As our babies approach their second birthday, they are slowly growing out of their baby phase as their curiosity and independence blossom. You can see their personality forming as they develop their vocabulary and start becoming their own person. As they develop their interests they will start paying more attention to their toys which is why it is essential to provide them with toys that support their growing skills and interests. From imaginative playsets to toys that promote fine and gross motor skills, there are countless options to engage and entertain children from 18 to 24 months. These are my top 10 picks for toys designed with this age group in mind:
1. Play Kitchen
A play kitchen allows toddlers to unleash their culinary creativity as they cook up imaginative meals and pretend to be chefs. Look for kitchens with realistic features, such as a sink, stove, oven, and refrigerator, as well as accessories like pots, pans, and utensils. This was the toy that showed me exactly how different my two little ones are. While Emily couldn’t care less about cooking and preferred her toolbox, Olivia has been playing with the kitchen since she was one. For Emily, the game changer was finding a play kitchen that was actually functional and had running water. She loved washing the vegetables for lunch, fruit for her snacks, and even her plates.
2. Shape Sorters and Puzzles
I will always recommend shape sorters and puzzles no matter if it is for the baby between 6 to 12 months, for a toddler from 18 to 24 monthsor even a five year old. They will always remain one of the favorite toys for kids as they grow. They are excellent tools for refining their fine motor skills and problem-solving abilities and can provide an excellent way to spend quality time as a family. I loved watching Emily going from putting together a three-piece puzzle with her little chubby hands to joining me and her father while doing a 1000-piece puzzle. Just make sure you choose the one which corresponds to the level of your child but that will at the same time challenge their matching and sorting skills.
3. Building Blocks and Construction Sets
Building blocks and construction sets are amazing toys to inspire creativity and imagination. Your toddler can use them to design and build their own creations or as Olivia currently prefers, destroy your creations. To make it easier for those little chubby hands you should choose sets with large, easy-to-grasp blocks and pieces.
4. Play Vehicles
Play vehicles, such as cars, trucks, and trains, provide toddlers with hours of imaginative play. Look for vehicles with realistic features, movable parts, and durable construction for rugged play. One of the coolest vehicles we found was the one that has screws and comes with a screwdriver so you can deconstruct it and put it back together. Emilt still regularly plays with the one she had since she was 2.
5. Dolls and Dollhouses
Dolls and dollhouses are great for pretend play for both girls and boys as they encourage nurturing play and imaginative storytelling. As toddlers care for their dolls and create pretend worlds they will develop their empathy and improve their social skills. Olivia keeps giving her water bottle to her baby doll and even checks her diaper. Look for dolls with soft bodies and removable clothing, as well as dollhouses with multiple rooms and accessories.
6. Art Supplies
Art supplies, such as crayons, markers, and finger paints, allow toddlers to explore their creativity and express themselves through art. If there is something toddlers love, that is making a mess. At least you can make it a creative one. Provide a variety of materials and encourage your child to experiment with different colors, shapes, and techniques.
7. Ride-On Toys
Ride-on toys promote gross motor skills, balance, and coordination as toddlers zoom around the room or backyard. This gives them the feeling of freedom and independence as they discover what they can do. Look for ride-on toys with sturdy construction, easy-to-grip handles, and safety features like seat belts or harnesses.
8. Pretend Play Toys
Pretend play sets let the little ones to unleash their imagination and engage in role-playing activities. There are so many different options such as cleaning sets, toolboxes, and even doctor, dentist, or veterinarian kits that you can definitely find something for your toddler. Look for sets with realistic features and accessories that encourage creativity and social interaction.
9. Play Dough and Clay
Play dough and clay provide tactile sensory experiences and promote fine motor skills as toddlers squish, mold, and sculpt. Choose non-toxic, child-safe dough and clay in a variety of colors for endless creative possibilities. You can also introduce your little one to kinetic sand, but be aware it will end up everywhere. But, on the other hand, it can provide an excellent opportunity to show your little one how to vacuum after themselves.
10. Outdoor Play Equipment
Outdoor play equipment, such as slides, swings, and climbing structures, provide toddlers with opportunities for active play and exploration. Set up a safe and secure outdoor play area where your child can run, jump, and climb to their heart’s content. Of course, not everyone has space for this but there is some equipment you can also use indoors such as a balance board or climbing tower.
These top 10 toys for toddlers aged 18 to 24 months are great tools to support their growing skills and interests. From play kitchens to art supplies, each toy offers them new opportunities for developing their newly aquired skills. Check out these top 10 toys for toddlers aged 18 to 24 months and enjoy the playtime with your little ones.