The holidays are almost here! I feel like toddlers are at the age when they just start to get into the fun of opening presents. For tots, they usually need a good balance of things that will get them learning but still be fun enough to hold their attention…always such a fine line! This year, these are my favorite gifts for the 2-4 (-ish) year olds that will keep them playing well into the new year…
- To spark some creative play, I am a huge fan of doctor kits like this one by Green Toys. It even comes with an ambulance to stow away all the gear. Shout out to their entire line of sustainable products made from 100% recycled materials which are so durable AND cute!
- My boys love the Osmo because they can play different games that are super fun and challenge them to think at the same time. For my 3-year-old, Liam, he can play without getting frustrated and is so proud of himself when he figures things out on his own. Honestly, I don’t mind when they have screen time, especially if they’re learning new things and the Osmo has been a total winner! Btw – the Little Genius Starter Kit is the way to go for ages 3-5 and you can buy other games for kiddos up to age 12. Also available for Kindle Fire.
- Reading is a daily ritual at our house and I love that my kids get excited about new books. I can’t wait to try Amazon’s new Book Box subscription which would make a fun gift outside the usual boxed toys. They have options to send books every one, two, or three months and curate for ages 0-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12. They advertise up to 40% off original prices which is another huge perk; the love of reading, delivered!
- Our crew is big on building so Magna-Tiles are a huge hit and there’s literally no limit to what kids can create with these. Bonus points for having expansion kits available to make cars, houses, and more; so many cool ways to create.
- I’ve said it before but we’re a little obsessed with Legos these days and both my boys started out with a classic Duplo set around age 2. These are big, easy-to-build blocks that are great for fine motor skills and give the littles a fun way to be creative and independent while they build. We have a mix of different sets by theme (cars, animals, superheroes, you name it) but the classic set is always being used and should be a staple for any little Lego master.
- There are so many play kitchens out there but this little cutie by Hape has lasted us six years already and still looks (and functions) perfectly. Hape makes super-sturdy products and I like the fun colors they use in their materials that look like real pieces of furniture, too. They have coordinating utensils so your little sous chef can be ready to cook! Food kits by Melissa & Doug are a great way to round out the setup.
- To get ready for warmer weather (I know it’s not technically even winter yet), the Micro Mini is THE scooter for tots ages 2-5. With an adjustable handlebar, lean-to-steer design, and so many fun color options, it’s been a great addition to our fleet in the garage. Their deluxe version also has LED wheels which are perfect for riding around at sunset and our Liam seriously loses his mind when he sees his wheels light up; he thinks he’s the coolest kid on the block lol. PS don’t forget a helmet!
- For an adorable toddler nook, any teepee like this one or a cloth fort will do! They’re just the right size and don’t break the bank. We’ve loved ours and added a pom garland and twinkle lights to make it extra cozy. Even the big kids will sneak in and use it as their hideout now and then; definitely a gift that stands the test of time.
- I love family game night but sometimes it’s hard to play something that keeps everyone happy. We’ve had a lot of fun with The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game and would recommend it to anyone with a toddler or school-age kid(s). It helps practice taking turns, color coordination, fine motor skills and it’s honestly (even as an adult) a fun game to play.
That’s a wrap for the littles! Here’s hoping they have way too much fun and enjoy all the magic that comes with the holidays. XO
