In this video, Emma Hubbard shares her recommendations for toys that are developmentally beneficial for one to one and a half year olds. She emphasizes that toddlers often prefer simpler toys over complex ones for optimal play and learning. From fine motor skills to communication skills to pretend play, Emma covers a variety of toy categories that promote both fun and development.
As a pediatric occupational therapist, Emma highlights the importance of choosing toys that are not only engaging but also beneficial for a child’s development. The toys she recommends focus on specific skills such as fine motor coordination, communication, and movement. By providing practical and cost-effective toy options for 1 year olds, Emma helps parents and caregivers make informed choices for their little ones’ playtime.
Fine Motor Development
Toys that aid in fine motor development are essential for 1-year-olds as they begin to explore and manipulate objects with their hands. Nesting cups are a classic option that allows children to stack cups within each other and work on fitting toys together. Ring stackers are another great toy at this age, where children start to put rings on and take them off repetitively, improving their grasp and coordination. Pop-up toys are fantastic for developing finger strength and control, as children learn to press buttons to make items pop up. Shape sorters provide a challenge as children learn to fit shapes into corresponding slots, enhancing hand-eye coordination. Ball runs are excellent for fine motor skills, as children practice dropping a ball and watching it roll down, encouraging precise release and hand movements. Inset puzzles with knobs help children work on their pincer grip, allowing them to pinch puzzle pieces and develop precise hand movements. Balls, hammer toys, and musical toys are also recommended for fine motor skill development, providing a sensory experience and encouraging engagement.
Communication Skills
Board books with thick pages are ideal for 1-year-olds as they can engage with the colorful pictures and textures while hearing simple stories. Touch and feel elements in books offer tactile stimulation, allowing children to explore different textures and senses. Musical books add an interactive element to reading, engaging children with sounds and music, enhancing their auditory development and pincer grip.
Pretend Play
Toys that promote pretend play are crucial for one-year-olds to engage in imaginative and creative activities. Vehicles, animal toys, and teddy bears with play kits are excellent choices for encouraging role-playing and storytelling. These toys allow children to use their imagination, develop social skills, and explore the world around them through play.
Crawling and Walking
Toys that encourage movement and physical activity are essential for 1-year-olds as they start to explore their environment more actively. String toys provide a fun way for children to practice pulling and manipulating objects, enhancing their gross motor skills. Push toys and push trollies offer support and stability as children learn to walk and move around independently.
Simple Toys vs. Complex Toys
When choosing toys for toddlers, it’s important to consider simplicity over complexity. Children tend to prefer simpler toys that are easier to understand and play with. Simple toys are often more engaging and effective in promoting development than complex ones. It’s essential to select toys that cater to the child’s age and developmental stage to ensure they are engaging and beneficial.
Developmental Benefits
Toys play a vital role in the development of 1-year-olds by providing both fun and developmental benefits. Recommended toys for one to one and a half-year-olds include options that support fine motor skills, communication skills, pretend play, and physical movement. By selecting age-appropriate toys, parents can help their children grow and learn through play effectively.
Disclaimer
The content provided is intended for informational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance regarding the health and development of children. Affiliate links may be included to support the channel, but viewers are not obligated to use them. The channel is not responsible for third-party claims or content accuracy.
Follow Emma Hubbard
For more insights and recommendations on developmental toys for toddlers, follow Emma Hubbard on Instagram @brightest.beginning. Stay updated on the latest tips and suggestions for promoting child development through play.
Cost-Effective Toys
Simple and cost-effective toys can be incredibly beneficial for the development of 1-year-olds. By focusing on engaging and age-appropriate toys, parents can provide valuable learning experiences for their children without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
In conclusion, toys are instrumental in fostering the development of 1-year-olds across various domains. From fine motor skills to communication abilities, pretend play, and physical movement, toys play a vital role in enriching children’s growth and learning. By selecting toys that are engaging, age-appropriate, and safe, parents can support their child’s development effectively. It’s essential to prioritize simple, cost-effective toys that offer both fun and developmental benefits, creating a positive and enriching play environment for toddlers.