It only takes a few moments to realize, when rummaging through the toy bins, that we have too many. Too many toys, too much clutter, 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 have fewer toys tend to make more use of the materials they do have; their creativity is stretched to the limit. Of course, there are toys that will last over time. In other words, there are toys and materials that children can use from infancy to preschool. These are "open" toys that can be transformed by children and used differently depending on their developmental stages.
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 de-cluttering effect, giving children more space and more freedom. Don't forget all the money and space savings associated with buying fewer toys for children.
Below, I have listed 10 categories of essential toys for children of all ages. Your child will be able to use these toys differently depending on their developmental stage and make their own use of them.
Miscellaneous blocks
Wooden blocks of different sizes, LEGO blocks, large building blocks... There are many kinds of blocks. It is good to offer an interesting variety to children to get them to build, stack, transfer and even transport, especially if you have young trotters in your group.
The collection: Assembly & construction
Figures of all kinds
Animals, characters of all kinds, moms and dads... There are figurines of all types and sizes. Just make a bin of them and let the children explore them. Both boys and girls can play freely with figurines.
The things that roll
Trucks, cars, tractors, motorcycles... the famous game vehicles. These are musts for all ages.
The books
Books are a big hit for all children. You can find books for all themes, for babies as well as for older children.
Art materials that allow free expression
Here, we leave out the pre-designed images and make room forfree art and craft materials with which children can let their creativity flow. Paint, leaves, colored cards, pencils, scissors, glue and any other recycled material that can be cut and transformed will do the trick.
Sensory material
Containers of sand, play dough, legumes to be decanted, rice... the possibilities are endless. Children love to manipulate, decant and transport. In short, sensory bins are a must-have for any child.
Games for motor development
Outside or even inside, it is important to have some things that will make the children move. A motor block, balls, hoops, tunnels... Once again, there are many possibilities to allow children to move and to externalize their excess energy.
Costumes
There's no need for the latest superhero costumes here. Just get your hands on old adult clothes, shoes, old necklaces and even scraps of different fabrics to let the kids' imagination run wild.
Dolls
Dolls to feed, to cuddle, to take care of... Dolls are essential for both boys and girls. Have a few different dolls for your group; they will be used on many occasions.
The objects of nature
Nature objects such as rocks, tree branches, shells and dried tree leaves are all free items with many possibilities. Go on a trip with the children and bring back these treasures. They can be incorporated into various craft projects or transported in the boxes of large trucks.
I think I just made it easier for you. Less toys, less shopping, less storage, less clutter, but most importantly, more opportunities for the kids. Think about it, everyone wins!
