From first steps to first words, the 12 to 18-month stage is a time of big milestones. Babies at this age are becoming toddlers—and they need toys that match their growing curiosity, strength, and independence. If you’re a new parent, caregiver, or someone looking for gift ideas, this guide will help you find the best toys for 12-18 months that are fun, safe, and great for learning.
1. Push and Walk Toys for 12-18 months
Support Walking with Fun Movement
As babies begin to take their first steps, it’s the perfect time to introduce toys for 12-18 months that encourage movement and build confidence. Push toys are especially helpful during this exciting phase of development. These toys give little ones the support they need as they practice walking, helping them strengthen their leg muscles, improve balance, and boost coordination.
Look for toys for 18 months olds that are sturdy and safe, with a wide base and large wheels to keep the toy steady as your child pushes it along. A good push toy should also have a comfortable, easy-to-grip handle that fits little hands. Some even feature engaging extras—like light-up buttons, musical sounds, or spinning shapes—that keep toddlers entertained and curious as they move.
Not only do these toys encourage physical development, but they also promote independence and exploration. Push toys turn walking practice into a fun, interactive adventure that supports your toddler’s growing confidence.
2. Shape Sorters and Puzzles
Simple Puzzles for Little Problem Solvers
Simple puzzles like shape sorters are perfect toys for 12–18 months. They help toddlers learn about different shapes and colors while also improving their hand-eye coordination. When babies try to fit the right shape into the correct hole, they’re not just playing—they’re learning to think, match, and solve problems.
These toys also teach patience and focus, as little ones figure out where each piece goes. It’s a fun way to practice important thinking skills while keeping their hands busy. To keep things safe and easy, choose shape sorters with big, chunky pieces that are simple to grab and won’t fit into a baby’s mouth.
Shape sorters are a classic for a reason—they turn learning into play and help build early problem-solving abilities. Whether it’s matching a square or fitting in a star, each success boosts your child’s confidence and curiosity.
3. Ride-On Toys
Build Confidence and Motor Skills
Ride-on toys are fun and help toddlers stay active. They let kids push themselves forward with their feet, which builds leg strength and balance. These are some of the best toys for 12 to 18 months because they get little ones moving and learning at the same time.
Look for ride-on toys with wide bases so they don’t tip over easily. Some even have horns to beep or storage under the seat for toys. They’re great for both indoor and outdoor play.
When choosing toys for 18 months olds, make sure they don’t have small parts and are made of strong, safe materials. Ride-on toys are a fun way for toddlers to explore and grow while having a good time.
8. Balls of All Sizes
Large, soft balls are some of the best toys for 18 months because they help toddlers move and play in fun ways. Kids can roll, toss, or kick the ball, which helps build big movements like running, balancing, and using both hands and feet together. These are called gross motor skills, and they’re super important at this age.
Look for soft, lightweight balls that are easy for little hands to hold. Balls with fun textures or patterns make them even more fun and easier to grip. These toys also encourage social play—parents, siblings, or friends can join in the game, making it more exciting.
When choosing toys for 12 to 18 months, soft balls are a great pick. They keep toddlers moving, help them stay active, and make learning new skills fun. Whether used indoors or outside, soft balls are a simple toy with lots of benefits.
9. Bath Toys
Bath time can be more than just getting clean—it can also be fun and playful with the best toys for 12–18 months. Toys like floating animals, cups for pouring water, and little squirt toys make bath time exciting. Toddlers love to see what happens when they squeeze a toy or pour water from one cup to another. This helps them learn about cause and effect—how their actions make things happen.
These toys also help toddlers feel more relaxed and happy in the tub, especially if they are unsure about water at first. Bright colours, fun shapes, and gentle squirts make bath time something to look forward to.
When picking bath toys, look for ones that are safe, easy to clean, and just the right size for little hands. With the right toys, bath time becomes a fun routine that helps toddlers learn while they splash and play.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Toy for 12–18 Months
When picking toys for this age, keep these things in mind:
- Safety first: No sharp edges or small parts.
- Simple is best: Too many buttons or features can overwhelm a toddler.
- Interactive and open-ended: Toys that can be used in many ways grow with your child.
- Encourage movement: Choose toys that let them push, pull, or move around.
Your child is learning more every day. With the right toys, you can support their growth while keeping things fun and exciting.
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