Best toys for 2-year-olds that teach motor skills, independence, and creativity

Your 2-year-old is an amazing creature. Newly mobile, incredibly inquisitive, and increasingly independent, your toddler lives in a magical world where reality and fantasy intermingle, and pretend play takes on a new luster.

Courtney Hill, school psychologist, Ed.S., and NCSP (Nationally Certified School Psychologist) says this is a golden age for toys that mimic real life : “Whether that’s a play kitchen, store, or even a vacuum, a toddler might pretend they are you."

At the same time, your child is building other skills: " Gross motor skills will evolve : jumping and running," says Shannon Davis, a San Diego-based physical therapist who specializes in developmental disabilities. " Fine motor skills will be refined : Turning pages in a book, scribbling, and twisting door knobs. Living skills will develop : Self-feeding with utensils, helping with dressing, and putting on shoes."

Your child’s vocabulary is increasing quickly, and problem-solving abilities are coming to the fore. With all this new physical and cognitive development, it's not surprising that they prefer more sophisticated toys now: “Any logic toys that not only promote problem solving but also independent play, where they can explore on their own, are great toys for this age," says Hill, while Davis advises toys that are "multisensory, entertaining, and facilitate learning."

Keep reading to discover our top picks recommended by moms and experts, as well as what to consider when shopping for them.