Best Toys For Daycare: Age-Appropriate Toys
Hello Daycare Owners,
Are you tired of endlessly searching for the perfect toys that not only suit the age range of your daycare children but also keep them engaged?
Choosing the right toys is essential to help kids develop their motor skills, creativity, and imagination. Best Toys for daycare include Language Development Toys, Washable Toys, and Multiplayer Toys.
Excited to know more about those toys? Keep reading I have created a list of toys that includes age-appropriate toys, educational toys, Motor skills development toys, a shopping list, and factors to consider while making a purchase.
Lets get started with those!
Best Enganging Toys For Daycare
Here are a few of the best engaging toys for daycare. I have made sure to add links to recommended toys so that you can have a hassle-free experience while exploring those. Enjoy your treat!
Age-Appropriate Toys
Age-appropriate toys are essential for children’s development as they cater to their specific developmental needs. Here are some examples of toys suitable for different age ranges:
Best Infant Toys
When it comes to selecting toys for infants, prioritizing sensory and visual stimulation is crucial for their early developmental stages.
Soft and Textured Toys for Sensory Development – Babies explore the world through touch, making soft and textured toys ideal for stimulating their developing senses. These toys encourage infants to grasp, squeeze, and explore different textures, fostering essential motor skills and tactile awareness.
Recommended Toy: Baby Einstein 4-in-1 Kickin’ Tunes Music and Language Play Gym
This versatile play gym offers a soft and padded surface perfect for tummy time. The hanging toys feature various textures, inviting infants to touch and feel. The multi-sensory experience is complemented by music and language development features, making it an engaging choice for sensory exploration.
High-Contrast Items for Visual Stimulation – Infants are drawn to high-contrast patterns and bold colors, as their developing eyesight is more responsive to sharp contrasts. Opting for toys with strong visual elements helps improve visual tracking skills and attention span.
Recommended Toy: Fisher-Price Baby Portable Chair Kick & Play Deluxe Sit-Me-Up Seat with Piano Learning Toy & Snack Tray
This portable chair not only provides a comfortable seat but also incorporates a visually stimulating piano learning toy. The contrasting colors and interactive features not only captivate your baby’s attention but also encourage kicking and reaching, promoting both visual and physical development.
Soothing Musical Crib Toy for Relaxation – Creating a calm and relaxing environment is essential for an infant’s well-being. A musical crib toy with soothing sounds and gentle lights can aid in bedtime routines and contribute to a peaceful sleep.
Recommended Toy: Baby Einstein Sea Dreams Soother Musical Crib Toy and Sound Machine
This crib toy not only provides soft, plush companions for your baby but also features captivating underwater scenes with gentle lights and melodies. The soothing sounds create a serene atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for both entertainment and relaxation.
Best Toddlers Toys
When it comes to toddlers, playtime is not just about fun; it’s also a crucial time for honing basic motor skills and cognitive abilities. Here are some recommended toys designed to encourage puzzle-solving, building, and the development of fundamental motor skills:
Simple Puzzles and Building Blocks – Toddlerhood is a pivotal stage for cognitive development, and toys that promote problem-solving and spatial awareness can play a significant role in fostering these skills.
Recommended Toy: LeapFrog 2-in-1 LeapTop Touch, Pink
- Combines electronic learning with hands-on activities.
- Features a laptop design with buttons for engaging learning games.
- Encourages fine motor skills through interactive play.
Toys that Promote Basic Motor Skills – Basic motor skills form the foundation for more complex movements later in life. Toys that encourage reaching, grasping, and coordination are invaluable during this stage.
Recommended Toy: Melissa & Doug Shape-Sorting Wooden Dump Truck Toy With 9 Colorful Shapes and 2 Play Figures – Vehicle/Shape Sorter
- Wooden dump truck with colorful shapes for sorting.
- Promotes hand-eye coordination and shape recognition.
- Enhances fine motor skills through shape manipulation.
- Interactive Drum Set for Musical Development –
Exploring different senses, including auditory skills, is crucial for a well-rounded toddler experience. Musical toys can be particularly engaging.
Recommended Toy: VTech KidiBeats Kids Drum Set, Orange
- Colorful and interactive drum set designed for toddlers.
- Features lights and various sound effects.
- Enhances hand-eye coordination and rhythm awareness.
Best Preschool Toys
As children reach preschool age, they are ready to learn and engage in more complex concepts. Here are some recommended toys that will help prepare them for their educational journey:
Self-Correcting Alphabet Wooden Puzzles – Puzzles are an excellent way to introduce letters and promote letter recognition among preschoolers.
