Infants & Toddlers

Play is such a huge part of a young child's life. Toddlers learn primarily through play so a trip to the toy store is much more than simply fun and games. Educational Toys can help toddlers develop social skills, learn how the world around them works, and build a foundation for formal education later on. When my son was first born I was reluctant to expose him to any television at all. As he got older, and had a greater need to be entertained, I gave in and let him watch some of the Baby Einstein videos. Even though he was watching T.V., I was at least confident that he was getting some stimulation at the same time.

Every time I go to the store I see more and more electronics marketed to toddlers. Toddler Toys do not have to talk or have a lot of moving parts. In general, the simplest toys are often the best because they encourage toddlers to use their imagination. I stay away from most toys that do all the work for my toddler. Some toys don't require toddlers to do anything more than sit and watch. I'm a big fan of nearly any kind of blocks, and pretend play items such as, dolls, toy food, trains, cars, little people, and play housekeeping items. Toddlers don't often make a distinction between boy toys and girl toys. My sons enjoy playing with their toy kitchen just as much as any of their female friends. Quality play time allows toddlers to interact with their toys and imitate the behaviors that they see everyday.