Tips for toy shopping
Christmas is just around the corner. If toys are on your shopping list, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose toys that can help children learn new skills and practice social skills.
- Don’t buy a toy just because you had one as a child.
- Think outside of the gender box.
- Follow manufacturer guidelines for appropriate ages.
Fundamentals
- Blocks: Wooden blocks can be used in a variety of imaginative play.
- Legos: Manipulative toys encourage fine motor skills and creativity.
- Dolls: Children practice caretaking and social skills with baby dolls.
- Play kitchen and toolbox: Toys based on real life items allow children to imitate adults.
- Dress-up: From a pirate to a princess, children’s imaginations are limitless with hats, scarves, masks, costume, etc.
- Animals: Dinosaurs, farm and zoo animals inspire make believe.
- Art supplies: Encourage little artists with playdough, paint, markers, paper, stickers, etc.
- Musical toys: Children explore sound and rhythm.
- Physical toys: Promote coordination and gross motor skills with balls, sports equipment, jump ropes, riding toys, bikes, etc.
- Board games: From cooperative play to problem solving, children learn lifelong skills playing games.
- Books: Create a love of reading for children by reading to them and being a role model by reading yourself.
You don’t have to spend a lot of money on fancy, trendy toys. The most important gift you can give the children in your life is your time.