Toys That Inspire Growth Through Play
Pediatric Therapy Gift Guide
The holiday season is upon us, and finding the perfect gift for kids can feel overwhelming. But what if your gifts could bring more than just joy? Toys can be powerful tools to support development and encourage skill-building, especially for children benefiting from pediatric therapy!
Gifts approved by our speech therapists:
Books that Build Language Skills:
1. When Words Are Tough: A beautifully written book that teaches kids how to sign essential words like please, eat, and thank you, making early communication easier and more fun.
2. The ABCs of Inclusion: This heartwarming book introduces children to the idea that everyone is unique and celebrates differences in a way that’s empowering and inclusive.
Toys to Promote Sound Production:
1. Echo Mic by Novelty Place: A colorful, fun microphone that encourages back-and-forth repetition to support speech practice in a way that feels like play.
2. Bubble Wands by JOYIN: These classic toys are perfect for encouraging kids to produce blowing sounds while also keeping them engaged and entertained.
3. Vibrating Teether/Toothbrush: A dual-purpose tool that provides oral/sensory stimulation and is great for playful exploration while supporting speech development.
Cause & Effect Games:
1. Vehicle Set by JOYIN: A fun set of cars and trucks perfect for teaching spatial concepts (like under, over, or beside) and modeling action words (like push, drive, or stop).
2. Jumping Jack by Goliath: Engaging game for pre-K through elementary kids that teach turn-taking and early problem-solving in a playful way.
Gifts approved by our ABA team:
Sensory Seekers:
1. Glo Pals Sensory Play Jar: Add custom fillers to this jar for a unique sensory experience! It’s perfect for engaging tactile exploration while offering endless creative possibilities.
2. Fat Brain Toys Customizable Play Tab: This versatile toy combines fine motor practice with sensory fun. Kids will love creating their own designs while working on essential skills!
3. Lakeshore Learning Weighted Sensory Butterfly: This calming companion provides gentle weight and soothing textures, making it perfect for little hands to hold and explore.
Gross Motor Play:
1. B. toys Balance Beams: These stackable beams are easy to store and great for encouraging physical strength and balance. Kids can arrange them in different configurations to keep the fun fresh.
2. Happymaty Sit N Spin: An upgraded spinning chair that offers endless giggles while improving coordination and core strength. It’s a fun way to get kids moving!
Gifts approved by our occupational therapists:
1. Hand2mind Letter Tracing Sensory Pad: A mess-free way to practice writing and develop fine motor skills. Kids will love the tactile experience, and it’s small enough to bring on the go!
2. Learning Resources Alphabet Acorns Activity Set: This multi-functional set encourages learning letters, sounds, colors, and matching while working on fine motor skills—all in one package!
3. Melissa & Doug Slice and Bake Wooden Cookie Play Food Set: Pretend play meets skill-building with this durable baking set. It’s perfect for improving hand strength, bilateral coordination, and creativity!
4. Fat Brain Toys Squigz Starter Set: These suction cup toys are a hit with kids and promote strength-building and imaginative play. Stick them to windows, bathtubs, or tables for endless fun!
5. MAGNA-TILES: Build towers, match shapes, and create masterpieces with these magnetic tiles. They’re versatile, portable, and promote spatial awareness!
Stay Tuned for More Recommendations!
We’ll be adding to our list weekly until December 20th with more amazing toys inspired by ABA therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy! From skill-building to sensory fun, there’s something for every little learner. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook and never miss an update!
