With those challenges in mind, we tested and researched the best toy options on the market for 2-year-olds, considering the recommended age, safety, educational value, and longevity. Our list includes fidgets from Fat Brain Toys, bath toys from Munchkin, and kitchen sets from Step2. Here are the best gifts for 2-year-old boys and girls. 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 bubbles on one side, flip it over and start the process again. Made of lightweight ABS plastic and food-grade silicone, you can trust that this toy is hazard-free. It’s also easy to transport from room to room or on the go because there are no loose pieces. Keep it in your purse for when your 2-year-old is fussy or needs a foolproof distraction. The silicone and plastic wipe down easily when you need to clean this toy, but the Dimpl isn’t dishwasher safe. Price at time of publish: $15 Price at time of publish: $29 Price at time of publish: $45 All of the garages can be stacked on top of one another as well, for stacking (and knocking down) and building. Price at time of publish: $26 Price at time of publish: $50 Price at time of publish: $140 Price at time of publish: $75 Price at time of publish: $15 Price at time of publish: $184 Price at time of publish: $26 Price at time of publish: $15 Price at time of publish: $125 Price at time of publish: $55 Price at time of publish: $9 Price at time of publish: $13 Price at time of publish: $30 Price at time of publish: $6 Price at time of publish: $13 Price at time of publish: $120 Price at time of publish: $55 Price at time of publish: $15 Price at time of publish: $19 Price at time of publish: $23 It starts as an infant trike (basically, a sporty-looking stroller), complete with a three-point harness for safety, as mom and dad do the work pushing. Then as little legs get bigger and stronger, the trike can transform into a steering trike and a learn-to-ride trike. Finally, it can be turned into a classic trike when they’re ready to pedal off on their own into the sunset (or at least to the end of the driveway). Price at time of publish: $85 Price at time of publish: $15 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. Price at time of publish: $17 Price at time of publish: $5+ Price at time of publish: $5 Price at time of publish: $33 Price at time of publish: $24 Price at time of publish: $99 Price at time of publish: $118 Price at time of publish: $36 Price at time of publish: $25 Price at time of publish: $8
Safety
Keep a special eye out for any toys labeled 3+, says Morency Goldman, since these toys may contain small parts that pose a choking hazard, even to older toddlers. It’s also smart to avoid items that are too hard and heavy, as well as those that are long and unwieldy, since your toddler may not have the finesse and stability to handle these appropriately.
Educational Value
2-year-olds are like little sponges, soaking up all sorts of knowledge as they learn new skills. A toy that promotes news skills—be it fine motor skills, walking, talking, music, or critical thinking—will be both educational and entertaining. Two-year-olds, in particular, tend to love exploring the world around them, so gifts that allow them to move and explore are a safe bet. According to Dr. Natasha Burgert, a pediatrician in South Overland Park, Kansas, these types of gifts also help hone their burgeoning physical skills.
Longevity
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 period of time, as opposed to a toy they’ll grow out of in a few months.
Why Trust the Spruce?
This article was written 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.
