Gift Ideas that Support Development

12.02.2019

Whether it’s the upcoming holidays, a birthday, or your child just needs something new to hold their attention, choosing toys that promote learning are a great way to help your child build skills through play. Try to stay away from toys that light up and make a lot of noise. And remember, kids need a model to learn, so make sure to get down on the floor, show your child how to play with the toy, and engage in back and forth activity. Here are some gift ideas that our therapists recommend:

Gift Ideas for Building Gross Motor Skills

Under 1 Year

Oball – Helps to build arm and grasp strength while encouraging reaching in an easy to grab toy
Tunnel – Helps build strength in the arms and encourages cross body movement through crawling
Push Toy – Helps build core and leg strength, develops balance, and encourages standing and walking

Gift Ideas for 1-3 Years

Ride on Toys – Helps develop balance, coordination, and strengthens core and leg muscles
Balls – Any size or sport will help develop hand eye coordination

3-5 Years

Rody – Helps develop balance, coordination, and strengthens core and leg muscles
Balance Bike – Helps develop balance, coordination, strengthens core and legs muscles, and is a great first step to learning how to ride a bike