The 42 Best Gifts for 2-Year-Olds

Skoolzy Peg Board Set

These simple, rainbow-colored pegs encourage young kids to build tall towers or weave them together with string.

Buying Options

$18 from Walmart

May be out of stock

$28 from Amazon

Soon after my oldest daughter started preschool, I asked her (then 2) what she liked to play with in the classroom, and she answered, “Pegs!” I bought Skoolzy’s Peg Board Set for our home, and I was fascinated to see how intently she and, subsequently, her younger siblings played with them on their own. The brightly colored, stackable pegs offer 2-year-olds just the right level of challenge and open-ended play: Kids can fit the pegs into holes on the included foam mat, stack them one on top of the other to see how high they can go, or string them on a shoelace. Despite the simplicity of these pegs, my kids would pull them out of the toy bin again and again.

—Courtney Schley

Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Piggy Bank

This cheerful pink piggy bank makes a rewarding sound each time one of the 10 plastic coins is dropped through the slot.

Buying Options

$40 from Amazon

When my daughter was a toddler, she received the Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Piggy Bank as a gift, and as far as noise-making plastic toys go, this one is a winner. She liked being rewarded with the pig’s cheerful responses and songs when she pressed its snout or dropped the large coins through the slot. And I liked how mercifully brief—and not too loud or grating—the songs and noises were. The pig helps kids develop motor skills and also teaches colors, numbers (in Spanish, too), and other important stuff. I’m impressed by how well this bank held up through years of rough treatment (and that it used just two pairs of CC batteries in all that time).

—Winnie Yang

Mudpuppy My ABCs Ring Flash Cards

These colorful alphabet flash cards are held together with a plastic ring, which can be opened and closed.

Buying Options

$10 from Mudpuppy

$13 from Amazon

$13 from Walmart

At age 2, my son thought identifying objects was the greatest form of entertainment. As we approached the, oh, 500th reading of his 10 favorite board books (but who’s counting?), I realized we needed something new. I also realized that we didn’t own flash cards. To remedy the situation, I bought the Mudpuppy My ABCs Ring Flash Cards. The letters and words are printed in a pleasing sans serif font. The bold, colorful artwork spoke to my kid—and he spoke back. Our favorite? F: A frog playing a flute for a fly.

—Ingrid Skjong

Melissa & Doug Wooden Animal Chase Jigsaw Spinning Gear Puzzle

Interlocking spinning parts take this 24-piece wooden puzzle up a notch.

Buying Options

$8 from Amazon

$20 from Walmart

Shortly after she turned 2, my daughter started showing a keen interest in puzzles, and I daresay the Melissa & Doug Wooden Animal Chase Jigsaw Spinning Gear Puzzle has kicked off an absolute obsession. Even before she was able to do the puzzle herself, she was fascinated by spinning the gears and making the puzzle pieces move. Now, half a year later, it’s one of the first toys she reaches for, flipping it over to let the pieces scatter and then putting them back together—mostly on her own, although she’ll sometimes ask for help. She has also presented it to an older (5-year-old) friend at a playdate, excited to do it together and show her how it works.

—Katie Quinn

Welcome to the Symphony

Kids learn about classical music and hear the sounds of the clarinet, trumpet, and other instruments in this entertaining, interactive book.

Buying Options

$15 from Amazon

$15 from Walmart

Combine Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 in C Minor with some charming mice narrators and—da-da-da-dum!—you have Welcome to the Symphony: A Musical Exploration of the Orchestra Using Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5. This accessible introduction to classical music is written by Carolyn Sloan, author of the similarly structured Welcome to Jazz (featured in our guide to the best gifts for 3-year-olds). The book covers the orchestra, musical terms (such as dynamics, tempo, and harmony), and groups of instruments (strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion). And while the excitement of pressing the 19 sound buttons may initially overshadow the rich text and lovely illustrations, kids can appreciate this book on deeper levels over time—think of it as an evolving performance. And grown-ups can’t help but feel proud when their kids are able to recognize Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 out in the world—even if it is while watching an episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood.

—Barbara Kimberly Seigel

Boon Fleet Stacking Boats, Set of 5

Add some fun to the tub with these sleek vessels that float, pour, and stack.

