It only takes a few moments to realize, when rummaging through toy bins, that we have too many. Too many toys, too much mess, too much material. All of this makes children feel lost. Children need very little to grow and develop well. I would even say that children who own fewer toys tend to make more use of the material they own; their creativity is exploited to the maximum. Of course, there are toys that will last over time. In other words, there are toys and equipment that children can use from the infant period to the preschool period. These are "open" toys that can be transformed by children and used differently according to their stages of development.
There are many benefits to owning fewer toys. Children learn to pay attention to them, to use them differently. Visually, having fewer toys has a decluttering effect, giving children more space and more freedom. Don't forget all the money and space savings associated with buying fewer toys for the kids.
Below, I've listed 10 categories of essential toys for kids of all ages. Your child will be able to use these toys differently depending on their stage of development and make their own use of them.
Miscellaneous Blocks
Wooden blocks of different sizes, LEGO blocks, large building blocks... There are several kinds of blocks. It's good to offer an interesting variety for children to get them building, stacking, dumping and even transporting, especially if you have young toddlers in your group.
The collection: Assembly & construction
Figures of all kinds
Animals, characters of all kinds, dads and moms… Figurines , there are all types and formats. Just make a bin out of them and let the kids explore them. Both girls and boys will be able to have fun freely with figurines.
things that roll
Trucks, cars, tractors, motorcycles… the famous game vehicles . These are “ must haves ” for all ages.
Books
Books are a big favorite for all children. You can find them for all themes, for babies and adults alike.
Art materials that allow free expression
Here we leave aside the pre-drawn images and make room for free art and craft materials with which the children can let their creativity run wild. Paint, foil, color cards, crayons, scissors, glue, and any scrap material that can be cut out and transformed will do.
Sensory material
Bins of sand, modeling clay, legumes to transfer, rice… the possibilities are endless. Children love to handle, transfer, transport. In short, sensory bins are essential to have on hand.
Games for motor development
Outdoors or even indoors, it's important to have some things that will get kids moving. An engine block, balls, hoops, tunnels… Once again, there are many possibilities here to allow children to move and express their overflow of energy.
Suits
Here, no need for the latest costumes bearing the image of the most recent superhero. Just get your hands on old adult clothes, shoes, old necklaces and even scraps of different fabrics to let children's imaginations run wild.
dolls
Dolls to feed, to cuddle, to take care of… Dolls are essential, as much for boys as for little girls. Provide a few different dolls for your group; they will be used on many occasions.
nature's objects
Nature items such as pebbles, tree branches, shells, and dried tree leaves are all free items with multiple possibilities. Go on a getaway with the children and bring back these treasures. They can, among other things, be integrated into various DIY projects or be transported in the boxes of large trucks.
I think I just made it easy for you. Fewer toys, fewer purchases, less storage, less clutter, but above all, more possibilities for children. Think about it, everyone is a winner!
