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Toddler Toys
Toddler Toys

Play is how toddlers learn about the world, and their toys have an important role in this. That needn’t mean a lot of expense - for example, you can make a good ‘den’ using a clothes horse and an old sheet, a house from a big cardboard box, or a shoe shop with all your shoes laid out in a row. However, a few key toys will prove a good investment.
Sit-and-ride or push-along toys
These will help with early walking. Make sure the toy is sturdy, and will not tip over easily if your toddler uses it to pull herself to her feet. These toys can be used in many kinds of play, especially if they have a storage section and can be loaded with smaller items. They make a good first birthday present as they are likely to be used daily for the next year or more.

‘Little people’ toys
Any toy that has several small people within it, like a bus or plane with passengers, or moveable figures that fit inside a house, will allow your toddler to play at organising the world. She can be in charge, choose where people go and what they do. You may well find her talking as she plays, about going to the shops, park, granny’s… as she thinks about the things you do together. This reflects her growing understanding of the world.

Bath toys
These are always good value, as most toddlers need a bath at the end of the day, both to get clean and to help them get ready for bed. Bath toys teach lessons about cause and effect: "If I fill up the little boat, it sinks..." and also provide straightforward fun as they splish and splash in the water.

‘Grown-up’ toys
Toddlers often imitate the things they see you doing. Offer him a mini dustpan and brush, garden trowel and fork, or just his own cloth so he can ‘help’ you with the dusting.

Garden games
If you have outside space, a sandpit, paddling pool or mini climbing frame will get plenty of use each summer, although they can be expensive. But even a cheap inflatable beach ball will get your toddler running about, rolling round on it, and learning how to kick and throw.

Safety mark
Before you buy any toy, remember to check that it carries a CE mark, which means that it meets the required minimum safety standards. Also check that it’s suitable for your child’s age.

Remember
Many activities need no special toys - a walk to the park, a shopping trip to the supermarket, a ride on a bus, or half an hour bouncing on the bed can all give shared pleasure.

For the next Your Toddler Guide Chapter, Out & About, Click here arrow

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