Buying Options

$11 from Amazon

$11 from Walmart

The Boon Fleet Stacking Boats, favorites in our guide to the best bath toys, consist of five simple vessels in refreshingly non-kiddie colors, like navy and eggplant. Small holes on the top of each boat create a gentle rain-shower effect with the bathwater, which my toddler loved, and the rims work well for scooping and rinsing. The boats nestle on top of each other, though they must be placed in the correct order to achieve a flush stack—something my daughter found either frustrating or rewarding, depending on the outcome.

—Ingela Ratledge Amundson

Urban Kiddy Baby’s My First Family Album

This eight-page, double-sided cloth photo album holds 17 of your favorite 4-by-6 photos, and there’s a mirror at the end.

Buying Options

Buy from Amazon

Filled with photos of the family we were leaving behind, Urban Kiddy Baby’s My First Family Album was a treasured gift from a relative when we moved across the country. Made with a soft, durable fabric, it holds 17 printed photos, and it’s cute enough to attract your average 2-year-old (there are several cover options). For months after our move, my son loved flipping through the photos of “Grandma Mimi,” and he would study shots of himself with all of his cousins. And I loved that he could see family members’ faces without getting my phone involved.

—Kerry Davis McGuinness

Schylling Wooden Stacking Robots

With notched hands and feet, these nine wooden robots can be stacked and balanced in all sorts of acrobatic ways.

Buying Options

$24 from Walmart

When my son was a toddler, a friend gave him Schylling’s slightly sinister-looking Wooden Stacking Robots, and he still has them on display in his room at age 14. The tiny angles allow for all kinds of wacky creations, and the more robots you get (we later added a second pack), the bigger your robot trees can become. Creating a simple pyramid may make a 2-year-old feel triumphant, while older kids can construct some truly impressive designs. These blocks are the type of thing adults may find themselves leaving out on the coffee table—and even playing with themselves.

—Kalee Thompson

Constructive Playthings Big Tape Measure for Kids

Made for small hands, this vinyl tape measure rolls out like a real one, with markings for inches and centimeters.

Buying Options

$14 from Discount School Supply

With Constructive Playthings’ Big Tape Measure for Kids, there are lots of possibilities for role-playing. This sturdy, oversize tape measure is a favorite among young kids at Toybrary Austin (a local toy-lending library in Texas), according to owner Liza Wilson. Two-year-olds enjoy pulling out and winding back the easy-rolling vinyl tape, which makes a satisfying clicking sound. Older kids love to measure and compare everything in the room using the toy’s real inch and centimeter markings; this is a great way for them to begin developing spatial awareness and concepts related to numbers, counting, and math. (Note: This toy is recommended for kids ages 3 and up because the tape can be a choking hazard.)

—Caitlin Giddings

Educational Insights My First Game: Bears in Pairs

In this seek-and-find memory game, kids look for matching bears behind the doors of a two-story playhouse.

Buying Options

$26 from Amazon

$25 from Walmart

My daughter received Educational Insights’ My First Game: Bears in Pairs for Christmas when she was 21 months old. And she adores it—for reasons that have progressed with every passing month. At first, she simply liked to match each of the three sets of twin bears and open and shut all six compartments on their 3D plastic playhouse. Eventually she started to play the actual game, which involves flicking a spinner and trying to find the coordinating bear set. Bears in Pairs is a perfect introduction to memory matching games—without the need for reading or card shuffling.

—Caitlin Giddings

IKEA Dvärgmås Play Tunnel

This simple play tunnel is fun to crawl through, and it cinches up for easy storage.

Buying Options

$20 from IKEA

When my older son was 2 years old, I found a classic, collapsible IKEA Dvärgmås Play Tunnel at a secondhand store. Five years and another kid later, it was still in good enough shape to be handed down to a different family. The littlest kids can simply enjoy the challenge of learning to crawl from end to end. Later, the tunnel becomes a cozy spot to play with other toys or a fun addition to an elaborate living-room fort (which was my kids’ favorite use for it). IKEA’s colorful polyester Cirkustält Tent also offers long-lasting fun at a low price, and we recommend it in our guide to the best gifts for 3-year olds. Availability at IKEA stores varies by location. 

—Kalee Thompson

Lego Duplo Number Train

An age-appropriate introduction to Lego, this Duplo set comes with a little bit of everything: Duplo people, numbered bricks, connecting trains, and a cat.

