Toys that Teach- How to Choose Learning Toys for Your Child

As an early interventionist, parents often ask me what educational toys they can purchase to help their little ones learn. The truth is that with some creativity, almost any toy can be a learning tool. Of course, some toys are more educationally driven than others, and we all have our favorites. Overall, though, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind when choosing toys with learning in mind.

Why am I buying it? This question is about purpose. Think about what specific skills you want to help your child develop. Maybe he needs to develop his pincer grasp, work on matching colors, or improve his self-help skills. Whatever the purpose (and there can be more than one) look for a learning toy that will fill that need. Try to fit the toy to your child's need, not the other way around. For instance, if your child needs to develop his pincer grasp, inset puzzles with small knobs are a great toy to use.

What can it do? This is all about versatility. Many toys only have one purpose, and for most kids that means they'll be bored with it quickly. Everyone has had the experience of purchasing a great-looking toy only to watch their child play with it for ten minutes and cast it aside. Instead, look for educational toys that are open-ended enough to be used in a variety of ways and to develop multiple skills. A set of wooden alphabet blocks is a great example of a versatile learning toy. They can be banged together, stacked into a tower, lined up in a train, or used for alphabet practice.

Will it last? This is about durability. The bottom line is that kids are rough on toys, even educational ones. Pieces get eaten, thrown, taken in the car, flushed down the toilet, and fed to the dog. Look for quality educational toys made of materials that can stand up to the wear and tear. Wooden toys are some of my favorites- they just have a good feel to them. Sturdy plastic toys are also a durable choice. For instance, a sturdy plastic shape sorting bucket is an educational toy that will withstand all manner of abuse.

Is it fun? At their most basic, toys are fun. Learning toys shouldn't be an exception. Play is a child's work, and a well-made, versatile toy that is matched to a child's needs will be fun to play with. Go with what your child likes. If he likes toys that light up and make music, look for that. If he loves dinosaurs, use that interest.

Once you know what to look for, you can find learning toys almost everywhere. In fact, some of the best educational toys aren't in that section of the store. If you don't believe me, just ask any toddler having a blast and practicing important skills while stacking plastic cups from the kitchen.