Top 10 Montessori Toys for Toddlers (1–3 Years Old)
Between ages one and three, toddlers go through tremendous developmental changes — from learning to walk and talk to exploring the world through all five senses. The right Montessori toys during this stage can support that growth through purposeful play.
Unlike traditional toys, Montessori toys are simple, hands-on, and developmentally appropriate. Here's our curated list of the top 10 Montessori toys for toddlers that balance fun with foundational learning.
The Best Montessori Toys for Toddlers
1. Wooden Stacking Rings
- Skills developed: hand-eye coordination, color recognition
- Why it’s great: Introduces size sequencing in a tactile way.
2. Object Permanence Box
- Skills developed: cognitive development, visual tracking
- Why it’s great: Teaches that objects exist even when not visible — a key cognitive milestone.
3. Montessori Coin Box
- Skills developed: fine motor skills, early problem solving
- Why it’s great: Encourages persistence and concentration.
4. Pikler Triangle Climber
- Skills developed: gross motor skills, spatial awareness
- Why it’s great: Builds strength and confidence in a safe, active way.
5. Wooden Shape Sorter
- Skills developed: shape recognition, logic
- Why it’s great: Promotes matching, sorting, and trial-and-error learning.
6. Montessori Screwdriver Board
- Skills developed: dexterity, focus
- Why it’s great: Perfect for toddlers who love mimicking adult tasks.
7. Sensory Bins with Natural Materials
- Skills developed: tactile exploration, language
- Why it’s great: Engage senses with sand, rice, or beans in themed bins.
8. Nesting and Stacking Cups
- Skills developed: spatial awareness, measurement basics
- Why it’s great: Open-ended play that toddlers never seem to tire of.
9. Wooden Animal Puzzles
- Skills developed: matching, concentration
- Why it’s great: Introduces animal names, habitats, and shapes.
10. Montessori Busy Board
- Skills developed: practical life skills, independence
- Why it’s great: Zippers, buttons, and latches help toddlers practice self-care.
Choosing the Right Montessori Toy for Your Toddler
- Focus on realism: Choose toys that mimic real objects.
- Look for natural materials: Wood, metal, fabric — not plastic.
- Ensure one skill at a time: Avoid overly complex, multi-purpose toys.
- Follow your child’s interests and current skills.
Where to Buy Montessori Toys Online
Browse our handpicked Montessori toys for ages 1–3! Shop Now!