn about numbers and letters while beating to the rhythm of nine melodies. The Kidibeats drum set will be a nice introduction to music and how to play a musical instrument.

This drum set is fun and educational at the same time as it also teaches letters and numbers. The set features two tom-toms, a snare drum, and a cymbal.

The child can choose from 4 different play modes all with spectacular LED light effects.

More Gifts for Boys

• Best Gifts For 1-Year-Old Boys
• Toys & Gifts For 3-Year-Old Boys
• Toys & Gifts For 5-Year-Old Boys
• Toys and Gifts For 9-Year-Old Boys
• Best Gifts For 12 Year Old Boys
• Best Non-Toy Gifts for Kids

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For adults, sacred time may involve a self-care skincare face mask and a trip to Starbucks. For 2-year-olds, that cherished time is most definitely playtime.

The two-year-old age group — may we say — is one of the cutest. A toddler is typically growing more curious by the day, with interests beginning to form.

“Two-year-olds are constantly watching, gathering and organizing knowledge about their world through exploration,” Alice Cady, EdM , an eight-year classroom teacher of 2- and 3-year-olds told the New York Post. She has an education doctorate degree from the University of Buffalo’s Early Childhood Research Center, with a focus on computational thinking in early childhood.

“Vocabulary often blooms, but toddlers are still very ‘body forward,’ so integrating gesture gives them more opportunities to effectively communicate their needs and ideas.”

To offer a well-researched view of the 2-year-old age group, we outlined an in-depth FAQ section featuring expertise from three child development experts in the psychology and playtime space and four real-life mothers of two-year-olds.

New York Post Shopping rounded up the best gifts and toys for 2-year-olds below, with plenty of options from Walmart , Target and Amazon (which we have another kid-specific gift guide for!). They’re also classified by specific categories to make your shopping experience as streamlined and well-recommended as can be:

General Toys

Outdoor toys, musical toys, developmental & educational toys, puzzles & shape-sorters, blocks & building toys, cars, trucks & vehicles, push, pull & ride-on toys, stuffed animals & dolls, meet the experts:.

• Alice Cady , classroom teacher to 2- and 3-year-olds at the University of Buffalo Early Childhood Research Center
• Dr. Jacqueline Harding , international child development expert and  author
• Yesim Kunter , child’s play expert and  independent consultant
• Claire Lerner , child development specialist, consultant and author
• Christine Giardina , mother to young children
• Gina Dill , mother to young children
• Jessica Ventre , mother to young children
• Jamie Greenhouse , mother to young children
• Heather Barnum , Senior Librarian at the New York Public Library
• Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, PhD , Temple University psychology professor
• Melissa Libertus, PhD , University of Pittsburgh cognitive and developmental psychology professor
• Christopher Byrne , toy analyst and consultant, also known as  the Toy Guy
• Rachel Ritlop, M.Ed , mother to young children and expert toy reviewer at The Confused Mom

Lovevery “The Helper” Play Kit

Lovevery offers play kits for a wide range of ages (from 0 months to 4 years old), and you can buy them one at a time or sign up to have a new one delivered every three months. Each kit includes different activities and toys to help your child enjoy growing and learning, and according to Rachel Ritlop, a mom and toy review expert , they’re worth the money.

“Lovevery is the best option in terms of quality and price,” Ritlop said. “They always curate a great selection of well-rounded items so your toddler is getting a nice introduction to pre-literacy, early math and other STEAM lessions. My kids’ favorites for the 2 to 3 age range are the Helper and Investigator .”

KIZZYEA Educational Water Doodle Mat

After adding water to the markers that come with this set, they’re activated and ready to safely color in this large drawing space without any danger of staining rugs or carpeting on the ground next to it. The “ink” begins to fade after about 10 minutes, so kids are free to continue doodling over previous drawings and keep playtime going.

Dr. Jacqueline Harding , a child development and education expert, recommended this toy because it promotes creative play, which she said offers children significant developmental opportunities. “When life is busy, why not offer your very active and curious two-year-old the opportunity to dive into the creative world without the mess through the use of this delightful coloring mat?” she said.

Play-Doh Starter Set

“This Play-Doh set provides fun opportunities for kids to build important skills,” says Claire Lerner , a child development and parenting specialist with over 35 years of experience, who also happens to be a parenting author. “They exercise the muscles in their fingers and hands as they mold the dough and use the accessories, like kid scissors, to explore and create. This builds the fine motor skills that are critical for writing later on.”

Plus, making wildly colorful pretend foods never goes out of fashion.

Step2 Fun with Friends Kids Kitchen Set

This expansive set includes dozens of toy utensils to really let children embrace their creativity, and it’s available in pink, brown and gray color options. The best part? No messy clean up when your kid is done playing!

“Play kitchens offer endless possibilities for nurturing children’s development,” Lerner says. “They help children build their imagination as they pretend to be chefs making meals for friends, stuffed animals and family.”

Additionally, by collaborating with peers to plan “meals,” children are building what Lerner calls “critical social skills.”

Melissa & Doug Deluxe Pounding Bench with Mallet

According to Giardina, she recommends “literally anything from Melissa & Doug — they’re geniuses.” For a top-rated toy with more than 17,000 rave reviews, the brand’s Deluxe Pounding Bench with Mallet is great for helping your little one develop fine motor skills while also learning about colors, thanks to the included wooden pegs.

LeapFrog Scoop & Learn Ice Cream Truck

“My kids love to make ice cream cones and pretend to feed them to their stuffed animals — and each other!” Giardina says.

Not to mention, it’s a hit with another mom of a 2-year-old. “This cart has been a fan favorite for over a year,” Dill says. “Starting with simply playing with the ice cream, to actually using the cards to put together ice cream cones, it’s a great interactive toy.”

Step2 Best Chefs Kitchen Set

Whether you’re shopping for a 2-year-old boy or a 2-year-old girl, everyone needs a full-station toy kitchen in their playroom.

“The toy kitchen was a gift from his grandparents over the holidays,” Jamie Greenhouse, mother of three-year-old son, Bryce, told The Post. “We noticed that was what he was gravitating toward in school and at friends’ homes. He plays with it and makes meals, understands utensils (fork and knife) and now in my kitchen can relay when something is cold or hot — so, for example, he knows to not touch the oven and that the stove is HOT, HOT, HOT!”

Nutty Toys Pop Tubes (8-Pack)

“While I bought these for my infant son, it’s my 2-year-old who loves them!” Jessica Ventre, mother of a 2-year-old daughter, Emma, and 6-month-old son, Jack, tells The Post. “The tubes stretch and make fun sounds. She loves to connect them to make one long pop tube chain.”

What’s more, this bundle is an official Amazon best-seller and backed by more than 18,000 rave reviews.

KidKraft Vintage Wooden Play Kitchen

“My kids play for hours with this kitchen,” Christine Giardina, mother to 2-year-old daughter, Julianna, and a 1-year-old daughter, Olivia, tells The Post. “They pretend to cook and bake and love storing food in the fridge!”

Gina Dill, mother to a 2-year-old daughter, Izzy, also shares that this pretend kitchen is a hit. “We love this kitchen (it was a hand-me-down) but very solid and great quality,” she says. “[My daughter] spends a lot of time with the different food to create recipes and make different meals.”

Washable Dot Markers (8-Pack)

For less than $20, you can gift a 2-year-old these fun and ergonomic dot markers.

“Whether she uses these with dot paper coloring pages or a blank paper, it’s always a good time,” Ventre says. “They’re a great way to encourage creativity and motor skills without making a big mess.”

Kid’s Play Teepee Tent

To allow your 2-year-old to create their own world of sorts, a teepee tent is a wonderful addition to a playroom (and, doubles as an Instagram-worthy decor piece for your little one’s play area).

“This is a very basic tent, but she loves to play in it, using it as a place to hide or pretend it’s her house,” Dill says.

Melissa & Doug On the Go Water Wow! Reusable Water-Reveal Activity Pad

If you’re looking for an affordable, artistic-leaning activity for your child to play with (and grow to love), the Melissa & Doug On the Go Water Wow! Reusable Water-Reveal Activity Pad fits the bill.

“These are so awesome to bring to restaurants to keep the kids busy,” Giardina says. “They love to paint, and its mess-free!”

Kiddey Tunnel & Ball Pit Play Tent

“This tunnel and ball set offers fun opportunities for active play and adventure, as kids use their bodies to navigate the space while they develop coordination and build muscle strength,” said Lerner. “The balls add another fun element that also builds hand-eye coordination.”

