The Best Gifts for a 2-Year-Old

Books

• Help the little one start his own library with a gift of books. One of the best ways to teach a 2-year-old about the world is to read to him. Looking at the pictures will give him a better understanding of his environment. Listening to the words in stories helps toddlers learn how to talk. At this age, toddlers can even sit independently and flip through pages of a book all by themselves as a parent or guardian watches from a close distance. This promotes independence. Try to find books that incorporate different textures and bold colors into the pictures. This helps in sensory development.

Crayons

• Two-year-olds are just starting to fine-tune their fine motor skills. Coloring books and crayons go a long way in encouraging this growth. Scribbling with crayons helps toddlers develop hand-eye coordination. Toddlers can also learn all the colors of the rainbow by using every color in the box. Add an easel to the gift and the little artist will get the benefit of developing arm strength and control. A personalized smock will complete the package.

Dolls

• Toddlers are just starting to learn how to pretend play. Puppets and dolls are thoughtful gifts to encourage role playing. Toddlers can use dolls to learn how to care for babies and how to treat others with respect. Dolls are especially great gifts for toddlers who will soon be getting a sibling. They can have their own baby to care for and love. Dolls also give toddlers an added sense of security as they learn how to put themselves to sleep at night.

Balls

• Two-year-old children are also busy at physical play. They get a kick out of running, jumping, throwing and catching. Add a collection of balls to their fun so they can learn to throw, kick or catch. Gift a variety of balls in different shapes and sizes so the little one can discover how different objects respond to the same motion. For example, a football rolls differently than a basketball. Basketballs bounce, but soft baseballs don't. It's important to keep size in mind when giving a toddler a ball. Some toddlers still explore with their mouths. Small balls could present choking hazards. Large, soft balls are safe.