As parents, we are always on the go, trying to keep up with our little ones who seem to be growing up so fast. With so much to do and so little time, we don’t always have the luxury of screening through every toy on the market to find the best ones for our children.
That’s why we have put together a list of the best 20 Montessori toys for 3-year-olds, gathering condensed information and carefully selecting the top toys that will keep your child engaged while promoting learning and development. In this article, we’ll take you through our top picks, explaining the benefits and features of each toy, so that you can make an informed decision and provide your child with the best possible playtime experience. Let’s dive in!
20 Top picks of Montessori Toys for 3-Year-Olds
We all know that kids love playing with toys, but did you know how Montessori toys for 3-year-olds are different from other regular toys?
Montessori toys are typically made from natural materials like wood, metal, or cloth, and they don’t have any electronic components or batteries. They’re specially designed to help kids learn and grow while playing on their own!
While there are many other toys on the market with lights and sounds that may initially attract kids, they can quickly lose interest in them because they don’t offer much in the way of creative play. Montessori toys for 3-year-olds, on the other hand, are designed to engage children in open-ended play that encourages them to think critically, problem-solve, and develop a sense of independence and confidence.
Let’s go through the top 20 Montessori toys for 3-year-olds for all budgets, from easy to advance that we have carefully curated from environmentally conscious and responsible brands.
Stacking Rainbow
You can never go wrong with rainbow stacker blocks as they are one of the best Montessori toys for 3-year-olds out there. It’s a set of colorful arches of varying sizes that can be nested and stacked in many different configurations.
Coogam – Wooden Rainbow Stacker Nesting Puzzle Blocks
$14.99
The set is multi-functional and eco-friendly. Featuring 7 wooden pieces in different sizes & colors.
These blocks are a must-have for every child’s toy collection.
This toy is not only visually appealing with its bright colors, but it also helps kids develop their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. By manipulating the wooden arches and fitting them together in different ways, children strengthen the muscles in their hands and fingers and improve their dexterity.
Plus, it also encourages creativity and imagination. As there is no “right” way to play with this toy, kids are free to experiment and come up with their own designs and constructions. This fosters a sense of independence and confidence in young children, which is an important part of Montessori education.
Finally, the stacking rainbow helps children learn about colors, shapes, and sizes. By fitting the arches together in different ways, they develop an understanding of how things fit together and how different colors and sizes can complement each other, which lays the very first foundation for later learning in math and science.
Not only rainbow stackers, there are also many other types of stacking toys that are great for young children! For example, stacking blocks come in a set of varying sizes and can be made from wood, cardboard, or other materials.
Kids Preferred – The World of Eric Carle Stacking Nesting Blocks
$17.80
With 10 paperboard blocks featuring different animals and tactile features, it promotes learning through play.
The blocks are illustrated with characters from the author’s books, making them even more recognizable to young children.
Besides these, stacking cups or stacking rings are also great options for kids who may not be ready for more complex stacking toys. These cups are usually made from plastic or silicone and they are easy for young children to play with, but still provide a fun challenge for the kids.
Magnetic Block Set
Magnetic block sets are perfect Montessori toys for 3-year-olds, fostering curiosity and encouraging open-ended play. These blocks are magnetically embedded and attract kids and adults alike, promoting imaginative and limitless creativity. Kids will develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination while learning basic concepts like polarity, attraction, and repulsion. Playing with these blocks also enhances problem-solving skills and critical thinking.
Tegu – 24 Piece Magnetic Wooden Block Set
From $46.16
Tegu Blocks use magnets to create a unique building experience that sparks creativity and imagination.
These wooden blocks come in 6 shapes and are made with sustainably sourced hardwoods and safe water-based finishes.
Made of sustainably sourced hardwood and safe water-based finishes, the magnetic wooden block set by Tegu is not only educational but also eco-friendly and safe for kids. It’s a great investment for families who want to nurture their child’s creativity and imagination while promoting sustainability.
Balance Board
The balance board is one of the most amazing Montessori toys for 3-year-olds that provide hours of fun and educational play, and can continue to be a companion as they grow. It’s perfect for stimulating their imagination, encouraging curiosity, and promoting physical activity. Your little ones can use it as a boat to sail the seas or as a bridge for their stuffed animals and army figures.