One of the best things about this toy is that you can use the three play areas separately or connected together, which gives you options for customizing the setup to fit your space. The regular model comes with 50 plastic balls, or you can choose one with 100 balls to amp up the fun even more.

Chalk City Jumbo Sidewalk Chalk (20-Pack)

For an outdoor toy that’s great for any age — especially your curious 2-year-old — the Chalk City Jumbo Sidewalk Chalk is the perfect $10 grab. Giardina loves using a kit like this to play with her two daughters once the warm weather approaches.

For more options, check out our roundup of the best outdoor toys for kids of all ages .

Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set

“This was a great purchase — it’s easy, fun and entertaining when it’s nice outside,” Greenhouse says. “My son doesn’t fully understand the game, but he has fun with his friends throwing the ball in the hoop.”

Additionally, this Amazon best-seller is backed by over 44,000 rave reviews and helps with eye-hand coordination.

Splash Sprinkler Pad

“We have a pool in our yard, but we bought this for some extra fun,” Greenhouse says. “Not everyone his age feels comfortable in the water (my son thinks he’s Michael Phelps, so we use this a lot when we have his friends over). They run across the splash pad on the grass and also ask for the water to go up and down and ‘more,’ which was also one of his first words!”

Plus, this $20 buy has more than 10,000 positive reviews and is great for your next backyard party.

Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table

“This set was a huge win for my house,” Greenhouse says. “My son loves his water table and engaging with all the accessories that come with it. From making a whirlpool to filling up the bucket, it kept him busy for a while — which isn’t always the case for a little boy.”

Greenhouse isn’t the only mother who loves this under-$100 grab, either. “This was a fan favorite in the nice weather,” Dill says, explaining how her 2-year-old daughter fell in love with it. “We could spend hours playing with this table.”

Specifically, Dill uses the brand’s Showers & Unicorns ($84) model, a pink and purple-embossed version that is perfect for the 2-year-old girl you’re shopping for.

Little Tikes Gas ‘n Go Mower

“My son was gifted this by his Gee-gee (grandma),” Greenhouse says. “He first played with it in camp and wouldn’t let it go. I remember calling my mom and saying he doesn’t want to leave camp because of the lawnmowers. Still today, he runs outside with the lawnmower and we also go on ‘walks’ and he stops and looks at the grass, rocks and flowers.”

Because it kept her 2-year-old son active and engaged, it’s a much-recommended toy because it also helps get those active steps in.

Cute Stone Pretend Play Kitchen Sink

“This can easily be an indoor toy, but parents know that water toy clean-up is much easier outdoors,” Ventre says. “This little sink has running water and a tiny stove top with cool steam.” Not to mention, there are plenty of accessories included that’ll help build upon sensory learning.

Sun Squad Light-Up Bubble Maker

For just $10, pick up the Sun Squad Light-Up Bubble Maker to have bubbles on demand (what we didn’t think we needed, but absolutely do).

“[My daughter] loves running around and chasing bubbles,” Dill says. “It’s nothing fancy, but it’s good to get out some energy.”

Tonies Playtime Puppy Starter Set

“We love our Tonie box that we’ve had for about a year,” Dill says, recommending this direct-to-consumer brand. “We like the different music characters and story telling.”

While Dill uses the cookie monster version of this toy, there are a wealth of options on its website to allow your child to listen to musical stories for hours on end.

Battat Toy Guitar

Kids can rock out this electric guitar that runs on AA batteries. It has seven pre-recorded songs for kids to play along to, and the combination of push buttons and bendable strings gives little ones a closer experience to playing a real guitar.

“Battat’s toy guitar is one of our favorite toy guitars rated safe for 2 year olds and up,” said Ritlop. “Your toddler can choose between electric or acoustic, strum the three chords and hit the whammy bar for their very own rockstar experience.”

Love&Mini Toddler Piano with Microphone

For years, toddler pianos have been a hit — both for pressing keys and singing into the microphone.

“It’s a simple piano, but [my daughter] likes learning what the different buttons can do,” Dill says. There are some songs that it’s pre-programmed to play as well.

Wooden Musical Instruments (12-Piece Set)

First-hand learning experiences are a great way to familiarize young children with music. This set gives them plenty of options of different instruments to play, as well as a zippered carrying case when it’s time to quiet down.

“These build fine-motor skills and dexterity as they use their hands to play the instrument, and gross motor skills as they dance and develop balance and coordination,” said Lerner. “Creating rhythms also build memory and cognitive development.”

Fisher-Price Mix & Learn DJ Table

We’re not surprised that this set appears on Walmart’s top toys of 2023 list , considering how clever and fun it is. Kids can begin practicing their piano skills, twisting the turntable and playing with all the knobs and buttons to make real musical sound. Plus, its removable legs let kids start using it while they’re sitting on the floor, then keep playing as they get comfortable standing upright.

CoComelon Musical Guitar

“My son loves music, so getting him a guitar was a natural fit!” Greenhouse says. “We showed him how to properly hold the toy but he just grabs the strings. Hopefully one day, when he’s older, he can translate his love for the toy into taking real life guitar lessons!”

For more options, check out our guide to the best CoComelon toys .

Riwbox Bluetooth Headphones

“Does your 2-year-old listen to the same songs over and over again like mine?” Ventre asks. “These headphones save mommy’s sanity while giving my daughter the freedom to listen to her music, dance, and sing independently.”

Conveniently, this pair of kids headphones is perfect for long car rides, too.

Montessori Learn to Dress Practice Boards

This set of six boards helps young children practice their fine motor skills by using their fingers to complete everyday tasks related to dressing and getting ready in the morning. They’re all portable and easy to take with you on a car trip, which is a nice convenience bonus, and their design is based on toys used in the Montessori method of education.

“These work out practical life skills and cut down on frustration for everyone as kids learn the necessary skills to get themselves dressed without the pressure,” said Ritlop. “The unique design of focusing on one skill at a time actually aligns with the Montessori method.”

LeapFrog Learning Friends 100 Words Book

This interactive book toy has built-in speakers and audio recordings of friendly animals that help introduce over 100 age-appropriate words to 2-year-olds. It covers five different word categories and has the option for Spanish or English audio.

“Around this age, little ones begin to make great strides in acquiring new vocabulary, and this novelty book offers an abundance of new words to be discovered,” said Harding. “An ever-expanding vocabulary means that they are better able to express themselves, so a book like this taps into a great developmental need around this age.”

Backyard Bugs Touch & Feel Board Book

“These types of books are great for children to start exploring different textures and understanding differences in the way things feel,” says child development specialist Hali Rashkovsky. “It promotes sensory exposure, cognitive development, language development, and joint attention.”

Getting kids more involved with story time is always a good idea, and if you’re not sure about the insect theme, don’t worry — there are other animal-themed options to choose from that are just as engaging.

Montessori Busy Board

This single book is jam-packed with activities to keep your 2-year-old busy for a long time. Rashkovsky recommends it because it helps children develop fine motor skills while simultaneously practicing real-life skills such as interacting with zippers, shoelaces, buttons and belt buckles.

Rashkovsky also says the included Montessori activities are “good for practical life skills, hand-eye coordination and cognitive development.”

The Learning Journey Color Fun Fish Bowl

“This color fun fishbowl works on color recognition, with two modes: one which identifies colors as students place fish in the slot, and another that challenges children to find specific colors when they are ready,” Cady says. “The cause-effect nature of this also models reciprocal communication and holds interest.”

As children gain more experience with peers, there’s also a great opportunity to use this toy to facilitate turn-taking to fill the bowl, according to Cady. “Because you need to add the fish one by one, children can also be lead to count as they put in the fish, using 1-to-1 correspondence.”

Educational Talking Flash Cards

According to Greenhouse, this is a major toy win for her house.

“My son loves playing with his flashcards and gets excited when he gets the answer correct,” she says. “As most moms probably say, I felt my son was a bit delayed in his speech, so this was something that was super important to me. We work on sounds and words constantly using this toy and to me it’s really a ‘school lesson’ while he thinks it’s play time.”

Peaceable Kingdom Count Your Chickens! Board Game

“This is a cooperative board game that’s great for counting practice,” Ventre says. “The stakes are high enough to hold a 2-year-old’s interest without it being overly challenging.”

Be sure to note that some pieces may be an issue for some 2-year-olds, so this toy is better suited for those on their way to turning 3 years old.