Buying Options

$17 from Amazon

$19 from Target

With its delightfully chunky pieces, the Lego Duplo Number Train is excellent for introducing toddlers to the joys of building with Lego bricks. The train-themed set includes blocks that are numbered from 0 to 9, four wheeled bases, and two figures (plus a cat for good measure). Kids can arrange the pieces in all sorts of configurations, all while developing their fine motor skills and immersing themselves in imaginative play. When my son turned 2, he happily took over his older brother’s collection of Duplos (numbered blocks and numerous vehicle bases included), and he never looked back—no doubt all but guaranteeing himself a Lego-filled future.

—Ingrid Skjong

Babybug Print Subscription

An annual subscription delivers nine issues of this baby- and kid-friendly magazine to your door.

Buying Options

$34 $25 from Cricket Media

(one-year subscription)

$34 from Barnes & Noble

Printed on thick, sturdy paper, with non-toxic ink and no staples, Babybug can inspire a love for reading at a young age. The little-kid-size magazine is filled with simple stories and colorful and fun illustrations, with themes like Halloween and winter. As they age, kids can transition to Cricket Media’s Ladybug, Spider, and other magazines. Tip: Print a gift announcement card so your recipient knows a subscription is on the way, as it may take a few months for the first magazine to be delivered.

—Ellen Lee

Mudpuppy Jumbo Puzzle Map of the U.S.A.

Once assembled, this 25-piece puzzle displays a map of the 50 states, along with what each one is known for, like Idaho potatoes.

Buying Options

$10 from Mudpuppy

It feels as if we now own every children’s puzzle that’s ever been stamped and laser-cut into cardboard. But the Mudpuppy Jumbo Puzzle Map of the U.S.A. remains the one I pull out the most. For starters, this 25-piece puzzle is suitably challenging for my preschooler, who can confidently wield the thick, oversized pieces and eventually match together the colors and shapes of the United States. This one also serves as a stellar geography lesson and conversational jump-off for the two of us. We discuss all of the states we’ve been to, point out where our friends and family live, and plan future road trips by tracing our fingers from the image of cowboy boots (representing Texas) to the sunflowers or flamingos near her grandparents’ houses.

—Caitlin Giddings

Schleich Farm World 4-Piece Set

Schleich’s small animal figurines are beautifully detailed and wonderful for imaginary play.

Buying Options

$12 from Amazon

My 2-year-old is totally into cows (“moo moos”) and other farm animals, and introducing him to the realistic-looking figurines from Schleich has taken that fascination to new heights. Each tiny replica in its collection has intricate, hand-painted details, and the plastic is molded to show features like tiny bits of hair and the texture of feathers. (If you’re curious, a New England toy company provides a wonderfully detailed primer on Schleich’s history and manufacturing process; Schleich also offers some background on how it designs its figurines.) The Schleich Farm World 4-Piece Set—which comes with a cow, a sheep, a rooster, and a donkey—is an excellent place to start your collection. But Schleich also makes a variety of dinosaurs, wild animals, and fantasy creatures, sold individually or in sets. Clutching a critter in each chubby hand, my toddler happily runs around our home and places his animals in toy tractor carts and dump trucks—or just moves them around the sofa.

—Kerry Davis McGuinness

Green Toys Dump Truck

Made with a rugged, long-lasting plastic, this dump truck includes a roomy, moveable truck bed.

Buying Options

$12 from Amazon

$15 from Walmart

When my kids were little, we accumulated a sizable pile of toy vehicles. The truck, plane, and boat from Green Toys are simpler (and quieter) than most. And I found that they aged better than similar toys from other companies, even when they were left for months outside in the beating Southern California sun. The Green Toys Dump Truck is a classic gift for a 2-year-old. We also had the popular Red Fire Truck and the Submarine, which carried a zoo’s worth of Duplo animals around the bathtub for several years. Everything from this company is made in the US from recycled plastic and is dishwasher-safe. (At Wirecutter, we’ve also found that the Green Toys Sand Play Set is far superior to disposable sets made of brittle plastic, and we recommend it in our guide to the best beach and pool toys.)

—Kalee Thompson

Melissa & Doug Race Around the World Tracks Cardboard Jigsaw Floor Puzzle

This oversize puzzle features famous landmarks and doubles as a race track.

Buying Options

$13 from Amazon

$14 from Walmart

My 2-year-old son is entranced by the Melissa & Doug Race Around the World Tracks Floor Puzzle, which brilliantly does double duty as a racetrack for wind-up cars. Assembling the 48 pieces is just half the entertainment, which is good, because he’s not yet old enough to do this without a lot of help. But he loves trying to find pieces with familiar pictures (like a lion, a croissant, or the Statue of Liberty) and then fit them together. When we’re done with the puzzle, the real fun begins: winding up two little race cars and watching them zip around the twisting, grooved track (or across the living room). I just have to be careful not to let the cars disappear into my son’s expansive collection of vehicles, since they’re the only ones that work with the track.

