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If you’re like me and always on the lookout for the best toys to keep your little one both entertained and learning, you’re in the right place. As a mom to a very energetic 2-year-old boy with a short attention span, I’ve had my fair share of trial and error when it comes to choosing the perfect toys. Today, I’m excited to share my curated list of must have toddler toys for 2-3-year-olds that will keep your little one engaged (for longer than 5 minutes) and also support their development.
1. Building Blocks
Building blocks are a classic staple in every toddler’s toy collection. They foster creativity, enhance fine motor skills, and improve hand-eye coordination. Mega Bloks and MagnaTiles are both really great options for toddlers of this age.
Why I Love Them:
Blocks provide endless opportunities for imaginative play. My son absolutely loves building towers and knocking them down, and it’s so fun to see to see his little creations evolve over time.
2. Interactive Books
Interactive books with flaps, textures, and sounds are perfect for sparking a love for reading and supporting language development. Favorites in our household are “1 2 3 Count with Me“, “Hoppity Frog“, and “What do You Say, Little Blue Truck?”
Why I Love Them:
These books make storytime more engaging and help build early reading skills. Plus, they’re a really fun bonding activity.
3. Musical Instruments
Toddlers love to make noise, so why not channel that enthusiasm into something productive? Lovevery and Melissa and Doug both have really great musical instrument sets perfect for toddlers.
Why I Love Them:
Music can soothe or energize, making it a versatile tool in any mom’s arsenal. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce toddlers to different sounds and beats.
4. Shape Sorters
Shape sorters are excellent for developing problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination. They come in many different designs and keep toddlers engaged with their bright colors and shapes.
Why I Love Them:
Shape sorters are simple yet effective educational toys. My son loves the challenge of fitting each piece into the correct slot, and the sense of accomplishment he gets is priceless.
5. Ride-On Toys
Ride-on toys are perfect for physical development. They help improve balance and coordination while giving your toddler a sense of independence. From simple push toys to battery-operated vehicles, the options are endless.
Why I Love Them:
These toys encourage outdoor play and physical activity. My son is absolutely obsessed with all things cars, trucks and construction vehicles. He currently has this ride-on digger truck that he loves, and it’s a great way for him to burn off energy.
6. Puzzles
Puzzles are fantastic for cognitive development and fine motor skills. Start with simple puzzles like these options from Melissa and Doug, then gradually introduce more complex puzzles as your child grows.
Why I Love Them:
Puzzles teach patience and problem-solving. They’re a quiet, focused activity that we often enjoy together during quiet time.
7. Art Supplies
Encouraging creativity is so important at this age. Crayons, markers, finger paints, and playdough allow toddlers to express themselves and develop fine motor skills.
Why I Love Them:
Art supplies provide endless opportunities for creative expression. If you’re mess-averse like me, Crayola’s Color Wonder line is the absolute best at allowing your child to explore without destroying your furniture.
8. Stuffed Animals and Dolls
Stuffed animals and dolls offer comfort and encourage imaginative play. They’re also great tools for teaching empathy and social skills. Jellycat has the softest stuffed animals that come with matching board books. We have a few and love them all.
Why I Love Them:
These toys are comforting companions for toddlers. My son has a favorite stuffed bunny that goes everywhere with him, providing a sense of security.
9. Educational Tablets
Educational tablets like the LeapFrog or Amazon Fire Kids Edition offer a good variety of learning games and videos. They’re great for cognitive skills and a bit of controlled screen time.
Why I Love Them:
Don’t get me wrong, we love an iPad in this house too, but these tablets are also nice to provide educational content, and my son has fun playing the games.
10. Pretend Play Sets
Pretend play sets like kitchen sets, tool benches, and doctor kits foster creativity and role-playing. They help develop social skills and allow toddlers to imitate the world around them.
Why I Love Them:
Pretend play sets are fantastic for imaginative play. We have this exact one from Teamson Kids. My son loves his kitchen set, and it’s adorable to watch him “cook” just like mom and dad.
11. Outdoor Toys
Outdoor toys like sandboxes, water tables, and play sinks encourage active play and physical development. They’re perfect for getting toddlers outside and moving.
Why I Love Them:
These toys provide endless outdoor fun. We have all three of the products linked above, and have so much fun with them in the summer. They keep my son entertained honestly for hours outside.
Choosing the right toys for your toddler can make a world of difference in their development and your sanity. The must have toddler toys on this list are tried and true favorites in our home, providing endless entertainment and learning opportunities.
What are your favorite must-have toddler toys? Share your top picks and any organization tips in the comments below. Happy playing!
