During the preschool years, toys that promote problem solving, pretend play, exploration and independence will get you the most bang for your buck. While it can be tempting to purchase high tech toys for your toddler, the general rule of thumb is the more things a toy can do, the less a child can do with it.
During the preschool years, children enjoy mimicking the activities you do around the house. A broom for pretend play, or a baby to cuddle and care for, for example, are perfect choices for your toddler because they allow your child to mimic you, while at the same time, promote their own muscle development, large and small motor skill development and hand eye coordination.
So what are the best Christmas toys for your toddler?
For 12-24 month olds consider:
- Toys and containers for dumping and sorting
- Stacking cups
- Nesting toys
- Pounding toys
- Wooden blocks
- Balls
- Push and pull toys
- Tunnels
- Simple trains
- Simple instruments like egg shakers and floor drums
For 2 and 3 year olds:
- Small, plastic climbing structures and slides
- Water and sand tables
- Paper, crayon and paint
- Peg boards
- Dough and clay
- Dress up clothing
- Kitchenware
- Props for pretend play
- Tools
- Dolls and accessories
- Cars and trucks
- Puppets
- Ride on toys
If you’re feeling overwhelmed with your toddlers toy selection, consider rotating your child’s toys every few weeks. They will enjoy playing with toys that seem new to them and you’ll have less to put away!
What items are on your own toddler’s Christmas wish list this year? Share your own “must haves” below.