“This has been a great way to start the day,” Dill says. “There are lots of areas of opportunity for growth over the next few months.” Plus, your 2-year-old will never grow bored, given the volume of learning opportunities filled within each spiral-bound.

Scholastic 50 First Words Flashcards

“My daughter loves seeing the different pictures and guessing the words,” Dill says. “She’s reaching the end of the baseline flash cards, but will be able to grow into the next set to continue learning and developing her vocabulary.”

Not to mention, this affordable Amazon grab is perfect to help match pictures to words.

Matching Letter Game

“I’ve just started using this and it’s a great way for her to start understanding spelling, what letters words start with and how to put them together,” Dill says. “It’s still a bit advanced for her, but something she will grow into.”

Plus, you can take the blocks with you to quickly and conveniently learn letters on the go.

Learning Resources Spike The Fine Motor Hedgehog

Dare we say — how cute and unique!

“We used this when she was younger and still likes to use it to group different colors together,” Dill says. It’s also wonderful to help promote and advance fine motor skills.

Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Piggy Bank

With over 21,000 positive reviews (and counting — literally!), the Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Piggy Bank is wonderful for learning how to count and fit small pieces into each other.

“This is another one my daughter used when she was younger, but now enjoys to count with the toy,” Dill says.

Melissa & Doug Shape-Sorting Wooden Dump Truck Toy

Combining shape-sorting boards with a moveable toy truck, this toy encourages kids to engage in hands-on play that doesn’t involve TV screens or tablets. The shapes all have different colors, too, so kids can also practice identifying their colors.

“This is a fun shape-sorting puzzle that has a ton of uses and is rated safe for 2 year olds,” Ritlop said. “You can stack the shape pieces like blocks, work on language and identifying colors and shapes or just use the dump truck for some fun open-ended pretend play. It’s going to last well beyond 2 years old!”  

Melissa & Doug Take-Along Sorting Barn

“I love this toy because of how multi-purposeful it is,” Lerner says. “It teaches about shapes, matching and sorting, and problem-solving, and builds fine motor (finger and hand) skills as kids work to figure out where each animal fits.”

In addition to its developmental benefits, we appreciate that this cute toy has a built-in storage system that makes cleanup a breeze.

Melissa & Doug Farm Friends Deluxe Jumbo Knob Puzzle

“Having puzzle and shape toys that are manageable for your 2-year-old is critical,” Cady says. “Larger puzzles with indents for specific animals to match, or photos to match, is a friendly way for children to be naturally scaffolded to complete puzzles on their own.”

Cady recommends the Melissa & Doug Farm Friends Deluxe Jumbo Knob Puzzle, a $25 option that’s positively reviewed by more than 3,000 happy caregivers who are teaching their 2-year-old about cows, horses and sheep.

Wooden Construction Puzzle (6-Pack)

“When children become more comfortable with managing puzzle parts like this, more challenging puzzles can be introduced,” Cady says. “When choosing a more traditional puzzle, if your child is ready, I suggest having a picture build within the image pieces are meant to make.”

Cady recommends this Wooden Construction Puzzle for a $25 option that’s also wonderful to help develop cognitive ability.

Alphabet & Number Puzzle Set

“This is key for numbers and letters and to help them grow with sounds,” Greenhouse says. Not to mention, the horizontal, chronological nature of the alphabets and numbers puzzles are great to help remember elements in a line.

Benresive Montessori Wooden Puzzle

“This was key when he was younger to help with hand-eye coordination and animals,” Greenhouse says. “We would sit on the play mat and work with him to make sure we can properly place the puzzles in the correct spot.”

Plus, each puzzle is a large size, allowing your 2-year-old to hold each one firmly in their hands.

Counting Animals Color-Sorting Game

“Children use the tools provided to sort animals by color,” Ventre says. “It’s also a fun way to practice number sense.”

For just $11, your 2-year-old will also adore the vibrant colors and the included tongs to help sort and pick up all of the included animals in the bundle.

Melissa & Doug Disney Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Numbers Wooden Peg Puzzle

According to Dill, her and her 2-year-old daughter use this puzzle a ton — and, it’s a no-frills option for less than $15.

“We like to learn about the different shapes and she enjoys that it’s Winnie the Pooh-themed,” she says.

Sesame Street Elmo’s on the Go Letters

“This book is great,” Dill says. “We love that it’s portable and is a great mechanism to learn the alphabet.”

Giardina also dubs this on-the-go toy as a favorite with her 2-year-old daughter. “We play educational games with our favorite characters and other dolls and stuffed animals,” she says.

Melissa & Doug K’s Kids Take-Along Shape Sorter

If you’re looking for a well-organized, on-the-go toy option, the Melissa & Doug K’s Kids Take-Along Shape Sorter is a hit — and, it includes various exterior slots to help facilitate shape-learning.

“This is another good portable option that we like to bring into restaurants or to other people’s houses,” Dill says. “It’s good practice for learning about different shapes.”

Melissa & Doug Disney Minnie Mouse Mix & Match Dress-Up Wooden Play Set

“This is by far a favorite. We love to put together different outfits and show off our creative side,” Dill says. “We like that it’s compact so we can bring it with us to different places.”

Plus, it’s the perfect affordable grab to help your 2-year-old match colors and outfits together, learning how certain aspects of a whole fit into place.

LEGO DUPLO Dream Playground

Including five toy figures and pieces to build four different play structures, this set is an excellent introduction to the world of DUPLO and a great addition to any young DUPLO fan’s collection. All the activities depicted in the set are kid-friendly, so children gain practice by play socializing in scenarios they may soon encounter themselves.

Christopher Byrne , known better as the Toy Guy, recommended this kit for 2-year-olds. “The DUPLO blocks are perfect for small hands and fine motor skills development, and when it’s all assembled, it inspires outstanding, open-ended imaginative play,” Byrne said. “It’s great for solo play, but it can also help kids build social skills through interactive, imaginative role play with others as their imaginations bring this world to life.”

Playmobil 1.2.3. & Disney Winnie’s and Piglet’s Treehouse

Bring Winnie the Pooh and his magical, storybook world to life with this Playmobil set. The treehouse has a built-in slide that Winnie and Piglet can slide down, and it also comes with a table and chairs so the figures can enjoy a little tea party. Plus, some parts of the tree can be rotated and make noises, which further engages children.

“The 1.2.3. toddler line is all about kids learning through play,” said Byrne. “The unique learning concept starts at the youngest ages, and kids can engage in open-ended exploration. Then, as they get a little older, they manipulate and play with the toy to begin to develop fine motor skills and three-dimensional thinking. As kids get older, they’ll be able to make up stories about their friends in the 100 Acre Wood.”

Montessori Wooden Animal Blocks

This 10-piece set includes challenge cards that prompt children to stack the animal figures in different ways and experiment with building structures. It’s a great option for solo or cooperative play with a friend or sibling.

“Stacking means little ones get to practice hand eye coordination skills and, of course, the anticipation of whether the blocks might fall down is hilarious fun,” said Harding. “This toy comes with extra challenges for matching patterns to the picture cards, so it has a useful life beyond the age of two. There are also plenty of opportunities for imaginative play with the wooden animals which will feel great in their hands.”

LEGO DUPLO Doctor Visit Set

This set includes three characters, blocks to build a doctor’s office, a toy polar bear and story cards that depict different interactions, inspiring your 2-year-old to recreate the scenes on their own. It’s a wonderful introduction to world of LEGO and building block toys in general.

Yesim Kunter , an independent play consultant who has worked as a designer for LEGO, Hasbro and Toys “R” Us, recommended this set for 2-year-olds. “It’s great for constructive pretend play and role play,” she said.

Melissa & Doug 100-Piece Wood Blocks Set

Lerner recommends this building block set because she says “it exercises and develops [children’s] fine motor skills, math skills, spatial awareness, color and shape recognition, and problem-solving skills.”

She says this set helps children build these skills by prompting them “to figure out how to get their tower to stay stable or how big to make a room to fit their animals when they decide the structure they are making becomes a barn.”

Chuckle & Roar ABC Learning Blocks Set

“This set helped teach my daughter the alphabet,” Giardina says. “She loves to not only build with them, but also line them up in letter and number order, and say the letter that corresponds with the picture on the block.”

Plus, the activities you can do from this one toy are endless! The easy-grab storage tub is a bonus for on-the-go travel, too.

CENOVE Flower-Building Garden Toy

“This is one of our favorite toys lately that we got for Christmas and play with every day,” Dill says, enthusiastic about one of her 2-year-old’s most-cherished toys. “We use it to create beautiful flowers and gardens for some of our other activities.”

