The 34 Best Gifts for 2-Year-Olds to Ignite Their Imagination

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At 2 years old, kids still surprise us with how much they’re growing every day. Toddlers at this age are learning new ways to use their bodies and minds. They can kick and throw a ball, run, climb, scribble, and build with blocks (and topple what you build). Two-year-olds are honing their communication and cooperation skills and starting to imitate you, engage in pretend play, and understand the stories you read to them. The best gifts for 2-year-olds are ones that help foster these burgeoning skills through imaginative, active play.

“Using play to help foster things like communication and social skills is teaching these things in the child’s native language,” says Neal Petersen, LPCC, a registered play therapist (RPT) and clinical operations director for Greater Minnesota at Ellie Mental Health. “For example, model sharing between two toys as you play with your child. That will help them retain the information and make those neuropathways in the brain nice and strong.”

Play has a profound impact on child development, especially at the pivotal age of 2, according to Katie McCann, a mom of two, breastfeeding counselor, and paramedic. “Play is a child’s primary job, and it’s through this medium that they understand the world, develop essential skills, and grow both mentally and physically,” says McCann. “Choosing the right toys and understanding the developmental milestones can significantly enhance this journey.”

From outdoor and pretend play to books, games, and blocks, we’ve rounded up the best toys we’re sure 2-year-olds will love. To create this list, we considered each toy’s age recommendations, features, quality, materials, durability, value, and engagement potential. We also reviewed guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on milestones for 2-year-olds and toy safety tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). We’re sure our list has something for everyone.

Our Favorites

  • American Girl Bitty Baby Doll #1
  • Mr Potato Head Create Your Potato Head Family
  • Sherilyn Kids Play Tent with Mat
  • Lovevery Music Set
  • Mega Bloks First Builders Big Building Bag, 80 Pieces
  • Me and My Mama: Celebrate Black Joy and Family Love Book
  • Sarah’s Silk Rainbow Enchanted Mini Playsilk
  • Green Toys Tool Set
  • Radio Flyer 4-in-1 Stroll ‘N Trike
  • Melissa & Doug Deluxe Pounding Bench Wooden Toy

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