With this board, the possibilities are endless! Using a balance board can teach children the importance of staying active and healthy while encouraging them to explore new ways of moving their bodies. Plus, it can also help children learn the value of persistence and determination as they work to improve their balance and coordination.
Gentle Monster – Wooden Wobble Balance Board
$69.99
A versatile toy that can be used for multiple purposes, such as a swing, bridge, or fitness equipment.
Made of high-quality natural wood and ecologically friendly lacquers, this durable board can safely hold up to 480lbs and is a solid heirloom item that can be used for many years.
And the best part? It supports the development of balance and correct posture, and is suitable for both children and adults so the whole family can enjoy using a balance board for various activities, providing an opportunity for shared experiences and bonding.
Kitchen Play Set
Which child doesn’t love to play house and cook up a storm in their very own kitchen? The kitchen play set is one of the perfect Montessori toys for 3-year-olds, allowing them to explore their creativity and imagination while developing important life skills.
KidKraft – Ultimate Corner Wooden Play Kitchen
From $242.24
Features lights and sounds, realistic stovetop burners and an ice maker, oven knobs that turn and click, and functional cabinets and shelving.
Made with MDF, solid wood, and plastic, it’s the ideal play kitchen for your aspiring little chefs to feel like they’re cooking just like mom and dad!
With realistic features like stovetop burner, ice maker, functional doors and knobs, your little chef will feel just like mom in the kitchen, making their favorite homemade dishes. Not only will they have a blast cooking up pretend meals, but they’ll also learn important concepts like cause and effect, organization, and problem-solving.
Wooden Puzzle
Have you ever seen a child completely engrossed in a puzzle, their little fingers working to piece it together? That’s the beauty of a wooden puzzle, one of the best types of Montessori toys for 3-year-olds.
The tactile experience of holding and fitting the puzzle pieces helps develop their fine motor skills, while also promoting problem-solving and concentration. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about seeing the finished product and its sense of accomplishment.
Le Toy Van – Wooden Petilou Forest Stacker Puzzle
$17.99
This hand-painted stacker set includes 9 wooden animals and a drawstring bag.
Made from durable, sustainable rubberwood for long-lasting fun.
The brand is committed to using only safe, non-toxic paint and ethical work practices.
Wooden puzzles are not only fun, but they’re also durable and eco-friendly, making them a great choice for parents who want to invest in quality toys that will last. So if you’re looking for a toy that will entertain and educate your child, a wooden puzzle is a timeless classic that never goes out of style.
Pretend Play Set
Pretend play involves children using their imagination to create scenarios and act out different roles. It allows them to explore their creativity and social interactions in a fun and safe environment. It is an essential aspect of a child’s development and can be facilitated through the use of toys such as playsets, costumes, and props.
Pretend play sets like a supermarket grocery play set or doctor play set are all excellent Montessori toys for 3-year-olds. Why? It’s because they give children the chance to explore and experiment with the familiar roles and situations they encounter in everyday life. Role-playing also helps them develop problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and empathy.
For example, a supermarket grocery play set can help children learn about healthy eating, customer service and money management, while a doctor play set can help children learn about caring for others and the human body.
Melissa & Doug – Freestanding Wooden Fresh Mart Grocery Store
From $206.99
The wooden grocery store features a conveyor belt, card swipe machine, scanner, and cash drawer for creative playtime.
With ample shelving on both sides, it’s designed for display and storage.
Add the Food Groups and Produce sets for a complete experience.
Additionally, pretend play sets can help children develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination as they manipulate the different pieces and accessories. They also encourage social skills, such as sharing, taking turns, and cooperation, as children engage in pretend play with their peers or adults.
Le Toy Van – Kids Wooden Doctor’s Medical Play Set Kit
$45.02
High-quality, sustainably-made playset designed to encourage imaginative and creative role-play.
Handmade from durable rubberwood, it includes a toy stethoscope, thermometer, syringe, blood pressure gauge, ear scope, reflex hammer, scissors, and two medicine bottles.
Overall, pretend play sets are a great investment for any family interested in promoting their child’s creativity, imagination, and social skills, while also providing a fun and engaging learning experience.
