At age two, our mini explorers are fiercely independent, becoming accustomed to pretend play and love to copy their loved ones in everyday tasks like cooking and cleaning. This age opens up a whole new world of imagination and you can help them on their way by choosing the best educational toys for two year olds. We’ve compiled our favourites, whatever your budget may be.

For plenty of pouring, filling and splashing fun, look no further than the Fountain Factory Water Table (£59.99). It’s ideal for encouraging their social and interactive skills but its interchangeable pipes and fittings gently introduce them to science and engineering in an exciting, hands-on way. Plus, you can rely on fuss-free tidying up as the table empties by simply removing the plug underneath.

If you’re on the look out for presents for two year olds but don’t want to spend a fortune, Springlings Surprise Assortment (£8.99) make the ideal gift. These adorable little characters shoot of their homes at the push of a button to meet surprised little ones – push them back in and do it all over again. There are 12 Springlings to collect in total and each have different features and designs.

This push-along toy brings with it plenty of role play fun but also teaches children about numbers and colours and keeps them steady on their feet. The Smart Cart (£54.99) allows your independent little shopper to mimic mummy and daddy, as they unload their shopping into the cupboards.

The best toys for two year olds have a range of functions. Of course they should be fun to play with but they should also encourage group interaction and social skills, develop gross motor skills and bring on cognitive abilities. The Shop ‘n Learn Smart Checkout (£169.99) does the lot. It uses responsive Bluetooth to deepen learning, includes four game modes and comes complete with a working electronic conveyor belt, cash register and scanner. All this adds up to maximum enjoyment for your little one.

As far as ride-on toys go, this one takes the cake in fantasy role-play. The Magical Unicorn Carriage (£119.99) fuels little imaginations with its whimsical theme and is designed to grow with your tot. It has a removable floor board so they can push themselves once they’ve mastered steering while the light-up horn adds a touch of extra magic.

Around the age of two, you might notice their imaginative play cranks up a notch. Toddlers are extremely observant and love to imitate family members – and what better place to do this than in their own little abode? Cape Cottage (£119.99) allows children to play ‘house’ and follow their sense of adventure. With contemporary styling, working doors and windows and a mail box, this compact playhouse has plenty to keep them occupied.

‘Grow with me’ toys make such great presents because the child is likely to get years’ worth of fun out of them. Triple Play Splash T-Ball Set (£32.99) is a baseball game with three modes to take players from beginner to professional! You can also add water for even more excitement, as they attempt to hit the ball while it’s floating on a stream of water.