Last year, I put together a Christmas shopping list for toys I either knew my son wanted or for items I thought would be good for a two year old.  Looking over the list, some of the items are actually still good items to purchase for a three year old.   Notably, I would say my son has gotten tremendous use out of his Thomas Table, and I presume he will continue to do so in the years to come.  I know it is a big ticket item, but it has been worth every penny we spent on it (especially since we got it for half-price on Black Friday).

One note to keep in mind, avoid this year’s big toy if at all possible.  If you have been in Toys R Us, you know the toy I’m referring to is the Sky High Bridge Jump Set.  When assembled, this toy is eight feet long!  It is going to dominate your living room, play room, basement, etc.  With that in mind, you cannot keep it out all of the time, which creates too much stress and frustration.  Just think of the amount of times you are going to have to assemble and disassemble it.  Then keep it mind, it is the Track Master (motorized Thomas set) meaning your standard wooden Thomas cannot be used with it.  Again, avoid it at all costs.

While I discourage that, here are some toys, I wholeheartedly recommend:

1. Thomas Minis and at least one carrying/storage case.
2. Thomas Minis Motorized Raceway
3. Wooden Railway Expansion Packs and Sets
4. Tumble Train
5. Disney Pixar Cars sets or Hot Wheels
6. Cars Playsets
7. Busy Books
8. Phonics Books
9. Tricycle (preferably one you can hold onto)
10. Big Wheels
11. Scooter
12. Roller Skates
13. Helmet
14. Puzzles
15. Mr. Met

Not on this list, but also recommended is Play-Doh, Legos and Duplos, and books.  Always, lots and lots of books for kids.  In terms of books, I personally recommend a collection like you will see with Dr. Seuss.  This permits you to get a number of books at a fraction of the cost, and it permits you to try to get your kid to read more than just one story over and over again.

Two other things to keep in mind: (1) you will need batteries; and (2) you will need a place to put all of this stuff.  It may behoove you to give the carry kits as a gift or to get a new toy box.

While some of these items are more expensive, keep a look out for them at Toys R Us, Target, Walmart, Amazon, etc. this Black Friday and beyond.   While you are out there this Black Friday, look for toys your child can use next year (if you have the storage space).  You will be thankful for every penny you save on stuff like this you were likely going to buy anyway.