As the holiday season approaches, many of us start thinking about the perfect gifts for our little ones. In the daycare setting, we see every day how the right toys can foster curiosity, creativity, and development in young children. When choosing toys, look for ones that are educational, open-ended, and engaging. Here are some qualities to consider when shopping for toys that will benefit your child’s growth and keep them entertained long after the holidays.
Educational Value
Toys that offer educational benefits help children learn essential skills in a fun, engaging way. Look for toys that support cognitive development, like puzzles, matching games, and building blocks. These toys introduce concepts such as shapes, colors, numbers, and problem-solving, laying the foundation for early learning in literacy and math.
- Tip: Look for toys that encourage children to think, analyze, and solve problems at their own pace. Educational toys should feel like play, not work!
Open-Ended Play
Open-ended toys allow children to use their imagination and creativity without strict rules or limits. These toys can be used in multiple ways, sparking creativity and allowing children to explore and experiment. Unlike toys with a single purpose, open-ended toys grow with children and can be enjoyed in new ways as they get older.
- Tip: In daycare, we see how children love to build stories, create scenarios, and engage in imaginative play with open-ended toys. These toys support their social, language, and cognitive development by encouraging them to think flexibly and explore their world.
Toys that Encourage Physical Activity
Toys that get children moving help develop gross motor skills and physical coordination. Active toys, such as balance bikes, jump ropes, or foam balls, are great for children’s physical health and help them release energy, which is especially important during colder months when outdoor play is limited. Toys that encourage physical activity build confidence and help children learn to control their movements. They also teach turn-taking and cooperation if used in group play settings.
- Tip: Even simple items like foam blocks or soft play mats can encourage movement, stretching, and tumbling.
Social and Emotional Development
Toys that promote social skills and emotional intelligence can be especially beneficial for young children. Dolls, stuffed animals, and pretend play sets encourage children to express emotions, build empathy, and practice social scenarios. Playing with these toys, especially in a group, supports children’s social and emotional skills.
- Tip: Board games and simple group activities are also great tools for learning social skills, as they introduce concepts like turn-taking, patience, and following rules.
Durability and Safety
Children’s toys should be sturdy, well-made, and safe. Opt for toys made from quality materials that can withstand daily play. Check for non-toxic materials, especially for young children who are still in the stage of exploring by putting objects in their mouths. Many well-crafted toys can be used for years, making them valuable not only in terms of longevity but also in sustainability.
- Tip: Look for toys labeled as meeting ASTM or CPSC standards, as these labels indicate that the toys meet safety regulations.
Limit Screens and Battery-Operated Toys
While there are many educational electronic toys, limiting screen-based toys and battery-operated toys is generally beneficial, especially for young children. Screen-free toys promote active, hands-on play, allowing children to use their creativity and imagination freely. Battery-operated toys can limit open-ended play, as they often have a set purpose that leaves less room for creativity.
- Tip: Focus on toys that encourage tactile interaction, exploration, and discovery. Studies have shown that young children benefit more from real-life play experiences rather than screen-based interactions.
A Few Toy Ideas Based on These Qualities:
- Building Sets: Wooden blocks, magnetic tiles, or interlocking bricks encourage creativity, problem-solving, and fine motor skills.
- Pretend Play Kits: Play kitchens, doctor kits, and tool sets allow children to imitate real-life scenarios, building social and language skills.
- Art Supplies: Crayons, markers, paper, and child-safe scissors help children express themselves creatively and develop fine motor control.
- Simple Board Games: Games like “Candy Land” or “Memory” encourage turn-taking, patience, and early cognitive skills.
- Musical Instruments: Instruments like drums, tambourines, and xylophones help children explore rhythm, coordination, and listening skills.
This holiday season, by focusing on toys that are educational, open-ended, and supportive of development, you’ll be giving your child gifts that go beyond the holiday excitement. With the right toys, you’re creating opportunities for learning, exploration, and joyful play—gifts that truly keep on giving.