It’s also an official Amazon best-seller and at its lowest price ever right now.

Disney Wooden Toys Winnie the Pooh & Friends Block Set

For any Disney fan (and caregiver who adores aesthetically pleasing pastel blocks and sets), the Disney Wooden Toys Winnie the Pooh & Friends Block Set is a steal for less than $25.

“My daughter enjoys these because of the theme of Winnie the Pooh and the creativity which with she can build,” Dill says. Just look how adorable the cloud block is!

LEGO DUPLO Minnie’s Birthday Party Building Blocks

“As a Minnie fan, we love this set and all the different things that can be built,” Dill says. Within this set, your 2-year-old will love playing with Minnie Mouse, her cat, her oversized birthday cake, presents and other interactive buildables.

Much like the Minnie Mouse LEGO set, the brand has a Mickey & Minnie Birthday Train Building Toy Set that’s beyond adorable, including both Minnie and Mickey, as well as a fully loaded train, oversized cupcake, presents and more.

School Bus Toy with Sound & Light

“This bus was a major win for me,” Greenhouse says. “We practiced the song wheels on the bus and ‘bus’ was one of my son’s first words. He took this toy everywhere and asked for it constantly.”

Not to mention, it’s a great toy for learning about the future of taking the school bus. “We showed him that, as he gets older and goes to school, that you take the bus and mommy and daddy see you after school,” she says.

Large Transport Cars Carrier Set

“Bryce was super excited to get his big car set,” Greenhouse says. “I think seeing all the options, colors and styles he gets so excited. Vroom vroom is always the words out of his mouth when playing with this set.”

Not to mention, the litany of roll-around cars package neatly inside this toy’s monster truck, making cleanup a snap.

Meland Construction Vehicles Set with Play Mat

“Bryce’s face lights up when he plays with the construction vehicle set,” Greenhouse says. “I will admit the he doesn’t always use the play mat, but the remainder of the set is in every room of the house!”

Fisher-Price Little People Big Yellow Bus

“We’ve been playing with this for over a year,” Dill says, recommending the $25 beloved play set. “My daughter has grown with it and now likes to get the little people on and off in different ways.”

Aside from learning how to maneuver a school bus, your toddler will love this vehicle as an accompaniment to other dollhouses and play sets.

CoComelon Ride-On School Bus

For lovers of CoComelon everywhere, jump on the brand’s Ride-On School Bus — a less-than-$40 option that we predict to sell out quickly.

“My kids love to ride this bus,” Giardina says. “They love playing the alphabet and music on it. It’s a favorite!”

Step2 Whisper Ride Cruiser Push Car

“This is a fun alternative to a stroller,” Giardina says. “My two daughters love to ride on this car.”

And, the star of the show — it’s hot pink and comes with a built-in cup holder. What’s better than that?

iPlay, iLearn Bouncy Pals Dinosaur Hopper

Harding recommended this toy because she said it promotes both laughter and physical exercise. “Two-year-olds are often on the look-out for a good giggle,” she said, “and why not? We now know that a belly laugh does children and adults a whole host of good!”

The toy comes with a mini air pump to inflate it, and it can function as a fidget-friendly seat when kids are watching TV.

“This toy is just tremendous laugh-out-loud fun as they bounce their way up and down,” Harding said. “They are also likely to be imagining all sorts of adventures while strengthening their leg muscles on the way.”

Radio Flyer Deluxe Steer & Stroll Ride-On Trike

Lerner recommends this tricycle because it’s so versatile. “Grownups can steer it while the child gets comfortable riding on it and steering, [and] it grows with the child as they learn to navigate it on their own,” she says. “This all builds strong gross motor strength and coordination.”

In addition to its removable rear handle, it has a storage bin on the back where kids can keep extra toys. Good to know Radio Flyer has come such a long way since making their iconic red wagons.

CoComelon Bumper Car

This baby bumper car lets your kid steer safely around your home with easy-to-use joysticks and an adjustable safety belt to keep them in place. The car has a rechargeable battery, and because its bumpers are made of soft rubber, you won’t have to worry about any damage to your walls or furniture.

This toy is so popular, it earned a spot on Walmart’s top toys of 2023 list — so make sure to grab it before it sells out. Bonus: it’s available in Minnie Mouse and Spider-Man options, too.

Little Tikes Cozy Coupe

“I assume this is supposed to be an outdoor toy, but somehow this ended up inside my home,” Greenhouse says. “Bryce really loves his big red car and rides around the house with it. He knows to beep the horn and as he got older he fills the cupholders with his milk and/or water and snack cup! Now, he also asks to take bear for a ride.”

Not to mention, Giardina also loves this fun, move-around toy for her 2-year-old daughter. It’s perfect for indoor and outdoor use alike.

VTech Prance & Rock Learning Unicorn

“This has been a staple in my house for years,” Giardina says. “We ride it every day!”

If the vibrant colors and cute charm isn’t enough to sell you (which it should), rest assured that it’s designed to be low-to-the-ground, making it ultra-safe for your 2-year-old.

VTech Pop-a-Balls Push & Pop Bulldozer

“The bulldozer was another great purchase that Bryce used a lot of,” Greenhouse says. “Inside or outside, he would take it and play.”

What’s more, it’s also a great way to work on coordination with the balls, colors and counting.

Kidzone Ride-On Lamborghini

Let’s start out with this — who doesn’t want a Lamborghini?

“This was Bryce’s 2nd birthday gift from his grandparents,” Greenhouse says. “When the weather is nice, he rides it around the driveway and his friends love to play with it too. I will say this is more of a ‘special present’ and he still gets excited when we take it out.”

Joovy 4.1 Kids Tricycle

“This is great because my daughter can grow with it,” Dill says. “For now, we still push her, but we’ll be able to allow her to start pedaling herself in the next few months.”

The Joovy 4.1 Kids Tricycle is also equipped with a padded seat, harness and sun-protective canopy, making it a sweet, investment-worthy ride.

Rollplay Electric Ride-On Train

“We definitely enjoy riding this train and are looking forward to getting more use in the nicer weather,” Dill says. Not to mention, the included cart for your 2-year-old’s teddy bear is too cute to pass up.

Kid Trax Toddler Disney Minnie Mouse Quad Ride-On

“This is a cute Minnie themed quad,” Dill says. “It doesn’t go too fast and my daughter enjoys pushing the button to drive herself.”

What’s great about this ride is its step-up design — the safety track allows your 2-year-old to grip onto its textured step to prop themselves safely upright before riding.

SEREED Baby Balance Bike

Have you seen a more aesthetically pleasing ride? It looks like a bookshelf toy but it’s uniquely a well-designed ride-on (and, just $50, too!)

“It took my daughter some time to get used to this, but she enjoys riding it around her playroom,” Dill says.

Bouncy Pals Unicorn Bouncy Horse

Doesn’t every little girl hope for a pony? Well, the new trend is unicorns, and we’re here for it (especially oversized unicorns we can ride on).

“We are definitely unicorn fans and my daughter enjoys having this bigger stuffed animal that she can bounce on,” Dill says.

CoComelon Deluxe Dancing JJ Doll

Able to stand up on its own, this doll offers more interactivity and creative play opportunities than most other dolls and stuffed animals. As JJ dances, his movements and songs encourage children to participate. It’s undeniably cute, and an undeniably fun time for young kids.

Byrne said that “CoComelon” is “one of the hottest properties out there right now,” and added that “kids love interacting with JJ, the star of the show.”

“There are three play modes,” Byrne said. “Learn to Dance, Fast and Slow, and Freeze Dance. There are also phrases from the show. A great way to continue the excitement and fun off screen.”

Fisher-Price Little People Friends Together Play House

“We love to use this to create a neighborhood with all our other playhouses,” Dill says. “It has great interactive sounds and has been a staple in the house for a while.”

Uniquely, this compact dollhouse comes with characters, furniture, a fully furnished kitchen and, *drumroll please*, a tree swing.

Bumble Bear Silicone Bath Toys

Make bath time more engaging for your 2-year-old with this set of animal-themed dolls. They’re made from non-toxic silicone and can be filled up with water to become a fun toy. The tops and bottoms of all the animals can be swapped around, and all the pieces can be easily cleaned in your dishwasher.

“Water play is the best for children to learn soothing themselves and cause and effect,” said Kunter.

Aigybobo Big Red Barn with Animal Figures

This farm-themed set includes 10 finger puppet figures to play with, as well as a big red barn that opens up to give kids space to set up and move around the cute little animals.