Cleaning Set
A cleaning set is one of the most wonderful Montessori toys for 3-year-olds, as it not only encourages imaginative and open-ended play but also teaches responsibility and the importance of contributing to household tasks. By introducing kids to cleaning tools like a broom or dustpan, parents can help foster a sense of independence and teach them valuable life skills.
Manhattan Toy – 5-Piece Wooden Cleaning Set
$59.99
This cleaning set includes a broom, dustpan, spray bottle, duster, and stand for easy storage.
It’s a great way to develop hand-eye coordination and cognitive skills, and teaches important life skills.
Made by a trusted brand with a dedication to safety.
Moreover, playing with a cleaning set can also help break gender stereotypes and show children that housework is for everyone, not just for moms or dads. It can teach them that cleanliness and tidiness are essential aspects of daily life, and that it is everyone’s responsibility to maintain them. With such practical and educational benefits, a cleaning set can be an excellent investment for parents interested in raising independent, responsible, and well-rounded children.
Life Cycle Learning Kit
The life cycle learning kits are fantastic Montessori toys for 3-year-olds that introduce them to the wonders of the natural world. These kits include all the materials needed to explore and learn about the life cycle of animals and plants, such as butterflies, chickens, or beans.
Safari Ltd – Life Cycle Learning Kit
From $11.99
This learning kit ignite kids’ love for nature.
Witness the incredible transformation of Monarch butterfly, chicken or frog with our vibrant figures.
These phthalate-free figures are safety tested for your child’s wellbeing.
Learning about life cycles can help children develop an appreciation for nature and hone their observation and sequencing skills. Handling the different components and materials can also improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Additionally, these kits encourage creativity and imagination as children use their newfound knowledge to create their own stories and scenarios.
Animal Figures
Animal figures are always great Montessori toys for 3-year-olds that provide numerous benefits for their development. These tiny little figures encourage imaginative play, promote creativity, and provide the kids with hours and hours of fun.
For example, dinosaur figures are incredibly popular among children. They help kids learn about the fascinating world of prehistoric creatures that once roamed the Earth. These figures often come in various sizes and shapes, with vibrant colors and intricate details that make them look realistic and engaging.
Boley – Educational Dinosaur Toys
From $15.99
These unique and vibrantly colored dinosaur figures are made of durable, flexible, and long-lasting vinyl that can withstand hours of play.
Made from high-quality, non-toxic, and BPA-free plastic, making them safe for kids.
Playing with dinosaur figures allows children to create their own stories and scenarios, which stimulates their imagination and creativity. They can also learn about the different types of dinosaurs, their features, and their habitats, which can develop their knowledge and understanding of the natural world. Plus, they also help children develop their cognitive and motor skills, making them an excellent addition to any child’s toy collection.
Pom Poms
One of the most popular Montessori toys for 3-year-olds is tiny little colorful pom poms. Pom poms can be used to teach children about colors and sizes, and promote sensory development.
One great way to engage children in sensory play with pom poms is by using them to create fuzzy pictures. To get started, you can provide pre-punched felt boards in different designs and an assortment of colorful pom poms in various sizes. Children can insert the pom poms into the pre-punched holes in the felt board to make their own pictures. This activity helps children develop their fine motor skills and encourages independent, quiet-time play.
Creativity for Kids – Pom Pom Pictures
From $12.60
Insert colorful pom poms into pre-punched felt to develop fine motor skills and promote sensory development.
This complete arts and craft set includes two tactile boards, pom poms in various sizes, hanging strings, wiggly eyes, and a storage bag.
Using pom poms is a great way to foster creativity, build confidence, and encourage exploration in children. It’s also a no-mess activity that can be enjoyed at home or on the go. This makes it an excellent low-cost option for busy parents who want to provide their children with engaging and screen-free activities.
Ready 2 Learn – Set of 240 Pom Poms Assorted Colors
$8.99
240 non-toxic polypropylene pom poms in assorted colors, each measuring 1″ in diameter.
Great for DIY projects, fostering creativity, and developing fine motor and problem-solving skills.
