|

25 Favorite Learning Toys for Toddlers

Affiliate links may be used in this post and if so I will receive a commission at no extra cost. I’m also part of the Amazon Affiliate (Associate) program where I earn a commission from sales made through my affiliate links. Read the full disclosure policy.

Last Updated on 09/02/2024 by Nell Marie

When it comes to choosing the best learning toys for toddlers, the options are as fun as they are educational.

These toys aren’t just about keeping little ones entertained; they play a crucial role in helping them develop essential skills.

From stacking rings that improve hand-eye coordination to musical instruments that spark a love for rhythm and sound, learning toys make the world of discovery exciting and enjoyable for both kids and parents.

So, let’s dive into a playful journey of finding the perfect learning toys that will make your toddler’s eyes light up with joy and curiosity!

Related Reading:

Pin It

toys for active toddlers

Using Learning Toys for Toddler Education

Table of Contents

Learning toys for toddlers is a great way to help little ones grow while having fun.

These toys are designed to be both educational and entertaining, helping kids explore their world and develop important skills.

For example, puzzles can boost problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination, while building blocks encourage creativity and spatial awareness.

Interactive toys with sounds, lights, and different textures keep toddlers engaged and stimulate their senses.

Role-playing toys like play kitchens or toolsets are perfect for sparking imagination and improving social skills as kids mimic real-life scenarios.

By blending fun and learning, these toys create a playful and enriching environment that supports your child’s development in those crucial early years.

learning toys for toddlers

Learning Toys FAQ

Q: What are learning toys?

A: Learning toys are fun and educational playthings designed to help kids develop important skills like problem-solving, motor skills, and creativity while they play.

Q: Why are learning toys important for toddlers?

A: They help toddlers explore the world, build foundational skills, and stimulate their senses, all while keeping them entertained.

Q: What types of learning toys are best for toddlers?

A: Puzzles, building blocks, interactive toys with lights and sounds, and role-playing toys like play kitchens or toolsets are all great choices.

Q: How do puzzles help my toddler learn?

A: Puzzles boost problem-solving abilities and hand-eye coordination, making them a fun and challenging way to develop these skills.

Q: What benefits do building blocks offer?

A: Building blocks encourage creativity, spatial awareness, and fine motor skills as toddlers stack, sort, and build.

Q: Are interactive toys worth it?

A: Absolutely! Interactive toys with sounds, lights, and textures can keep toddlers engaged and stimulate their sensory development.

Q: How do role-playing toys aid in my child’s development?

A: Role-playing toys, like play kitchens or doctor sets, spark imagination and improve social skills by letting toddlers mimic real-life scenarios.

Q: Can learning toys help with language development?

A: Yes! Many learning toys incorporate language elements, like speaking dolls or interactive books, which can help toddlers expand their vocabulary and improve communication skills.

Q: Should I worry about screen time with electronic learning toys?

A: Moderation is key. While electronic learning toys can be beneficial, it’s important to balance screen time with other types of play and physical activities.

Q: How do I choose the right learning toy for my toddler?

A: Consider your child’s interests and developmental stage. Look for toys that are age-appropriate, safe, and designed to foster specific skills.

Q: Do expensive toys mean better learning?

A: Not necessarily. There are plenty of affordable learning toys that are just as effective in promoting development. The key is to find toys that engage and challenge your child.

Q: How can I make learning toys more effective?

A: Get involved! Play with your toddler, ask questions, and encourage them to explore and experiment. Your involvement can make learning through play even more impactful.

toys for preschoolers

How To Clean Toys

Depending on the type of material the toy is made of, you can use some of the methods below.

1. Soap and Water: For most toys, a simple wash with mild soap and warm water works great. Use a sponge or cloth to scrub the toys, then rinse and let them air dry.

2. Dishwasher: Many plastic toys are dishwasher safe. Just place them on the top rack, use a gentle cycle, and avoid high heat to prevent warping.

3. Vinegar Solution: A natural cleaning option is a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Spray the toys, let them sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean. Vinegar helps disinfect and remove grime.

4. Disinfectant Wipes: For quick cleans, disinfectant wipes are handy. Wipe down the toys, ensuring all surfaces are covered, and let them air dry.

5. Bleach Solution: For a thorough disinfecting, mix 1 tablespoon of bleach with 1 gallon of water. Submerge the toys, let them soak for a few minutes, then rinse well and air dry. This method is especially useful for bath toys.