“These toys encourage pretend play as they act out scenarios and develop stories,” said Lerner. “This builds imagination and higher-level cognitive skills. When they engage with these toys with peers and parents, they build social and language skills as they talk about the ideas and stories they are developing about the characters and their lives in their homes.”

CoComelon Deluxe Interactive JJ Doll

“My kids think this is magical!” Giardina says. “They love being able to feed their favorite character, JJ, peas and seeing it disappear.” Plus, the star of the CoComelon show also plays music — what’s not to love?

Sesame Street Plush Bundle

Every since we were little ourselves, we couldn’t shy away from any of the Sesame Street plushes. Not to mention, one of America’s popular kids shows is still in full-swing.

Giardina says her 2-year-old daughter loves to collect them and play with them around her play mat. Elmo is her favorite, but Cookie Monster and other characters are equally as fun.

Fisher-Price Barbie Little Dreamhouse

After receiving the Fisher-Price Barbie Little Dreamhouse for Christmas one year, Giardina’s 2-year-old daughter has not been able to stop playing with it. There’s a slide, a collection of furniture to play around with and it’s the perfect size, according to Giardina.

Anico 5′ Giant Plush Teddy Bear

“This bear was a gift and I think more exciting for me to watch him open,” Greenhouse says. “He loves his standard-size bear so watching him see a plush, soft, life-size bear was super exciting for him!”

What’s more, it’s also durable enough for 2-year-olds to pull, wrestle and play with.

CoComelon Boo Boo JJ Deluxe Feature Plush

“This was a cute toy to use to show that everyone gets a ‘boo-boo,'” Greenhouse says. “Bryce would put band aids on JJ and check him. It was cute to watch him understand learning about being sick, getting hurt and most importantly feeling better!”

Upon purchase, you’ll find your toddler’s first doctor’s kit aside from the doll, making it a great value for less than $25.

Minnie Mouse Ultimate Mansion 22″ Play Set

“We love this toy for the Minnie and Disney characters and accessories,” Dill says. “The house is not as solid as the Little People house, but we love it because of the theme.”

That said, if your 2-year-old loves all things pink — including miniature figurines and easy-glide cars — then this all-you-can-ask-for set is worth your coin.

Melissa & Doug Mine to Love Jenna 12″ Baby Doll

“We’ve been really into playing with dolls and babies at this age, and Izzy loves to take care of this baby,” Dill says. “This was one of her first and she always goes back to it.”

Not to mention, it comes with a pacifier to allow your 2-year-old to learn about using one (and later, transitioning out of one).

Manhattan Toy Baby Stella 15″ Baby Doll

“My daughter likes the softness of this doll and that you can change all the clothes and diapers to play pretend,” Dill says. It’s a more realistic doll to have in your 2-year-old’s toy collection for that reason, too, encouraging your toddler to *hopefully* potty-train quickly.

Disney Animators’ Collection Elsa Mini Doll Play Set

“We really like this set,” Dill says. “We discovered it at Disney and have been buying other Disney princesses.”

Not to mention, it’s the perfect size for the 2-year-old age group for growing into Barbies and other dolls.

Barbie Skipper Babysitters Climb & Explore Playground Dolls & Play Set

“We enjoy playing with Barbies and some of the different accessories they some with,” Dill says. “There are lots of small pieces, so she’s still a bit young to really independently play with them, but I can already tell this will be a fan-favorite for years to come.”

Disney Mickey Mouse & Friends Minnie Mouse 18″ Plush

Doesn’t every little girl wish for a Minnie doll? The short answer is yes, but real-life mothers also agree.

“We have a couple of Minnie dolls, but this is one of our favorites to cuddle with and always provide comfort,” Dill says. “Minnie is a favorite character so this stuffed doll is perfect.”

‘Roll, Roll, Little Pea’ by Cécile Bergame

Heather Barnum, Senior Librarian in the Reader Services division of the New York Public Library , recommended this book for 2-year-olds. “Even the youngest of readers will have fun finding the roll-away pea in this simple and brightly-illustrated story,” she said.

While your storytelling abilities as a parent keep your kid engaged, the bright colors and beautiful illustrations inside the book give them something to keep an eye on and follow along.

‘Remember’ by Joy Harjo

A national bestseller written by a former U.S. Poet Laureate, this book is a delight for young children and adults alike.

“Joy Harjo’s soothing meditation is a perfect winding down poem, and Maria Goade’s flowing, deeply saturated artwork is calming and warm,” said Barnum.

‘Peekaboo Rex!’ by Sandra Boynton

“A new book from Boynton is always cause for celebration,” said Barnum. “This one combines two toddler favorites, peekaboo and dinosaurs! Silly, cartoony, and great for reading aloud.”

As part of Sandra Boynton’s Boynton on Board series, this book is in good company. Browse the full series on Amazon for more options.

‘Little Chicks’ by Taro Gomi

This book, written by the same author of the famous ‘Everyone Poops,’ is full of gorgeous water-color style illustrations and has a fun story to match.

“Three winged siblings spend the day adventuring,” said Barnum. “After they are both curious and brave, they rush back to tell their parents all about it. Simple but engaging.”

An FAQ on the 2-year-old age group, from experts & mothers

Ahead, our team of child development and psychology experts — along with real-life moms — provide insight into the 2-year-old age group and what defines playtime at this stage.

What child development skills come to light among 2-year-olds?

“My favorite saying is ‘the two’s are not terrible — instead, they’re full of potential!” Alice Cady, EdM , tells the New York Post. “It’s up to adults to consider a child’s perspective, reasons behind behavior, and recognize potential to learn.””

Contrary to popular belief, 2-year-olds don’t necessarily need the ABCs and 1-2-3s; that’s not their primary goal. “They’re more into learning how things work, as you’ll typically find 2-year-olds turning on and off lights and opening and closing doors,” Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, PhD , psychology professor at Temple University and senior fellow at the Brookings Institution — whose research work centers on the development of early language and literacy, as well as the role of play in learning — tells The Post.

Ahead, Hirsh-Pasek provides a snapshot into the characteristics of most 2-year-olds:

• They’re starting to form dexterity, so they’re not into tough puzzles, but easier options where they can turn a piece and sort is perfect.
• They’re not apt for hard building materials, so magnets are easier to ‘build worlds,’ as well as build and knock things down.
• They can roll things, though aren’t great at playing catch quite yet, and they love crawling through spaces.
• Two-year-olds love to get up and dance and run. They love playing with trains, construction- and building-based toys, puzzles (including Magna-Tiles) and pop-up toys. However, pop-up toys don’t offer much variability and don’t teach much.
• Two-year-olds also love putting toys in a line and vroom-vrooming cars to someone else. Counting is typically more for 3- and 4-year-olds.

“One of the most dramatic changes we see in 2-year-olds is their rapid language development,” Melissa Libertus, PhD , cognitive and developmental psychology professor at the University of Pittsburgh and research scientist at the University’s Learning Research and Development Center — who published a study on the benefits of parents promoting early learning in 2-year-olds — tells The Post. “At this age, children typically begin to use more words and form short sentences. They may also use basic grammar, such as plurals and past tense. They also tend to understand more complex instructions.”

“Two-year-olds are continuously exploring the world around them and testing their own and their environment’s limits. As their sense of self emerges, they start to recognize that people act intentionally and that sometimes obstacles keep people from completing their desired actions.” Melissa Libertus, PhD, cognitive and developmental psychology professor at the University of Pittsburgh and research scientist at the University’s Learning Research and Development Center

More generally, 2-year-olds begin to understand cause and effect relationships and can solve simple problems. “They also start to categorize objects based on similarities and differences, like size, color and shapes,” Libertus says.

With regard to their motor skills, 2-year-old children typically refine gross motor skills such as running, jumping and climbing, per Libertus. “They also improve fine motor skills such as holding a pencil, stacking blocks and using utensils,” she says.

What are the best toys for 2-year-olds?

The golden question, right? While we turned to experts and real-life mommas for toy recommendations, keep in mind that 2-year-olds don’t need many gadgets and gizmos, according to Hirsh-Pasek.

“For toys, aim for engaging over distracting and active instead of passive,” she says. “Two-year-olds want your attention, to play with a given toy again and again and, most of all, to play with toys that bring them joy.”

