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Created byAnnie G
Parent of 3La Mesa, CA

Tried and True Toys for Two and Three Year Olds

Favorite open - ended toys that have inspired lots of independent, imaginative play with our son over the last two years. He puts these all into the “Can’t Live Without” category.

Recommendations (34)

The Helper Play Kit

Lovevery

Toys & Activity

The Helper Play Kit

About this Play Kit Your child may be eager for independence and to step into the world of "big kids." This Play Kit responds to your two-year-old's natural curiosity with Montessori-practical life activities and tools to develop security in their routines.

Buy from Lovevery

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“This was one of our son’s favorite Lovevery boxes! Still in frequent rotation. ”
Melissa & Doug Let's Play House Dust! Sweep! Mop! 6 Piece Pretend Play Set

Melissa & Doug

Toys & Activity

Melissa & Doug Let's Play House Dust! Sweep! Mop! 6 Piece Pretend Play Set

$33.86

REALISTIC WOODEN CLEANING SET FOR KIDS - This colourful, childrens cleaning set looks just like the real thing and includes a wooden pretend play broom, mop, duster, dustpan and brush, and organising stand; the red dustpan conveniently clips into all handles. WOODEN CLEANING TOYS THAT INSPIRE HOURS OF PRETEND PLAY - We developed the Lets Play House! Dust! Sweep! Mop! Toy cleaning set for toddlers to motivate your child to model independence and use their imagination to have fun! Each cleaning tool gives them an imagined role and pretend task to try. BUILDS SKILLS AND CONFIDENCE - This skill-building and confidence-boosting wooden toy cleaning set is designed to strengthen and embolden your child’s sense of purpose and support their development; each pretend play tool helps them develop coordination and fine motor skills, and mimicking everyday chores helps teach responsibility and boosts self-esteem. A PERFECT EDUCATIONAL GIFT FOR CHILDREN AGED 3 TO 6 - Our kid-tested and timeless toys make great gifts for encouraging screen-free, hands-on, and open-ended play; Check out more Melissa & Doug girls toys like our pretend play iron and ironing board set, vacuum cleaner, or a Melissa & Doug kitchen set for kids to round out the hands-on play experience and give kids another engaging option for screen-free fun. “THE GOLD STANDARD IN EARLY CHILDHOOD PLAY” according to NBC News, Melissa and Doug are proud to have been making beautiful wooden toys for kids for over 30 years, because we believe that the quality of play influences childrens' development across the board. All pieces durably made and sized for kids

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“This toy only occasionally gets used for pretend cleaning in our house … more often it doubles as a “weed whacker,” “microphone stand,” or “hockey sticks.” The possibilities are endless. ”
Battat – Toy Fire Truck & Figures

Battat

Toys & Activity

Battat – Toy Fire Truck & Figures

$11.95

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“The inclusion of two fire fighter figurines and an extendable ladder makes this a winner at our house! ”
Inspire My Play Sensory Bin with Lid and Removable Storage Inserts

Inspire My Play

Toys & Activity

Inspire My Play Sensory Bin with Lid and Removable Storage Inserts

$69.99

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GWorked for us“I’m not convinced this is the only solution for sensory play, but it is definitely a well thought out product and convenient! We have the additional accessories as well. My son uses this most often for construction site play with kinetic sand / vehicles, “science” experiments, play doh, and water play with his toy animals. ”
CAT Construction Toys, Little Machines Mega Activity Playset

CAT

Toys & Activity

CAT Construction Toys, Little Machines Mega Activity Playset

$19.99

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“Fun for throwing in sensory tables for some pretend construction play. ”
The Observer Play Kit

Lovevery

Toys & Activity

The Observer Play Kit

About this Play Kit Welcome your new three-year-old to the "Year of the Self" as they take ownership of their routines, build emotional intelligence, and make sense of their world through open-ended play.

Buy from Lovevery

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“Our son is obsessed with the modular play house and toy car included in this kit! He still continues to play with them almost daily! ”
The Investigator Play Kit

Lovevery

Toys & Activity

The Investigator Play Kit

About this Play Kit Your toddler is working on their emerging executive function skills, which are important for everything from controlling one's behavior to planning a future task, and even creativity. This Play Kit will support their natural curiosity.

