Reviews By Age Group
Toddlers are fast, curious and convinced they can do everything themselves. Toddler gear and toys need to keep up: sturdy enough to survive being thrown, safe enough for a kid who still tastes everything, and simple enough to encourage the “me do it” independence of this stage. Here is how to think about gear from the first wobbly steps to the third birthday.
Ask a Dad
Reach out and we’ll connect you with an experienced father or point you to the right next step.
Send a MessagePush toys, ride-ons they scoot with their feet, stacking rings, chunky puzzles with knobs, board books, balls. Walking and dumping things out are the main activities.
Simple pretend toys like a toy phone or play food, crayons, shape sorters, a small slide. Words are exploding; toys that invite talking help.
Big building blocks, simple dress-up, a trike or balance bike, play dough with supervision, picture books with stories. Imagination and turn-taking start to show.
Whatever you childproofed for the crawler, toddlers will find what you missed. They climb chairs to reach counters, open doors and drag step stools anywhere. Re-walk the house at toddler height. Move medicines, vitamins, cleaners and laundry pods up high and locked. Keep Poison Help (1-800-222-1222) handy.
Anchor every piece of furniture and TV, since climbing is constant now. Add stove knob covers, toilet locks if your child plays in water, and window stops. Keep chairs away from windows and counters.
Many children show signs of potty readiness between about 18 months and three years: staying dry for longer stretches, telling you about a dirty diaper, showing interest in the bathroom. A small floor potty or a seat insert for the big toilet plus a sturdy step stool is usually all you need.
Step stools and learning towers help toddlers wash hands and help in the kitchen. Choose one with a wide base and non-slip feet, and never leave a toddler standing at the counter alone, especially near the stove or knives.
Toddlers do best with a few toys at a time. Rotate a small set and you will see longer, deeper play. A low shelf with six or eight choices, and a bin in the closet for the rest, is plenty. When a toy gets ignored through two rotations, it is a good sign it can be passed on. Much of the best toddler gear is household stuff: pots and wooden spoons, boxes, measuring cups in the tub. For activity ideas, see the toddler activity toolkit, balancing life with a toddler and creative arts and crafts for toddlers. This page is part of reviews by age group.
FAQ
Simple, sturdy toys like push toys, stacking rings, balls, chunky puzzles and board books. Avoid small parts, button batteries and magnets, and spend time playing alongside them.
When your child starts showing readiness signs, such as staying dry longer or showing interest in the bathroom, often between 18 months and three years. Having one around a little early lets them get familiar with it.
Common serious risks include furniture and TV tip-overs, falls from windows, poisoning from medicines and cleaners, drowning in tubs and pools, and choking. Anchoring furniture and locking up medicines are high-impact steps.
Many feeding experts encourage practicing with an open cup and a straw cup early, with sippy cups used sparingly. Expect spills; that is how kids learn. Your pediatrician or a feeding specialist can help if your child is struggling to drink from a cup.
Keep going
Toddler Activity Toolkit for DadsToddler activities for dads, sorted by what your 1- to 3-year-old needs: movement, messy art and early talking. Easy setups for busy days. Start playing.
Balancing Life With a ToddlerBalancing life with a toddler: keeping your energy, your relationship and your sanity during the twos and threes. What this webinar covers and what to try.Ask a question, meet other dads in the 24/7 room, or join the community for resources and support at every stage.
Join our 24/7 Room to meet and talk with other dads
Join Today