There are an overwhelming number of toys and products for children of all ages, especially preschool age. Of course, most parents have neither the space nor the budget to buy all the latest products. So, we have come up with this list of five kinds of toys that every child should own. These are core products that will encourage imagination, have educational benefits, and inspire creativity.
This post contains affiliate links. I’m a teacher, I have to overcompensate somehow! But let’s be honest, I’ll probably blow it all on a coconut milk latte anyway.
5 Kinds of Toys Every Child Should Own
Wooden Building Blocks
Building toys are really important for children to learn and practice a variety of skills. Babies can practice their hand-eye coordination as they learn how to pick up blocks and explore them using their hands and mouth. Toddlers can use wooden blocks to make towers and learn to name different colors and letters if ABC blocks are used. Kids can use their imagination to make things with their blocks, or have competitions to see who can build the tallest towers! Older kids can use their alphabet blocks to spell out words too. Kids of all ages will love this classic toy, and learn so much from playing with it.
Arts and Crafts Supplies
Although many parents are afraid of doing crafts with young children because of the mess which sometimes follows, crafting with kids is fun and educational. Kids don’t need a lot of fancy supplies – some different papers, stickers, glitter, paint and glue is enough for young children to get started. Kids love being creative, and showing off their creations to friends and family will give them a real confidence boost. If you are worried about the mess, try crafting outdoors on a nice day, or put a large, old sheet down to cover the floor. Art kits are a great way to start!
Dress Up Clothes
Most children love playing dress up, whether this is using fancy dress costumes or simply raiding mom and dad’s wardrobe! You could make a box full of old clothes and accessories for them to explore – they will have hours of fun role playing and putting on shows! Dress up play is great for kids to develop their imagination and improve their language and communication skills.
Musical Instruments
Many kids are naturally drawn towards toys and objects which make a noise! Exploring music and sounds is beneficial for kids of all ages. It is never too early for your child to start learning to play an instrument. If you are on a tighter budget, prepare a box of household objects which make interesting sounds. You could make a shaker using a bottle filled with dry rice or pasta, or use pots and bowls as drums with wooden spoons as the drum sticks!
Stuffed Animals and Dolls
Stuffed animals are important to children of all ages. As well as being an item to bring comfort, stuffed animals can also help kids practice nurturing and caring for others. Toddlers and school age children love to take care of their ‘sick’ dolly or teddy! Some kids even enjoy talking to and playing make believe with their dolls and teddies. This can help improve communication skills, and give kids more confidence when speaking to other people.
Emily Dick is a mom of one who is new to the world of blogging. She is currently working on creating new and interesting content for WhoooPSAdaisy, a website which helps parents find the best toys and products for their babies and children. The site is named after Emily’s three year old daughter, Daisy, who inspired Emily to start her blogging journey.
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Erica Leggiero, M.S. Ed.
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