Recommended Toy: [Melissa & Doug Self-Correcting Alphabet Wooden Puzzles With Storage Box (52 pcs) – ABC Puzzles, Wooden Alphabet Puzzle For Kids Ages 4+]
- Helps kids learn the alphabet and improve letter recognition.
- Features self-correcting pieces for independent play.
- Comes with a storage box for easy clean-up and organization.
Educational Insights Shapes Beanbags – Learning shapes is an important skill for preschoolers, and this set of beanbags combines fun and education.
Recommended Toy: [Educational Insights Shapes Beanbags, Learn Shapes, Toddler Learning Toy, Preschool Classroom Must Haves, Set of 10 Bean Bags, Ages 3+]
- Features beanbags in various shapes and colors for interactive learning.
- Enhances hand-eye coordination and shape recognition.
- Great for group activities in a classroom setting.
Melissa & Doug Wooden Train Cars – Building train tracks and playing with toy trains can foster imaginative play and promote problem-solving skills.
Recommended Toy: [Melissa & Doug Wooden Train Cars (8 pcs) – Magnetic Train, Wooden Train Toys, Train Sets For Toddlers And Kids Ages 3+]
- Includes 8 wooden train cars with magnetic connectors for easy assembly.
- Encourages imaginative play and problem-solving skills
- Compatible with other Melissa & Doug wooden train sets.
Best Kindergarten Toys
Kindergarten is a crucial year for young learners, as they transition into more structured educational experiences. Here are some recommended toys that will help them develop their creativity and imagination:
VTech Write and Learn Creative Center – Introducing technology in a fun and interactive way can stimulate kids’ interest in learning.
Recommended Product: VTech Write and Learn Creative Center , White
- Includes a stylus for writing and drawing activities.
- Features 10 preloaded songs to make learning fun.
Key Education 86-Piece Sentence Building for Kids – As kids enter kindergarten, they begin to learn how to read and write. This sentence building set is a great tool for introducing these concepts in a fun and engaging way.
Recommended Toy: Key Education 86-Piece Sentence Building for Kids, Toys for Speech Therapy, Sight Word Games for Kindergarten– Includes 86 color-coded word cards that can be used to build sentences.
- Ideal for teaching sight words and sentence structure.
- Promotes language development and communication skills.
Melissa & Doug Wooden Building Set – Construction toys can inspire creativity and problem-solving skills in kindergarten-aged children.
Recommended Toy: Melissa & Doug Wooden Building Set– Includes 60 wooden blocks in various shapes and sizes.
- Encourages open-ended play and imagination.
- Enhances STEM skills through building and designing structures.
Educational Toys
As children progress through their educational journey, it is important to continue providing them with toys that support their learning and development. Here are some general recommendations for educational toys that can benefit kids of all ages:
1. Best STEM Toys
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) toys are designed to introduce children to basic concepts in these fields in a fun and interactive way. Some recommended STEM toys include:
Learning Resources STEM Explorers Brainometry – This set includes various activities and experiments that help children develop critical thinking skills while exploring different STEM concepts.
My Gears Transport Set – Ideal for hands-on learning, this set allows kids to build their own vehicle and explore basic engineering principles.
2. Alphabet & Number Learning Toys
Toys that focus on language and numeracy skills are important for children in their early years of education. These toys can make learning letters and numbers more interactive and engaging. Some recommended options include:
Melissa & Doug Self-Correcting Alphabet Letter Puzzles – This set includes 52 wooden puzzles that help children learn the letters of the alphabet.The self-correcting feature encourages independent learning.
LEXiBOOK Paw Patrol Educational Bilingual Interactive Learning Tablet – This tablet features games and activities that teach children the alphabet, numbers, and basic vocabulary in both English and Spanish.
3. Puzzle & Board Games
Puzzles and board games are more than just pastimes; they are powerful tools for honing problem-solving skills and fostering critical thinking in children. These toys challenge young minds to strategize, plan, and make decisions, laying a strong foundation for their cognitive development.
Ravensburger Gravitrax Starter Set Marble Run & STEM Toy – Elevate playtime with a marble run system that introduces physics concepts.Features varying difficulty levels, allowing children to experiment with gravity and design their tracks. Promotes problem-solving skills through hands-on construction.
ThinkFun Zingo Bingo Award Winning Preschool Game – Transform learning into a fun-filled bingo adventure. Enhances matching, memory, and critical thinking skills.Varying difficulty levels make it suitable for different age groups, ensuring continuous engagement.
