Is someone turning TWO? Our picks for toys and materials for this special year
Turning two is a BIG deal! A lot of growth is happening in the brain and body during this time and will continue at a fast speed from 24 to 36 months.
The year ahead is filled with big leaps in all areas of development. As play is the work of the child, when we think of gifts for this and any year it is importan to consider supporting areas the child’s development appropriately. As we make gift decisions, consider the growth that will happen over the next year for a now two-year-old:
Language
From 24-36 months, the child continues acquiring new language daily and makes more use of longer sentence, later building stories! Simple story lines and themes can support this growth. Language this year will include discussing the “quality” of the things they explore in the world, including differences in texture, color, weight, size, animal categories, habitats, and more!Cognitive Development
Over the next year your child will gain more understanding of imaginative-play and will put pretend play in practice with any material around them. They will continue fostering their attention to small details, and exploration of how things work. They will also begin making new memories in relation to people around them, and continue exploring the world of emotions.Physical Development
Mounting, climbing, jumping, running and all sorts of bilateral and exploratory movement will be a highlight of this year as they gain coordination and strength. Fine motor development is equally important through play and practical life, as we want to get those little hands and fingers strong and ready for writing in the years to come.Independence
This is the hear of BIG efforts for continued independence and finding a way to “do it myself!”. From choosing their own clothes, having access to their belongings and pouring their own water—any tool to support the journey for independence at an age appropriate way is definitely a plus!
Our picks below consider the developmental journey of the body and brain at age two, with some Montessori inspiration but not strictly Montessori ! At all times, consider the unique child, their interests, their own development path journey.
Pairs Chunky Puzzle: As they turn two, children are more fascinated with parts to a whole. This ones is a simple alternative to a puzzle that lets them practice fine motor skills and provides opportunities for language about shapes, color gradient and practice fine motor skills.
Layer Puzzle: A better fit as they get closer to 3, but even on their own, the pieces provide sensorial information about the gradual variance in size.
3 in 1 color pencils: These are creamy, unbreakable color pencils with deep hues that work on paper, work well with water and can also work on glass windows and can be washed off—SOLD!
Flexible Waterproof Highway: Can be used indoors, outdoors, in the tub, pool, sand and more! promotes imaginative play and building skills.
Peg Puzzle and Matching: We love this for practicing fine motor skills, color matching, counting, pattern work and additional 3D building as they get more skilled—STEM work!
Cool Sand: Great base for sensory play. This one in particular makes minimal mess, remains soft for a long time and can be stored for repeated use, is non-toxic and doesn’t stick.
Head to Tail Puzzle: Continue practicing fine motor skills while fine-tuning observation, practicing language and problem-solving skills with a self-correcting beginner puzzle set.
Barn Play: We adore this barn for endless imaginative play that will grow with the child. It is sturdy, beautiful and made of wood—and used non-stop in our home!
Also consider:
Support the independence of your growing toddler. A wardrobe provides opportunity for independent choices and autonomy during a daily, practical life activity for self-care. Click HERE for some of our tips to set up this space in your home!
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