“Two-year-olds are developing their language and pretend play skills,” says Colleen Mason, K0/K1 inclusion specialist with a Master’s in early childhood education. “They love mimicking adult behavior and getting a chance to be in control, so toys like baby dolls, play kitchens, pretend lawn mowers or gardening tools can be really fun ways for kids to feel involved.” To help find the perfect toy for your toddler, we researched and tested the best options on the market, considering the educational value, durability, safety, and recommended age of each. Our top picks include a fidget toy perfect for little ones from Fat Brain Toys, a Thomas the Tank Engine ride-on from Fisher-Price, and Melissa & Doug chunky wooden puzzle designed for tiny hands. Here are the best toys for 2-year-old boys. Price at time of publish: $25 Price at time of publish: $22 Price at time of publish: $13 Price at time of publish: $46 Price at time of publish: $29 Price at time of publish: $70 Price at time of publish: $392 for large arch and pillow Price at time of publish: $14 Price at time of publish: $38 Price at time of publish: $30 Price at time of publish: $45 Price at time of publish: $33 Price at time of publish: $40 Price at time of publish: $42 Price at time of publish: $49 Price at time of publish: $140 Price at time of publish: $7 Price at time of publish: $25 Price at time of publish: $165 Price at time of publish: $16 While there are a ton of counterfeit versions of this fidget popping toy, this model from Fat Brain Toys is the original. It’s BPA-Free, and the bright, colorful bubbles are made of 100 percent food-grade silicone. Weighing at just under 5 ounces, this sensory toy can help baby build fine motor skills and understand cause and effect anywhere he goes. One thing to note is that some toddlers may require more stimulation than this toy can provide. Still, it is great to have in pinch in case of tantrums or short car rides. Your toddler can also graduate to more complex fidgets if this pick is too simple. Price at time of publish: $13 Price at time of publish: $35 Price at time of publish: $17 Price at time of publish: $70 Price at time of publish: $50 Price at time of publish: $13 Price at time of publish: $20 Price at time of publish: $52 Price at time of publish: $36 Price at time of publish: $17 Price at time of publish: $22 Price at time of publish: $90 Price at time of publish: $16 Price at time of publish: $28 Price at time of publish: $95 Price at time of publish: $20 Price at time of publish: $25 Price at time of publish: $25 Price at time of publish: $40 Price at time of publish: $100 Price at time of publish: $30 Price at time of publish: $86 Price at time of publish: $25 Price at time of publication: $40 Price at time of publish: $30 Price at time of publish: $62
Safety
Similarly, you should avoid any toys with small parts that pose a choking hazard—generally these toys are labeled 3+, says Morency Goldman. You should also consider material and size—avoid items that are too hard and heavy, as well as those that are long and unwieldy.
Durability
Toddlers tend to throw, drop, and generally run their toys ragged. Look for toys that are particularly durable—those made of thick plastics or solid wood—as they’ll better withstand frequent and rigorous use.
Educational Value
Development-focused toys can be based on physical skills, like a tricycle to help with balance and gross motor skills, says Dr. Natasha Burgert, a pediatrician at Pediatric Associates in South Overland Park, Kansas. They can also be learning-based, like puzzles or building sets. Tactile toys, like finger paint or magic sand are also really fun for older toddlers and help them explore texture and build fine motor skills.
Why Trust the Spruce?
This article was written by Julie Evans, a writer and editor who has worked with a host of diverse companies including Microsoft, USA Today, Realtor.com, Brit + Co, CafeMom, and SheKnows among others. She started writing for The Spruce in August 2017.
