The Best Toddler Gifts for Any Occasion

Imaginative play is essential for little brain development. Here are my favorite toys to spark creativity and, most importantly, imagination.

What is an open-ended toy, you ask? They’re anything that can provide endless opportunities for play (or close to it). Blocks are a great example, which is why there are a few different options. Plus, a few more ideas of toys that’ll keep your toddler occupied.

With a degree in early childhood development, I’m always looking for toys that are fun but also benefit my toddlers’ development. From fine motor skills to cognitive development, here are a few of my favorite learning things.

Whether it’s their first or third birthday, these gifts are perfect for celebrating another year around the sun. And the best part is, they’ll be able to use them for years to come.

Toys that’ll last years are cost-effective and eco-friendly (since you won’t buy new things as they grow). Here are the kinds of gifts my toddlers have used for a few years.

Last but not least, we have outdoor toys. Fresh air, sunshine, and spending time outside are magic for kids (and great for their learning and development, too!). Here are a few gifts for toddlers that will make their time outside even more fun.