Best Educational Toys For Early Learning

Children learn best through play, so choosing the right educational toys is key. The right toys do more than entertain—they spark creativity, build skills, and boost brain development.

We’ve handpicked the best educational toys for each age group — plus a detailed list at the end to help you choose with confidence. Keep reading!

Early childhood is a critical period during which the brain grows at its fastest rate. According to the Centre on the Developing Child at Harvard University, 90 per cent of a child's brain develops before age five. During this stage, toys that engage kids can help build problem-solving skills, hand-eye coordination, and early literacy. Simple blocks, puzzles, and interactive toys can prepare children for preschool and kindergarten.

Toys designed for early learning should be tailored to a child's age and developmental stage. Toys that are too easy may get boring, and toys that are too advanced can lead to frustration. The best toys are the ones that grow with a child and encourage open-ended play.

Babies start learning as soon as they are born. For infants, toys that stimulate the senses are best. Soft toys with different textures, rattles, and colourful hanging mobiles are good picks. These simple toys help develop vision, touch, and hearing.

As babies grow into toddlers, they require toys that help develop their movement and coordination. Push toys, stacking rings, and shape sorters are classics that still do the job well. Building blocks are also a must-have for toddlers. They help children learn how things fit together, which boosts spatial awareness and creativity.

Parents should also consider toys that encourage pretend play. Play kitchens, tool sets, and dollhouses help toddlers learn about the world around them. Pretend play develops social and language skills as children act out daily life activities.

Preschoolers love to ask questions, solve problems, and try new things. Puzzles, construction sets, and art supplies help keep them busy and learning at the same time. Large floor puzzles with letters, numbers, or maps teach basic concepts while improving fine motor skills.

STEM toys are also a good investment at this age. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Preschool STEM kits, such as simple robots, magnetic building blocks, or science experiment sets, help children think critically and learn how things work. Companies like National Geographic Kids offer science kits that can transform a simple afternoon into a hands-on learning experience.

Books and reading toys are essential too. Interactive books that read stories aloud or teach phonics are a smart way to develop early literacy skills. Toys like LeapFrog's educational tablets combine fun games with reading and math practice, making learning feel like play.

Creativity is just as important as counting and letters. Toys that allow kids to paint, draw, build, and design can help develop their imagination and problem-solving skills. Art supplies, modelling clay, musical instruments, and dress-up clothes are all good options.

Parents should not forget outdoor play equipment, too. Simple things like a sandbox, a balance bike, or garden tools for kids can teach balance, coordination, and a love for nature. Outdoor play keeps children active and supports healthy growth.

When shopping for early learning toys, there are a few key tips to keep in mind.

First, check if the toy is suitable for the child's age. Look at the label or description for age recommendations. Next, think about how the toy will be used. Open-ended toys, such as blocks or dolls, can be used in various ways, allowing children to engage with them for more extended periods.

Safety is key. Select toys made by trusted brands that adhere to safety standards. Look for non-toxic materials, smooth edges, and parts that are not easily breakable. For toddlers and babies, make sure there are no small parts that can be swallowed.

It is also beneficial to check if the toy encourages parent-child interaction and play. Toys that parents and children can use together help build bonds and provide adults with an opportunity to guide learning.

Finally, check reviews and expert picks. Groups like the American Academy of Paediatrics  often share tips for parents on safe and healthy toys. Many trusted websites also share yearly lists of the best educational toys.

Choosing the right toys for your child's age can boost learning while keeping playtime fun. This expert-curated list helps you select toys that match your child's developmental stage, ensuring safety, skill-building, and engagement at every step.

Pick Toys That Fit Your Child’s Stage: Choose toys that match what your child can do right now. Toys that are too hard can be frustrating, while toys that are too easy can get boring fast.

Rotate Toys to Keep Things Fresh: Switching toys every week or two can make old toys feel new again, keeping your child interested while helping them build new skills.

Choose Open-Ended Toys: Blocks, art supplies, and pretend play sets allow your child to use their imagination and engage in various play activities, making each play session a new adventure.

Play Together: Join your child during playtime. It's an excellent opportunity to develop language skills, foster social skills, and create fun memories together.

Always Check for Safety: Pick toys from trusted brands that use safe, non-toxic materials and have sturdy designs. This helps you feel confident that playtime is safe and worry-free.

The right toys do more than keep your child busy—they turn playtime into a joyful way to learn, grow, and explore the world around them, helping your child build skills and confidence with every moment of play.