The Ultimate 2-Year-Old Favorites List: Supporting Development and Creativity

My little Ollie-bug turned two at the end of July, and this milestone has been such an exciting time for us! Over the past year, I’ve researched toys, tools, and essentials that will continue to support her growth, development while also being very FUN. Whether you’re potty training, encouraging creative play, or boosting gross motor skills, these are the items that have truly made a difference in our home.

Everything on this list is something we own, love, and highly recommend — plus, you can shop all of them easily through the links below. Let’s dive in!

Potty Training Essentials

Potty training can be challenging, but the right gear makes it so much easier. These essentials are helping us stay consistent and keep the process fun:

• Potty Chair/Seat — A toddler-sized seat that fits comfortably and is easy to clean.

  • Travel Potty Seat

• Training Underwear — Soft, reusable, and helps your toddler feel grown-up.

• Temporary Tattoos — A fun visual motivator to celebrate each success.

  

  Temporary Tattoo

Developmental Toys & Imaginative Play

Fostering creativity and hand-eye coordination is key at this age. These toys encourage imagination and fine motor skills while keeping playtime exciting:

• Pretend Play Favorites

  • Kitchen tools

  • Doctor kit

  • Purse with real life items

• Sports & Coordination

  • Basketball Hoop

• Building & Creativity

  • Magnetic tiles

  • Wooden blocks

Gross Motor Skill Boosters

Toddlers need plenty of physical activity to build strength and coordination. These favorites have helped my daughter develop confidence and have tons of fun:

• Scooter — Encourage balance and independent movement.

• Training Bike — Great introduction to biking without pedals.

  • Safety Pads 

  • Helmet

  

  Scooter

Arts, Crafts & Early Learning

Creativity and early writing skills go hand in hand. Here’s what has kept our arts and crafts sessions both fun and educational:

• Easel with paper and chalk board — Inspires drawing, painting, and imaginative storytelling.

• Dot Markers — Easy to use and clean up, perfect for little hands.

• Dry Erase Books — Great for early writing practice that can be wiped clean and reused.

• Chunky Crayons — Build grip strength and color recognition.

Easel

2 Year Old Favorites - Everyday

From mealtime to outings, these everyday items have made our life smoother and more organized:

• Stainless Steel Snack Cups— Perfect for on-the-go snacks without the mess.

• Toddler Water Bottle (Stainless steel) — Durable and easy for little hands to use independently.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Every toddler is unique (but somehow all the same?), these items have so far been a big fat YES in our house. If you’re shopping for a special 2-year-old in your life or just looking to make meaningful changes at home, this list is sure to makes those decisions a little easier.

I’d love to hear what you feel your 2 year old favorites are! Drop your recommendations or questions in the comments below — sharing tips helps us all.

Happy parenting and happy shopping!

LB