Previously I told you that the kids on your holiday shopping list probably have enough toys. And they probably do.
However, if you’re shopping for a little someone young enough to not have accumulated the basics yet, or you wish to surprise them with something special, this article is for you.
Circle around your favorite big box store and you'll easily find an abundance of inexpensive, noisy, light-up, plastic toys ready to be popped into your shopping cart, virtual or otherwise.
They feature characters you recognize. They’re made of materials that may or may not be toxic. They are very likely low-quality and not built to last. Their sounds and lights leave for very little imagination on the part of the child. And it’s possible they have been produced by slave labor in China.
But it’s a big world out there, and just a little bit more digging will lead you to a plethora of beautiful, high-quality toys that will actually enhance the play experience and development of the kids you give them to.
Here are six toys every child should have with specific examples for your holiday shopping list.
Blocks
These are truly the building blocks of play. The youngest of children can benefit from simply handling blocks, and their play will advance with these simple toys as they grow.
Long after their motor skills are developed enough to construct a balanced tower, children will continue to turn their blocks into lift-a-bridge on their train set or a wall for their doll’s room, and on and on. The possibilities are endless. Here are some of my favorites:
Classic ABC Blocks by Uncle Goose. These beautifully crafted wooden blocks are made in the USA. Uncle Goose offers an impressive variety of other products as well.