—Marguerite Preston

Melissa & Doug Pet Vet Play Set

Keep (stuffed) pets healthy with this kit that includes a stethoscope, thermometer, and cast.

Buying Options

$21 from Amazon

My daughter has always loved animals, so she was immediately taken with the Melissa & Doug Pet Vet Play Set, a hand-me-down from her older brother. The 24-piece kit comes with everything a child needs to play veterinarian, including a stuffed dog and cat, and it’s heartwarming to watch her show care and empathy for others. She also uses the tools on (human) family members, and I think the exposure has made her more comfortable at her own doctor visits.

—Amy Miller Kravetz

La-La Llama Ladybug Counting Game

Little ones can work on number skills with this adorable set of red bugs. Plus, it comes with a cute carrying case.

Buying Options

$33 $26 from Amazon

You save $7 (21%)

$25 from Walmart

May be out of stock

The compact Ladybug Counting Game is perfect for playing at home or bringing on vacation. The set can be used in several ways, but we love taking turns hiding and seeking the wooden ladybugs around our house—or the house we’re visiting. Each ladybug has between zero and 10 black dots that correspond with the numerals on their bellies. This helps us keep track of the bugs while also teaching number recognition. When she was 2, my daughter loved outsmarting us by hiding the ladybugs in sneaky places. Now that she’s 4, she loves hiding them for her younger brother.

—Jessica Bernhard

We Are Little Feminists Box Set

This boxed set includes five award-winning board books that showcase photographs of children and families from diverse backgrounds.

Buying Options

$37 from Amazon

$48 from Little Feminist

A picture is worth a thousand words. And the We Are Little Feminists Box Set, with five board books featuring photographs of real people, sends a message about the importance of respecting others and embracing our differences. Each book covers a distinct theme—Hair, Families, Celebrations, How We Eat, and On-the-Go—with an emphasis on representation and inclusivity. The photos—which feel intimate and joy-filled, as if you’ve been granted access to other families’ photo albums—depict kids and parents of many races, LGBTQ families (including a trans man who's pregnant, prompting curious questions from my 9-year-old), children with disabilities, and various ceremonies and faiths practiced throughout the world. The books are recommended for infants through 5-year-olds, and there are age-appropriate questions at the end to help encourage discussions about the material. It will likely be a while before my 2-year-old fully understands some of the bigger issues at play. But for now, I can confirm—with apologies to Sandra Boynton and company—that these books have surpassed my daughter’s other board books to become her new favorites.

—Ingela Ratledge Amundson

BeginAgain Animal Parade A to Z Puzzle and Playset

This animal puzzle’s 26 wooden pieces are assembled in alphabetical order, and they fit into a decorative storage box.

Buying Options

$37 from Walmart

May be out of stock

My son received the clever BeginAgain Animal Parade A to Z Puzzle and Playset as a baby gift. The chunky wooden creatures nest together in a single block, and reassembling the menagerie may provide a slight challenge even for grownups (we assembled it together over the years, but my son was 5 or 6 before he could complete it on his own). Each animal is printed with the letter that corresponds to its name (A is for Alligator, U is for Unicorn) and guides a kid into puzzling out the proper placement. The completed oblong puzzle makes this one a bit novel, and it stands upright in its wooden box—a nice decoration for a nursery shelf. The same company also makes similar puzzles with city and outer space themes. But I think the classic animal parade makes the nicest decorative piece.

—Kalee Thompson

Basic Beat 8-Note Resonator Bells with Case

Unlike many other models, this rainbow glockenspiel set has correct pitch and plays a full scale.

Buying Options

$33 from Amazon

For banging and making noise, just about any kids’ xylophone will do. But many of these instruments (which are actually glockenspiels, since they have metal and not wooden bars) are out of tune and terrible for learning about music. Most are toys, not tuned instruments. Our toddler played the Basic Beat 8-Note Resonator Bells in a music class, and we got a set for home. They’re durable, sound good, and allow for all kinds of musical (and other) exploration. Kids can get a hands-on feel for the sequence of a diatonic octave by ordering the blocks by size or note (each bell is marked with its letter on the scale) or by grouping two or more blocks together to experiment with intervals or chords. The bells come in a sturdy carrying case and are made to last—the ones at the music school have taken a beating from tons of kids, and they’re all still in good shape.