Another way to play with pom poms is sorting them into different containers or bowls based on size and colors. This can help develop fine motor skills and teach basic math concepts like counting and sorting. Kids can also create a variety of art projects using these tiny fur balls like pom pom garlands, pom pom animals, or invent games and activities like pom pom toss, pom pom races (using straws to blow them across a table), pom pom hockey (using craft sticks and a small ball), and so much more.
Overall, pom poms provide a fun and engaging way for young children to learn and explore the world around them. Incorporating them into various Montessori activities can help children develop important skills while having fun and being creative. Just make sure to keep an eye on your kids when they play with these small objects.
Clay & Dough
Clay and dough are no doubt one of the best Montessori toys for 3-year-olds. Children can mold the clay or dough into different shapes, animals or foods, promoting fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. These toys are also great for sensory play and can help children learn about different textures and colors.
Sago Brothers – Air Dry Clay, Soft Modeling Clay for Kids
From $19.99
36 colors of mess-free, super soft clay and a tutorial book with over 50 shapes, foods, and animals to make.
It’s non-toxic and has passed safety certifications, making it a parent-approved toy for boys and girls.
Playing with clay or dough can also be a calming and therapeutic experience for children, helping them to regulate their emotions and develop self-expression. Remember to go for brands that provide safe and non-toxic materials for children. With supervision and guidance, clay and dough can provide endless hours of creative and educational play for young children.
Personalized Name Puzzle
A wooden personalized name puzzle is a great way to teach children about letters, spelling, and fine motor skills. What’s special about these puzzles is that they are customized to your child’s name, making them a unique and personal gift. It’s also perfect for displaying in the baby’s room or as decoration in your child’s play area. Capital letters are often used in the puzzle, making it easier for children to recognize and identify them.
Fat Brain Toys – Wooden Personalized Name Puzzle
$26.95
Colorful wooden name puzzle made-to-order for names with up to 9 characters.
Ideal for all ages and encourages fine motor skills, letter recognition, and spelling skills.
Vibrant colors with 3-inch tall capital letters in nontoxic paints.
Overall, personalized wooden name puzzle boards are meaningful Montessori toys for 3-year-olds that are sure to bring joy and a sense of ownership to your child. You can also tell them the story about where their name comes from or what it means. It’s a perfect way to introduce them to the alphabet, spelling, and to show them how special their name truly is.
Cuisine Food Set
Cuisine food sets are exceptional Montessori toys for 3-year-olds that help them explore different international cuisines and food diversity at an advanced level. Unlike other general food toys, cuisine food sets offer learning opportunities in depth for various food cultures. For example, the Pasta Food Set introduces kids to Italian cuisine, teaching them about different types of pasta, or how they can be hand-stuffed with felt spinach, meat, or cheese fillings, also how to cook, strain, scoop and present them on a pasta bowl like a real chef.
Melissa & Doug – Prepare & Serve Pasta Play Food Set
$29.99
This 50-piece pasta-making set includes a cook pot with lid, colander, sauce jar, cheese shaker, salt shaker, fork, and more.
With an illustrated guide, kids can cook and strain the pasta over the cooktop and sink play mat.
The set also enhances organizational skills and basic cooking skills. By following the illustrated guide and using the play cookware, kids learn about order and organization in the kitchen. They also practice hand-eye coordination as they create pretend meals. These skills serve as a foundation for important life skills in the future.
Plus, if your kids show an interest in cooking, this toy can spark a passion that leads to a future career. Who knows, maybe they’ll become a MasterChef one day! Overall, cuisine food set is a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about food while having screen-free fun.
Wooden Body Puzzle
As a parent, you want your child to be curious and excited about learning, and what better way to do that than with a fun and educational toy like a wooden body puzzle? Now, you might be wondering if this type of toy may be too advanced for a 3-year-old. Trust me, this puzzle is perfect for introducing young children to the wonders of the human body in a way that is engaging and age-appropriate.
Kidzlane – 29 Pieces Wooden My Body Puzzle
From $16.99
Featuring 5 layers that explore different systems of the body, such as the skeletal, respiratory, digestive, and muscular systems.
Made from high-quality wood with rounded edges.
So whether you are a doctor who wants to share your passion for anatomy with your child, or simply a parent who wants to foster a love of learning, this puzzle is an excellent choice. Not only does it promote learning and curiosity, but it also helps to develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination in a way that is both fun and engaging. Plus, it’s also a great way to bond with your child and share your love of science and learning with them in a hands-on way.