6. Washing Machine: Soft toys, like stuffed animals, can often be cleaned in the washing machine. Place them in a pillowcase or laundry bag, use a gentle cycle with mild detergent, and air dry.

7. Baking Soda Paste: For tougher stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the stained area, scrub gently, then rinse and dry.

8. UV Light Sanitizers: UV light sanitizers are a modern, chemical-free way to disinfect toys. Place the toys in the sanitizer, and let the UV light do the work.

9. Freezing: For fabric toys that can’t be washed, place them in a plastic bag and freeze overnight. This kills dust mites and some bacteria.

10. Hand Sanitizer: For on-the-go cleaning, a small amount of hand sanitizer can be used to wipe down toys. Make sure it dries completely before giving the toy back to your child.

11. Boiling Water: For durable, heat-resistant toys, boiling water is a great disinfectant. Submerge the toys for a few minutes, then let them cool and dry.

12. Steam Cleaning: If you have a steam cleaner, it’s perfect for sanitizing toys without chemicals. The high heat kills germs and bacteria effectively.

fun toys

Top Learning Toys for Toddlers

Affiliate links may be used in this post and if so I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you when purchasing from my site. I’m also part of the Amazon Affiliate (Associate) program where I earn a commission from sales made through my affiliate links. Read the full disclosure policy. And, our disclaimer page for important information about using this site.

1- Wooden Building Blocks

These classic toys are perfect for sparking creativity.

Toddlers can stack, sort, and build anything their imagination dreams up.

Plus, they’re great for developing fine motor skills and spatial awareness.

Shop Amazon:

Pidoko Kids Wooden Blocks – 100 Pcs – Building Blocks for Toddlers – includes Storage Container with Shape Sorter Lid – Natural Beech Wood Blocks – Preschool Learning Toys Stacking Block

$29.97

Melissa & Doug Wooden Building Blocks Set – 100 Blocks in 4 Colors and 9 Shapes – FSC Certified

$17.59

BESTAMTOY 36 PCS Wooden Sorting Stacking Rocks Stones,Sensory Toddler Toys Learning Montessori Toys, Building Blocks Game for Kids 3 4 5 6 Years Boy and Girl Birthday Gifts for Kids

$23.19


2- Shape Sorter

Shape sorters are fun and educational.

They help toddlers learn different shapes and colors as they figure out where each piece fits.

It’s a fantastic way to boost problem-solving skills while keeping them entertained.

Shop Amazon:

Fisher-Price Stacking Toy Baby’s First Blocks Set of 10 Shapes for Sorting Play for Infants Ages 6+ Months

$7.88

Melissa & Doug Shape Sorting Cube – Classic Wooden Toy With 12 Shapes

$12.51

GOPO TOYS Montessori Toys for 18+ Months Old – Toddlers Wooden Sorting and Stacking Toys for Baby Boys and Girls – Shape Sorter and Color Stacker Preschool Kids Wood Gifts

$9.99

Bimi Boo Wooden Shape Sorter Toy for Babies – Classic Montessori Shape Sorter with Noise-Reducing Silicone Pad – Perfect Sorting Toy for Toddlers (8 Various Blocks, 1 Box, 1 Silicone Pad)

$21.99


3- Stacking Rings

Stacking rings are a timeless favorite for a reason.

They teach kids about size and order as they figure out which ring goes where.

Plus, it’s great for hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.

Shop Amazon:

Melissa & Doug Rainbow Stacker Wooden Ring Educational Toy – Wooden Rainbow Stacking Rings Baby Toy, Stacker Toys For Infants And Toddlers

$7.97

LUCKFUTURE Spinning Stacking Toys, Educational Toddler Toys Stacking Rings Baby Toy, Montessori Toy for Girls and Boys, Spin Gears Toys Christmas Birthday Gift for 1-3 Year Old

$22.99

Fisher-Price Toddler Toy Giant Rock-A-Stack, 6 Stacking Rings with Roly-Poly Base for Ages 1+ Years, 14+ Inches Tall

$13.59

Sassy Stacks of Circles Stacking Ring STEM Learning Toy, Age 6+ Months, Multi, 9 Piece Set

$8.72

TOWO Wooden Stacking Rings Baby –Lovely Caterpillar Counting Game – Colour Sorting Puzzle – 5 Pegs Ring Stacker – Counting Rings Early Learning Wooden Toys for 1 Year Old Gift First Birthday Boy Girl

$15.99


4- Musical Instruments

Little tambourines, maracas, and xylophones introduce kids to the joy of making music.

