Everything your toddler encounters contributes to their physical, mental, and social growth. The way they play should promote appropriate child development. Equip their playroom with the following educational toys to encourage healthy development and make the most of playtime.

Educational Toddler Toys for Child Development

1. Play Set

A large play set allows your toddler to pretend — a critical skill for expanding their imagination. Choose something your child seems to be interested in; there are several options that range from construction sets to mini kitchens. Hammering away on a colorful project or “microwaving” a meal boosts their creativity as well as their reasoning and motor skills. Invite a friend over for a play date; let them work together and build social skills.

2. Wooden Puzzle

This classic toy has been around for generations — and for good reason. It’s fun for any child to piece together, and the wood can withstand abuse from toddlers’ teeth. Choose multicolored letters or shapes to expand your child’s vocabulary, spatial recognition, and knowledge of colors. Fitting the pieces into the puzzle will also help develop motor skills in the fingers and hands.

3. Ball

These timeless toys promote excellent physical development. Large ones, like a kickball or beach ball, can be kicked around or picked up with both hands, targeting larger muscles. Toddlers can also grip smaller balls in their hands and throw them, focusing on smaller muscles and improving fine motor skills. Avoid tiny ones, like rubber bouncy balls, which can be choking hazards. There are endless games to play with a ball; give kids a bin or hoop to score in, or simply enjoy tossing one around.

In addition to playtime at home, let a professional child care center encourage your toddler’s healthy child development. Great Beginnings specializes in providing early childhood education to the infants, toddlers, and preschoolers of St. Charles and Cottleville, MO. Their highly-trained staff members teach a well-rounded curriculum to give your child a strong foundation. Kids have the opportunity to bond with peers and instructors alike in a fun, supportive environment. Learn more about their child development programs on their website. Contact the St. Charles location at (636) 724-5048 or the Cottleville location at (636) 447-4212 to schedule a visit.