18 Months +

Typically they can walk steadily and even climb stairs. They enjoy stories, say their first words, and can play next to other children (but not yet with!). They like to experiment—but need adults to keep them safe. Things to create with—wide non-toxic, washable markers, crayons, and large paper.  Things to pretend with—toy phones, dolls and doll beds, baby carriages and strollers, dress-up accessories (scarves, purses), puppets, stuffed toys, plastic animals, and plastic and wood “realistic” vehicles. Things to build with—cardboard and wood blocks. Large pegboards, toys with parts that do things (dials, switches, knobs, lids), and large and small soft balls.