1–2 Years

Toys for a one- or two-year-old: start with the play action

A one-year-old and a two-year-old may enjoy different ways of putting in, taking out, matching and building. Check the exact product's age and warning labels; don't assume that every item in an age collection suits every child in it. See the AAP's advice on toy age labels.

• Put shapes in and take them out: Baby's First Blocks, 16 pieces, is listed for ages 1–3. Begin with a few shapes at a time.
• Match two halves: Matching Eggs are listed for ages 1–3. Try matching the shape before naming the colour.
• Tap and repeat: the wooden pounding bench is listed for ages 1–6; compare its balls, hammer and size on the product page.
• Build something that moves: car building blocks with working wheels are listed for ages 1–3.

Read the one- and two-year-old buying guide for more play ideas. Keep small parts and loose magnets away from children under three, inspect toys for damage and play alongside them.

For the difference between a 12-month-old and an 18-month-old, read our parent guide to choosing toys by age. The package age matters more than a broad collection filter.