Tips for Selecting Toys and Materials that Adapt to Your Growing Child

Building a Bright Future

Watching children grow and develop is one of the greatest joys of parenthood and teaching. To support their journey, it’s important to choose toys and materials that not only entertain but also evolve with their developmental stages. We’re excited to share how versatile, adaptable materials can foster continuous learning and provide endless fun for little ones.

Materials designed to grow with children adapt to different stages of development, offering varied ways to play and learn. This versatility means children can enjoy them for years. As children progress through different developmental stages, their needs and interests change. Growing materials can support milestones such as fine motor skills, problem-solving abilities, language development, and social interactions. Materials that can be used in multiple ways also inspire creativity and imaginative play. Children can explore new scenarios, create stories, and engage in pretend play, which is crucial for cognitive and emotional development. Introducing materials gradually is important to ensure each one is developmentally appropriate for your child. For example, nesting dolls can easily be separated so that children start with the largest doll first, and then as they grow, the smaller dolls can be introduced one by one. This develops fine motor skills, spatial reasoning, and eventually, sequencing. Another example would be introducing children to basic cooking tools for activities such as stirring and pouring, and as they develop, they can start to chop, mix, and follow more complex instructions. And of course, wooden blocks are a timeless classic that can be used in any number of ways, from year to year. The possibilities are endless!

Tips for Selecting Growing Toys and Materials

1. Keep it Simple!: This allows children to explore at their own pace and build upon their skills over time, encouraging creativity and adaptability as they grow. Versatility ensures that learning remains engaging and relevant, providing a solid foundation for future growth and exploration.
2. Look for Versatility: Choose toys and materials that offer multiple ways to play and can adapt to a child’s growing abilities and interests.
3. Prioritize Quality: Invest in well-made, durable items that can withstand years of use and play.
4. Encourage Open-Ended Play: Select toys and materials that stimulate creativity and imagination, allowing children to explore and invent new ways to play.
5. Consider Educational Value: Choose materials that promote learning and development, supporting various skills and milestones.

Here’s to building a brighter future with your child, one toy at a time!

Some Great materials that grow with your child! 

• These life cycle blocks are safe for 12+ months but can be a learning toy for up to 9 years of age. 
• This marble Game Sorting Color and Size can be simplified to be used with 3 year olds and then can be a cooperative game to be played until age 6. 
• This Dino Match and Measure can just be a fun exploration for two year olds and then can be used for measuring discovery up to age 6. 
• Computer coding is all about following directions these pre-coding stones can be used with 2 year olds but can also teacher pre-coding skills for elementary students. 
• These animal wooden 3 part cards can be a first picture to object matching work for your 2 year old and then be used again for early reading skills.