
Two
isn't terrible! The key to entertaining a rambunctious two-year-old is patience and a steady stream of back-up ideas to prevent meltdowns. Look for toys that keep children active as well as items that let them explore their creative sides.

One-year-olds are on the move! Whether they are already walking or on the verge, their increased confidence makes them inquisitive of the world around them. When shopping for gifts for tots seek out toys that help them explore their surroundings.

If your child's room looks like a hurricane whipped through it, it may be time for you to enlist the help of your wee ones to get things done around the house. Chores can help take the burden off of mommy and teach the tots a thing or two about responsibility and pride.
Invest in a
Melissa and Doug's Magnetic Responsibility Chart ($16) to help keep track of the youngster's accomplishments.

Every evening when I come home, I am torn between rolling around on the ground with my toddler or getting her dinner on the stove. Now, I do both at once.
Melissa and Doug's
magnetic letters ($10) allow her to learn her ABCs and colors while I start chopping.

One of my earliest memories is stacking up buildings with
wooden blocks. A cinch to construct and even easier to tear down, they were and still are some of the best entertainment for tots. The only thing that could improve them is a carry–all to store them in.