Paper and cards
Blank sheets, sturdy cardboard cards, old greeting cards. Use them for drawing, writing first letters, making cut-up pictures and homemade game boards.
Resources
Useful resources
Developmental play doesn't require a room full of toys. Often one box of simple things that can be used in different ways is enough. Here we list the kinds of things that work, without brands or stores, as well as what's best not to give young children.
The simpler the object, the more games it makes: in a single evening a box can be a house, a car and a ship.
How this section works: we name types of objects, not specific products. Before giving your child a new toy, check the age label on the box and the manufacturer's instructions.
What to keep in the play box
Six kinds of things that most of the games in this guide are built from.
Large blocks
Wooden or plastic blocks big enough that they can't fit in a child's mouth. Use them for building, counting and sorting by color.
Soft ball
A light ball that's safe to toss indoors. Great for attention games: catch it if you hear an animal's name, let it go if it's a piece of furniture.
Boxes
Cardboard boxes of different sizes become houses, garages, treasure chests and shape sorters. Remove sharp staples and plastic wrap beforehand.
Pencils and crayons
Chunky pencils and wax crayons are easy for small hands to hold. Draw not only pictures but also roads, mazes and treasure maps.
Simple figures
Animals, little people and toy cars without small removable parts. They're handy for acting out stories, counting and sorting into groups.
What not to give little ones
- Small parts, beads and little balls that a child could put in their mouth or nose.
- Magnets, especially small strong ones: keep them separate and only for older children under supervision.
- Button batteries and toys whose battery compartment opens without a tool.
- Toys with long cords and ribbons that a toddler could get tangled in.
- Pieces from sets meant for older children: store them separately and put them away right after play.
- Toys without an age label or clear manufacturer's instructions.
Related sections
- Topics
Topics for preschoolers and early-grade children, plus a catalog of the guide's standalone articles.
- Activities
Short play activities by skill: what the game is, what it builds, and how to make it easier or harder.
- FAQ
Answers about safety, what to do when a game isn't working, and screens in the family.
Sources
- Age labeling and toy manufacturers' instructions
- Pediatricians' advice on toy safety at home (in general terms)
The guide is written in general terms, drawing on toy manufacturers' instructions, general safety advice from pediatricians and our editors' own experience. Every child plays and grows at their own pace, so adapt the ideas to your child and discuss any questions about their development with specialists.