They can explore rhythms and sounds, which is not only fun but also enhances their auditory development.

It’s a great way for them to understand cause and effect too.

Shop Amazon:

Melissa & Doug Caterpillar Xylophone Musical Toy With Wooden Mallets 15.25″ x 6.5″ x 1.5 – For Toddlers,Ages 3+,Blue

$10.19

Melissa & Doug Band-in-a-Box Clap! Clang! Tap! – 10-Piece Musical Instrument Set – Kids Musical Instruments, Wooden Percussion Instruments For Toddlers And Kids Ages 3+

$16.50

Kids Musical Instruments, 33Pcs 18 Types Wooden Percussion Instruments Tambourine Xylophone Toys for Kids Children, Preschool Education Early Learning Musical Toy for Boys and Girls

$30.99


5- Interactive Books

Shop Amazon:

Books with buttons, flaps, and textures make storytime extra engaging.

These books help toddlers develop early literacy skills in a fun, interactive way.

They love discovering new things with every turn of the page.


6- Push and Pull Toys

These toys are perfect for encouraging movement.

As toddlers push or pull their favorite toy around, they’re developing gross motor skills and balance.

Plus, it’s a lot of fun for them to explore their surroundings this way.

Shop Amazon:

Fisher-Price Corn Popper Toy, Blue, 12 months and up

$13.99

Melissa & Doug Wooden Shape Sorting Grocery Cart Push Toy and Puzzles – Pretend Play Grocery Toys, Sorting And Stacking Toys For Infants And Toddlers Ages 1+ – FSC-Certified Materials

$37.49

PairPear Wooden Baby Walker Push Toys,Adjustable Speed Nature Wood Push Walkers for Babies Learning to Walk,Toddler Push and Pull Toys Gift for Baby Girls and Boys 1-2

$49.99

CUTE STONE 5 in 1 Walker for Baby Boy, Sit to Stand Push Walker with Activity Center Learning to Walk, Early Push Walking Toys Gift for Toddler Infant Blue

$59.99

7- Puzzles

Simple, chunky puzzles are great for little hands.

They help improve problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination.

Plus, completing a puzzle gives toddlers a sense of accomplishment.

Shop Amazon:

Yetonamr Wooden Toddler Puzzles Gifts Toys for 1 2 3 Years Old Boys Girls, 6 Vehicle Shape Montessori Toys Educational Blocks Kids Toys Gift Baby Learning Toy Age 1-3, 2-4

$16.99

Melissa & Doug Farm Wooden Cube Puzzle With Storage Tray – 6 Puzzles in 1 (16 pcs) – FSC Certified

$8.79

Alphabet Puzzle Wooden Puzzles for Toddlers 1 2 3 4 5 Year Old, ABC Puzzle Shape Alphabet Learning Puzzles Toys with Puzzle Board & Letter Blocks, Preschool Educational for Girls Boys

$9.99

The Learning Journey: Lift & Learn Puzzle Colors & Shapes – Preschool Toys & Activities for Children Ages 3 and Up – Award Winning Educational Toy

$12.99


8- Activity Cube

Activity cubes are packed with fun, multi-sided activities.

From spinning gears to sliding beads, they offer various ways to stimulate cognitive and fine motor skills.

It’s like having multiple toys in one.

Shop Amazon:

Bravmate Shape Sorter Learning Toys for Toddlers 18M+, Wooden Stacking Blocks Montessori Toys for 2 3 Year Old Colorful Activity Cube Learning & Education Preschool Toys Baby Boy Girl Gifts

$9.99

HELLOWOOD Wooden Activity Cube, 8-in-1 Montessori Toys for 1+ Year Old Boys & Girls, Educational Learning Toys for Toddlers Age 1-2, First Birthday Gift | Bonus Sorting & Stacking Board and Word Cards

$27.99

TOYVENTIVE Wooden Activity Cube, Montessori Toys, Multipurpose Educational Sensory Toy for 1-2 Year Old Baby, Toddler, Kid, Boy | Birthday Gift | Bonus First Words Book

$29.99


9- Soft Dolls and Stuffed Animals

These cuddly companions are more than just toys.

They encourage imaginative play and help toddlers develop nurturing behavior.

Soft dolls and stuffed animals can also be comforting, offering emotional support.


10- Play Kitchen

A play kitchen set opens up a world of pretend cooking fun.

It fosters creativity and social skills as toddlers mimic real-life cooking scenarios.

