
Best Toys for Young Children
Need gift ideas for your child at the holidays? Choose a gift that will be fun but also support your child’s learning, social skills, and emotional development.
Research has shown that there are certain toys that children not only enjoy at certain ages, but that actually support your child’s growth and development. So, when choosing gifts for a young child, choose a toy that will foster your child’s growth and development.
For children ages 1 to 3 years, here are some toys that promote learning and social-emotional functioning:
Push-pull and ride-on toys
Small tricycles and wagons
Simple puzzles, shape sorters, peg boards
Movement games
Large beads
Blocks, stacking rings
Picture books
Crayons, markers and clay
For children ages 3 to 5 years, here are some items and toys that will promote creativity, problem-solving, and social skills:
Dress-up with accessories
Puppets
Large bead-threading and lace sets
Storybooks
Simple board games (Hi-Ho Cherry-O, Candyland)
Puzzles (no more than 24 pieces)
When choosing a gift for a young child, choose a gift that keeps on giving. These toys and items will last several years because spark the child’s curiosity and creativity.
Learn more about child psychology at Ochsner.