Our favourite toy for 18-month-olds is Happyland - tough, durable and super cute, it’s ideal for small hands to hold, whilst encouraging creativity, imagination and role play activities. It’s also a toy that can be played with for years and saved for future generations! How we chose our recommendations Recommendations from real Mumsnet users We've got round-ups of the best toys for a range of ages, all based on authentic recommendations by real parents. Here are our guides to the best baby toys, best toddler toys, the best toys for 2-year-olds and the best toys for 3-year-olds.

Happyland Cherry Lane Cottage | Early Learning Centre Happyland Cherry Lane Cottage | Early Learning Centre

Landie Nice toy Bought as a present. Would have given more stars but the box was damaged and had previously opened and not resealed, fortunately nothing had fallen out The toddler years are such an exciting time. By 18 months old, your baby is likely to be fully mobile, cruising or taking those first tentative steps. They’re also going to be learning a bit more about the world around them, keen to play independently, explore their surroundings and do things unassisted.

Decent toy food that you can 'chop' up. My daughter loved hers” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user BritInAus) Our verdict Made from high-quality materials that provide excellent value for money, Orchard Toys are a popular choice amongst Mumsnet users who have toddlers and preschoolers, thanks to their infallible ability to make learning fun. Happyland is brilliant. Really sturdy, chunky, toddler-proof toys! They are bright & colourful and cover a range of interests. We’ve got loads & my four-year-old still plays with them if I get them out for her little sister.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Zolla) Our verdict

Happyland Early Learning Centre Cherry Lane Cottage

Items that are not available in store will take 3-5 working days to be delivered to your nominated store. Happyland doors are designed to be removed easily during play so little hands can discover cause and effect With curious minds, the best toys for 18-month-olds are able to capture and hold their attention; with engaging characters, bright colours or interactive features that allow them to ‘play pretend’ and replicate grown-up behaviours. Toys suitable for 18-month-olds tend to include large, chunky pieces that are easy for small hands to hold, allow them to use their imagination and can help them learn about cause and effect. Children can enjoy opening up the cottage and making enchanting stories and fairy tales. Let's invite our Happyland friends round for tea in the garden. We can stroke the cat, play hide and seek around the cottage and leap up into our treehouse. You could also cook your favourite meal in the kitchen, then sit at the table to share it. Finish the day with a wash in the bathroom then head to bed for a well earned sleep. Happyland Cherry Lane Cottage is a wonderful way for your young child to begin to explore the growing world of their imagination, as they move the characters and pets around. At 18 months old, children love replicating parental behaviour, making toys such as play kitchens and play food. Whilst you may find most wooden role play foods are officially suitable only for children three years and over, this LeapFrog Choppin’ Fun Pot makes a great plastic alternative.We had the Tomy Foam Cone Factory – great fun.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user livingthegoodlife) Our verdict Our favourite features? - A removable floor piece and wheels that spin 360 degrees allow you to easily switch between parent and child-operated rides. Our wooden train set has been a consistent favourite from about 18months and now at nearly 3. I envisage it'll still be a favourite for a couple of years yet!” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user WilmaJean) Items that are not available in store will take 3-5 working days (excluding weekends and bank holidays) to be delivered to your nominated store. Look out for recommendations - If you’re still not sure, ask for recommendations from friends, family or Mumsnetters with children of a similar age, chances are, their children will have played with many of the toys you’re considering too.