Toddlers enjoy exploring natural curiosity and creativity. Gifts that encourage active play, learning and imagination can offer hours of enjoyment for toddler girls and boys. A variety of toys and accessories are available to choose from when searching for a toddler gift, from simple electronics to traditional childhood favorites that help stimulate play and are fun to give.
Wood Toys
The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that toys which initiate a child to use his own imagination, such as blocks, boost creativity and beneficial play. Blocks and other imagination-building toys can be found in natural wood, which is chemical-free and offers an alternative to plastic or synthetic toys. Wooden toys come in a variety of shapes, themes and colors, such as farm animals, cars, trucks, tractors and boats. Building blocks, stacking toys and pull toys are also available in natural wood, offering appealing options for both toddler girls and boys.
Imaginitive Play
Playing dress-up and engaging in imaginary play is a traditional highlight of childhood and a favorite pastime for toddlers. Dress-up items and role-playing accessories offer the fun of imagination, and are suitable for both boys and girls. The College of Family and Consumer Science encourages toddlers to use dress-up to help better understand how other people think and feel, while exploring problem-solving skills and role playing by mimicking adults. Understanding gender differences, and how gender stays the same whether pretending to be a boy or girl, can facilitate understanding of the opposite sex, as well. (Reference 2) Toddler girls may enjoy frilly tutus, princess costumes, gloves, shoes and play jewelry, butterfly wings, wands and tiaras. Capes, hats, belts, pirate costumes, superhero accessories and role-playing outfits, such as construction worker or firefighter, may appeal to toddler boys. Offering dress-up gifts in a storage container or personalized box is an easy way to keep everything organized and handy.
Music and Books
Picture books and easy-to-read board books offer the gift of early reading, in a variety of subjects and themes, while gifts of music allows toddlers to listen to tunes as they play, eat or at bedtime. Toddler-appropriate musical CDs come in many genres such as lullaby, classical, and dance mix. Child-friendly CD players make a nice compliment.
Art Supplies
Toddlers enjoy experimenting with colors, and imaginative expression. Non-toxic, toddler friendly art supplies such as washable paints, chalk and colored pencils allow children to express and create. Pencils, crayons and markers are available in wider versions, which make it easier for little fingers to grasp. Combine art supplies with a waterproof smock and craft paper for a nice gift set.
Electronics
A variety of electronic toys and gifts offer a way to encourage play and creativity. Toddlers may take an interest in electronics that older siblings or parents use every day, such as a cell phone, computer or digital camera. Kid-friendly talking phones, interactive laptop computers and digital cameras are available in sturdy, age appropriate versions. Other simple electronics, such as talking plush toys and electronic books are good gift choices for toddler boys and girls.
