Guest Post: Gretchen | Gifts for 2 Year Olds

Hello, everyone! Meet Gretchen from That Mama Gretchen. Gretchen is a mother to two adorable kids, Jemma and Max. Today she's sharing about gifts for 2-year-olds that encourage learning and development. Since BB just turned two I thought this was perfect! Gretchen's blog is about her faith, recipes, natural parenting and style. Check her out! -Lindsy

Well hello there, new friends! My name is Gretchen and I blog over here. Mostly about my two munchkins, Jemma + Max who, age-wise, sandwich Lindsy's sweet BB at almost 3 and 1! On the brink of graduating Jemma from the wonderful world of 2's I thought it would be fun to look back on a post I wrote right before her 2nd birthday last year. One where I recapped awesome learning toys for that not quite a baby, not quite a preschooler stage. Enjoy!

Over the last while I've been trying to determine what Jemma might need or want for her birthday. In our family, birthdays are the big soiree. Christmas and other holidays are very low-key as we opt to celebrate the "reason for the season" rather than focusing on gifts. So, in preparation for Jemma's birthday I've been on the hunt for the perfect gifts that will help her learn and grow over the coming year. Here's what I've found:

Balance Bike

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I found one of Prince Lionheart's balance bikes on Rue Lala and scooped it up with some of my savings. Normally this is more than what I'd spend on a single item, but one of Jemma's little friends, a 3 year old, has one and loves it! With the rainy weather on its' way, I decided this balance bike would be a great indoor option for some physical activity that teaches balance, steering, and coordination.

Magnet Board

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I saw this DIY on Pinterest (where else?) and knew immediately that it would be perfect for Jemma! Our fridge is stainless steel, and therefore, does not magnet :( so we've been in need of another option. You can find these car oil pans super cheap at Wal-Mart!

Baby Signing Times

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The "baby" movie is a big hit in our home. Jemma signs baby whenever she wants to watch it so it is obviously a great tool to teach signing. I bought volume 1 a long time ago and Jemma is addicted to it. Unfortunately this means I'm super sick of volume 1's playlist. So, maybe this is more of a gift for me? I haven't ordered it yet ... trying to decide on which volume to get next. If you have a favorite between 2, 3, and 4, let me know! And, as it goes, over the last year we've acquired all 4 volumes and now both Jemma + Max adore it. Money well spent, for sure!

I'm curious, what toys and learning activities does your 2 year old appreciate most? 

Shoot, what do your 3 and 4 year olds like ... I can always start shopping or crafting ahead of time for upcoming birthdays :)