Best Educational Toys

Brightly colored children’s toys may seem like all fun and games, but well-developed toys can actually help your wee one learn while playing. You don’t have to be a tiger mom to want your child to get a head start on simple lessons like colors, shapes, spatial perception and balance — that’s what all parents desire for their children. Look to these trusted brands for educational toys that will teach your child through play.

Fisher Price: Fisher Price has long been a trusted brand for toddler toys. Chances are, you remember playing with Fisher Price classics like the See n Say, Little People or ring stacker. Well, these toys can help your well one tell colors, learn animal sounds and improve coordination through play. You’ll find toys geared toward infants up to age 5; plus baby gear for moms-to-be expecting a little bundle.

Leap Frog: While many of their toys are geared toward slightly older children — like the LeapPad educational tablets — this toy maker does offer toys for younger children as well. Try the TouchMagic line for younger children. A counting train, musical school bus and Rock Band-style guitar allow your wee ones to build motor skills, practice the alphabet and have fun. For older children, the LeapPads offer games, movies, educational apps and even a camera to support a range of artistic and educational pursuits.

Legos: Legos are an all-time classic toy you probably remember playing with. They’re ideal for teaching your child the basics of construction, not to mention the power of imagination to build anything she wishes. Choose from basic building block style Legos; people collections that allow your toddler to explore outer space, recreate a Medieval castle or create a home and family; or a train set that lets your child explore. Begin with large blocks, with are easy for wee fingers to manipulate; add in smaller pieces as your child grows.

Lamaze: With bright colors and high-contrast patterns, Lamaze toys offer babies a high range of visual stimulation. This is so great because the littlest ones don’t have the coordination and motor skills to really play with toys, but still want stimulation and variety in their world. One bonus that moms are sure to love: These toys are drool and chew-friendly, since they can be washed in the washing machine. When baby starts to stuff that Lamaze toy in her life, don’t worry: It will be good to go with a fresh wash.

Hape: Hape’s wooden cars and play sets offer ethically sourced toys for eco conscious parents. The bamboo collection uses the fast-growing, sustainable wood for baby toys that range from push cars and stackable towers to blocks and puzzles. Hape’s wooden Happy Family dolls come in a range of skin tones perfect for today’s modern families; they go with the Happy Family dollhouse-style wooden furniture sets.

Look to these brands for instant hits when it comes to toys for your wee one or your friend’s baby shower. You’ll find something for children up to aged 9; and options that allow young boys and girls to unlock their imaginations while learning through play. These brands represent just a few of the wonderful teaching toys available for children. What are your favorite educational toys or brands when it comes to children’s toys?

Holly is an Indianapolis native with a love for baking and running. In her spare time, she enjoys blogging on behalf of Sears and other brands she uses.