They love pretending to cook and serve meals just like grown-ups.

Shop Amazon:

Tiny Land Play Kitchen Set, Toddler Kitchen with Cutting Food Set, Wooden Kitchen Sets for Kids, Farm Style Toy Kitchen Playset, Best Gift for Girls and Boys

$119.99

ROBOTIME Kids Play Kitchen Set – Rustic Wooden Kitchen Sets, Pretend Play Kitchen with Leaf Light String, Apron, and Groves, for Toddlers 3+ (Rustic Style)

$109.99

ROBUD Wooden Play Kitchen Set for Kids Toddlers, Toy Kitchen Gift for Boys Girls, Age 3+

$118.17

ROBUD Wooden Laundry Playset, Washer and Dryer Set for Kids, Realistic Pretend Play Washing Machine with Basket, Iron, Soap, Bleach, Laundry Detergent, Gift for Boys & Girls, Ages 3+

$68.29


11- Toy Cars and Trucks

Toy vehicles are always a hit.

Toddlers can zoom them around, which helps with fine motor skills and spatial awareness.

They also encourage lots of imaginative play, like building little car towns.


12- Sorting and Nesting Cups

These cups are simple but so versatile.

Toddlers can stack them up, sort them by size, or nest them together.

It’s a fun way to learn about sizes and sequences.

Shop Amazon:

KIDSTHRILL Rainbow Colors Baby Stacking Cups for Toddlers, Tall Baby Stacking Toys Nesting Cups, Drain Holes for Bath Toys, Educational & Motor Skills Sorting & Nesting Toys for 1 2 3 Years Old

$14.99

Cosaway Baby Stacking Nesting Cups Toys, Baby Toys 6 to 12 Months, Montessori Toys for Toddler Gifts 1 Year Old

$7.99

Flypear Stacking Cups Toy for Baby 6-12 Months, 8PCS Nesting Cups Set for Toddler 1-3, Kids Bathing and Counting Stackable Toy for Early Educational Learning, Birthday Gifts for Boys and Girls

$8.99

13- Magnetic Tiles

Magnetic tiles are amazing for creative play.

Kids can build all sorts of structures while developing spatial reasoning and fine motor skills.

The possibilities are endless, which keeps playtime exciting.


14- Bath Toys

Make bath time a blast with some fun toys.

They help develop hand-eye coordination and teach cause and effect as toddlers splash and play.

Plus, it makes getting clean a lot more fun.

Shop Amazon:

Amazon Basics Ferry Boat with 2 Mini Cars Bathtub Toy for Kids Ages 2 and Up, Blue, Small

$13.49

Munchkin® Fishin’™ Magnetic Baby and Toddler Bath Toy, 4pc Set

$9.17

Munchkin® Learn™ Bath Letters and Numbers 36pc Toddler Bath Toy

$6.09

Munchkin® Ocean™ Squirts Baby and Toddler Bath Toy, 8 pack

$7.99


15- Counting Bears

Shop Amazon:

These colorful little bears are great for early math skills.

Toddlers can count, sort, and match them by color.

It’s a playful way to introduce basic counting and sorting concepts.


16- Balance Bike

A balance bike is a fantastic way for toddlers to learn balance and coordination.

It’s a fun step before transitioning to a pedal bike.

They gain confidence as they zip around on their own.

Shop Amazon:

bicystar Sports Balance Bike for Toddlers 2-4, Air Tires, No Pedals Toddler Bicycle, Push Bike, Outdoor Toy for Childrens Girls Boys, Blue

$99.99

newyoo Toddler Bike, 4 in 1 Tricycles for 1,2,3 Year Olds, Balance Bike, Birthday Gift and Toy for Boys and Girls, Kids Tricycle with Parent Steering Push Handle, Removable Pedals, White, TR007

$76.49

POBLON Colorful Lighting Baby Balance Bike for 1 Year Old Girl Boy, 12-24 Month Toddler Balance Bike with 4 Wheels & Soft Seat, First Birthday Gift (White)

$35.49


17- Pretend Tool Set

Kids love mimicking adults with a pretend tool set.

They can “fix” things around the house, which enhances fine motor skills and imaginative play.

It’s a great way for them to learn about tools and construction.

