There are 2 types of toys:
Toys that entertain, with some educational value
Toys that engage and challenge children.
The first kind are toys that have minimal input from your child, toys that sing, move dance etc. would fall under this category.
The second type are more like activities – if you search for ‘montessori toys’ you will get a good idea of what I’m talking about: pattern matching, block stacking, magnetic tiles, jigsaw puzzles etc.
Whilst there is nothing particularly wrong with toys that entertain, toys that engage children offer far more in terms of learning opportunities, growth and development.
This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy toys that entertain, these have their place in everyone’s childhood and still offer some educational value.
You may find if most of the toys your child has are entertaining toys they may not have much to do.
I would recommend having a mix of toys, but much more of the activity type toys if you want your child to stay occupied for longer (who doesn’t!?)
Here are some examples:
This is a pattern matching activity, they come in various designs and price points. (Shein have very low priced options)
Busy board or bags are so cute! They average around £10 – £15
Counting toys with magnets, great because there is no mess. Really good prices in B&M at time of writing -£5 each!
I am a big fan of balance/scales as they let kids get really stuck in with figuring out numbers:
For your little mechanics, they are a bit pricey, but last a long time – again shein will have cheaper versions.
shape sorting and counting
A different kind of building toy
Writing toys: I came across these kinds of writing toys at an exhibtion. They have little balls in the board and that yellow pen has a magnet instead of an actual nib. The pen pulls up the balls as you pass over them. This particular one has letters but some are just grids that allow you to draw shapes and patterns as well.
The idea is to get your child used to holding a pen like tool and develop strength in their fingers.
I am a big fan of anything that makes maths tangible. This is one of my favourite toys, give your child a big calculator and they will love acting like a grown up and doing sums! This can be used in different ways as your child grows.
Who doesn’t love writing on whiteboards?? The bigger the better. Young children shouldn’t be spending too much time doing close up small reading/writing. Large work surfaces and pictures are better for their developing eyes.
Projectors are also great and you can get basic ones for around £100 now.
Indoor Climbing
If you’ve got the space, I would definitely recommend some kind of indoor climbing equipment.
Children need to burn off energy and do dangerous things in a safe way.
The UK weather does not allow for sustained outdoor play so these are great for ensuring your child continues to develop physically.
I will continue to add to this list over time, if you have any recommendations, pls contact me.