Fun birthday presents for a 2yo?

[woodchick]

Our DD2 is turning two in a week.  She's our second daughter and is not in need of anything. We have tons of hand-me-down clothes and toys from her big sister and she's really set on that stuff.

The grandparents are asking about gift ideas and I'd like to suggest some fun, but not too pricey, gifts.  Our house is small, but we have a decent sized yard...

Anyway, I'm just looking to be inspired! What are your 2yos especially into these days?

[nighten]

What about a personalized name puzzle? Or craft supplies? Things like stickers, fingerpaints, and Play-Doh are all big hits here.

Books?

[JudiAU]

We are in a similar position. Some things that were fun for us were a few duplo pieces, a new train that we named her name (everything in the house is named older brother name), some fancy haba blocks, a new doll, a case of play dough, we planned a few special activities with just her and one of the parents, etc.

[~cassie]

Bubble Machine?

[spinedoc]

The game "Elefun" was a huge hit for us! $20 at Target! It's an active game! Also a friend of mine has a microphone with a stand, the kids love it! They can sing and put on little shows! Not sure of the cost though.

[LeighPF]

Experience gifts like museum memberships are great for small houses. Special out ting with someone is a nice idea too. I also like the books, playdough, art supplies, stickers etc. My son (my first child) got a Green Toys tea set and dump truck for his second. His favorite present, PB & J cookies from a friend.

[DomerJen]

We're planning to get our son a Skuut bike for his bday.  It's $68 on amazon right now  and target has a $50 version.  There are also a lot of M&D toys that are in the 2+ age range. 

[creddy]

I second LeighPF, as I have a small house and hope to receive NO toys (even books!) for my son's b-day next month.  We don't need ANYTHING, but things like music classes, memberships to museums, bowling passes, special outings to local factories (doughnut, ice cream, etc) would be ideal from the grandparents!!  

If you want something to "fill the moment" of opening actual presents, go with consumables like art/craft supplies, bubbles, etc.

[woodsymom]

Our daughter just turned 2. She loves being outside. The weather is just starting to turn a little nicer in the Northeast, but even in mid-winter she loves playing with her "shovel, rake and pail" set in the yard. It sounds so simple, but it honestly entertains her for awhile. She picks up sticks, rocks, etc. It's just her size. You can store it your basement/garage/outside & it doesn't take up room in the house.

[lifeguard]

Ds' favourite gift at his 2nd birthday was a wagon. It's a really nice one (Lee Valley) that the wheels can be removed & traded for skis. Very practical & he LOVES it.