Early childhood is a crucial period for learning and development. During these formative years, children are naturally curious and eager to explore the world around them. To foster their cognitive, social, and motor skills, educational toys play a vital role. These toys engage children in interactive learning experiences, making education a fun and engaging journey. In this blog post, we will explore some exciting educational toys for early years, along with hyperlinks to some educational resources that complement these toys.
- Alphabet and Number Puzzles:
Alphabet and number puzzles are excellent tools for teaching young children the basics of language and numeracy. They help children recognize letters, numbers, and shapes while enhancing their problem-solving abilities. The Australian-based website “Early Childhood Australia” offers a wide range of educational resources, including printable puzzles, worksheets, and activity ideas. You can explore their collection here: Early Childhood Australia – Puzzles - Building Blocks and Construction Sets:
Building blocks and construction sets are timeless educational toys that promote creativity, fine motor skills, and spatial awareness. They encourage children to experiment, problem-solve, and build structures using their imagination. The Australian website “Playgroup Australia” provides comprehensive resources for parents and educators, featuring ideas and activities using building blocks. Dive into their collection here: Playgroup Australia – Building Blocks - Science Experiment Kits:
Science experiment kits allow young learners to explore the wonders of the natural world through hands-on experiments. These kits usually contain materials, instructions, and explanations for conducting safe and exciting experiments. The Australian-based “Primary Connections” website offers a range of science resources for early years, providing teachers and parents with easy-to-follow lesson plans and experiment ideas. Unleash the scientist within your child with their resources here: Primary Connections – Science Resources - Musical Instruments:
Music is a powerful tool for early childhood development, enhancing language skills, creativity, and emotional expression. Musical instruments designed for young children, such as xylophones, drums, and shakers, provide an interactive way to introduce them to the world of music. “Australian Music Education Board” offers resources for music educators and parents, including activity ideas and lesson plans for incorporating musical instruments into early years education. Discover their resources here: Australian Music Education Board – Early Childhood Resources - Sensory Play Materials:
Sensory play materials, such as playdough, sand, water, and sensory bins, stimulate children’s senses and enhance their fine motor skills. These materials provide opportunities for open-ended exploration and imaginative play. The “Early Years Learning Framework” website by the Australian Government provides a wealth of resources, including playdough recipes, sensory activity suggestions, and play-based learning ideas. Explore their sensory play resources here: Early Years Learning Framework – Sensory Play
Educational toys are invaluable tools for early childhood education, as they engage children in active learning experiences and promote various developmental skills. The Australian educational resources mentioned above offer a wealth of ideas, activities, and lesson plans to complement these toys. By combining interactive toys with these resources, parents and educators can create a stimulating learning environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and a love for lifelong learning in young children.
Here are some reputable online shops where you can find a wide range of educational toys for early years:
- Educational Experience: Educational Experience offers a comprehensive selection of educational toys, resources, and materials for early childhood education. Their website provides filters to easily browse toys by age, category, and learning area. Visit their online store here: Educational Experience
- Modern Teaching Aids: Modern Teaching Aids is a popular online store catering to educators, parents, and early childhood professionals. They offer a diverse range of educational toys, including those specifically designed for early years. Explore their collection here: Modern Teaching Aids
- Teach Me How: Teach Me How is an Australian online retailer specializing in educational toys and resources for children of all ages. They have a dedicated section for early childhood toys and offer a variety of learning resources for parents and educators. Check out their offerings here: Teach Me How
- Educational Toys Online: As the name suggests, Educational Toys Online is an online store focused on providing educational toys for children. They have a dedicated section for early years, featuring toys that promote learning, creativity, and skill development. Visit their website here: Educational Toys Online
- Wooden Wonderland: Wooden Wonderland specializes in high-quality wooden toys, including educational options suitable for early years. They offer a range of educational toys that encourage imaginative play, fine motor skills, and problem-solving. Explore their collection here: Wooden Wonderland
Remember to check each store’s shipping policies, customer reviews, and product descriptions to ensure the availability and suitability of the educational toys you are looking for. Happy shopping!
Easel Education 