There’s nothing better than watching children’s eyes light up on Christmas morning as they open their gifts. With the variety of toys (both low and high-tech) on the market, parents can quickly get overwhelmed finding toys that are that good balance between fun and educational, safe and engaging. This is especially true when looking for gifts for children with developmental or sensory needs. To help parents out this season, we’ve created a cheat sheet that identifies options for the best development toys for toddlers along with links for easy shopping.

Core Development Areas and Recommended Toys for Toddlers

Fine Motor Skills

While it may be a few more years before your toddler is texting, playing musical instruments, or using a game controller, it is important that they develop the fine motor skills needed to do so. Consider looking for these types of toys:

• Chunky wooden puzzles with large knobs: Perfect for developing grasp and hand control
• Large wooden beads and lacing cards: Excellent for eye-hand coordination
• Stacking cups or blocks: Help develop spatial awareness and precision
• Play-Doh and modeling clay: Strengthen hand muscles and finger dexterity

Gross Motor Development

Gross motor skills are the large sweeping movements we make with our arms, legs, and torso. These skills require coordination between our muscles, bones, and nerves, which are also related to balance, coordination, body/spatial awareness, and reaction time. Here are types of toys that help young children develop gross motor skills:

• Push-and-pull toys: Support walking stability and balance
• Soft foam climbing blocks: Safe for climbing and spatial exploration
• Ball pit with large, textured balls: Encourages whole-body movement
• Ride-on toys without pedals: Build leg strength and balance

Cognitive Development

From birth to two years old, toddlers learn through discovery and exploration, key components necessary for cognitive development. Between 18 months and two years, toddlers’ memory and processing skills improve, and they develop new problem-solving strategies. Here are toys that can enhance cognitive development:

• Shape sorters: Teach problem-solving and shape recognition
• Simple matching games: Develop memory and recognition skills
• Musical instruments: Support rhythm and cause-and-effect understanding
• Picture books with texture elements: Combine learning with sensory exploration

Special Considerations for Different Needs

When choosing development toys for toddlers with different needs, consider things like the child’s abilities, their sensory needs, and their behavioral traits or triggers. Children with disabilities and emotional behavior disorders often lack strong social interaction and communication skills.

For Children with Sensory Processing Issues

Tactile Exploration

• Sensory bins filled with rice or dried beans, water beads, or Kinetic sand
• Textured balls
• Weighted stuffed animals can provide calming pressure
• Textured wall panels

Visual Processing

• Light-up toys with adjustable brightness
• High-contrast picture books
• Color-sorting toys with bold, clear colors
• Mirror toys: Safe and shatter-proof for self-discovery

For Children with Motor Skill Challenges

Enhanced Grip Toys

• Extra-large building blocks
• Thick-handled brushes and tools
• Magnetic tiles with strong connections
• Foam puzzle pieces with easy-grip edges

Adaptive Play Items

• Suction-based toys: Stay in place during play
• Switch-adapted toys: Easier to activate
• Stabilized art easels: Support drawing and painting
• Weighted utensils: Build strength while playing

Safety Considerations

• Choose age-appropriate sizes to prevent choking hazards
• Inspect toys regularly for loose parts
• Ensure materials are non-toxic and washable
• Look for rounded edges and durable construction

Tips for Maximizing Play Value

1. Rotate Toys Regularly
   • Keep 4-5 toys available at a time
   • Switch toys weekly to maintain interest
   • Combine different types of toys to encourage varied play

2. Create Inclusive Play Spaces
   • Set up at child’s height
   • Ensure good lighting
   • Provide comfortable seating options
   • Include space for movement

3. Follow Your Child’s Lead
   • Observe which toys capture their interest
   • Notice what causes frustration
   • Adapt play based on energy levels
   • Allow for independent exploration

Budget-Friendly Tips for Development Toys for Toddlers

• Focus on versatile toys that serve multiple purposes
• Consider toy libraries or lending programs
• Look for durable materials that will last
• Start with basics and add gradually

The best developmental toys support your child’s growth while making play fun and engaging. For children with special needs, the right toys can provide crucial support for developing skills and managing sensory experiences. Always prioritize safety and your child’s individual preferences when making selections and remember that simple toys often provide the richest play experiences. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s fine, gross, or cognitive development, schedule a free consultation with Brighton’s pediatric therapy clinic.