It's no secret around here that we ❤️ all things Montessori, especially when it comes to toys. We love their simple, beautiful design; we love that they each have a clear purpose; and we love that they grow with your child and help encourage hours of open-ended, imaginative play.
If your little one has moved beyond their favorite infant Montessori toys, it's time to check out our picks for the toddler years. We've selected toys that build fine motor skills, develop cognitive thinking, encourage pretend play, and that satisfy every toddler's “I can do it myself!" urge!
For helping out: A learning tower
A learning tower is the perfect tool for the curious toddler. There are so many uses here, but we especially love it for all things in the kitchen, whether it's cooking, baking, or even learning to meal prep or wash dishes. We also love that it's sturdy and adjustable to grow with your child. It's an investment, but one that we think is well worth the splurge!
On the move: Wooden fox roller
Perfect for pretend play, this all-natural, durable (and a-dorable) fox push toy made from solid maple will be a playroom staple for years to come.
Sorting skills: Mama May colored cups and balls
One of the most popular Montessori-inspired toddler toys that packs a conceptual punch—these colorful wooden cups and balls teach colors, numbers, and spatial skills, along with developing fine motor skills. So many ways to play!
A soft doll
Montessori-inspired dolls should be as lifelike as possible. We love that this one fits the bill while also being completely machine washable and durable enough for hours of toddler pretend play.
Peg dolls
Simple, colorful peg dolls are a Montessori fave. They're perfectly sized for little hands, and there are countless ways toddlers can play and pretend with them for many years. We love these because they also teach sorting and basic colors.
Practical life activities: play cleaning set
The Montessori approach focuses a great deal of attention on teaching little ones the basics of "real life" routines and responsibilities. Why not accomplish this and get your shelves dusted at the same time? 😉
Assorted Wooden Fruit Set
Toddlers will love practicing their "knife skills" with this wooden food set—and you'll love that you won't have to worry about a trip to the hospital! This is a great playset to start teaching your little one about household asks.
Realistic figurines
Just like with dolls, the Montessori approach encourages kiddos to play with animal figurines that look just like the real thing. These hand-painted figurines are super detailed, come in dozens of varieties, and are perfect for hours of imaginative play.
Complex puzzles
When your toddler has mastered simple puzzles, it may be time to start developing their spatial skills and move up to tangrams. This one's pieces not only fit within the hexagon base but can also be removed and manipulated into whatever shape your little one can dream up.
Stacking stones
Stacking stones are the perfect challenge for any curious toddler looking for the next step up from classic block sets. These wooden "stones" will help your kiddo learn about building, balancing and stacking.
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