Musical Instrument Toy Set
Music is a universal language that speaks to people of all ages, and introducing your child to music early on can have a profound impact on their development. Not only does this set help inspire budding musicians, it also encourages exploration of unique sounds coming from different types of instruments.
Stoie’s – International Wooden Music Set
$36.99
Featuring 10 pieces of international wooden percussion instruments.
Made with kid-friendly wood and a natural approach to construction, these safe and durable musical instruments for kids are loved by parents.
These wooden musical instruments are also a great way for families to bond and spend quality time together. As your child plays with the instruments and creates music, they develop collaborative skills, creativity, fine motor skills, and an early love for music.
Balancing Stones
Wooden balancing stone toys make an excellent addition to Montessori toys for 3-year-olds. These toys are unique and innovative, with each block being a polyhedron in different sizes, colors, and weights, creating a more challenging stacking experience. With many flat-cut surfaces, the stones can be stacked in various shapes and sizes, developing a child’s hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
Bestamtoy – 36 Pieces Wooden Balancing Stones
$24.99
The set comes in different sizes, colors, and weights of polyhedron blocks.
Made of high-quality wood, coated with eco-friendly paint, and exquisitely crafted with a smooth, burr-free surface for safe and enjoyable child play.
This wooden stone balancing and stacking game is an excellent way to stimulate a child’s sense of challenge, promote creativity, resilience, and persistence, and strengthen logical thinking. Playing with wooden balancing stones is an excellent way to teach children patience and develop their independent thinking and logical reasoning skills. It is a perfect family game, promoting bonding and interactive play. Additionally, this delightful stacking toy can also be used as a unique home decor item to add a touch of romance to the house.
Indoor Playground Gym
Wooden indoor playground gym offers an exciting and safe environment for children to explore and play, making it one of the most wonderful Montessori toys for 3-year-olds. A basic kid’s gym set often includes rock climbing wall, slide, rope or wooden ladder.
Avenlur – Magnolia Indoor Playground 6-in-1 Jungle Gym
From $393.3
Includes mini rock climbing wall, Swedish slide, monkey bars, rope ladder, wood ladder & swing, creating a world of adventure for children to explore.
Crafted with the utmost care for safety, the play equipment is constructed of high-quality varnished wood, ensuring sturdiness and durability.
As a Montessori toy, the indoor playground gym is a great way to promote physical activity, enhance coordination and balance, and encourage the development of gross motor skills in young children. Plus, it’s a lot of fun! Your child will love playing on their own or with friends, exploring their physical abilities and pushing their limits in a safe and stimulating environment.
Kitchen Helper Stool
A kitchen helper stool can be a great addition to your home, especially if you have little ones around. With this stool, you can involve your children in cooking and baking activities, teaching them valuable skills while having fun together. Plus, they’ll feel like important little helper who is part of the cooking, which can boost their confidence and self-esteem.
When choosing a kitchen helper stool, look for one made of high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear, with non-toxic finishes to keep your child safe. It’s important to consider the height and weight limit of the stool, as well as the stability and safety features, such as railings and anti-slip strips.
SDADI – Adjustable Height Kitchen Helper Stool For Kids
From $98.99
High-quality, solid wood platform that makes it a fun and safe way to teach kids cooking skills.
With four-sided railings and anti-slip strips on four legs, this product ensures safety and stability for kids.
It can support up to 150lbs.
A kitchen helper stool should be adjustable to fit your child’s height. The perfect size for your kitchen will depend on your available space and your child’s needs. Investing in a kitchen helper stool is not only a practical choice for your household, but it also provides a fun and engaging activity for you and your little ones to bond over in the heart of your home.
Beach Toy Set
Are you tired of lugging around bulky and easily breakable plastic beach toys on your family vacation? A silicone beach toy set may be just what you need! These sets are made of soft and flexible silicone that is durable and reusable, making them a safe and modern alternative to traditional plastic toys.
This travel-friendly set is easy to pack in your beach bag or toss in the car without worrying about it taking up too much space or cracking. And with no harmful chemicals like BPA, you can have peace of mind that your child is playing with a safe and non-toxic toy, free from any sharp residue that may result from the plastic toy molding.
