Best Toys for a 1 Year Old: Montessori Picks for First Walkers

Between 12 and 24 months children walk, climb, stack and solve their first puzzles — choose toys that keep up.

What’s happening at 1 year

First steps, first words and a strong drive to do things ‘by myself’. One-year-olds love putting things in and taking them out, opening and closing, and carrying objects around.

Movement

A sturdy wooden push walker with a weighted base supports cruising and early walking. Later in the year, a low climbing triangle or balance board gives safe practice for climbing.

Problem-solving

Shape sorters with 1–3 shapes, coin boxes and large-knob puzzles are perfect first challenges. Start simple — success builds concentration.

Fine motor skills

Stacking cups, peg boards with chunky pegs and threading toys with thick laces strengthen the pincer grip needed later for holding a pencil.

How many toys?

Offer six to eight toys on a low shelf and rotate them every week or two. Fewer choices help toddlers focus longer and rediscover old favourites.