We researched the best options on the market, considering each pick’s educational factors, entertainment value, and age suitability. Our favorite picks include fashionable plush pets from GUND, simple arts and crafts from Alex Toys, and a push toy from Melissa & Doug for early walkers. Designed for kids as young as 2 years old, the Number Lovin’ Oven includes an easy-to-follow recipe card for things like fried eggs, pizza, and cupcakes. Little chefs can slice the loaf of bread or pizza for sharing, hear the skillet sizzle when it’s placed on top of the oven, or bake up a batch of cupcakes. Price at time of publish: $25 Reviewers love the quality of these stuffed animals, ensuring they will last for years as your toddler grows with their fuzzy friend. Each one is unique with their own name and design and toddlers of all ages will love collecting them all. Price at time of publish: $13 Price at time of publish: $40 Price at time of publish: $43 Price at time of publish: $25 Price at time of publish: $22 Price at time of publish: $6 Price at time of publish: $89 Price at time of publish: $28 Besides helping them get on their own two feet, your toddler will also be entertained by the chomping alligators, spinning butterflies, and ladybug wooden beads that clatter as they move this toy. Price at time of publish: $75 Price at time of publish: $16 Price at time of publish: $95 Price at time of publish: $36 Price at time of publish: $88 Price at time of publish: $28 Price at time of publish: $20 Price at time of publish: $38 Price at time of publish: $18 Price at time of publish: $179 This food truck can have your toddler slinging out tacos, pizza, burgers, and more. When your order is ready, don’t forget to pay up with the adorable talking cash register. This food truck will be a fun activity for the whole family. Price at time of publish: $87 Price at time of publish: $53 The Little Tikes Cart stands at two feet tall and is made from durable, BPA-, latex-, PVC and phthalate-free plastic. The easy-push wheels are designed to protect indoor surfaces, yet they’re durable enough for outdoor use. Price at time of publish: $37 Price at time of publish: $31 Price at time of publish: $20 Children ages 2 to 5 will work on their fine motor skills as they load up the dinosaur with different tiles. When the dinosaur comes to life, your kid will learn how to express different emotions all while having fun. Price at time of publish: $35 Price at time of publish: $70 Price at time of publish: $75 Price at time of publish: $50 Price at time of publish: $38 Price at time of publish: $41 Price at time of publish: $22 Price at time of publish: $28 Price at time of publish: $26 Price at time of publish: $25 Price at time of publish: $33 Price at time of publish: $30 Price at time of publish: $80 Price at time of publish: $55 Price at time of publish: $15 Price at time of publish: $43 Price at time of publish: $25 Price at time of publish: $40 Price at time of publish: $11 Price at time of publish: $9 Price at time of publish: $65 Price at time of publish: $38 Price at time of publish: $6 Price at time of publish: $25 Price at time of publish: $24 Price at time of publish: $21 Price at time of publish: $50 Price at time of publish: $29 Price at time of publish: $25 Price at time of publish: $35 Price at time of publish: $36 Price at time of publish: $20 Price at time of publish: $22 Price at time of publish: $36 Price at time of publish: $22
Educational Value
Toddlers are busy practicing new skills all the time. Because they’re learning constantly, you may want to consider purchasing a gift that has some sort of educational value. That doesn’t mean it has to be boring, though—block sets, dollhouses, and toy ovens can all teach young children cognitive reasoning while helping them practice their fine motor skills, says Dr. Natasha Burgert, a pediatrician in South Overland Park, Kansas.
Stability and Durability
Toddlers are notoriously rough with their toys, so it’s a good idea to look for toys that can withstand heavy use and the inevitable drops that’ll happen as your toddler develops better coordination and organization. Thick, durable plastics or solid wood toys are best equipped to withstand this type of usage.
Why Trust The Spruce
This article was updated by Julia Fields a lifestyle writer for The Spruce covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, and the holidays since October 2021. Before that, she covered similar topics including toy reviews, product round-ups, expert-focused articles, and more.
