Open-ended toys are some of the best gifts you can give to a child, as they provide a wealth of learning opportunities and benefits. Learn how to identify and the benefits of different play types.
What is an Open-Ended Toy?
An open-ended toy is a type of toy that encourages children to use their imagination and create their own unique play scenarios. These toys can be used in a variety of ways, allowing children to explore, invent, and create their own play. Examples of open ended toys include blocks, pretend props and figures, dolls, and sensory toys. They help children develop their problem solving and creative thinking skills, as well as their motor and cognitive skills.
Here are five reasons to give your child open-ended toys
- Endless Possibilities: Open-ended toys provide endless possibilities for creative play. Children can use their imaginations to explore, build, and create using the same set of toys.
- Learning Opportunities: Open-ended toys foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Children can learn to think outside the box and come up with unique solutions to the challenges posed by the toys.
- Age Appropriate: Open-ended toys are appropriate for a wide range of ages and skill levels. Children can use them to master basic skills and move on to more complex tasks.
- Promotes Connection: Due to the explorative nature of open-ended toys, caregivers can easily play alongside their child. It's exciting to watch as your child uses toys in new and unexpected ways or when they mirror your behavior!
- Understanding: Open-ended pretend play gives children the opportunity to process stories and events to better understand the world around them.
Should all my child's toys be Open-Ended?
It's important to point out that puzzles are not considered open-ended toys. These toys are just as important and allow the child to practice logic skills like shapes and matching. They provide a sense of purpose, order and satisfaction. It is ideal to have a mixture of all types of kid powered toys.
However, limit your selection of electronic, closed-ended toys. Toys that do not promote child interaction or manipulation should be avoided. A good way to tell if a toy is closed-ended in a way that will not benefit your child, ask yourself if your child could play with it without touching the toy for more than a few seconds. If the answer is yes, the toy may have benefits, but your child's development would not be one of them.
Look for toys that offer a world of possibilities for creative, engaging, and educational play. They are the perfect choice for any child and can provide hours of fun and learning.
Some of our Favorite Open-Ended Toys for Kids of all Ages
Water Blocks
$60.00
Make a splash with the PlanToys Water Blocks! Give your kiddo some hands-on tinkering and watch their eyes light up as they mix, match, and build with these 6 vibrant blocks. Stack them up or lay them flat and explore… read more
Kai - Gender Neutral Baby Doll
$32.00
Our Gender Neutral baby doll is an inclusive and loveable doll suitable for many ages. The adorable hat and removable bodysuit helps to keep little ones active and engaged in caring for their own little baby. • Bonikka dolls are… read more
Fairy Tale Blocks
$40.00
Build the enchanted castle of your dreams with Fairy Tale Blocks! This 35-piece set includes a prince, princess, horses, carriage, and a variety of colored and non-colored blocks for you to mix and match. Girls (and boys!) can create their… read more
Land of Dough Rolling Patterns Kit
$20.00
$25.00
Let your children's imaginations run wild. This land of Dough set comes with two beautiful Land of Dough play dough rolls and kit features three high quality real wood rolling pins. One plain and two with varied patterns. PRODUCT DETAILS… read more
Rainbow Tunnel
$28.00
Stack these tunnel pieces together to make a real rainbow! A great first puzzle for your toddler to develop their matching skills, size and color recognition. Age range: 18 months +Product size: 8.27" x 1.18" x 5.24"Weight: 0.77 lbs… read more
Penny Blocks
$12.00
Accent your kid's development journey with these charming Penny Blocks. Whether building stacking skills or learning 1-10, these 1.25-inch square blocks will have your child counting on the fun! Stained with child-safety in mind and stored in a convenient box,… read more