—Winnie Yang

Tomy John Deere Big Scoop Tractor

Tough and durable for outdoor play, this oversized tractor can scoop up large mounds of rocks and dirt.

Buying Options

$64 from Amazon

$64 from Walmart

For the kid who loves scooping sand and rocks, the Tomy John Deere Big Scoop Tractor (which has a sturdy steel-and-plastic frame) provides tons of outdoor fun. Indoors, this tractor is also fun to scoot around and scoop up toys with. My 2-year-old nephew—for whom trucks are less of a passing interest and more of a lifestyle—was equally excited that the 21-inch-long tractor is large enough to sit on. There is also a smaller, 15-inch model.

—Signe Brewster

My Very First Games: First Orchard

In this toddler-friendly board game, players work together to gather fruits from the orchard before the hungry crow reaches them.

Buying Options

$30 $24 from Amazon

You save $6 (20%)

$30 from Walmart

My Very First Games: First Orchard is a cooperative board game, so rather than competing, players work together. It’s designed to teach the youngest players the fundamentals of board games: how to set up a board, roll a die, make choices, and take turns. (This game is a favorite in our guide to the best board games for kids.) To play, you match different-colored apples, pears, and plums to their respective trees, and then roll a die to try to gather all of the fruits in a basket before a pesky crow reaches them. I started playing First Orchard with my daughters when they were 4 and 2, and I was always amused to see how the race to beat the crow created just the right amount of dramatic tension to hold their interest (and, at times, it provided an opportunity to navigate the disappointment of “losing”). And even if your 2-year-old doesn’t yet have the patience or interest for the game structure, they can simply play imaginatively with the brightly hued wooden fruits.

—Courtney Schley

Kiddey Ball Pit Play Tent

This indoor/outdoor pop-up ball-pit tent offers a contained space for active play.

Buying Options

$30 from Amazon

We purchased the Kiddey Ball Pit Play Tent a few years ago with the hope of giving my then-2½-year-old an outlet for his energy—and it came through. The tent has six sides (five of them mesh and the sixth a “door”) and an open top, so it doesn’t feel claustrophobic and is easy to clean up (you can order the tent alone and buy balls separately, or choose an option that comes with balls). Warning: At some point, expect your kid to start diving in from the top. My son loved burying himself under the colorful balls, tossing them around, and “swimming” through them. As he’s gotten older and a little sister has joined in the fun, this tent has also become a receptacle for stuffies and a favorite location during hide-and-seek. It comfortably holds two kids (and an adult). When you want to put it away, the tent folds down and fits in an included storage bag (you’ll need a separate container to hold the balls).

—Amy Miller Kravetz

Bilibo by Moluk

This plastic, curiously shaped bowl can be a helmet, a turtle shell, a spinny seat, or whatever your child imagines.

Buying Options

$30 from Amazon

$30 from Fat Brain Toys

It might not be immediately clear what a child is supposed to do with the Bilibo by Moluk, and that’s precisely the point: All ideas are valid when it comes to this sturdy, shell-shaped plastic object. Is it a helmet? Is it a seat? Is it a spinner? Yep, yep, and yep. Research shows that open-ended play fosters creativity and resilience in children, especially toddlers who are not yet accustomed to more-programmed activities with a “right” and “wrong” way. My daughter started occupational therapy when she was 15 months old. The Bilibo—which measures 15 inches across and comes in a range of bright colors—was hands-down her favorite prop. At the beginning of each session, the therapist plopped my daughter’s butt into the cupped seat and slowly twirled her around in circles (if a kid is younger than 2, they will likely need an adult’s help to keep from toppling). She’d giggle uncontrollably, all the while developing the core and neck strength needed to balance and sit up on her own. The Bilibo also comes in a miniature (4.7-inch) size (sold in a set of six), and it’s perfect for shoveling, scooping, and serving tea to stuffed animals; we also like it as a bath toy.

—Julie Kim

Guardian Balance Bike

This top-notch bike is sturdy and easy to assemble, with air-filled tires, a steering limiter, and a handbrake that gets kids one step closer to riding a pedal bike.

