Life
I've learned from personal experience that my 2-year-old son can have a good time with a simple cardboard box. But a good toy that engages, entertains, and teaches your kiddo as they play should not be underestimated. The best toys for a 2-year-old are fun enough to keep them playing while practicing age-appropriate skills for their developmental milestones.
To help guide your search, look for a variety of toys that lend themselves to unstructured and creative play that are ideal for 2-year-olds with short attention spans. Two-year-olds have developed the fine motor skills to start playing with some toys on their own, like those puzzles and building blocks, or scribbling or putting pegs into holes. They’re also starting to climb, kick, and run, and certain toys help them exercise those gross motor skills. As far as emotional, social, and cognitive development, 2-year-olds are developing self-awareness, become interested in imitating others, and are learning to sort by shape and color. Your little one may be recognizing letters, too.
You may also want to invest in toys for a slighter older age range knowing your child will have a longer window to use them, like a toy kitchen or doll house, but always make sure you supervise carefully as the products may have smaller parts which can be a choking hazard.
With all this in mind, below are 24 of the best toys for 2-year-olds. Each of my picks is highly rated on Amazon, including several toys with thousands of reviews from enthusiastic parents and caregivers.
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