Many parents feel daunted by the so-called ‘terrible twos’. The truth is at this age, little ones are embarking on a wonderful journey of developing speech and physical ability and will soon discover imaginative play. Here, we take a look at the best toys for two-year-old boys and girls to encourage their growing skills and provide hours of fun.

At age two, our mini explorers are fiercely independent, becoming accustomed to pretend play and love to copy their loved ones in everyday tasks like cooking and cleaning. This age opens up a whole new world of imagination and you can help them on their way by choosing the best educational toys for two year olds. We’ve compiled our favourites, whatever your budget may be.

Fountain Factory Water Table

For plenty of pouring, filling and splashing fun, look no further than the Fountain Factory Water Table . It’s ideal for encouraging their social and interactive skills but its interchangeable pipes and fittings gently introduce them to science and engineering in an exciting, hands-on way. Plus, you can rely on fuss-free tidying up as the table empties by simply removing the plug underneath.

My First Self Checkout Stand

The best toys for two year olds have a range of functions. Of course they should be fun to play with but they should also encourage group interaction and social skills, develop gross motor skills and bring on cognitive abilities. The My First Self Checkout Stand does the lot. This role play self-checkout stand has a sleek, modern look and is packed with interactive features: a flatbed scanner, handheld scanner, payment keypad, and a coin dispenser.. All this adds up to maximum enjoyment for your little one.

Magical Unicorn Carriage

As far as ride-on toys go, this one takes the cake in fantasy role-play. The Magical Unicorn Carriage fuels little imaginations with its whimsical theme and is designed to grow with your tot. It has a removable floorboard so they can push themselves once they’ve mastered steering while the light-up horn adds a touch of extra magic.

Cape Cottage

Around the age of two, you might notice their imaginative play cranks up a notch. Toddlers are extremely observant and love to imitate family members – and what better place to do this than in their own little abode? Cape Cottage  allows children to play ‘house’ and follow their sense of adventure. With contemporary styling, working doors and windows and a mailbox, this compact playhouse has plenty to keep them occupied.

Splash Hit Tennis

‘Grow with me’ toys make such great presents because the child is likely to get years’ worth of fun out of one product. Splash Hit Tennis easily attaches to a standard garden hose or kids can use the foot-activated lever to use it as a pop-up tee to practice their swing. Attaching the funnel makes it easy and fast to reload, so kids will be able to practice their swing all by themselves. Splash Hit Tennis, the all-new active sports game by Little Tikes!