Blue Ginkgo – Silicone Beach Toy Set
$29.99
Made from soft and flexible silicone, the set includes a bucket, scoop, and 4 sea creature molds in a handy cotton mesh tote bag.
The modern design features a premium soft feel and matte finish that looks stylish and is easy to hold or clean.
The versatile set provides all the essentials for keeping your child engaged for hours. And when the beach day is over, the set is also easy to clean and can be used in the bath or with your child’s sensory bin collection for year-round fun.
In addition to its functionality, a silicone beach set has a premium soft feel and matte finish that looks stylish and is easy for little hands to hold. So, if you’re looking for practical and fun Montessori toys for 3-year-olds to enjoy at the beach, pool, or bath time, a silicone beach toy set may be the perfect one.
Map Puzzle
Map puzzles with colorful illustrations are excellent Montessori toys for 3-year-olds to learn about geography in a fun and interactive way. Through the whimsical and vibrant artwork on these puzzles, kids can learn about the capital cities, shapes, locations, nicknames and famous local specialties of different US states or different countries or regions.
Mudpuppy – 70 pieces Double-Sided Map Puzzle
From $14.30
This 70-piece double-sided map puzzle features colorful artwork, it’s a fun and educational way for kids to learn about geography.
Award-winning puzzle.
Some 3-year-old kids show their interest in US state geography since their early years while others may find this puzzle quite advanced for them at this stage. You might want to check other map puzzles at easier level, such as the 36 pieces world map puzzle with iconic landmarks and animals.
Mudpuppy – 36 Pieces Map of the World Puzzle
$9.99
Perfect for young kids transitioning out of jumbo pieces.
Featuring colorful animal and landmark illustrations on each continent.
Eco-friendly materials and nontoxic inks.
Not only does it allow them to develop their problem-solving and critical thinking skills, but it can also help improve their spatial awareness and understanding of geography. Moreover, working on a map puzzle can foster a sense of curiosity, develop hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, and most importantly, a desire to learn more about the world around them.
Overall, a map puzzle with colorful illustrations can be a valuable addition to a child’s toy collection and a great way to promote learning and curiosity in a fun and engaging way.
Tips for choosing Montessori Toys
While any toy can be fun, Montessori toys are specifically made to support their growth and help them learn all kinds of new things in a fun and interactive way! Here are a few simple tips to help you find the most suitable Montessori toys for your kids.
- Go for open-ended toys
Kids love to explore and play in their own unique way. Open-ended toys allow for creativity and imagination to take over, creating endless possibilities for playtime fun. A simple wooden block can be a car, a boat, or even a building, giving children the chance to explore different scenarios and problem-solving skills.
- Pick toys that promote hands-on learning
Montessori toys are designed to be interactive and hands-on, allowing children to explore and learn at their own pace. Whether it’s a puzzle, building set, or sensory bin, the best Montessori toys provide children with the opportunity to manipulate objects, experiment, and develop critical thinking skills.
- Simplicity is key
In a world filled with flashy, electronic toys, it’s easy to get caught up in the latest trends. But sometimes, simple is best.
Montessori toys are designed with simplicity in mind, using natural materials like wood, metal, and cloth to create a tactile and sensory experience. So by removing unnecessary distractions like flashing lights and sounds, children are able to focus on the toy itself and the joy of play.
- Consider your kid’s interests
Just like adults, kids have their own unique interests and passions. By choosing toys that align with those interests, they are more likely to engage with the toy and develop a deeper connection. Whether it’s building with blocks or playing with dolls, choosing toys that spark joy and creativity will help your kid to develop a lifelong love of learning.
In conclusion, providing children with Montessori toys at a young age can help foster their natural curiosity, independence, and love for learning. These 20 best Montessori toys for 3-year-olds offer a wide variety of options to help children develop fine motor skills, cognitive abilities, creativity, and social skills.
From wooden building blocks and puzzles to sensory play kits and art supplies, these toys are designed to engage children and help them grow in a safe and supportive environment. By incorporating Montessori principles into playtime, parents and caregivers can help set the foundation for a lifetime of learning and exploration for their little ones.
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