Buying Options

$200 $150 from Guardian Bikes

You save $50 (25%)

A balance bike can help kids learn to steer, brake, and keep themselves upright on a two-wheeler from a very young age. Many families find that balance-bike riders graduate to pedal bikes earlier, skipping the training-wheels phase altogether. The Guardian Balance Bike (the top pick in our guide to the best balance bikes) is best for kids age 2 to 4 and offers easy-to-grip handlebars, a low stand-over height, air-filled tires, and a well-constructed handbrake; the brake slows both the front and back wheels and gets kids one step closer to riding a pedal bike, since they learn how to stop without dragging their feet on the ground. My son started riding a balance bike at age 2. The Guardian quickly became his favorite because it’s easy to ride, comfortable, flashy, and that handbrake felt powerful.

—Jenni Gritters

Yoto Player (3rd Generation)

A screen-free audio player for toddlers and older kids.

Buying Options

$100 $80 from Amazon

You save $20 (20%)

Yoto Mini (2024 Edition)

The same player, scaled down for on-the-go listening

Buying Options

$70 $55 from Amazon

You save $15 (21%)

My daughters received the Yoto Player for Christmas three years ago when they were 2 and 5 and have used it every day since. This magical little cube provides hours of entertainment in the form of stories, audiobooks, and music. It also comes in a Mini version, perfect for home, as well as on-the-go use. We use the Yoto Player for bedtime; my daughters alternate who gets to pick the story from the 1,000-plus available on Yoto’s proprietary cards (we have about a dozen). My girls also love to rock out to music on the make-your-own card that we loaded with their favorite songs (Yoto also sells preloaded music cards). Even the youngest kids can operate the player without any help, and it comes with a jack to connect headphones. Most of all, I appreciate that there is a safe, screen-free way for them to entertain themselves, either alone or with friends.

—Alison Rochford

American Girl Bitty Baby

This baby doll, from the popular American Girl doll brand, is available with various skin tones, hair colors, and eye colors.

Buying Options

$60 from American Girl

First released in 1995 to help children acclimate before the arrival of a baby sibling, this American Girl classic has evolved over the years. Today’s American Girl Bitty Baby is available in different combinations of skin tone, hair color, eye color, and outfit color; you can even customize a set of Bitty Baby Twins. The doll, a pick in our guide to the best dolls, is a hard-to-find hybrid: Its soft fabric torso and brushed-knit outfit offer some of the cuddliness of a plushie, while the molded face and operable eyelids provide the interactivity of a doll. We learned through our research into doll manufacturing that it takes great skill to design a face (including Bitty Baby’s) that’s realistic without being creepy—many cross the line. And although every Bitty Baby comes packaged in American Girl’s signature bright pink boxes, the dolls themselves aren’t assigned a gender or traditionally gendered names. Also, you can choose between pink, blue, and gray sleepers. (Note that for an additional $20, this doll comes with an optional board book and knit stuffed lamb.)

—Julie Kim

Gymnic Rody

Young kids can climb onto this colorful vinyl horse, grab its ears, and bounce away.

Buying Options

$60 from Amazon

$60 from Wayfair

The Gymnic Rody is a rounded, inflatable vinyl pony that’s perfect for a toddler who’s bouncing off the walls. My little kids loved to hop, scoot, and bump around the house on it. And because the Rody is soft and springy, I loved not having to worry about my children scuffing the floor or banging into walls. It’s hard not to smile at the pony’s cuddly shape, poppy colors, and cartoony cuteness (it kind of looks like a Jeff Koons sculpture). The Rody comes deflated, so you’ll need a bicycle or hand pump to start bouncing.

—Courtney Schley

Project Montessori Musical Instruments Set

A tambourine, hand drum, and triangle are included in this 10-piece wooden collection.

Buying Options

$59 from Project Montessori

Lots of families swear by the “just add water” rule of parenting (the easiest way to change the mood is by getting kids in the bath). In my house, we swear by the “just add music” rule. Around the time my older child turned 2, she fell in love with the Project Montessori Wooden Music Instruments Set. The high-quality wooden instruments—the 10 pieces include maracas, hand bells, a chime bar, and a tambourine—are realistic and easy for little hands to manipulate, and there are plenty of noise-makers to share. When the vibe is off, I suggest a jam sesh, and spirits instantly lift.

—Jessica Bernhard

ECR4Kids Bentwood Multipurpose Kids Wooden Table and Chair Set

These pint-sized wooden chairs and a table can be configured in multiple ways, including as a desk, a bench, or multiple stools.

