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As we get closer and closer to Amelia’s second birthday, I’ve started purging/storing some of her toys. Despite my best efforts to keep it minimal, this girl has way more than she needs.
So when thinking of what to respond with when asked by family members “what does Amelia want for her birthday?,” I tried to be extra careful about picking a few items I knew she would play long and hard with, and that could also benefit her development. Today I’m going to share that list with you.
Skill-practice toys
LeapFrog Learning Friends 100 Words Book
Amelia is about to start speech therapy for a bit of a speech delay, but I’ve noticed recently she loves practicing words by pointing them out in books and imitating them. I thought this could be a great way for her to be able to do this, even independently when I’m busy with her baby sister or household tasks.
Uncle Goose Classic ABC Blocks
In the past few months, stacking has become a favorite pastime for my girl. Her big brother can’t wait for her to get into LEGOs, but I’m much more fond of these wooden blocks that are pretty, non-toxic, sustainable and durable for her to practice her skill.
Honeysticks 100% Pure Beeswax Crayons
These nontoxic crayons are not only safe but also perfectly sized for small hands that don’t quite get how to hold a crayon without breaking it yet.
Montessori Busy Board for Toddlers
I can’t wait to see Amelia figure out all the new skills this board can help her learn! We’re working on dressing and undressing with simple clothing still, but exposure to buckles and zippers now can only help later on as her outfits become more difficult to do herself.
Wooden Lacing Apple Threading Toy
A lacing or threading toy like this would be great to keep in the diaper bag for when quiet play is needed while we’re out in the world (if that day ever comes again).
I’m so anxious to start potty training! Amelia has started showing some signs of interest and readiness, and while I don’t think we’re quite ready to take the plunge (get it? #momjoke), I do think we should have a potty around for her to investigate and get used to. I love that this one looks like a regular toilet, so she can make the connection of what to do with it more easily.
Pretend Play
Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse with Working Doors, Windows, and Shutters
I can’t wait for Amelia and Adeline to be able to play in this together (okay I can… slow down time!), but for now I think Amelia will love exploring a playhouse, opening and closing the doors and windows, and hiding her toys inside with me, her dad or her big siblings.
Dyson Ball Vacuum TOY VACUUM with working suction and sounds
Does every toddler love the vacuum? Seriously she goes wild when I use my beloved Dyson cordless! I think she would love to join in with a vacuum of her own—and bonus points if it sucks anything up in the process
Big Red Barn – Animal Farm Playset for Toddlers
Full disclosure: My mom (the most amazing Nana) already bought this for Amelia’s birthday and couldn’t wait to give it to her… and the verdict is she LOVES it! She loves opening and closing the barn doors and making animal noises as she takes them in and out of the barn. Five stars—would recommend!
Melissa & Doug Baby Food & Bottle Set
Especially now that we have a new baby, allowing Amelia to mimic caregiving by feeding her babies can be a fun way to keep her entertained when I have to take care of her little sister.
Active Play
36-Inch Folding Trampoline Mini Rebounder
Truth-be-told, trampolines actually scare me quite a bit, but I think a small one like this, with close supervision, could be a great, fun way to burn energy on a rainy day stuck inside.
Pacific Play Tents Kids Peek-A-Boo I See You 6 Foot Crawl Tunnel
If you have the space (or even if you don’t, because this folds up), this crawl tunnel could be a great additional to a play room. I imagine filling it with the balls from her ball pit to create an extra stimulating indoor activity.
That’s all for now! I hope these give you some great ideas for the toddlers in your life.
If you’re wondering what Amelia’s second birthday party will look like, check out this party planning post here.
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.