Active play toys for 1-3 year olds

The years between one and three are all about movement, and active play toys for 1-3 year olds are made for that stage — wobbly first steps, climbing, pushing, bouncing and drumming. This edit brings together ride-ons and folding scooters that suit early balance, bouncy animals for indoor energy, drum sets and musical mats that get little feet stamping, and pretend play pieces like wooden kitchens and shopping carts that keep toddlers up and busy rather than sitting still.

You will also find quieter options among these toddler activity toys, including Montessori busy boards, wooden vehicle sets and card readers that build fine motor control and early words. Most one and two year olds swing between the two moods several times an hour. If you are choosing gifts for a 2 year old or filling a playroom for a first, second or third birthday, mixing a big-movement toy with something hands-on covers both. Think about your space, too — scooters need a hallway, drums and painting kits need a wipeable floor.