Based on child development research, the following guide will help in your selection of toys this age group. Some playthings are recommended for more than one age category, as children of different ages often enjoy the same toy, each playing with it at his or her own level.

One to Two Years

Abilities and Interests

In the second year of life, children are explorers. Fueled by curiosity and wonder, toddlers also possess the physical skills that make it easy for them to play and learn. A busy toddler needs toys for physical play -- walking, climbing, pushing and riding -- and ones that encourage experimentation and manipulation. At this age, children imitate adults and enjoy props that help them master life skills.

Toy Suggestions

Balls (1¾ inches and larger)
Push-pull toys
Ride-on toys (feet-propelled)
Wagons
Backyard gym equipment (infant swing, small slide, small climbing apparatus)
Nesting and stacking toys
Simple shape sorters
Pop-up toys
Blocks
Bath toys
Sandbox/sand toys
Wading pool/water toys
Puzzles with knobs (whole-object pieces)
Stuffed animals (with short pile fabric)
Dolls and baby gear
Play vehicles
Kitchen equipment and gadgets
Play household items (telephone, lawn mower, workbench, shopping cart)
Playhouse
Child-sized table and chairs
Non-toxic art supplies (large crayons and coloring books, clay, finger-paints)
Musical instruments
Cardboard picture books, pop-up books