"As a mom of an 8-year-old, I still remember how tricky it was to find the best gifts for 2-year-olds. Especially when birthdays rolled around. At this stage, toddlers are curious, active, and learning every single day. So, the ideal gift keeps them engaged while supporting their development.
If you have an almost 2-year-old in your life, you’ve probably got a lot on your mind. You may be thinking about the exciting years ahead with things like preschool.
Maybe you’re planning an extra-special birthday party for your little one. More likely than not, you’re working tirelessly to make sure their childhood is extra special. If the exciting milestone has you searching for the perfect birthday gift, look no further.
Whether you’re shopping for your own little one or a beloved niece, nephew, or friend’s child, we’ve curated the top birthday gifts for 2-year-olds. These ideas are all kid-tested, screen-free, and genuinely parent-approved.
How we chose the best gifts
There are moms with kids of all ages on The Everymom team. They’ve conquered the baby phase, changed all the diapers, and celebrated second birthdays. On top of that, our commerce and editorial teams are always on the hunt for the best products for kids, moms, and families. If there’s a new must-have, must-try, or must-see in the kids or parenting space, we’re on it. Real life experience combined with knowing the current trends allows us to put together a well-rounded list of gifts.
What makes a great gift for a 2-year-old?
Two may be known as the “terrible” year, but that’s likely because little ones go through a lot at that age. After two years of working hard on physical and brain development, the desire for a little independence is understandable. The growth from year one to year two also seems significant. Everything is louder and more chaotic, but also more fun as they learn to communicate better and gain more independence.
We wanted to cover all of the bases by taking into consideration the developmental stage of 2-year-olds. The gifts below will help them explore creativity and independence, and progress their motor skills. At a variety of different price points, we know there’s something perfect for every kiddo. We’ve rounded up the best birthday gifts for 2-year-olds right now. These toys encourage development, independence, and are as cute as your little one.
Best Gifts for 2-Year-Olds Under $50
For the little athletes in the making (or the toddlers who love being on the move), this interactive soccer ball announces passes, plays music and sound effects to keep kids engaged and moving.
A basketball hoop that grows with your little one is a no-brainer. We used ours regularly from age 2 to 7!
This set of non-toxic crayons is the perfect starter set for little hands. Handmade in New Zealand from all natural beeswax and food-grade pigments for color, parents can feel safe giving their little artists these crayons. Plus they’re perfectly crafted for their little palms.
Education and entertainment are wrapped in one with these fun puzzles perfect for growing toddlers. As they play, they’ll learn about different animals and planets.
Nothing says “birthday kid!” like special birthday pajamas. If your little one is a truck aficionado, this celebratory set will definitely be one of their longtime favorites.
A pull toy that doubles as a shape-sorter is a great 2-for-1 deal. They’ll learn about shapes and problem-solving, all while enjoying the fun animals and colors.
An adorable tea set is something all little kids will enjoy. It’s perfect for pretend play and imaginative exploration.
A large set of blocks is THE gift for 2-year-olds as far as I’m concerned. They last years both from a durability standpoint and entertainment. My 8 year old would still play with a set of blocks if presented with them. They are great for independent play, fine motor skills, and imagination building!
They may not be able to fully appreciate an heirloom-type gift like this one yet, but they certainly will down the road. Brighten up their room with a sweet personalized music box.
Giggles guaranteed with this one! This exciting pounding toy is sure to put a smile on their face each time they hear “peekaboo” and see a new fun face.
Foster social and emotional development with this book set that’s all about gratitude, joy, friendship, and kindness.
If you can’t wait until their special day to give them something—or want something for them to wear at their birthday party—this adorable tee is the perfect option!
Best Gifts for 2-Year-Olds Over $50
You can’t go wrong with a ride-on toy for toddlers. They’re on the move and looking for something to scoot on. This vintage-inspired push car is ideal for this age.
There’s a reason this play couch has a huge following. Toddlers want to climb, jump and fall. This couch makes all of those things happen, safely. Plus it grows with them and bigger kids will love using it to make a fort. Read our full review of the Nugget here.
Two year olds are notoriously curious mimics. They’ll want to copy everything you’re doing in the kitchen in this special little spot all their own.
It doesn’t get much cuter than this precious rocker. Toddlers will love spending time rocking back and forth with a big smile on their face. Plus, it can be personalized!
Looking for more bedroom additions? This custom name chair is one you won’t want to pass up. Plus, it comes in tons of colors, fabrics, and patterns to suit your little one’s personality.
“When my son turned 2, his grandmother gave him a Pottery Barn Anywhere Chair and it was one of his favorite gifts! From having his own little place to sit to when he got a bit older and started to read his own name on the chair, it always felt like his place to sit. He’s 7 and we still have it!”
– Roberta Correia, Editor in Chief
When it comes to baby’s first bike, one that grows with them is the way to go. This 3-in-1 trike is good for kiddos up to the age of 5 and as young as 1.
Littles will love following in adult footsteps by placing anything and everything in their very own shopping cart.
This engaging nightlight is one your kiddo is sure to love. Not only does it provide soft lighting, but the top can be removed bringing the stars to life around their room. On top of that, it’s programmed with eight nighttime songs so they can soundly drift off to dreamland.
Imaginations always run wild when in a play tent. Give the gift of imaginative play with a play tent that opens a world of possibilities.
Allow your little one to reach new heights with this fun and functional Montessori-style climbing gym. As an added bonus, it’s foldable for easy storage.
Designed specifically for the curiosity of 2-year-olds, this Lovevery play kit is a purchase you won’t regret. It’s crafted to support independence, routine development, fine motor skills, and more.
“These subscription playkits, were a must-have in our house. With toys that target specific developmental milestones, my boys were always engaged and challenged with fun and functional toys at the right time. The sink-set was a favorite, and they both loved washing everything from dishes to their cars in it.”
– Ally Pagar-Wolf, Chief of Sales & Marketing
A car-loving family will have the best time collecting toy cars and filling the garage with all of their fun finds.
Complete any play room with a versatile wobble board! It can be used as a slide or balance board for active, imaginative play for years to come.
2 sizes and 8 colors/patterns available
More Birthday Gifts by Age
If you’re shopping for your kids by age, we have the right toys for you. From the best gifts for a 1 year old to the ideal gifts for 3 year olds, 4 year olds and 5 year olds. There’s a gift for everyone on your list.
Why You Can Count on Us
The Everygirl Media Group has brought valuable content to our readers for 12+ years. In 2018, The Everymom set out to ensure that all moms know they’re not alone. If you‘re seeking advice on how to style the latest fashion trend or looking for the best kid-friendly coffee table, we have the answers. And if you’re wondering what’s actually worth it from a sale or looking for a review of the hottest new kids’ product, we’ve got that covered too. From our annual Registry Awards and beloved holiday gift guides to the shopping round-ups you find on our site every day, The Everymom commerce team is well-versed in sifting through thousands of products to curate a digestible list for you. We combine our own experience with in-depth research to bring you a selection that meets our high standards for both fashion and function.
Roberta Correia, Editor-in-Chief
Roberta is an editor with 10+ years experience in content strategy and brand building. Before joining The Everymom she was Editorial Director at Brides and previously served as Digital Editor at Women’s Wear Daily. She grew up in Brazil and currently calls Brooklyn home with her son, Lucas.
This post contains sponsored inclusions of Move2Play, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everymom editorial board.
Products included in feature graphics are linked within the article.