Nugget is almost 2! (How in the world is that even possible???) As we enter into the next phase of life, I am constantly on the hunt for must have toddler toys (much to the chagrin of Hubs, LOL).
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As I watch Nugget grow and change and develop, I’m constantly on the hunt for toddler toys that are:
a) developmentally appropriate
b) size appropriate for our house (small)
c) interesting, engaging, and has a purpose
d) won’t break the bank
**Obviously, as with any and all toys, check to see what ages they are designed for and provide adult supervision.**
The following are the top 12 must have toddler toys that we LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!
MEGA BLOKS Fisher-Price Toddler Block Toys, Deluxe Building Bag with 150 Pieces and Storage Bag, Gift Ideas for Kids Age 1+ Years
What kid doesn’t love blocks? Mega Bloks are bigger than regular Legos and better suited for little toddler hands. Nugget can play with these independently or with others. I love that these allow her to build things, work on spatial recognition, colors, patterns, and measuring. Quite honestly, her favorite thing to do is unzip the bag and dump out the entire contents onto the floor, LOL!
Apparently, there are a gazillion different sets out there but this is the one we were gifted for Nugget’s first birthday. I’ve been holding onto it for her. Just opened it today and it’s a big hit!
Again, I love the opportunity for Nugget to work on spatial recognition. Puzzles are wonderful for that along with problem solving, matching and independent play. The sounds are fun and add an additional layer of learning (identifying, naming, matching, listening, recognizing).
Melissa & Doug Farm Sound Puzzle - Wooden Peg Puzzle With Sound Effects (9 pcs)This the perfect slide for nervous Nellies like me! The height and slope are just right for a toddler. Nugget even likes to climb UP the slide (Don’t all kids love to do that??!) Can be used outdoors or indoors (currently -6 degrees here today so…awesome for indoor). This is one piece of equipment that isn’t huge or crazy expensive while still providing your child with the opportunity for movement.
Play-Doh Modeling Compound 10-Pack Case of Colors, Non-Toxic, Assorted, 2 oz. Cans, Multicolor, Ages 2 and Up (Amazon Exclusive)
One of my personal favorites…but when I introduced Nugget to it the other day, she got scared! I’ve noticed that she doesn’t like getting her hands messy and I think the texture also weirded her out. We’ll try again later but this toy has potential for HOURS of fun and is great for kinetic learning.
Every toddler should have a baby doll! Nugget loves to hold, rock, shush, put a diaper on, and buckle her babies into bouncy seats. She likes to mirror the way Hubs and I nurture her and Peanut. It’s incredibly sweet!
Intex Inflatable Beach Ball , Rainbow-glossy Panel
Seriously, this is one of the simplest (yet most loved) toys ever (right up there with cardboard box)! We like to play with a beach ball or a light playground ball because we throw it around inside the house. If you play outside, you could probably get something a bit heavier.
Crayola Ultimate Crayon Box Collection (152ct), Bulk Kids Crayon Caddy, Classic & Glitter Crayons for Classrooms, Gift for Kids
Nugget JUST discovered the joys of coloring on a cardboard box.
Battat- Play Circle- Shopping Cart Toy Food Play Kitchen For Toddlers- Pretend Play- Shopping Day Grocery Cart- 2 years +
Toddlers LOVE to push things around! Great for giving baby doll a ride around the house too.
The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo's Child Gift Slipcase
Ok, so not exactly a toy per se, but the teacher in me can’t resist adding books to the list. Nugget is OBSESSED with The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child. Such adorable books!
Buckle Toys - Blizzard Penguin - Learning Activity Toy - Develop Motor Skills and Problem Solving - Counting and Color Recognition
Buckling is a great skill for those tiny fingers to start practicing! I love that this little guy’s back unzips too, so Nugget can put her little treasures inside.
VTech Chomp and Count Dino, Green
We love Vtech toys! Most of them, I bought used off of Facebook but this guy I bought new. Totally worth it! Great for counting, colors, and shapes. You feed it through the mouth (and empty through the belly). It even sings!
Hope this helps. Like this post? Please share! Need more ideas? Check out my Best Birthday Gifts for 2 Under 2 and Best Birthday Gifts for a One Year Old.
Happy shopping,
