Written by Abigail Raines, Speech-Language Pathologist AAC Specialist
The holiday season is just around the corner, and now is the perfect time to find special gifts that your child will love! There are so many toys to choose from but not all toys are created equally. If you are looking for gifts that spark creativity, encourage exploration, and promote development and learning just remember the simple acronym “GIFT” while you are shopping this holiday season!
G: Gross Motor Toys-Gross motor skills refer to any movement that involves large muscles. Activities such as running, climbing, and jumping are gross motor activities. When shopping, look for toys or games that promote large movements like those we make with arms, legs, and trunk. Some suggestions include:
Ride-on toy car
Bowling set
Catch and stick Velcro mitts
I: Imagination and independence- Open ended toys such as puppets, dolls, dress up and play sets encourage problem solving skills, language skills, and social skills. These are toys that can be used multiple times in many ways. Some suggestions include:
Fort building kit
Pretend kitchen, ice cream stand, doctors kit
Art supplies
F: Fine motor toys- Fine motor activities are essential for tasks that require precise and coordinated movements that involve the use of small muscles in the wrist, hands, and fingers. These types of activities help children develop coordination, control, and strength. Toys that promote hand manipulation, along with arts and crafts activities, are examples to promote fine motor skills! Some suggestions include:
Drawing pads
Puzzles
Stringing beads
Building blocks
T: Time together- When looking for toys and games to purchase for your child, look for activities that increase time together. These types of toys and games promote communication, connection and collaboration among family members and friends, and support social and language skills. Some suggestions include:
Board games
Books
Building sets
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