Dr. Ana Aznar
Table of contents
A 1-year-old is naturally curious, constantly exploring and learning from everything they encounter. Dr. Ana Aznar answers whether educational toys are suitable for this age and provides guidance on toy choices that support growth and development.
Are Educational Toys Good For 1-Year-Olds?
Question: “Do you recommend educational toys for 1-year-old kids? Or is that too young for educational-type toys that aren't just sensory or whatnot?”
Dr. Ana’s Expert Answer
A 1-year-old is like a little scientist, constantly experimenting to see what happens: “What happens if I throw the carrot to the floor? Does it come back or stay there? What happens if I touch that candle? What is behind that door?” At this age, children learn from everything they do, not just from playing with toys.
One-year-olds are also happy playing with simple household items like plastic bowls and lids, cardboard boxes, pots, and spoons. Toys aren’t essential for learning, but can support development if chosen wisely.
What Types Of Toys Are Suitable For 1-Year-Olds?
Appropriate toys for 1-year-olds are those that help develop hand-eye coordination, physical skills, and motor abilities:
- Books: Board books, touch books, and activity books
- Pretend play toys: Animals, vehicles, dolls
- Building toys: Wooden blocks, shape sorters
- Motor skill toys: Puzzles, large pegboards, toys with knobs, lids, switches, or dials, big and small balls
- Musical toys
Do Children Need A Lot Of Toys?
The number of toys isn’t as important as how many are available at one time. A 2017 study suggests that toddlers aged 18–30 months play better when they have four toys available at the same time. With fewer toys, children played longer, and their play quality improved.
So, if you want to buy toys for your child, go ahead, but don’t feel pressured to purchase a large number. Children learn from everything around them.
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Love, Ana
What Are The Best Toys For A 1-Year-Old?
Toys that support hand-eye coordination, motor skills, and creativity are ideal for 1-year-olds. Examples include board books, wooden blocks, puzzles, shape sorters, and musical toys. Simple household items like bowls or boxes can also be great for play.
Do 1-Year-Olds Need Educational Toys?
No, 1-year-olds don’t specifically need "educational" toys. They learn through everything they do, from playing with simple items like pots and cardboard boxes to interacting with their surroundings.
How Many Toys Should A 1-Year-Old Have?
Research shows that toddlers play better with fewer toys available at once. Aim for about four toys to encourage longer, higher-quality play sessions rather than overwhelming them with options.
Can Household Items Be Used For Play?
Absolutely! Household items like bowls, lids, spoons, and cardboard boxes can be just as enriching for a 1-year-old as store-bought toys. These items encourage creativity and exploration.
Related content:
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- How Do Parenting Styles Shape Child Development?
- How Do I Handle Tantrums in My 5-Year-Old?
Do you have questions for Dr. Ana? Ask for free today!
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