Whether you would like to admit it or not the holiday season is quickly approaching. It’s almost time to start thinking about holiday gift ideas. Of course my absolute favorite people to buy for are my boys. When shopping for them, I try to keep the educational value of a toy in mind. Three questions I ask myself:
1. Can this toy be used in a turn taking manner?
Communication is all about taking turns. Children need to learn turn taking skills in order to be conversationalists. Many toys lead to more taking opportunities than others, such as board games, balls, blocks, bubbles, and Mr. Potato Head.
2. Does this toy spark imagination and dramatic play?
Preschoolers can learn so much from toys that encourage dramatic or pretend play skills. Favorite dramatic play toys include farm sets, baby dolls, took kits, and doctor kits. I am a boy mom so even Nerf toys are on my holiday shopping list and make great dramatic play toys.
3. Does this toy challenge their developmental skills in several different ways?
A toy should not only entertain your child, but also help them develop speech, cognitive, and motor skills. Constructive toys such as Lego games are great toys that help a child develop in all areas of learning.
As your creating your holiday shopping list take a moment to think about the learning value of the gift. Stay tuned for a holiday shopping printable featuring top 50 language learning toys coming in mid November!
When it comes to holiday shopping do you prefer to experience the hustle and bustle at the malls or shop online through stores such as The Big W?
This post was sponsored by Big W. All opinions expressed are my own.
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