4. Language Development Toys
Language development is a crucial aspect of early childhood education. Toys that encourage language exploration create an immersive and enjoyable learning environment, setting the stage for effective communication and literacy.
VTech Touch and Teach Word Book – Immerse your child in an interactive world of words and discovery. Touch-sensitive pages make learning letters and words engaging. Boosts vocabulary and comprehension through playful activities.
Hape Award Winning Walk-A-Long Snail Toddler Wooden Pull Toy – Combine language development with motor skills in a whimsical way. The snail’s interactive design promotes storytelling and imaginative play. Encourages children to express themselves verbally while engaging in physical activity.
5. Creativity and Art Supplies
Nurturing creativity is essential for a well-rounded education. Craft materials and building blocks not only allow children to express themselves artistically but also enhance spatial awareness and fine motor skills.
Melissa & Doug Deluxe Wooden Standing Art Easel – Unlock the artist within with this comprehensive art station. Equipped with various art supplies, fostering creativity and self-expression. Building blocks complement artistic endeavors, encouraging imaginative construction.
LEGO Classic Creative Bricks Set – Spark creativity and construction skills with the timeless appeal of LEGO. Promotes open-ended play, allowing children to build, imagine, and create. Develops fine motor skills through hands-on building experiences.
Safe & Durable Toys
The primary concern when selecting toys is the safety of the child. Safe & Durable Toys are specifically designed with materials that are non-toxic, free from harmful chemicals, and comply with stringent safety standards.
1. Language Development Toys
Ensuring the safety of daycare toys is paramount for the well-being of the children. Language development toys, in particular, should be crafted from materials that are safe and free from harmful substances.
Green Toys Shape Sorter – Made from 100% recycled plastic, ensuring safety and sustainability. Encourages shape recognition and motor skills development.
Hape Alphabet Puzzle Playset – Crafted from wood and non-toxic paints for a safe play experience. Promotes letter recognition and early literacy skills. BPA-Free Toys: Exploration of BPA-Free Options
2. BPA Free Toys
BPA, or bisphenol A, is a chemical that can be found in some plastics. Exploring BPA-free options is crucial for safeguarding children from potential health risks associated with BPA exposure. Choose toys labeled as BPA-free to minimize exposure. BPA-free toys also contribute to a safer environment.
Green Sprouts Stacking Cups – Made from BPA-free materials for worry-free play. Enhances fine motor skills through stacking and nesting activities.
Munchkin Miracle 360 Sippy Cup – BPA-free sippy cup for safe hydration. Promotes independent drinking skills.
3. Soft Edges and Surfaces
To prevent injuries and ensure child safety during play, it’s essential to prioritize toys with rounded edges and soft surfaces. Toys with soft edges reduce the risk of injuries during play. Opt for toys with soft surfaces to create a safe play environment.
Lamaze Freddie the Firefly – Soft, plush toy with rounded edges, suitable for cuddling. Stimulates sensory development with various textures.
Melissa & Doug K’s Kids Soft Baby Doll – Soft-bodied baby doll with no hard edges for safe play. Encourages nurturing and imaginative play.
4. Washable Toys
Maintaining a hygienic daycare environment is crucial, and choosing washable toys can simplify the cleaning process. Select toys that can be easily washed to prevent the spread of germs.Regular cleaning contributes to a healthier play environment for children.
B. toys – One Two Squeeze Baby Blocks – Soft, squeezable blocks that are easy to clean and sanitize. Enhances tactile and sensory exploration for infants.
Fat Brain Toys Dimpl Baby and Toddler Learning Toy – Washable sensory toy with silicone bubbles for tactile engagement. Ideal for promoting fine motor skills and cause-and-effect learning.
5. ASTM & CPSC Compliance
Understanding and adhering to safety standards is vital when selecting toys for daycare settings. ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) and CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) compliance ensures that toys meet stringent safety requirements.
Radio Flyer 3-in-1 EZ Fold Wagon – ASTM and CPSC certified for safety during outdoor play. Versatile wagon for transporting toys and children with ease.
Little Tikes First Slide – Meets safety standards for sturdy and secure indoor/outdoor play. Promotes gross motor skills and active play.
Social Interaction Toys
These toys are carefully crafted to engage children in activities that promote interpersonal skills, cooperation, and communication. Beyond mere entertainment, social interaction toys serve as powerful tools in shaping the social and emotional development of young minds.