Shop Amazon:

Kids Tool Set – Zealous 45 pcs Toddler Tool Set with Tool Box & Electronic Toy Drill, Pretend Play Kids Toys, Toy Construction Tools for Kids Ages 3,4,5,6,7,8 Years Old (A-Orange)

$29.98

Deejoy Kids Tool Bench with Realistic Tools and Electric Drill, 79 Pcs Transformable Kids Tool Set with Clothes, Toddler Tool Bench Pretend Play Learning Gift for Boys & Girls Age 3-5 (Yellow)

$52.99

Kids Tool Set, 48PCS Toddler Tool Set with Electronic Toy Drill & Kids Tape Measure,Pretend Play Construction Toys Costume with Kids Tool Belt & Gloves,Toy Tools Box for Girl Boy Ages 3-8

$29.99


18- Light-Up Toys

Toys that light up and make sounds are super engaging.

They stimulate multiple senses and teach cause and effect as toddlers press buttons and see the lights flash.

It’s a fun way to keep them entertained.

19- Learning Tablets

Kid-friendly tablets are packed with educational apps and games.

They introduce letters, numbers, and problem-solving in a fun, interactive way.

It’s like having a little classroom right in their hands.


20- Play Dough

Play dough is a fantastic way to get creative.

Toddlers can mold, shape, and squish it to their heart’s content.

It’s great for enhancing fine motor skills and exploring different textures.

Shop Amazon:

Play-Doh Modeling Compound 24-Pack Case of Colors, Non-Toxic, 3 Oz Cans of Assort. Colors, Back to School Classroom Supplies, Preschool Toys, Ages 2+ (Amazon Exclusive)

$21.99

Play-Doh Bulk Jewel Colors 12-Pack of Modeling Compound, 4-Ounce Cans, Back to School Classroom Supplies, Kids Arts & Crafts, Preschool Toys, Ages 2+

$13.99


21- Lacing Beads

These colorful beads are perfect for threading onto strings.

It helps improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.

Plus, it’s a great way to keep them focused and entertained.

Shop Amazon:

BMTOYS Montessori Educational Threading Toys Wooden Stringing Farm Animals Fruits Lacing Beads Preschool Toy for Toddler 3 4 5 Year Old Boys Girls

$13.95

Melissa & Doug Primary Lacing Beads – Educational Toy With 8 Wooden Beads and 2 Laces

$9.99

LMC Products Wooden Lacing Beads & Strings 125 Pieces, Fine Motor Skills Toys for 3 Year Old, Fine Motor Toys, Lacing Beads for Toddlers, Occupational Therapy Toy for Toddler

$25.99


22- Animal Figurines

Little animal toys are perfect for imaginative play.

Toddlers love creating their own little animal worlds, which also helps with vocabulary development.

They learn about different animals while having a blast.

Shop Amazon:

EnAuRoL 31 Pcs Safari Animals Figures including 24 Realistic Jungle Playset Toys Zoo Animals for Toddlers 3+ Years Old Ideal Gift for Boys and Girls

$25.99

Life Cycle Kit Montessori – Realistic Figurine Toys, Kids Animal Match Set with Frog, Ladybug, & More – Includes 24-Piece Animals, Stocking Stuffers Educational & Fun Learning Game for Children 3+

$34.99

KECIABO Farm Animals Toy, 15 Pieces Plastic Farm Animals Figurines, Educational Learning Farm Playset Toys for Boys Girls Kids Toddlers…

$9.99


23- Toy Instruments with Lights

Combine music and visual fun with light-up instruments.

They’re great for sparking creativity and engaging multiple senses.

Kids love making music and watching the lights flash.


24- Pattern Blocks

Pattern blocks are great for learning about shapes and colors.

They help toddlers understand patterns and improve problem-solving skills.

Plus, they’re a lot of fun to play with.


25- Pop-Up Toys

Pop-up toys are always a hit.

Toddlers love pressing buttons and seeing characters pop up.

It’s a simple and fun way to learn about cause and effect.

learning toys

Final Thoughts on Learning Toys

Learning toys for toddlers are more than just playthings; they are tools that support essential developmental milestones in a fun and engaging way.

From fostering creativity with building blocks to enhancing problem-solving skills with puzzles, these toys play a crucial role in early childhood development.

They offer a perfect blend of education and entertainment, ensuring that toddlers not only learn but also enjoy the process.

By incorporating learning toys into playtime, parents can create a stimulating environment that encourages exploration, imagination, and growth.

Whether it’s through interactive books, pretend play sets, or sensory toys, the benefits are endless, making these toys invaluable in nurturing a child’s curiosity and love for learning.

Save for later

Similar Posts