Additionally, 2-year-olds begin to engage in more complex play and may start to develop friendships. “They also learn to express their emotions more effectively and begin to understand other people’s emotions, even though this learning is slow and can often lead to frustration and challenges as children struggle to communicate their emotions clearly,” Libertus says. That said, 2-year-olds work well in teams.

What are the benefits of 2-year-old playtime?

Aside from the obvious (that is, that it’s fun), Cady breaks down the true benefits of toddler-based playtime.

“Some parents already worry about content skills and kindergarten prep at this age. However, the true work of children is play,” she says. “Learning through play and being able to experiment through play is essential at this age.”

What’s more, having an “expert playmate” to play with children and materials affords 2-year-olds to share ideas, expand play, and gain experience playing ‘with’ another, which will stretch their interest and attention naturally with any open-ended toy.

“These kids are getting a liberal arts education every day. They’re learning how to communicate, collaborate and work in teams. They’re curious to know how the floors, swings and the world works — but they’re learning with you.” Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, PhD, psychology professor at Temple University and senior fellow at the Brookings Institution

That said, they’re building their brains at age 2. “When you ‘look beneath the hood,’ you’ll start seeing magical moments everywhere,” Hirsh-Pasek says. “They’re hypothesizing and figuring out new ways to do things. During playtime, they’re doing more thinking than you think.”

What are the best toys for 2-year-olds to help facilitate listening?

“Sensory toys, like pop-its, sensory tubes, rain-sticks and fidgets are external materials children can focus on while they regulate big feelings,” Cady says. “Another great way to help 2-year-olds thrive is to have set expectations and routines. Let them know what to expect.”

For this, visual schedule cards that a 2-year-old can manipulate and routines built to encourage independence are wonderful, because your child knows when and how to ‘take control’ over aspects of their day. “This is not to say you need every aspect of your day planned, but If you have an exciting activity or trip or aspect of your day plan, having your 2-year-old know that it is something to expect helps them process and orient their expectations for the day,” Cady says.

Ahead, take a look at some recommended toys to help facilitate listening and attention:

• Visual Schedule Cards , $12
• Pop It Fidget Toys (4-Pack) , $10
• Liquid Bubbler Timer Sensory Toy (3-Pack) , $18
• Sensory Fidget Tubes (4-Pack) , $23
• Africa Heartwood Project Chilean Cactus Rainstick , $14
• BUNMO Large Pop Tubes (4-Pack) , $6
• Animal Visual Timer , $20

How 2-year-olds differ from the one-year-old and three-year-old age groups

While every little one is adorable in their own way, certain learning and developmental skills come to life in 2-year-olds that differ slightly from that of the 1- and 3-year-old age groups.

The 1-year-old age group

“Toys for 1-year-olds and 2-year-olds differ in terms of their complexity, commensurate with the developmental abilities that are typical of the two age groups,” Libertus says. “Toys for 1-year-olds tend to be simpler and easier to use, while toys for 2-year-olds are more complex and challenging.”

For example, 1-year-olds may enjoy toys with a few buttons that make the toy light up or make noise, while 2-year-olds may prefer more complex features such as having to put the correct block in a toy to match the requested color. More, 1-year-olds may enjoy simple puzzles where one shape fits in a specific place, while 2-year-olds start to fit multiple shapes together to solve more complex puzzles.

“1-year-olds may need toys that are easy to grasp and manipulate,” Libertus says. “Two-year-olds have better-developed motor skills and may enjoy toys that require more dexterity, such as drawing or manipulating smaller features of toys.”

Two-year-olds are also typically more interested in pretend play than 1-year-olds. “Toys like dolls, play kitchens and costumes can help foster their emerging imaginative play,” Libertus says.

The 3-year-old age group

Just like toys for 1-year-olds and 2-year-olds differ in terms of their complexity, toys for 3-year-olds continue to increase in complexity in line with their more advanced development.

“Most notably, 3-year-olds are able to play with much smaller toys that would be considered choking hazards for younger children,” Libertus says. “Three-year-olds start to count objects and learn letters, making toys that support these skills a perfect fit for this age group.”

As their motor skills continue to improve, 3-year-olds tend to enjoy more challenging games with balls as well — like hitting a ball with a bat or aiming for a goal — and activities that require more sophisticated fine motor skills, like beading, according to Libertus.

Safety notes for your 2-year-old to keep in mind during playtime, per experts

Although 2-year-olds are advancing in their play, they are still getting teeth. Some children are very oral and might be tempted to place things in their mouths. Don’t panic (according to Cady), just redirect them to a chewing toy and still be mindful of choking hazards.

“Some great fine motor toys are meant for 3+ year-olds, so they come with very small parts,” she says. “If you want to work those fine motor muscles, consider using tongs, pipettes, and Play-Doh rather than purchasing toys labeled 3+, as often that label is related to choking hazards.”

Additionally, some sensory bins may be labeled 3+. Sensory experiences for 2-year-olds are one of the most engaging play experiences, according to Cady, with some including this label due to the inclusion of choking hazards within a marketed “kit,” or because more than 2″ of water is considered a drowning hazard for children under 3.

Weigh the capabilities of your child, their tendency to mouth toys, and consider how they will be supervised as you introduce toys and materials labeled 3+. “Ultimately, this is customizable to your individual child, but my recommendations are all toys that I would considered safe in my own classroom, which complies with NYS licensure in having no choking hazards,” Cady says.

Check out the New York Post Shopping section for more content.

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29+ *Perfect* Gifts for 2 Year Old Boys (That Our Toddlers Are Obsessed With)

This post contains affiliate links.

The ultimate list of the *very best* gifts for 2 year old boys ( and yes, these make perfect toddler Christmas gifts, too ) –

Coming at you from 3 different toddler boy moms ( Isabelle , Christal & me, Brooke), here’s all the stuff we’ve bought that our little boys – between 18 months and 3 years old – can not stop playing with!

Searching for that *perfect* gift for anyone can be so difficult, and toddler boys are no exception.

I always find myself searching for great gift ideas that will make his little face light up with joy when he unwraps it, but also something that he can continue to enjoy long-term.

It can be a lot to think about – and although we all know it’s not all about the gifts, it’s so darn fun to get them something they love.

So, today, I am sharing my very own mega-list of awesome *tested and proven* gifts for 2 year old boys – yes, I have *actually* purchased almost every one of these toys and set my 23-month old son loose on them! If I had not purchased them myself, they are items that he has been *glued* to at either our friends’ or family’s homes.

Pssst… don’t miss this great little list of the best toddler toys for road trips if you’re planning a long car ride! 

In sharing this list, I’ve organized the toys and gifts by price point. You can either jump to a specific section using the links below, or read through the list in its entirety.

Either way – let’s dive into this *GREAT* little list of gifts for 2 year old boys – 

Gifts for 2 Year Old Boys Under $50

Raffi Song Book Set

Singing helps toddlers develop language skills! You may find they bring you these books over and over again to sing the songs in this Raffi book set. Even if you’re not a big singer, or you’re worried you don’t know the tune, these books have a great rhyming pattern that you can speak instead of sing. Board books are a fun way to introduce little ones to the world of reading and song.

Wooden Puzzles

Simple wooden puzzles are popular for a reason, they can help toddlers develop finger strength, problem solving and perseverance. Not to mention they’re adorable and fun!

Grinnie Wooden Puzzles

Sesame Street Music Player Book

Sesame Street is known for its incredible puppets and educational programming. This music playing book allows toddlers to listen to their favorite songs and learn basic numbers, words and more. 

Hand Puppets

High-quality, realistic puppets are great for so many reasons. They are excellent for pretend play as well as fine motor skills development. This cute safari animal hand puppet will not only entertain your toddler for hours, but as they get older they will enjoy taking a turn making the animals clap, sing, and dance. Puppets are perfect for making stories and songs come to life!

Melissa & Doug Hand Puppets

Did you know play food can help with picky eating? I think almost every toddler parent is excited to hear that! Learning what foods are and seeing what they look like in a zero-pressure environment can help decrease fear and unease at mealtime. Pretend play food is also a good toy for developing a strong imagination. Pretend to cook up something yummy and feed it to the family!

Melissa & Doug Play Food

Crawl Tunnel

Get your wiggles out with a crawl tunnel. The best part of all, is that crawl tunnels are totally collapsible and store away very easily. This type of toy makes the perfect addition to a homemade fort and kids of all ages love using them. If you have older siblings, they’ll be entertained right alongside your toddler. You’re going to have the coolest house on the block with one of these.

