Our Family's 5 Favorite Toys: Infant to 3 years

I have made it a point to not buy our kids tons of toys throughout the year; so far, we make Christmas season and birthdays (both winter) our main targets, and something small during the summer.  I always buy a mixture of things they're able to use right now, and in the months ahead, and this does mean that some Christmas gifts will not get used right away.  However we have a small home, and I want to see each purchase go the distance: they teach something, have durability, will work for boys/girls alike, and most importantly, are fun!
Here are our biggest hits so far:


1) Thomas Wooden Railway  ($$$)

At 17 months and 3.5 years, my kids are still growing into this product - but so far I am very impressed! Imaginative, yes - build your own track configuration - or get Mom/Dad to help, this is a lot of fun. The durability is definitely up there, and it is a great toy to add to as the years go by (get new engines or sets). I've found this to be a great parents-and-kids-alike toy.
This is an investment toy - they are a bit pricey, but you do get quality. I recommend the magnetic engines to start, as very little ones will want to push the trains along (this will break self-propelled varieties better suited later). We started with the Water Tower Figure 8 set and a small expansion when my daughter turned 2.
2) Little People Animal Sounds Farm ($$)

Hands-down, this is one of our very best infant-to-toddler toy purchases! The little animal figures are adorable, every animal has its "home" and most have a corresponding sound that is easy to trigger for little hands. It is durable too -- they smartly made the silo portion of the farm detachable, so when my daughter *had* to sit on the farm regularly at one stage, it would neatly come away from the main playset without damage. You can store the little animal pieces in the silo upon cleanup - always a bonus! I'd say my little ones have had continuous enjoyment of this playset for several years now!
3) Magna Doodle / Doodle Pro ($)

What a surprise hit! This little number is one of my daughter's favorites since age 2. She loves being able to "draw" and stamp images; I love the complete lack of mess! As she's become more aware of her letters, it's been a perfect tool in that regard. Relatively inexpensive, even if it doesn't last, you can afford to replace it (though ours is still going strong after being stood-upon and dropped many times).
4) Step 2 Party Time Kitchen ($$$)

There are a lot of play kitchens out there, but I'll speak to the one we have. This one was a little scary to bring into the mix - not only are you plunking down some good money for this one, but you also better have the space or you end up with a giant hulk in your corner, mocking you everyday. However, I'm relieved to say this is one toy the kids play with nearly every day, at least for a few minutes. They love moving around the play food (not included - I recommend Learning Resources brand here for durable, beautiful play food)
A good way to keep them interested in this one is to periodically go over and rearrange or "set up" their kitchen again. They seem to really like messing it up again, or cooking up a storm. ;-)
5) Munchkin Ten Squirtin' Sea Buddies ($)

Soooo basic, but they love these (I introduced them in small groups, not all at once), and play happily every bathtime with them!
Some other good bath toys:
Alex Toys Rub a Dub Dirty Dogs  ($) - Little squirty dogs with "mud" spots that magically disappear when dogs are wet.
Alex Toys Magnetic Boats ($) - These little boats train together.  Cool!