Top 5 Gifts for 1-2 Year Olds

Over the coming weeks I will be adding blog posts for other age groups so make sure to check back. Many of our toy recommendations are cross a range of different age groups.

Please note that our age group recomendations are based on development and are for guidance only, children using toys under the age recommended by the manufacturer should be supervised at all times.

1. Mini Balance Bike

Balance bikes offer a lot of developmental benefits. Using one improves balance and motor skills, such as teaching kids how to turn corners. They also start to understand depth perception and three-dimensional awareness, as they learn to deal with minor obstacles. They are also a lot of fun!

We prefer the balance bikes with two wheels in the front and the single wheel at the back. It is a bit more challenging, but they learn a lot earlier about engaging their core and staying balanced. It also prepares them for the next stage of balance bike.

2. Piklar Triangle

There are many gross motor benefits to a climbing frame as well as supporting the development of hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving skills. Climbing frames can also help children build resilience and confidence.

The Triclimb with the slide attachment is a great space saving climbing frame that folds down flat for storage. We especially like the simple locking mechanism to secure the slide to the frame.

3. Scooter

There are lots of benefits to scooting including learning and developing a sense of balance, coordination, gross motor development and muscle development.

At this early age scooters that grow with your toddler can be a great way to get around while introducing them to the idea of scooting.

This 4-in-1 Scooter will transition your toddler from a seated parent steered ride on to an independent ride on to a mini scooter and beyond.

Discount code: LEARNERS10 for 10% off from The Kid Collective.

4. Play Kitchen

Kitchens are a popular first step into pretend play as they give children the opportunity to act out day to day situations, they are familiar with. Pretend play is also great for language development. Our kitchen is one of the most played with toys and there are lots of different play foods and accessories that can be rotated in and out to keep the kitchen exciting.

The Magnolia Kitchen is available in 3 colours and comes with a seperate wall hung shelf. The white version also has a matching fridge if you’d like to maximise play opportunities (and store all your play food).

Discount code: LEARNERS5 for 5% off from My Shiny Shop.

*Orders placed with My Shiny Shop from outside the EU will have the 19% tax subtracted from the list price. Import duties will be added on entry and are the customers responsibility. Email hello@myshinyshop.com to confirm shipping costs - shipping to the UK for this item should be around £22.

5. Cleaning Set

Our little ones are watching us all the time, and most of the time we are cleaning up after them! It’s no surprise that on of our most loved toys is a mini cleaning set.

This wooden Cleaning Set includes a dust Pan, brush, broom, spray bottle, cloth and mop. The spray bottle is perfect for little hands and can be used for strengthening hands and fingers which is important for pre-writing.

Another very popular item in our household is the Toy Dyson Vacuum which makes noise and has little bits moving around the chamber.

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