Educational Toys

Many parents are on the lookout for educational toys. The reasons for this are varied; some parents find that they want their "money's worth" in the toys they buy, and find that educational toys last longer and hold children's attention longer (even for years). Others choose educational toys as a way to jump-start learning and give their kids the best start in life. Some educational toys can be used to help children with disabilities as well.

What constitutes an "educational toy"? Generally, educational toys have learning as their primary purpose. While a child can learn through free play with random objects, educational toys often have a particular agenda such as learning colors, the alphabet, or how electricity works. 

Examples of Educational Toys

Some examples of educational toys include the following:

* Wooden building blocks - Did you know these are considered educational toys? Many of us grew up with these sturdy toys that teach young children important concepts such as spatial relationships, three-dimensional shapes, and the principles of building. Alphabet blocks are helpful in learning letters; children will recognize the names and shapes of letters when it comes time for school.

* Models - Learning to build model airplanes, boats, cars, and so forth is quite educational. Children learn how things go together and fit, not unlike a three-dimensional puzzle.

* Puzzles - Speaking of puzzles, these are considered educational toys as well. They are said to improve hand-eye coordination, enhance problem-solving skills, and sharpen fine motor skills.

* Musical instruments - Children tend to gravitate toward musical instruments, and learning to play an instrument can help children learn discipline and foster a sense of achievement.

* Electronic and science toys - From learning about how electricity and circuits work to building a motor, this category of toys teaches children the principles of science and may help them with learning across the spectrum.

What are the Best Educational Toys for Babies and Toddlers?

* Activity tables - These engaging toys are rated as top toys for toddlers.

* Refrigerator magnets - Believe it or not, there are singing magnetic alphabet letters for kids to use on the refrigerator! Children can form words with the magnets and learn the names and sounds of letters.

* Wooden toys - Generally speaking, wooden toys have advantages over plastic ones. For one thing, wooden toys do not contain any BPAs or other dubious or harmful chemicals used in the making of plastics. For another, wooden toys tend to last a long time - even a lifetime - and can be passed on to another generation.

* Art supplies - Clay, watercolor, pencils, markers, and so forth enchant many a toddler and help them learn as well.