Sunny Days Entertainment Crawl Tube

Wooden Instrument Set

Want a toy that can encourage your toddler’s self expression? Musical instruments help build a toddler’s sensory development and have been shown to boost brain development! This set of wooden instruments has a nice variety of great options to try out.

Stoie’s Instrument Set

Little Tykes Trampoline

How perfect is a trampoline for an energetic little toddler? This Little Tykes trampoline is perfect for indoor play and the bar is a must for extra support! This is sure to be a hit for your little man – and the extra energy he expends while jumping will make for an extra sweet nap time!

Animal Duplo

Any type of building blocks are always a fan-favorite in my house. There’s a reason these sets are such great toddler toys. The large building bricks in this set are age-appropriate for a toddler and the cute little animals will be fun to build over and over again.

Duplo Animal Set

Battat Farm Set

I am such a supporter of pretend play. There is simply nothing better than sitting back and watching your little one pretend and explore their world through play. This farm set would be an amazing way to encourage that kind of play with your child while also teaching him about animals and farming!

Reading just got a whole lot more fun for that busy toddler boy! This book includes engaging lift-tabs, liftable flaps, sensory fur to touch, and even scratch and sniff areas! Every page has colorful animals that little kids love. Your toddler will definitely be captivated and entertained by this fun book!

Tails Board Book by Matthew VanFleet

Gifts for 2 Year Old Boys  Under $100

Fire station wooden doll house.

This fire station house is going to grow with your toddler for years. It’s the type of toy that encourages imagination and curiosity. It comes with a fire rescue helicopter, wooden fire truck, and some figurines like a fire fighter and even a dalmatian. 

Hape Fire Station Doll House

Wooden Train Set

Choo choo! Here comes the train set! This classic toy is perfect for toddlers who love things that GO and are starting to do some open-ended play. Build a new track again and again with this set of high quality tracks from BRIO, one of the best train track companies on the market. Even if you don’t have a big train table, any flat surface will work for these awesome tracks.

Brio Wooden Train Set

Foam Ball Pit

Ball pits are great for tactile stimulation and even relaxation. Toddlers can have a safe space to ‘splash’ and throw. They can use their imagination as well  to pretend they are swimming and hiding. A sturdy foam ball pit like this will last a long time and offer good support and structure. 

Hofish Foam Ball Pit

Toddler Piano

This toddler piano from Melissa and Doug has real keys, it’s not just an electric keyboard like most competitors on the market. It has a pleasant sound and it’s a good quality product. Toddlers as young as one or two years old will enjoy playing around and making sounds with their fingers. Older toddlers can begin to learn all about notes and music with this fun instrument.

Melissa & Doug Toy Piano

A classic must-have toy for all toddlers is a self-propelled car toy. It’s great for strengthening gross motor skills. Making it even more suitable for your little boy is the fact that this one is a truck! Bigger wheels, a tailgate, and a realistic sounding horn, will make this cute little Cozy Truck a hit!

Little Tykes Cozy Coupe Truck

Wood Cleaning Supplies

Cleaning only becomes boring when it’s real and your little guy will have so much fun pretending with these wooden cleaning supplies! Not only are they great for imaginative play, but they are so dang cute too!

Pottery Barn Cleaning Toys

Wooden Shopping Cart

I love this wooden shopping cart and its soft fabric basket. Pretending to go shopping, just pushing it around the house, or loading it up with plastic dinosaurs, this shopping cart is such a great toy that will surely get a lot of use!

Pottery Barn Toy Shopping Cart

Personalized Sweatshirt

I can’t get over how cute and simple these sweatshirts are! Not only is a personalized piece one of the most *thoughtful* gifts you could give, but it’s such a great way for the little one in your life to start seeing and learning their own name. This is the kind of keepsake that you can bet Mama will cherish forever!

Fox Knoll Co Personalized Sweatshirt

Name Puzzle

Simple, cute, and a great way for your toddler to start exploring the letters in his name. I also love that there are handles on each letter making it easier for his little hands to manipulate each piece! Even older kids like these puzzles because they are learning how to write or trace their name.

Busy Puzzle Personalized Name Puzzle

Gifts for 2 Year Old Boys Under $250

Canvas playhouse.

It’s true! You can fit a whole playhouse in your home with this canvas toddler tent! No overwhelming colors to distract from playtime or clash with your color scheme. It even packs away neatly into its own suitcase. Is it a club house, a cave, or a train station? You’re going to get hours of imaginative play out of this gift!

Razee Canvas Playhouse

Personalized Heirloom Sweatshirt

This hand-knit sweatshirt is beautifully made, and one of the most precious gifts you could give to that little one in your life.

Personalized Knits Heirloom Sweatshirt

Magna-Tiles

Did you know Magna-Tiles can help develop child’s spatial awareness and motor planning skills? They’re also so incredibly fun to play with! With a nice big set like this, there is room for unlimited entertainment. You can create towers, castles, animals and so much more.

Magna-Tiles 100 Piece Set

Wooden Tool Bench

Does your toddler boy want to be just like Dad? Get him his own set of play tools and a workbench. Pretend play is fun when it mimics real life. He can ‘fix’ his toys and take little cars to the mechanic with this cool set. This type of toy can really help parents engage with their toddlers during play time.

Toywoo Tool Bench Set

LovEvery Play Kit

This box is packed full of engaging and independent activities for your little guy to explore. Every activity is designed to support your child’s budding independence and we all know just how much they like to do on their own!

This audio player for kids is the perfect screen-free technology for your little one! Listen to bedtime stories, music, and educational activities in a way that sparks your child’s imagination without the over-stimulation of screen time! It’s a fun educational toy that makes for a perfect present.

Toniebox Audio Player Starter Set

Wooden Balance Beams

What toddler wouldn’t love these simplistic wooden balance beams? Climbing, balancing, and jumping, your toddler will have so much fun with these!

All Circles Balance Beam

Gingham Chair

I can’t even with this chair – it is SO cute! Your toddler will enjoy TV time, quiet play, or reading books in this adorable chair just his size. And you won’t mind having it in your living room either!

McGee & Co Gingham Chair

Anywhere Chair

The tried and true kids chair is the Anywhere Chair by Pottery Barn. Lightweight, easy to move, and a cozy sherpa cover will make this chair a toddler and mama favorite. Also worth noting is the sherpa cover is removable and machine-washable, a true must when having a messy toddler.

Pottery Barn Anywhere Chair

Gifts Under $500

Play kitchen.

Play kitchens are almost always a hit and a toy that will be frequently played with. This Pottery Barn play kitchen is not only neutral and beautiful but will be the perfect place for little boys to whip up so many delicious meals. Toddlers are still learning a lot about the world around them every day and a play kitchen gives them a spot to practise what they see their parents doing – cooking!

Pottery Barn Play Kitchen

Wooden Climber

This toy will last for years in your home and your little one will continue to love it as he grows. There are so many ways that this can be played with – many I’m sure that only toddler boys can come up with.

The Tot Wooden Climber

Pikler Triangle

If you have an active toddler this toy is for you and him. It’s a versatile climbing toy that allows toddlers to climb, slide, and create their own active fun! It’s the perfect size for an indoor playroom and a must-have item in any Montessori-style home.

Piccalio Pikler Triangle

Nugget Couch

I’m sure you’ve seen the Nugget couches on Social Media and they truly are all they are cracked up to be. Forts, slides, tunnels, cozy nest for reading, these couches are so much more than just a place to sit. Your toddler will get years of use out of this toy!

Nugget Play Couch

Arc Foam Block Set

Climb, tumble and rock with this fantastic arc foam block set. Not only is this the perfect toddler gift they will enjoy for years to come, but it also looks beautiful. Hands down, this will easily become one of your toddler’s favorite toys. This giant foam block set also pairs really well with the Nugget Play Couch on this list!

Gathre Arc Foam Block Set

So much fun will be had on this wooden indoor slide! Sliding, climbing, and fort-making are just a few ways your little guy can interact with this fun toy! It’s much more durable than some of the plastic slides out there, which make it safer for big kids in your household too.

The Tot Wood Slide

Learning Tower

Toddlers are SO curious and helping out in the kitchen is always an activity that they love. The Oslo Learning Tower makes helpful kitchen toddlers safe and at the perfect height for countertop activities. Allowing them to be a part of their surroundings is such a gift that your child will love! Toddler towers can also be a good place for kids to eat a snack when they outgrow their high chair and they can even help curb picky eating. Sounds like a big win.

Audwell Learning Tower

Which Gifts for 2 Year Old Boys Would Your Little One Love?

