9 Toddler Toys to Try Now

Hit ‘refresh’ on your current toy rotation

Toddlers are busy and sometimes it feels impossible to get them to focus on anything longer than a few minutes. But boy, when you find a toy that clicks with them and their crazy busy brains, it feels really good. Here are some brilliant ideas that can help spark imaginations, encourage problem solving skills, or exert some of that never-ending energy. They all happen to make the perfect gift as well.

1. Stapelstein Stacking Stones Original Classic Set of 3 (Primary Colours)

New to The Memo this month, these colourful stones are made in Germany and are beloved around the world. They can be used in myriad ways: stack them high, line them up and balance on them as stepping stones, use them as buckets and the list goes on. Not reserved for indoors, these are waterproof so are perfect for getting messy out in the back garden or beach.

2. Connetix Magnetic Tiles

The clatter of a magnetics tub being upended might send a shiver down your spine, however, it is well worth it for some independent play. Nothing gets a kid’s creative mind going more than these super-fun tiles. The possibilities of what they can create is endless: castles, boats, robots, animals. You might need to provide a little direction to get things started, then you’ll see their imaginations kick into gear.

3. Fruit Chopping Kit

Focus on building a life skill and they’ll be a sous chef in no time and paying their own way! The fruit is joined by velcro and splits apart. This will help them develop hand-eye coordination and it also encourages them to learn about different food groups.

4. Calm Down Bottle

We like to think of this as the toy version of a mood reset button. It can help regulate their emotions by allowing them to focus on the magical, mesmerising fluid swirling around a bottle. A very simple concept that we love.

5. My Happy Helper Play Cube and My Happy Helper Rock Wall

Instead of climbing all over your furniture with their grubby hands, let them have their own climb zone in the house. Their muscles will get a solid workout and it helps build on their balance and agility. Pro-tip: Throw a sheet over these frames and you can create little cubbies or cosy book nooks.

6. 4 Seasons Magnetibook

These magnetic books are great for on-the-go creative play. Have one handy in your bag in the car, or plane, or whenever you’re out and about and need to occupy them while you enjoy a meal.

7. Mamagenius Lock Activity Box

So many different locks, not enough time! Your child’s tiny little fingers working on these locks helps improve their hand-eye coordination, finger dexterity and problem solving skills. The bad news? No room will be safe in your home as they might try and open the locked bathroom door once they master this.

8. Hey Doodle Placemat ABC Dino Roar

A silicone colouring in placemat is a parent’s best friend. The mat can be washed and reused over and over. It comes with nine markers and a travel pouch which makes it ideal creative and mess-free play on plane and car rides.

9. My Calendar by Moon Picnic

We know that toddlers are control freaks. They like to know what's happening during the day and week (and will ask you about it at least one hundred times before 9am) so handing over ownership will make them feel great about the day ahead. This clever calendar comes with little magnetic discs to mark events, mood, weather and seasons. In turn, they learn about numbers and the concept of months and years.