The question I get asked the most often is what toys will keep my kids busy for the longest time? And my answer always is the same – there is no single magical toy that can keep your toy engaged for long periods of time because it often depends on the kid’s interests and developmental milestones.
I will say that toys that often keep my toddler engaged for the longest and get played with the most are open ended toys.
What are Open Ended Toys?
Open ended toys are toys that can be used and played with in a variety of ways, allowing kids to use their imagination and creativity to explore and create. Unlike toys with a specific purpose or outcome, such as a puzzle or a board game with fixed rules, open-ended toys have no predetermined goal or endpoint, giving kids the freedom to play and experiment in different ways.
Examples of open-ended toys include building blocks, construction sets, dolls, figurines, play dough, loose parts like wooden shapes or stones, and items that can be used for imaginative play, such as scarves, blankets, and cardboard boxes.
These toys can be used in endless combinations and scenarios, encouraging children to engage in imaginative play, problem-solving, and exploration. They also tend to grow with the child, as they can be used in different ways as the child’s interests and abilities develop.
Our Favorite Open Ended Toys
Here are the most played with open ended toys in our home.
Wooden Blocks
Large, colorful wooden blocks are perfect for toddlers to stack, build, and knock down. They can experiment with different configurations and develop their motor skills and spatial awareness.
There are options available for all price ranges for wooden blocks.
- IKEA 40 Piece Wooden Block Set
- Melissa and Doug Wooden Block Set
- For kids over 3, the Tegu Wooden Block Set is a great option
- We recently got the 19-21 month play box from Lalo and we really like the block set that comes with it too!
Stepping Stones
Stepping stones are fantastic open-ended toy for toddlers. Stepping from one stone to another helps toddlers develop balance, coordination, and gross motor skills. It encourages them to practice stability and control as they navigate their way across the stones.
Many stepping stones have different textures, patterns, or colors, providing sensory stimulation as toddlers touch and step on them. This sensory experience can be engaging and enriching for their development.
We have the Stapelsteins for our toddler and she has gotten so many hours of play from it. Outree is another option that’s more budget friendly, although the shape and quality is not like the Stapelsteins.
Nesting and Sorting Toys
Sets of nesting cups or boxes and toys with various shapes and colors that can be sorted encourage cognitive development and problem-solving skills.
Grimm’s makes the best stacking toys in my opinion. They’re really high quality, have a thoughtful design and are beautiful. You can use my code HEYAZKA when shopping at WoodWoodToys for 10% off!
You can find more nesting and stacking toy options HERE.
Scarves and Fabrics
Colorful scarves, fabric scraps, and play silks can be used for dress-up, sensory exploration, and imaginative play as capes, blankets, or even pretend water for a boat adventure. They are a truly wonderful open ended play item that can open up a world of possibilities for kids.
Sarah’s Silks is a popular choice for kid’s play silks! You can use my code HEYAZKA for 10% off your order.
Play dough
Non-toxic play dough with simple tools like rolling pins and cookie cutters allows toddlers to squish, mold, and shape to their heart’s content, fostering creativity and sensory exploration. It’s also a wonderful regulation tool for kids. You can use store bought recipes or make it at home!
Magnetic Tiles
Magnetic tiles allow toddlers to build and create in endless ways. With their strong magnetic connections, children can construct towers, houses, vehicles, and more, letting their imagination run wild as they explore different shapes and designs.
Building with magnetic tiles encourages toddlers to think in three dimensions and understand spatial relationships. They learn concepts like balance, symmetry, and stability as they experiment with different arrangements and structures.
When selecting magnetic tiles for toddlers, choose sets that are age-appropriate, safe, and durable. Look for tiles with rounded edges and non-toxic materials that are large enough to prevent choking hazards. Additionally, consider sets that offer a variety of shapes and colors to keep play engaging and stimulating.
We have the Connetix Tiles and love them! They’re amazing quality and I am always surprised by how long my toddler can play with them. They’re one of the most played with toys in our home and so great to take on the go too!
Outdoor Exploration Toys
Items like buckets, shovels and watering cans are wonderful options for outdoor exploration that encourage sensory experiences and physical activity. These are often available at the dollar section at Target or at your local dollar store.
Train Sets
Train sets are another excellent open-ended toy for toddlers. They offer a wide range of benefits, play opportunities and opportunities like developing fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness.
When choosing a train set for toddlers, opt for sets that are age-appropriate, durable, and safe. Look for train sets with large, easy-to-handle pieces that are suitable for little hands, and make sure the tracks are simple to assemble and disassemble. Additionally, consider sets that are compatible with wooden or plastic train tracks, as these offer versatility and expandability for future play.
There are lots of options available. We currently have the IKEA LILLABO Train Set which we thrifted, along with the BRIO Dinosaur Train Set. I have created a collection of train sets HERE for you to browse.
Parting Thoughts
When choosing open-ended toys for toddlers, it’s essential to consider safety, durability, and the developmental benefits of each toy. Additionally, rotating toys regularly can keep playtime fresh and exciting for toddlers, stimulating their curiosity and imagination.
You can check out more open ended toys on my Amazon Storefront HERE and if you want to learn more about how to encourage independent play, check out THIS comprehensive resource.
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