Choose Gifts that Foster Imagination

At the top of Toy Insider’s 2022 picks for preschoolers list, you will see toys that encourage imaginative roles and pretend play. Additional ideas include exploration with music, arts, crafts and toys that foster active play to get kids outdoors and exercising.

You can’t go wrong with any of the toys that develop these skills. It is encouraged for parents to stay away from the flashy electronic toys that run on batteries and can only be used one way. Instead find toys that are open-ended, children’s books or non-toy gift experiences to create those life-long memories.

What are open ended toys?

Open-ended toys are those that have multiple uses and infinite possibilities.

Children never grow tired of playing with open-ended toys and they build brain-boosting skills that will serve them well in school and throughout life. When exploring open-ended materials, you never get the same result twice, therefore children are using their imagination, creativity, vision and patience. Don't forget their trial and error and problem solving skills.

Great Open-Ended Gift Ideas

Wooden blocks, Duplos, Legos, Magna Tiles, gears

Baby dolls & accessories (ex. stroller, bottle, blankets, etc.)

Doll house with furniture and people

Hot Wheels or Matchbox cars & track to build

Play-doh

Art materials (ex. paper, crayons, glue, scissors, etc.)

Dress up & role play items (ex. costumes for dress-up, tea set, doctor’s kit, pretend school or restaurant)

Animal figurines

Play fort kits or playhouses

Musical instruments

Experiences to Give

Zoo, museum or park passes

Afternoon at an arcade

Round of mini golf & ice cream

Ice or roller skating

Sledding & hot cocoa

Lessons for sports, music, art, etc.

Kids cooking class

Trip to bookstore to pick out a special book to read together

Pick out a new board game for family game night

Fishing

Visit to an indoor/outdoor waterpark