How to use household items to create developmental toys
During this unique time in our country, we know a lot of families are at home with their littles. Therefore, we wanted to offer you some great developmental toys you can make from items in your home! These toys are fun for both parents and children as you get to see your little one explore and learn new ways to problem solve. These toy examples are best for children up to age 5.
BEAN BOX
What you need:
- Clear container
- 1 bag of beans
- 2 bags of macaroni noodles
- Cleaned clear fruit cups
- Spoons
- Toy figurines
- Sensory development,
- Holding & Scooping (pre-feeding skills)
- Following directions
- Imagination
- Problem-solving
**Tip: Mix up the types of items in the box to go with the season and work on object identification.
STRAW BOTTLE
What you need:
- Colored straws
- 2-liter bottle OR Pringles can with hole-punched lid
- Hand-eye coordination
- Fine motor skills
- Color & number identification
- Early feeding & hand writing skills (grasp straws)
**Tip: Cut the straws at different lengths and instruct on inputting both short and long straws
TOKEN BANK
What you need:
- Formula can
- Lid with slit cut in top
- Poker chips (multi-colored)
What this teaches:
- Pincer grasp (teaches how to hold a pencil)
- Hand-eye coordination
- Colors & Matching
- Following instructions
**Tip: Hide chips all around the room and have the child go find them and bring back to the can.