Easy Problem Solving Activities For Toddlers

As a mom of three, I’ve spent countless hours trying to keep my little ones entertained while also helping them learn and grow.

We all want our kids to be able to think on their feet, make decisions, and work through challenges from a young age.

The great news? Building problem-solving skills in toddlers can actually be fun and easy!

Here are 25 simple activities that will help your child develop problem-solving abilities, and they don’t require elaborate setups or a lot of materials.

Many of these items can be found on Amazon, which has been my go-to for all things toddler!

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Activities That Teach Toddlers Problem Solving

1. Shape Sorting Toys

One of the easiest ways to introduce problem-solving is with a shape sorter.

Each of my kids has gone through a phase where they’re totally captivated by finding the right shape for each hole.

I love that it combines fine motor skills and cognitive learning. I highly recommend the wooden shape sorter for durability and longevity.

2. Stacking Cups

Stacking cups have been a favorite in our house for years. Toddlers can stack them up and knock them down, but they’re also learning sizes, spatial awareness, and patience.

The brightly colored stacking cups are always a hit.

3. Puzzles for Beginners

Puzzles are classic for a reason! A few chunky wooden animal puzzles are great for introducing problem-solving, and it’s heartwarming to see how proud they are when they complete one.

4. Build a Block Tower

Building with blocks teaches toddlers to think strategically. I like the classic wooden building blocks because they allow for endless creativity and stacking challenges.

5. Water Play with Funnels and Cups

During bath time, I’ll add a few funnels, scoops, and cups. Toddlers love to experiment with pouring water, learning about cause and effect while also working on hand-eye coordination.

6. Toddler Tool Bench

If you’ve got a budding builder, a toddler tool bench is an engaging activity that teaches basic problem-solving while letting them pretend play. The variety of tools and nuts and bolts really encourages them to figure out how things work.

7. Animal Rescue Game

Here’s one of my favorites that doesn’t require a lot of setup: place a few small animal toys under a blanket or scarf and encourage your child to “rescue” them.

8. I Spy Bottle

Create an “I Spy” bottle by filling a plastic bottle with rice and small toys or colored beads. This encourages focus as your toddler finds each item. These are so fun to bring along in the car too!

9. Pattern Blocks

Pattern blocks introduce shapes and patterns, which help with critical thinking. I love the pattern block set that comes with little activity cards; my toddlers can mimic designs and get creative.

10. Counting Bears with Cups

We love using counting bears and cups to work on sorting and counting, but they also involve problem-solving. Matching colors and grouping is a great introduction to organizing.

11. Lacing Beads

Lacing beads help toddlers practice threading and concentration. This activity is a little more challenging, so it’s perfect for keeping them engaged when you need a quiet activity.

12. Obstacle Course in the Living Room

Create a simple obstacle course with pillows, chairs, and toys for your child to crawl under or hop over. Not only do they burn energy, but they also have to think about navigating each step. The kids’ indoor obstacle set is an absolute lifesaver on rainy days.

13. Match the Socks

This is a laundry-day favorite! Hand your toddler a few pairs of socks and let them match them. You can also use colorful toddler sock sets to make the activity even more vibrant and fun.

14. Busy Board

A busy board with switches, zippers, and buttons helps toddlers explore and solve small tasks. My kids have all loved theirs, and it keeps them engaged while I cook dinner!

15. Color Sorting Bears

Color sorting with sorting bears is a great way to build early math skills. They can sort by color, count, and even make patterns.

16. Button Art

Button art kits are wonderful for fine motor practice and creativity. The button art set with large buttons and boards has been a favorite in our home, and it’s easy for toddlers to use on their own.

17. Playdough with Shape Cutters

Playdough is magical for creativity and learning, and using shape cutters adds an extra layer of problem-solving. They can figure out how to roll, flatten, and create shapes with their hands.

18. Simple Scavenger Hunt

Create a simple scavenger hunt by hiding toys around a room and giving hints. A scavenger hunt kit can add extra fun with pre-made clue cards.

19. Magnetic Tiles

Magnetic tiles have to be one of our most-used toys! The magnetic tile set encourages open-ended play as kids figure out how to balance and connect pieces.

20. Treasure Box with Locks

A lock and key toy is excellent for problem-solving. Toddlers love the challenge of figuring out how to open each compartment!

21. Animal Figurines and Play Mats

Using animal figurines with a play mat encourages them to create little worlds and stories. They’ll practice decision-making as they decide which animals belong where.

22. Simple Memory Game

For a quick memory game, you can use cards or everyday items. The first memory matching cards for toddlers are easy and cute, helping them practice concentration.

23. Pop Tubes

Pop tubes are fun for kids to pull, stretch, and connect. These colorful pop tubes create different shapes, so kids think creatively about how to use them.

25. Sorting Mats and Small Toys

Use a sorting mat along with a few small toys like cars or animals. Toddlers learn to categorize by color, type, or size. A sorting mat kit with matching toys can make setup easy.

My Go-To Tips for Toddler Problem-Solving

After trying all these, I’ve learned that simple setups work best, and even the most basic toys can spark a whole new level of exploration.

Letting them work through small challenges gives them confidence and independence—two things we want to nurture as parents.

So, try some of these activities and see which ones your toddler gravitates toward. I love seeing how each of my kids has taken to different toys and activities as they grow and learn in their own way.

Plus, I keep a stash of small toys and kits in my cart just for rainy days or moments when we need a little distraction that’s more than just screen time.

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