Holiday buying for the youngsters in your family can often be tricky because kids’ abilities and interests are often so varied. When purchasing toys, it is important to remember that play gives your little ones an opportunity to develop and practice new skills. Toddlers are little explorers and learn by doing, so the toys and playthings your children have available to them can shape their development in important ways.
A group of physical therapists at the Woman’s Center for Wellness have put together a list of top buys that will not only entertain, but also assist your children with brain stimulating, skill-building fun. For more information regarding developmental milestones, click here.
Here are some great ideas when buying for baby (birth to 12 months):
- Baby Gym
- Play Tunnel
- Sophie the Giraffe
- Busy Ball Drop
- Ring Stacker
- Baby Play Table
- Baby Push Toy
- Books
Here are some great ideas when buying for toddlers (1 to 3 year old):
- Baby Dolls
- Shape Sorter
- Mega Blocks
- Puzzles with knobs
- Nesting Blocks
- Books
- Ride on Toys
- Stack and Sort Board
- Potato Head
Here are some great ideas when buying for youngsters (3 to 5 year old):
- Beginner Multi Piece Puzzles
- Easel and Art Supplies
- Pretend Play Sets (kitchen sets, pretend food to cut, doll houses, and costumes for pretend play)
- Tricycle
- Bouncing Toys
- Lacing Beads
- Play-Doh Kit
- Fine Motor Games
- Lego Blocks
- Books
Therapist, Stephanie Hoffman, was featured on WAFB. Click here to view.