Montessori Toys for 12+ Months: Play, Learn, and Grow Together

As toddlers grow, their curiosity and energy seem endless. Somewhere between the wobbly first steps and the unstoppable “I do it myself!” phase, I’ve found that mixing in Montessori-inspired toys has been a game-changer. These toys aren’t just fun—they spark creativity, problem-solving, and independence in ways that feel natural for little learners.

One of my absolute favorites is the LOVEVERY Organic Cotton Play Tunnel. I love the pop of color and the sense of adventure it brings right into our living room. It’s amazing watching my toddler crawl through, hide, or scrunch it up and watch it spring back. Even after he started walking, this tunnel keeps him moving, building strength and coordination without him even realizing he’s “exercising.” It’s playful, it’s imaginative, and it’s one of those toys that makes me smile every time I see him exploring.

Check it out here

Another staple in our house is the wooden animal puzzles. Honestly, my son could do these puzzles all day if I let him. From learning animal names to figuring out how each piece fits, it’s such a joy to see him problem-solve and concentrate on something so simple yet so enriching. These puzzles also feel like real “together time” without screens—just him, me, and the little wooden animals.

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We also adore the BUNMO Wooden Stacking Blocks. Fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and a little bit of creative engineering all rolled into one? Yes, please. I love watching him balance, stack, knock down, and start all over again—it’s so simple, yet so satisfying for both of us.

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The wooden shape sorter cube is another gem. I love that it’s not just a single activity but a little world of problem-solving. My toddler delights in figuring out how to get the shapes in and out, while I can’t help but cheer silently as he learns color recognition, fine motor skills, and spatial reasoning—all while having pure, screen-free fun.

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Lastly, the Dailyfunn Shape Peg Puzzles have become part of our daily rhythm. They’re simple, sturdy, and perfect for little hands. Watching him name shapes and match colors, piece by piece, reminds me how much learning can truly happen through play—and how proud a parent feels when their child masters even the smallest challenge.

See these here

The best part of all these toys? They’re not just “things to pass the time.” They’re tools that encourage exploration, creativity, and independence, all while making precious memories along the way. Every puzzle solved, every tunnel crawled through, every block stacked is a little victory for your toddler—and a moment to pause, watch, and cheer for them.

Montessori toys have a way of blending learning and play so seamlessly that even as a parent, I can’t help but learn alongside my little one. These have been some of our favorites as he grows past that first year into toddlerhood—and I can’t wait to see where his curiosity takes him next.

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