Buying Options

$180 from Amazon

Little ones who want a grownup space of their own will be eager to get to “work” with the ECR4Kids Bentwood Multipurpose Kids Wooden Table and Chair Set. The three-piece station—it comes with a table and two chairs—is compact and convertible. And it’s made of an attractive birch plywood. So it won’t scream “kids’ table” if you choose to keep it in one of the common areas of your home (this is something I have especially appreciated since I’ve spent a lot of time looking at it in our family’s New York City apartment). The table serves as a shallow desk with a wraparound backboard; when flipped over, it becomes a high-backed bench. The chairs can also be flipped for different seat heights as kids grow, and when the chairs are not in use, they can be tucked neatly under the table to save space. My now-5-year-old son has been using this set for almost four years, and it has survived plenty of messy art projects and snack times with minimal wear and tear. The set doesn’t require any assembly.

—Barbara Kimberly Seigel

The Wooden Wagon Cascade Tower

Small wooden cars go clickety-clack as they zip down this tower’s rainbow track.

Buying Options

$62 from The Wooden Wagon

Sometimes it seems like the simpler the toy, the more engrossing it is for babies and toddlers (a theory supported by my child’s love of playing with a bookmark above all else). Of all the toys in our pediatric audiologist’s waiting room, The Wooden Wagon Cascade Tower (made of beech and birch plywood) is the one that draws the biggest and most competitive crowd of little ones. Kids can place the three-part “millipede” car at the top and watch as it works its way down to the base of the wooden tower, making a satisfying clicking sound at every turn.

—Caitlin Giddings

Lakeshore Play & Explore Rocket

This large plastic rocket opens up to reveal a homey space station.

Buying Options

$30 from Lakeshore Learning

I did not expect to love this rocket. It was a gift to my son, and at first I was like, “Okay … here’s a giant plastic thing.” But I should have had more faith. The Lakeshore Play & Explore Rocket is giant and plastic; the chunky, 16½-inch-tall behemoth stands at nearly half the height of my 2-year-old. It was also an immediate hit with our toddler playgroup. My son would do a countdown to blast-off, happily move the two peg-sized astronauts in and out of the four-wheel moon rover, and then steer them around for at least 20 minutes at a time. The red, white, and blue rocket has three pleasing levels—doors swing open to reveal the cockpit, a kitchen, a computer station, a shower area, sleeping quarters (with a fold-down bed), and a mechanic’s garage. When my son was done exploring for the day, the astronauts and moon rover could be conveniently tucked inside. (Note that this toy is recommended for ages 3 and up, though I was unable to identify any choking hazards.)

—Kerry Davis McGuinness

PlaSmart PlasmaCar

Kids can zip around with ease just by turning the handlebar—no pedaling required.

Buying Options

$87 from Amazon

$90 from Walmart

May be out of stock

If, like me, you live much farther south—where snow is just a mythical ground cover kids see only in holiday books—the PlaSmart PlasmaCar is the ultimate toddler toy for gliding around. The brightly colored ride moves almost as quickly as a sled across flat surfaces, without any batteries, pedals, or gears. The wheels work much like in-line skates or cross-country skis, so when the handlebar is wiggled rapidly, the car moves forward through lateral friction force. Toddlers can achieve exhilarating speeds with just the occasional push and steady cranking of the handlebar. The PlasmaCar is sturdy enough to hold up to 220 pounds, so adults may be able to tear around the house a few times too—strictly to conduct safety checks, of course.

—Caitlin Giddings

Pottery Barn Kids Shaggy Head Bear Sleeping Bag

Great for indoor sleepovers, this sleeping bag features a snuggly bear-head pillow, as well as adorable little paws.

Buying Options

$99 from Pottery Barn Kids

Over the years, my mom has given each of her grandkids one of these Pottery Barn Kids personalized sleeping bags as a crafty enticement to stay over at her house. More of a slumber-party sleeper than the kind of bag you’d take camping, the soft zip-up rolls easily and has two straps for carrying and storage. My daughter loves the Shaggy Head Bear Sleeping Bag’s pillow and cotton shell—it’s ideal for cozying up on the floor to play games or to watch a movie. She also adores that her name is on the bag. But be warned: The monogram font is a bit cramped and hard to read compared with her cousins’ earlier editions. If you decide to personalize, I’d recommend one of the blockier fonts.

—Caitlin Giddings

L.L.Bean Kids’ Pull Sled and Cushion Set

This high-quality, easy-gliding sled should last through multiple kids (or even generations).