There are so many great options on this list that will suit your needs. Sentimental toddler boy gifts, toys that help encourage fine and gross motor skill development, and plenty of toys that are just so much fun! Toddlerhood is a wild time for most parents and having the right toys around can help make life a lot more fun and engaging.

I hope you found the absolute perfect gift for you toddler boy on this list. Whether you’re new parents searching for ideas, or you have a toddler in your life that you need the ideal gift for, I’m sure this gift guide has something perfect for you. 

More than anything I hope you get to watch as your little boy’s face lights up with joy when he opens the gift you thought so hard about – because that’s what it’s really all about, isn’t it?

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Hi, Im Brooke - a boy mom, wife, follower of Jesus and self-proclaimed minimalist. Minimalist Mama is where I share all of the tips and tricks that Im picking up as a first-time mom, my very favorite baby names, gorgeous nursery inspo and so much more. So glad you are here!

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Laradola Dinosaur Toys for 3 4 5 6 7 8 Year Old Boys, Kids Take Apart STEM Construction Building Kids Toys with Electric Drill, Party Christmas Birthday Gifts Boys Girls

• ✅【2024 Newest Take Apart Dinosaur Toys】Our building toys include 3 kinds of dinosaur: blue Tyrannosaurus Rex, green Triceratops, brown Velociraptor. Kids can open this dinosaur Kit box and start playing immediately. The multi-color design helps attract children's attention to creative assembly and promotes children's teamwork.
• ✅【Educational STEM Learning Toy】Simulation design and clear textures of dinosaur toys, enable kids to recognize and explore the world of dinosaurs. Each part is assembled by the children themselves, which can develop their hand-eye coordination and stimulate the imagination of dinosaurs. Let your children fall in love with assembly and dinosaurs!!!
• ✅【High-Quality Dinosaur Toys】Made of high-quality, non-toxic and recyclable ABS plastic. The edges and corners have been specially treated, so you don't need to worry that the parts will scratch their hands during the assembly. Laradola kids toys for kids are sturdy and durable, even if dropped from a high place, they will not break easily. It is the best choice for toddler toys age 3-8.
• ✅【Easy to Assemble Kids Toys】Our take apart toys package also contains 1 electric drill with 2 different drill bits, 3 pcs hand screwdrivers, and assemble instructions. Each step is explained clearly in the instructions in detail, and it is easy for kids to understand. The electric drill is low-speed, which can be rotated to tighten & loosen screws and encounter obstacle will automatically stop. Won't hurt the kids.
• 🎁【Amazing Toys and Birthday Gifts for Kids】These dinosaur toys for boys & girls are the highly recommended gift for Easter, birthday, Christmas or party, especially for 3-8 years old kids. We are so confident that your kids would like our Laradola Christmas gifts for boys. BUY IT NOW and let the kid put down their mobile phones and ipads.

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Product information

Product Dimensions	7 x 3 x 6 inches
Item Weight	1 pounds
ASIN	B08PCVYDZG
Manufacturer recommended age	36 months - 8 years
Batteries	3 AAA batteries required.
Best Sellers Rank	#2,081 in Toys & Games ( ) #3 in
Customer Reviews	4.6 out of 5 stars
Manufacturer	Laradola

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Not for children under 3 years old

From the brand

About Laradola ?

Founded in 2019, Laradola is a woman-owned company in Santa Ana, California.

Creativity and Hands-on ability are what Laradola was created for.

Brand Slogan: Inspire children's unlimited imagination and rich creative ability.

Laradola wants every kid to grow up happily in a healthy environment.

2023 Holiday Gift Guide

Product Description

Laradola Dinosaur Toys as a gift which is both fun and educational.

Unleash Your Kid’s Imagination

Providing Creative And Imaginative Playtime For Your Kids

	Hands-On Skills & Imagination	Hands-On Skills & Imagination	Hands-On Skills & Imagination	Hands-On Skills & Imagination	Hands-On Skills & Imagination	—
	3+	3+	3+	3+	3+	—
	Christmas gifts & Birthday	Christmas gifts & Birthday	Christmas gifts & Birthday	Christmas gifts & Birthday	Christmas gifts & Birthday	—
	1 pounds	1 pounds	1.52 pounds	2 pounds	1 pounds	—

What's in the box

• 3 *Take Apart Dinosaur Toys
• 1* Electric Drill with 2 different drill bits
• 3* Hand Screwdrivers
• 1*Assembly Instructions

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Building Dinosaurs, What You Need To Know

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My Kids FAVORITE Toy. Hours of playing and Learning

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STEM Take Apart Dinosaur Toys for Kids 3-5

Dinosaur building toys review- gift for kids

Mik's Mom Approved Finds

Honest Review-Drill Dinosaurs

Mikelle Hymas

3 Things We LOVE About The Take Apart Dinosaur Kit

Perfect Gift for Boys & Girls 3-8 Years Old

Build & Take Apart STEM Dinosaur Toy

Kortney and Karlee

Fun activity and gift for kids

Toddler Dinosaur Building Toy!

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Customers say

Customers like the appearance and quality of the toy. For example, they mention it's very cute, and a great gift for any kid that likes dinosaurs or tools. That said, some complain about missing parts. Opinions are mixed on ease of assembly, and screws.

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Customers are satisfied with the quality of the dinosaur set. They mention that it's durable, easy to put together, and made of quality material and parts. Some say that the activity of building them is great fun.

"...They provide hours of fun for everyone !" Read more

"...She loves putting them together and switching parts. They are durable and help with her motor skills, boosting her confidence in a job well done." Read more

"...Needed a little adult assistance in assembly but so far dinos appear sturdy and are holding up well to vigorous play." Read more

"...My 5 yr old ended up taking it over and loves it. Pretty dang durable , as the drill is still working 4 months later." Read more

Customers find the toy dinosaurs cute, nice, and not scary-looking. They also appreciate the bright colors and sturdy construction.

"...They are actually adorable, not scary-looking like some toy dinosaurs can be. I like that they give you extra screws, a drill, and 3 screw drivers...." Read more

"...Other than that it’s still a super cute toy and he enjoys them." Read more

" Nice and sturdy. A gift for my grandson and he loved it. He's into building things." Read more

" Nice bright color , quality plastic.My grandson loved it." Read more

Customers find the gift set to be a great gift for any kid that likes dinosaurs or tools. They say the packaging is cute and the toy is gender neutral. Customers also mention that the set is compact and has lots of possibilities for imaginative play.

"This was a great toy for Christmas ...." Read more

"My grandson loves dinosaurs and this was the perfect gift for his 6th birthday ." Read more

" Really good gift " Read more

"This was a great gift for my great grandsons . Kept them in a busy mode for two hours straight. !" Read more

Customers are mixed about the ease of assembly. Some mention it's easy to play with and put together, while others say it'll take time to put together. The instructions are confusing at first, and the product is complex enough that it takes time to assemble.

"...The parts are big enough so that they can be taken apart and put back together with ease ! They provide hours of fun for everyone!" Read more

"Good quality Kinda hard to put together but it was fun to do with my kids" Read more

"...They're very well made with easy to understand instructions but can be put together without the instructions...." Read more

"...It does come with instructions and once you get it together the first time it is much easier to see how everything goes together...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the screws. Some mention that it comes with a drill and screws that you add the arms and legs, and manual screwdrivers. They also appreciate the extra screws and the drill can put screws in and remove them. However, some customers say that there were only enough screws in the box for one dinosaur, and that some of the dinosaurs are completely missing all the screws that were supposed to come with it.

"The screws were a little smaller than I thought they would be...." Read more

"...The drill really screws in and out and my son thinks it's awesome!..." Read more

"...them, it's good, but I suggest Parents to be carefull since the screws are small , and they sometimes fall out from the toy." Read more

"...I like that they give you extra screws , a drill, and 3 screw drivers. This set would be great for siblings or for dinosaur themed parties...." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the missing parts in the dinosaur toy. They mention that it didn't have the right parts for the toys, it had lots of pieces and one head of dinosaur was missing in the box. Some customers also say that the product came with 2 left head pieces. They also mention that there are small parts and that they make sure to play with mom or dad at the table.

"...There are a ton of pieces and it is not intuitive as to how to put it together...." Read more

"...like during manufacturing one foot of one of the dinosaurs was missing a part ...." Read more

"My grandson (aged 4) loved this but unfortunately one of the dinosaurs was missing a part ..." Read more

"...It's not the battery, the drill that is used to assemble the parts is defective ...." Read more

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