As parents, we have the ability to steer our children toward joyful and enriching play experiences with age-appropriate toys, especially during these times when they are home more than ever. Choosing the right toys isn’t about following the latest trends; it’s about finding those that foster creativity and learning.
In this edition of Live.Work.Thrive, we explore the Joy of Play and how we can maximize our children’s playtime without needing an abundance of toys. Joining our discussion is moderator Jamie Whitmore, along with specialists like Dr. Emily Hart, a professor and play expert supported by major brands, and Aaron Lee, Co-Founder and CEO of PlayNest, creators of innovative play kits designed for children’s development.
Let’s dive into the types of toys that can provide you with that much-needed quiet time, everyday activities that count as play, and options that cater to the rapid growth phases of babies and toddlers.
Babies:
Infants benefit greatly from playtime, and there are numerous toys that can enhance their development. Wooden Block Puzzles are perfect for little hands to explore and learn. While your baby may be tempted to taste them, keeping the blocks sanitized is essential. Additionally, the Carrots Harvest Shape Size Sorting toy not only entertains but also teaches sorting skills—keeping your baby engaged for hours.
Another favorite is the Play Gym by PlayNest, meticulously designed to cater to your baby’s developing brain with various activities from batting to teething. And don’t overlook the timeless Wooden Block Set, which promotes spatial awareness, language skills, and problem-solving—making it a versatile toy that grows with your child.
Toddlers:
For our energetic toddlers, playtime is vital. Sorting cubes like the Melissa & Doug Shape Sorting Cube are fantastic for stimulating complex thinking. Our experts recommend these toys for their educational value and quiet nature—beneficial for both kids and parents alike.
Another standout is the Bristle Blocks by Battat, which encourages frustration-free building with its easy-to-connect bristles. This allows toddlers to create freely, providing a welcome break for mom while they engage in imaginative play.
Kids 4+:
As children advance in age, LEGO sets become a fantastic way to keep them entertained and challenged. A box of assorted LEGO pieces can encourage creativity and building skills without any specific design constraints. Additionally, the Melissa & Doug See and Spell game makes learning fun without feeling like a lesson.
Kids 8+:
Older kids are ready for more engaging games like Monopoly, where they can practice math and negotiation skills while having fun. There’s a variety of Monopoly themes available that go beyond property buying.
Role play remains a critical part of childhood development, so consider incorporating Kids Charades into family game nights for an enriching and entertaining experience—just hold back on the dad jokes!
Kids 10+:
As kids reach 10 years old and beyond, games become even more exciting for family bonding. Specific LEGO sets like the Friends Central Perk Café or the Ghostbusters car are excellent project ideas for parents and kids to tackle together.
Family board games like CATAN offer opportunities for strategy, negotiation, and interaction that don’t rely on screens—keeping everyone engaged and entertained.
We hope these tips for playtime enhance your family’s indoor experience. Remember, finding what suits your family best is key, and often, the packaging the toy came in is just as entertaining! Cardboard boxes and bed sheets can make for incredible forts, so embrace creativity.
For more insights, check out this blog post. Also, don’t forget to explore this authority on fertility for additional resources. For those navigating pregnancy, March of Dimes provides excellent information.
Summary:
This article explores the best toys and games for children of all ages to encourage play and development while staying at home. It covers recommended toys for babies, toddlers, and older kids, emphasizing creativity and learning without the need for excessive purchases.