Home2-3-YearsRole play toys
2-3-Years

Role play toys

Role play toys encourage imagination, social skills, and language development. These realistic options inspire hours of creative pretend play.

Top pick

Casdon Kitchen Set

Best play kitchen

Casdon Kitchen Set - Best play kitchen

This replica kitchen includes a hob with clicking knobs, oven, sink, and multiple accessories. The realistic sounds and features encourage imaginative play, whilst the compact height suits toddlers perfectly. Made in Britain from durable plastic that withstands enthusiastic play. Includes pots, pans, and utensils.

Pros

  • Realistic features and sounds
  • Compact size for toddlers
  • Includes accessories
  • Durable British-made plastic
  • Encourages imaginative play

Cons

  • Requires batteries
  • Can be noisy
  • Takes up space
  • Assembly required
View product

Melissa & Doug Wooden Food Set

Best play food

Melissa & Doug Wooden Food Set - Best play food

This comprehensive set includes wooden food items that "slice" apart with velcro, teaching toddlers about food preparation. The high-quality wooden construction is safe for mouthing, whilst the bright colours and realistic designs encourage pretend play. Includes fruits, vegetables, bread, and wooden knife.

Pros

  • High-quality wooden pieces
  • Realistic designs
  • Velcro items slice apart
  • Safe for toddlers
  • Educational about food

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Velcro weakens over time
  • Pieces can be lost
  • Small parts
View product

Casdon Shopping Trolley

Best shopping role play

Casdon Shopping Trolley - Best shopping role play

A sturdy replica shopping trolley perfect for role play shopping trips. The metal frame and plastic basket are durable, whilst the smooth-rolling wheels work on various surfaces. Encourages active play, imaginative scenarios, and can be filled with play food or toys. Helps develop social skills and independence.

Pros

  • Sturdy metal frame
  • Realistic design
  • Smooth-rolling wheels
  • Encourages active play
  • Helps with walking stability

Cons

  • Can damage walls/furniture
  • Takes up storage space
  • May encourage running indoors
  • Can tip if overloaded
View product

Things to consider when choosing role play toys

When selecting role play toys, consider your lifestyle, budget, and specific needs. Every family is different, so what works for one might not work for another.

All our recommendations meet UK safety standards and have been chosen based on parent reviews, expert testing, and real-world usability. We only recommend products we genuinely believe in.

Affiliate disclosure: Little Essentials earns from qualifying purchases through affiliate links. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you.