1. Multiplayer Toys
Toys designed for multiple players create opportunities for children to interact, share, and build social bonds. Multiplayer toys are ideal for group play and cooperative experiences.
Melissa & Doug Catch & Count Fishing Game – Multiplayer fishing game with magnetic fish and poles. Encourages turn-taking, counting, and cooperative play.
LEGO DUPLO My First Car Creations- Large building blocks for collaborative construction and imaginative play. Enhances social interaction as children work together to create.
2. Role-Playing Toys
Role-playing toys allow children to explore various scenarios, promoting imaginative play and the development of communication and empathy skills. Role-playing toys stimulate creative thinking and storytelling. Children learn to understand different perspectives through role play.
KidKraft Deluxe Big & Bright Kitchen – Role-playing kitchen set for imaginative cooking adventures. Fosters communication, cooperation, and creativity during pretend play.
Melissa & Doug Fire Chief Role Play Costume Set – Role-playing costume set for aspiring firefighters. Encourages collaborative play and imaginative storytelling.
3. Group Activity Sets
Group activity sets are specifically designed to engage multiple children, creating a sense of community and shared participation in daycare settings. Group activity sets involve everyone, fostering a sense of belonging. Children work together to achieve common goals.
Giantville Giant Tumbling Timber Toy – Oversized block stacking game for group play and friendly competition. Promotes teamwork, strategy, and shared enjoyment.
ALEX Toys Active Play Monster Clompers – Group activity set with sturdy foot stilts for cooperative play. Encourages teamwork, balance, and gross motor skills development.
4. Communication Building Toys
Communication building toys focus on enhancing verbal and non-verbal communication skills through interactive play, promoting language development. Interactive toys contribute to expanding vocabulary. Playing with others improves social communication skills.
VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX2 – Interactive smartwatch with games and activities promoting communication. Enhances language skills and social interaction among children.
LeapFrog Chat and Count Smart Phone – Electronic phone toy with interactive features for learning and play. Fosters imaginative conversations and social interaction.
Motor Skills Development Toys
Fine motor skills are crucial for tasks requiring precision. Fine motor skill toys enhance hand-eye coordination, setting the stage for various activities.Toys that involve picking up, manipulating, and placing objects. Activities that encourage precise hand movements.
1. Gross Motor Skill Toys
Gross motor skills involve larger muscle groups and coordination. Toys promoting gross motor skills encourage physical activity and overall coordination. Toys that involve running, jumping, and overall physical movement. Activities that improve overall body coordination.
Little Tikes 3′ Trampoline – Mini trampoline for bouncing fun and gross motor skill development. Enhances balance, coordination, and physical activity.
Up & Down Roller Coaster Ride On – Roller coaster ride-on toy for active play. Promotes gross motor skills, balance, and coordination through riding and pushing.
2. Sensory Development Toys
Sensory development is integral to early childhood learning. Toys that stimulate the senses contribute to overall cognitive and motor skill development.
Manhattan Toy Winkel Rattle and Sensory Teether Toy – Colorful teething toy with a maze of soft, continuous tubes. Stimulates touch, sight, and sound senses.
Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes Musical Toy – Portable musical toy with colorful lights and melodies. Enhances auditory and visual sensory experiences.
Outdoor Play Toys
Outdoor play is essential for children’s physical and social development. Choosing age-appropriate playground equipment ensures a safe and enjoyable play environment.
1. Sand and Water Play
Sand and water play offer numerous developmental benefits, from sensory exploration to creativity. Choosing safe and engaging toys enhances the outdoor play experience. Sand and water toys made from safe, non-toxic materials. Toys that promote creativity, sensory exploration, and learning.
Naturally Playful Sand & Water Center – Dual-sided play center with separate areas for sand and water play. Promotes imaginative play and sensory exploration.
Melissa & Doug Seaside Sidekicks Sand-and-Water Sifting Funnel – Funnel toy for sand and water play with a durable, beach-themed design. Encourages fine motor skills and creative play.
2. Sports and Active Games
Sports-related toys encourage physical activity, teamwork, and skill development. Introducing children to various sports fosters a love for an active lifestyle.
Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set – Adjustable basketball hoop for outdoor shooting practice. Encourages coordination and gross motor skills.
Toysmith Get Outside GO! Pro-Ball Set – Set of sports balls for soccer, basketball, and football. Promotes diverse physical activities and outdoor play.
3. Picnic and Camping Sets
Outdoor pretend play, such as picnics and camping, sparks imagination and creativity. Providing toys that simulate these experiences enriches outdoor playtime.
