In the Playroom 101 series, we’ve talked about how decluttering and having effective toy storage solutions supports independence in children and helps them to engage in meaningful play. But, did you know that toy selection is just as important in helping to keep children engaged? How do you know what works best for your little ones and your space? Here are a few things to remember when selecting toys to purchase or keep in a rotation.
1. If you’ve read the previous posts you probably already know my go to number 1 tip! Select open-ended toys. Blocks, Magna-tiles, and wooden play food are some of our favorites. These items can be used in so many different ways and support so many different play scenarios. They are also typically easy to store and can be moved from room to room in the event that you do not have a designated play area.
2. Let your child’s interests lead your decisions. We have a big music lover over here! One toy he always reaches for is his Remo drum. He also has an assortment of wooden instruments that are easy to switch in and out with other things that he may be interested in. Do you have a music lover? Or maybe a little one who is into trucks or animals? Find the thing that they are interested in and select toys to accommodate their interests.
3. Select one “big ticket” item. One. Just one. When I say big ticket it doesn’t necessarily have to be “big” in size. It’s the one thing that you just really have to have (and have space for). For us, ours is the light tablet we got for Christmas. It is easy to store and the materials we purchased to go with it (rainbow blocks, Magna-tiles, geometric solids) can all be used with or without the tablet. Decide what your big ticket item is, and build other toy choices around it.
4. Finally, select toys that support independence and allow your child the ability to help in some way. For us, we selected the Melissa and Doug broom set. JC always reaches for it. He loves to sweep up after sensory play activities and will often sweep his rug after playing. He has started doing this completely independent of me. It is always great to see him working through things independently!
Here are direct links to the items I mentioned and a few more of our favorites:
1. Shape Magnetic Tiles | 2. Remo Drum | 3. Wood Play Food | 4. Toddler Cleaning Set | 5. Wooden Unit Blocks | 6. Light Tablet & 3D Shapes | 7. Transparent Blocks
How about you? How did you select the toys you currently have in your play space? I’d love to hear about it. Join the conversation over on Instagram {@polishedplayhouse}.
Talk to you soon,
