Preschool Toys that Encourage Learning

We know that “play is a child’s work” but it is up to us to make sure that our children’s play adds up to a college graduate rather than a high school drop out. Young children are forming the basis of their future in their early years. If most of their time is spent watching T.V. or playing with toys that do not enrich their lives then we are not investing all that we can in their future. We are bombarded by toys in the stores and in ads. How is a parent to know which toys to choose for their child? A simple rule is to ask yourself what the toy will do for your child. Does the toy encourage imagination or thought? Does the toy challenge the child but avoid frustration? Every child is different and has different skill levels but there are some basic toys that in general can encourage learning.

Unit blocks are some of my favorites. They can be used in so many different ways and grow with the child as they learn new skills. Traditional wooden unit blocks are wonderful for teaching math skills. They show a child proportion through play. If you buy properly cut unit blocks each block makes up a percentage of the next one. One block equals half of another and that block equals half of the next. It may seem like a simple concept but it is an essential first math skill. They are also so versatile that they can be used to build a castle or a road, a tower or a wall. Children of all ages love these and their creations simply grow bigger as they do. I have seen children use these in a toy workshop as building materials and as cars when they want to use a little imagination. Because unit blocks have so many varied uses they are my top pick for educational preschool toys. They can be a bit expensive but they will never break or wear down. If you have woodworking skills these can be made. You want to be sure you have or make an accurate pattern so that your child will get all of the math benefits from this wonderful toy. Discount school supply (discountschoolsupply.com) has these blocks at a reasonable price.

Legos, while not as versatile as unit blocks, can be played with in many of the same ways and teach many of the same mathematical skills as the unit blocks. For older children, you can find patterns to make different structures and practice direction following skills. The pieces that you can buy for lego sets are more varied than they are for unit blocks and the bright colors appeal to children. Sorting skills can be practiced as children divide the blocks into separate colors. They instinctively do this, unaware that they are learning in the process. These toys are very durable. I have some that my children play with that are 20 years old and you can’t tell them apart from the new ones (with the exception that some of the accessories are a bit dated now). These toys are quite expensive as well but well worth the price. They can sometimes be found second hand at garage sales or online.

Pretend play comes naturally to a child and teaches so many valuable life lessons. Through pretend play they learn how to treat one another and how to show empathy and nurture others. Dolls, just plain old battery free dolls, have always been a favorite of boys and girls alike. Many parents are reluctant to allow boys to play with dolls but in a society with so many dead beat dads and rampant abuse, empathy is just as important of a skill for boys to learn at an early age. A boy that plays with dolls will not be scarred for life and will still enjoy traditional boy activities but if your child shows interest in playing with dolls it is important to follow their lead and allow them an outlet for nurturing play if they desire it.

Toy Kitchens have always been a favorite with children and allow them to mimic the things that they see adults do every day. Playing house prepares a child for the things they will do in the future and teaches them valuable social skills. You can see a child’s home life by watching them play house. It is important to purchase a sturdy toy kitchen. These have the potential to take a lot of wear and tear. I try and stick with Little Tykes brand. They have a history of building strong quality toys that can hold up to children’s play. I have personally enjoyed the Little Tikes Cook N Clean Kitchen Center. It not only has everything you would need to use in a kitchen but also includes a laundry center to help kid’s role play housekeeping skills. This design allows the kitchen to be folded so that, when needed, it can take up a smaller space. I tend to stay away from toys that talk to kids simply because they grow tired of them and they don’t require as much imagination. This kitchen does have some sound features but they are not over powering. I have also been pleased with the Inside/Outside Cook’n Grill Kitchen, also by Little Tikes. This kitchen includes an outside grill play area. Because it is back to back it cannot be placed against a wall but if you have the space this looks like a great toy.

There is a huge variety of pretend play toys available. Fisher Price Little People have always been a hit. They are durable and can be played with in many different ways. A lot of them are beginning to come with sound features that require batteries which will require changing. Most of the time I end up leaving these out unless they really need the sound. Animal toys by Schleich are fantastic toys. These are also on the more expensive side but they hold up phenomenally well. I have some of these that are over 10 years old and look brand new. Most kids love animals and these can be incorporated into block play and many other activities.

A well rounded preschooler’s toy collection will promote learning and expand their skills in an enjoyable way. These toys are only a small sample of the many wonderful toys out there. They can be rounded out by a good supply of art materials and adults who are willing to share their love of learning. Above all, the best way to encourage learning in young children is to create an environment that is comfortable and conducive to learning. A child will only truly learn when they feel loved and cared for and are provided with a kaleidoscope of experiences.