Picnic & Play Table Set – Picnic table and play set for outdoor pretend picnics. Fosters imaginative social play and creativity.
KidKraft Outdoor Double Chaise Lounge – Outdoor lounge set for pretend relaxation and play. Encourages role-playing and creative scenarios.
4. Nature Exploration Kits
Encouraging children to explore and appreciate nature is essential. Nature exploration kits provide educational tools for outdoor discovery.
Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Explorer Scope – Nature exploration kit with a kid-friendly microscope. Enhances observation skills and curiosity about the natural world.
Backyard Safari Butterfly Habitat – Butterfly habitat kit for observing the life cycle of butterflies. Fosters an appreciation for insects and nature exploration.
5 Factors to Consider When Choosing Toys for Daycare
When selecting toys for your daycare, it is crucial to consider the following factors to ensure kids’ safety and to avoid unnecessary complaints from parents:
1. Safety
The safety of the toys should be of utmost importance. Choose toys that are made of non-toxic materials and do not have sharp edges to avoid accidents. Toddlers have mysterious ways to get themselves injured from apparently safe things!
2. Age Appropriateness
Choose age-appropriate toys for different age groups of the children under your care.
For instance, toy cars would be of more interest to toddlers, while infants would prefer stuffed animals and plush baby dolls.
Avoid movie characters that are not for their age, and avoid using toys with lots of tiny accessories.
3. Versatility
Look for toys that can be used in different ways so that children don’t get bored with them.
Open-ended toys are a blank canvas for children’s imaginations.
These toys have no specific instructions or rules, so daycare children can use them however they want. This allows them to explore their creativity and problem-solving skills, and to come up with new and innovative ways to play.
Some examples of open-ended toys include:
- Building blocks
- Playdough
- Art supplies
- Natural materials
- Loose parts
4. Durability
Kids in daycare would spend most of their time playing, so select toys that can withstand rough play and lots of wear and tear. This could include high-quality toys. They would cost you a bit more but could also last longer and save you frequent shopping time and effort.
5. Educational value
Be it a home daycare or commercial childcare center, daycares are considered as early learning centers as well. Choose toys that are not only fun but also promote learning and development in toddlers.
You might also want to read: Daycare Play Room Ideas
Shopping Tips for Daycare Toys
Shopping for daycare toys requires thoughtful consideration to ensure that the toys selected are not only enjoyable but also safe, durable, and conducive to the development of young children. Here are some shopping tips to guide you in making the best choices for daycare toys:
- Safety First – Prioritize safety by choosing toys that are age-appropriate and free from small parts that could pose a choking hazard. Look for toys with rounded edges, non-toxic materials, and those that meet or exceed safety standards. Check for any safety certifications on the packaging.
- Durability Matters – Daycare environments can be dynamic and involve active play. Select toys that are well-built and can withstand frequent use. Look for durable materials that can endure rough handling without compromising the integrity of the toy.
- Easy to Clean – Opt for toys that are easy to clean and sanitize. Daycare settings require regular cleaning, and toys that can withstand cleaning procedures without deterioration are essential for maintaining a hygienic environment.
- Educational Value – Choose toys that provide educational value, encouraging cognitive and sensory development. Look for toys that stimulate creativity, problem-solving, and fine or gross motor skills. Educational toys contribute to a well-rounded learning experience for children.
- Variety of Play Experiences – Select toys that offer a variety of play experiences. Include items for imaginative play, building and construction, puzzles, arts and crafts, and outdoor activities. A diverse range of toys ensures that children have the opportunity to explore different aspects of play and learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Toys Should You Have at Daycare?
It is best to have a mix of toys that promote social, cognitive, and physical development and cater to different age groups.
2. What Are 3 Toys That Are Appropriate for Babies?
Rattles, teething toys, and soft plush toys are appropriate for babies.
3. What Toys Should Every Toddler Have?
Toddlers should have a mix of toys that promote their imagination, creativity, and fine motor skills. Examples include building blocks, interactive games, and toys that make noise.
4. Which Toy Is the Most Developmentally Appropriate for an 18 to 24-Month-Old Child?
Building blocks, push-and-pull toys, and play-doh are the most developmentally appropriate for this age range.
Conclusion
Choosing the right toys for your daycare can be a daunting task, but it is essential for providing a safe and enriching environment for the children under your care.
When selecting toys, it is crucial to consider the children’s age, safety, versatility, durability, and educational value. Furthermore, toys that promote social, cognitive, and physical development are best.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can create a space that will foster the development of the children under your care.