is a tricky business at best. Usually the things that look like the perfect gift for them ends up being just boring or sometimes dangerous! After all, how can an adult know the mind of a Toddler? They come in all sorts of levels of maturity. While one will be bored with the newest 'Hot Wheels", another will merely try to eat it!The trick here is to realize toddlers come in two basic groups.
The first group is slightly more than an infant, typically one and two years old. This group tends to be oral orientated! They will put anything and everything into their mouths! This means the gift needs to be free of sharp edges, small parts that they can choke on, and toxic substances (watch out for lead paint). Toddlers this age usually work primarily with their hands so give them something to grab. Make it big enough (not too big for little hands) that they can easily get a grip. Often they will like musical sounds but not loud.. Be sure there are enough activities to give them the variety their limited attention span needs to keep busy. Since toddlers at this age have minds that learn very quickly it's wise to concentrate on learning, especially basic skills and language.
Your other group will be the 3 and 4 years old. This group has a ton of energy and loves to run and make noise! They typically have longer attention spans and are more physically strong and coordinated. Their maturity is varied but limited, so be sure the gift is appropriate. Since they will soon be attending school, educational toys a great choice. Because of their unlimited energy, sports toys are also good.