Buying Options

$200 $169 from L.L.Bean

Use promo code GIFT15

Babies and toddlers don’t need to tear down hills at breakneck speeds to have a blast in the snow—they’re mostly content with being pulled around in a comfy, well-constructed sled like the L.L.Bean Kids’ Pull Sled and Cushion Set. I’ve had this classic wooden sled for 10 years—through four kids—and it’s still in great shape (it’s a top pick in our guide to the best sleds). This sled has smooth-gliding wooden runners that are reinforced with metal bars, for durability. Its supportive side rails keep tots from tumbling out; they also make this sled an accessible option for kids working on their trunk strength. So with its classic red cushion, this sled is like a snow stroller. It’s expensive, but it will last through many winters—or even generations.

—Doug Mahoney

The Original Toy Company Fold & Go Trampoline

Kids can jump, exercise, and release excess energy with this indoor trampoline.

Buying Options

$99 from Amazon

$115 from Walmart

May be out of stock

Our pediatrician recommended a mini trampoline, like The Original Toy Company’s Fold & Go Trampoline, as a tool to combat toddler constipation. I can’t say definitively that it was effective for that purpose, but it worked great for bouncing out a lot of pent-up energy. And it was generally a big hit with our own kids as well as with any visiting friends. The trampoline obviously takes up some space, but our two kids used it just about every day from the ages of (roughly) 2 to 5.

—Dan Koeppel

IKEA Duktig Play Kitchen

Play kitchens inspire fun, imaginary play, from whipping up a tasty meal to washing the dishes.

Buying Options

$10 from IKEA

The compact, white-and-birch-colored IKEA Duktig Play Kitchen is enduringly popular for good reason: It’s sleek, relatively durable, costs less than most play kitchens, and is neutral enough to blend seamlessly into nearly any decor, like a sneaky Scandinavian chameleon. If you’re more of a play-kitchen maximalist, KidKraft kitchens come in a variety of sizes and configurations, including ones with refrigerators with built-in ice makers. Whatever play kitchen you choose, your young chef is sure to stock it with all kinds of ingredients, edible and otherwise, soon enough (think stray socks, rotting strawberries, forgotten field-trip permission slips). You can add Learning Resources’ baskets of colorful fruits and veggies to that treasure trove. Or get your kid’s collection of cookware started early with Melissa & Doug’s Let’s Play House Stainless Steel Pots & Pans Playset, featured in our guide to the best gifts for 3-year-olds. Availability at IKEA stores varies by location. 

—Ingela Ratledge Amundson

Children's Factory Cube Chair

This sturdy chair can be flipped around and used in multiple ways: as a 6-inch seat or, when a child grows taller, as a 9-inch seat. Turned on its side, it can also become a table or stool.

Buying Options

$54 from Amazon

My toddler needed a more-supportive (read: less flimsy) first chair. And as her parent, I needed the peace of mind from knowing she wouldn’t tip over while sitting in it. A physical therapist introduced us to the Children’s Factory Cube Chair, which is stable without being heavy. It’s made of a lightweight plastic that’s much easier to maneuver than the Montessori-style wooden furniture we’d tried before. But what makes this chair a true winner is the 6-inch seat height with cozy “walls” on three sides; when she grows out of the lower height, I can flip the chair over and have a higher, 9-inch seat with less enclosure. Available in bright primary colors as well as more-muted “woodland” tones, the Cube Chair can also double as a side table or stool, and this versatility helps take the edge off the price tag.

—Julie Kim

Thinkery Gift Membership

Children’s museums provide a kid-friendly space where they can play, explore, experiment, and learn.

Buying Options

Buy from Thinkery

For me and my wife, the gift of annual membership to the Thinkery children’s museum in Austin, Texas, was an immense relief from cabin fever when the summer heat made it impossible to be outdoors. Suddenly we had a bright, educational fortress to escape to with our then-2-year-old daughter. She loved the water science room’s cascading series of water tables, the earth science exhibit’s hurricane and tornado simulators, and the Light Lab’s magnets and mini LEDs. Memberships to children’s museums like the Thinkery make excellent gifts. They offer educational play spaces and workshops for kids. And they have special events that include adults and families, such as Pride nights and parents’ night out.

—Caitlin Giddings

Additional reporting by Julie Kim. This article was edited by Ellen Lee, Amy Miller Kravetz, and Kalee Thompson.