Wooden toys have always had a classic charm that’s hard to beat. But what makes them an excellent choice for your little ones? Let’s break it down.
First off, wooden toys over plastic is a win in many departments. They are more durable, and trust me, toddlers can be quite the little tornadoes. Wooden train sets can withstand those rough playtimes and are less likely to break into small, unsafe pieces.
Let’s talk about development. Wooden train sets aren’t just toys; they’re little learning tools. They help boost cognitive and motor skills.
When kids are connecting tracks or moving trains around, their hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills get a good workout.
Eco-friendliness is another feather in the cap. Wooden toys are typically made from sustainable materials and are biodegradable. So, while your kid is having a blast, you’re doing a bit for the planet too. It feels good to make responsible choices, doesn’t it?
Top Wooden Toy Train Sets in 2024
Finding the best wooden toy train sets for 2024 can be like finding a needle in a haystack, but I’ve got some top picks that are sure to delight your toddlers.
First one up, is the Melissa & Doug Stacking Train – Classic Wooden Toddler toy which is a VERY popular choice for young toddlers.
It comes with 18 pieces, and is designed to encourage toddlers’ fine motor and hand-eye coordination skills.
Melissa & Doug Stacking Train – Classic Wooden Toddler Toy (18 pcs)
Suitable For Toddlers Aged 2 – 4 yrs.
This classic wooden train set features an engine and two pegged train cars that are stacked full with 15 colorful, wooden blocks.
The colorful wooden blocks can be stacked or configured over and over again. When assembled, the train set is over 17 inches long– toddlers also have the option of separating the cars to change things up to share the FUN.
Another wooden train set that your toddler will surely love is this farm train set which is also from Melissa & Doug.
Melissa & Doug Wooden Farm Train Set – Classic Wooden Toy (3 linking cars)
Suitable For Ages 3 to 6
The Melissa & Doug wooden farm train set features a colorful engine with three interchangeable cars.
Your toddler will have loads of FUN transporting the cow or taking cans of milk, fruits and vegetables to market.
They will also delight in loading and unloading the train cars and pretending to steer the train.
Hape
Another wooden train set that is perfect for that 18+ month old toddler in your family is the Hape: Music & Monkeys railway set.
Hape: Music & Monkeys Railway – 19 pc Wooden Train Set, Jungle-Themed Musical Toy, Xylophone Melody Track, Brightly Colored, Toddlers & Kids 18 Mo+
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Hape’s Music & Monkeys railway 19 piece set promises delights at every turn! Each bar of the track produces a distinct musical note when the train rolls over it, creating a captivating melody.
Then cheeky monkeys pop up from the trees when the train triggers their levers, adding an element of surprise and fun.
Made from high quality durable wood, this train set includes: a vibrant jungle-themed train featuring tiger, lion, and elephant carriages, enhancing imaginative play.
Another wooden train set that would be age appropriate for younger toddlers is this 23 piece wooden farm train set.
23 Pieces Farm Wooden Train Set for Toddlers 2-4 – Stacking Train Pull Toy Baby Walking Toy – Pull Train Toys for Toddlers 1-3
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This adorable toddler train toy comes with three (3) sturdy wooden train cars, 21 brightly colored stacking train blocks, and a red pull string for easy mobility during play.
Made of natural wood and coated with water-based paint, that is hand-polished, and smooth, this wooden train set meets child safety standards in the US & EU and are certified.
Toddlers can use this versatile wooden train set to build, stack, and roll.
This adorable wooden train set will cultivate cognitive skills, fine motor skills, math skills, preschool learning activities, creativity, and more!
Your toddler will enjoy pulling this cute farm train set throughout the house and on the go.
Brio is another popular brand that makes some classic wooden train sets for young children.
Brio
If you are getting your toddler his or her first wooden train set, then the BRIO My First Railway is an excellent choice for toddlers under two years old.
BRIO My First Railway – 33727 Beginner Pack | Engaging Wooden Toy Train Set for Toddlers Age 18 Months and Up | FSC-Certified Materials | Compatible with All My First Railway and BRIO World Toys
Suitable For Ages 18+ months
The BRIO My First Railway Beginner Pack is a colorful, engaging wooden toy train set designed specifically for toddlers aged 18+ months. It features a special rainbow bridge and a rattle wagon that adds auditory delight.
This wooden train set for toddlers features colorful designs and special age-appropriate features for frustration-free play and exploration.
The reversable magnet connections ensure that the trains always come together easily, and the guiding ramp tracks help toddlers get the train on to the railway tracks.
This adorable train set is designed to grow with your child and is compatible with all other My First Railway and BRIO World railway toys, ensuring ongoing, evolving play.
For toddlers that are ages 2 years and up, there is the BRIO Classic wooden train set.
BRIO Classic – 65th Anniversary Wooden Train Set | 32 Piece Railway Toy for Kids | Age 2 Years and Up | FSC-Certified | Compatible World
For Ages 2 years And Up
The BRIO Classic wooden train set is crafted from FSC-certified European beech wood, making it not only a durable and high-quality toy, but also a choice that supports responsible forestry.
The set features a colorful BRIO train with three wooden wagons, a bridge, switch tracks, and wooden trees, designed to spark your child’s imagination and creativity.
The pieces are 100% compatible with BRIO World and other BRIO railway toys, allowing for seamless integration and endless fun.
This train set has been rigorously tested to exceed safety standards making it safe for toddlers to play with.
Each of these wooden train sets brings something unique to the table, making them excellent choices depending on what matters most to you and your toddler.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Wooden Toy Train Set
Getting the right wooden train set for your toddler can feel like solving a jigsaw puzzle with too many pieces. Here are some tips to make the process easier.
Choose A Train Set That Is Age Appropriate
First off, make sure the set is age-appropriate. Some train sets can have small parts that aren’t suitable for younger toddlers. Always check the manufacturer’s age recommendations.
Look For A Set With Safety Certifications
Safety is a biggie. Look for sets that come with safety certifications. Non-toxic paints and smooth, splinter-free surfaces are a must. Brands that have passed rigorous safety tests give you that extra peace of mind.
Is The Train Set Expandable?
Consider the expandability of the set. A modular train set that you can add pieces to over time keeps the play experience fresh. Some sets are compatible with others, letting you mix and match tracks, trains, and accessories.
Lastly, think about any additional features your child might love. Some sets come with themed accessories like buildings, people, and animals to create a more immersive play world. These extra elements can make playtime even more exciting and engaging.