How to Choose Toys for 2 yr olds?
At the age of two, your child is likely becoming clearer in their interests, whether it's cars, letters, art, sensory or tactile activities, gross motor activities, nature, animals, and more—these interests may change regularly!
Children's interests will vary widely after age 2. Alongside the suggested toys below, it is recommended that parents pay close attention to what your child gravitates towards, what activities they want to repeat over and over, and what skills they seem to be developing.
Not only will it help them fulfill a developmental need they feel the urge to improve, but it will also improve their concentration, as they're likely to become engrossed in activities they're interested in.
Enriching and Developmentally Appropriate Toys for a Two-Year-Old
Here are some skills and activities that most two-year-olds are interested in:
1. Climbing Toys
Most children at this age enjoy moving their bodies and physical challenges like climbing and exertion. They are learning more about the limits of their bodies every day, and moving and experimenting is how they do that. Climbing toys like the Pikler, Waldorf Rocker, and Balance Beam are especially popular for this age group.
2. Sorting Toys
Children around this age are trying to create order and make sense of the world. Simple sorting activities can be calming.
3. Matching Toys
Matching items by colors, shapes, and sizes is often very satisfying for two-year-olds. Matching games with 2-8 sets is a great way to develop focus at this age. TOOBs with matching downloadable nomenclature cards are perfect for this.
For a richer learning experience, explore our Montessori 3-part cards. These sets are perfect for pre-readers, emphasizing visual learning. Through activities like matching, memory games, and sorting, children can boost their focus, cognitive development, and grasp of the world around them.
4. Open-Ended Toys
At two years old, children are just beginning to engage in imaginative play. Open-ended toys encourage creativity more than close-ended toys with a single function.
5. Real-Life Books
6. Puzzles
At this age, children often still struggle to distinguish between fantasy and real life. Books that focus on the real world tend to make more sense to this age group.
7. Sensory Tools
Most toddlers love sensory play, so the natural playdough kits and wooden playdough tools are very popular gifts.
Choosing the right toys for your two-year-old can be both fun and rewarding. By observing their interests and developmental milestones, you can provide enriching experiences that stimulate their growing minds and bodies. From climbing toys that encourage physical exploration to open-ended toys that foster creativity, each selection plays a vital role in their learning journey.
Remember, the best toys are those that engage their imagination and cater to their current developmental needs. Enjoy this special time of discovery with your child and watch as they flourish with each new experience!