Buy from Lovevery

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“Another favorite Lovevery boxe that still gets tons of use. The “science” toys also double as awesome bath toys. ”
The Free Spirit Play Kit

Lovevery

Toys & Activity

The Free Spirit Play Kit

About this Play Kit Your child is almost three years-old! Age three is sometimes called "the magic year," a time when language blossoms, independence and curiosity grow, and social-emotional skills start to sharpen. Embark on this special stage together with play essentials to support their growing skillset.

Buy from Lovevery

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“The little camper van /tent and the puzzle in this set are awesome! Still get played with multiple times a week even after a year of use. ”
The Enthusiast Play Kit

Lovevery

Toys & Activity

The Enthusiast Play Kit

About this Play Kit Your two-year-old is ready for new cognitive challenges in spatial understanding and pattern recognition. This Play Kit includes opportunities for your child to refine their motor precision, explore geometry, and experiment with weight and balance.

Buy from Lovevery

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“This little tea set, the scale, and spray bottle have inspired so much imaginative play at our house. ”
Melissa & Doug Traffic Jam Jumbo Jigsaw Floor Puzzle (24 pcs, 2 x 3 feet long) - Kids Vehicle Puzzles, Large Floor Puzzles For Preschoolers And Kids Ages 3+

Melissa & Doug

Toys & Activity

Melissa & Doug Traffic Jam Jumbo Jigsaw Floor Puzzle (24 pcs, 2 x 3 feet long) - Kids Vehicle Puzzles, Large Floor Puzzles For Preschoolers And Kids Ages 3+

$16.99

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“We have many of the puzzles from this series and they’ve all been a hit! ”
Green Toys School Bus

Green Toys

Toys & Activity

Green Toys School Bus

$15.62

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“ ”
LILLABO 45-Piece Train Set With Track

IKEA

LILLABO 45-Piece Train Set With Track

This set has everything needed to build a train track with curves, bridges, tunnels and barriers. There are also buildings, trees and signs that help the driver go the right way – and stop when needed.

Buy from IKEA

1 recommendation

Annie GWorked for us“Super affordable! Recommend buying multiple. ”
Calico Critters, Marshmallow Mouse Family

Calico Critters

Calico Critters, Marshmallow Mouse Family

$22.99

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“These toys have been in our family for almost 25 years (!) and have been a favorite of multiple generations now. We have collected a ton over the years. Note - these are not for children who still put toys in their mouths. The “animal fur” will rub off if gotten wet. ”
LEGO DUPLO Town Space Shuttle Mission Rocket Toy

LEGO

LEGO DUPLO Town Space Shuttle Mission Rocket Toy

$48.89

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“DUPLOS are hands down the toys that have occupied our son the most over the last two years. We have an entire storage bin that he’ll sometimes play with for an hour + at a time. This particular set has been very well loved. ”
Janod Pure Banjo

Janod

Janod Pure Banjo

$26.99

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“ ”
Kinetic Sand, 5.5lb (2.5kg) Natural Brown Bulk Play Sand

Kinetic Sand

Kinetic Sand, 5.5lb (2.5kg) Natural Brown Bulk Play Sand

$14.39

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“The perfect addition to a sensory bin! ”
Lovevery | The Music Set

Lovevery

Lovevery | The Music Set

$120.00

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“I have been seriously so impressed by this set! It is well thought out, high quality, and intuitive for kids. ”
Lakeshore Castle Blocks

Lakeshore

Lakeshore Castle Blocks

Buy from Lakeshore

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“SO great for the child who both loves building and dramatic play. It’s our favorite toy to play with together. ”
Calico Critters Marshmallow Mouse Triplets

Calico Critters

Calico Critters Marshmallow Mouse Triplets

$9.95

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“These adorable “babies” fit perfectly in the car seats in the Calico Critter van. Note - these are not for children who still put toys in their mouths. The “animal fur” will rub off if gotten wet. ”
Calico Critters Family Seven Seater

Calico Critters

Calico Critters Family Seven Seater

$44.99

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“My son absolutely loves this toy and the fact that the seats are just the right size for his Calico Critters to sit in (+it even comes with car seats for the babies which he thought was the most amazing thing). ”
Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood Family Figures

Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood

Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood Family Figures

$12.99

Buy from Target

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“These have gotten more play time than almost any other toy in the last year! Note - not for children who still put toys in their mouth. I’ve noticed that the paint has rubbed off in some places. ”
Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood Friends Figures Set

Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood

Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood Friends Figures Set

$19.95

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“A companion set for the family figures and trolley. Note - not for children who still put toys in their mouth. I’ve noticed that the paint has rubbed off in some places ”
MAGNA-TILES: Classic 32-Piece Magnetic Construction Set

MAGNA-TILES

MAGNA-TILES: Classic 32-Piece Magnetic Construction Set

$49.99

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“Do yourself a favor and buy two! The more the merrier with this toy. ”
Squigz Starter Set

Fat Brain Toys

Dishes & Utensils

Squigz Starter Set

$29.95

Suction cup builders in 8 versatile shapes and colors Stick them to each other and any smooth surface! Perfect for ages 3 years and up; Made of 100% food-grade silicone; BPA-free, latex-free Encourages creativity, experimentation, sensory stimulation; helps motor skills, problem-solving Starter Set includes 24 pieces; Dishwasher safe; Leaves no residue

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GWorked for us“Fun for windows, bathtub, and mirrors! ”
Melissa & Doug Toy Shopping Cart

Melissa & Doug

Wagons, Bikes & Accessories

Melissa & Doug Toy Shopping Cart

$59.00

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“Perfect for pretend shopping, pushing baby dolls, etc. ”
Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood Deluxe Electronic Trolley

Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood

Wagons, Bikes & Accessories

Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood Deluxe Electronic Trolley

$29.99

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“Favorite toy from third birthday! Note - not for children who still put toys in their mouth. I’ve noticed that the paint has rubbed off in some places. ”
Green Toys Dump Truck

Green Toys

Toys

Green Toys Dump Truck

$29.99

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“Same notes apply from other Green Toys vehicles! This is a large size than the set of 3 also included in this list. ”
Melissa & Doug Band-in-a-Box Clap! Clang! Tap! - 10-Piece Musical Instrument Set

Melissa & Doug

Toys

Melissa & Doug Band-in-a-Box Clap! Clang! Tap! - 10-Piece Musical Instrument Set

$23.21

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“Our son tries to play as many of these at the same time as possible and calls himself a “One Man Band.” ”
LOVEVERY | The Block Set | Solid Wood Building Blocks and Shapes + Wooden Storage Box, 70 Pieces, 18 Colors, 20+ Activities, Toddler Block Set and Converts into a Pull Car, Ages 18 to 48+ Months

Lovevery

Toys

LOVEVERY | The Block Set | Solid Wood Building Blocks and Shapes + Wooden Storage Box, 70 Pieces, 18 Colors, 20+ Activities, Toddler Block Set and Converts into a Pull Car, Ages 18 to 48+ Months

$88.99

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“This block set sparks lots of creativity! My son began to enjoy around age 2. ”
Melissa & Doug Nesting and Sorting Blocks - 6 Buildings, 6 Wooden Vehicles

Melissa & Doug

Toys

Melissa & Doug Nesting and Sorting Blocks - 6 Buildings, 6 Wooden Vehicles

$25.90

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GWorked for us“A great addition to block creations! I prefer the Lakeshore version as they are better constructed (wood), but these store more conveniently. ”
Green Toys Construction Vehicle 3 Pack

Green Toys

Toys

Green Toys Construction Vehicle 3 Pack

$28.49

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“These are fun and versatile - my son uses them in the sand box at the park, dirt in the backyard, in the pool, at the beach, in the house, and even in the bathtub! Can be run through the dishwasher to clean. ”
Melissa & Doug Band-in-a-Box Hum! Jangle! Shake! - 7-Piece Musical Instrument Set

Melissa & Doug

Toys

Melissa & Doug Band-in-a-Box Hum! Jangle! Shake! - 7-Piece Musical Instrument Set

$29.95

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“ ”
Melissa & Doug Let's Explore Campfire S'Mores Play Set

Melissa & Doug

Toys

Melissa & Doug Let's Explore Campfire S'Mores Play Set

$17.39

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“This might be the most adorable toy we own! Snagged it on Prime Day. ”
Kids Tool Set with Carrying Case

TOMLEON

Grooming & First Aid

Kids Tool Set with Carrying Case

$24.99

Buy from Amazon

1 recommendation

Annie GCan't live without“Perfect for the child growing up in a fixer upper who is always trying to help out around the house! My son was simply over the moon about the electric drill. ”
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