OT at CFD

It's important to choose toys and activities for your child that will enhance overall development.  As a pediatric occupational therapist, I have heard from parents how difficult it is to know what to buy their children for the holidays that will be most beneficial to them.  So many toys these days "play for" your child rather than your child playing with them.  There are lots of bells and whistles that take away from developing fine and gross motor skills, cognitive skills, and creativity.  Here are some ideas for children 2-5 years old:

2 Years: blocks, balls, crayons, play dishes and cooking utensils, dolls/stuffed animals, easel and paper, hand puppets, musical instruments, wooden beads, child-sized table and chairs, paint, nesting boxes or cups, wagon, ride-on toy, simple shape manipulatives/puzzles..

3 years: bean bags, bouncing or rocking toys, building tools, jungle gym, floor puzzles, finger paints, materials for playing house/store, blunt scissors, sewing cards, shape manipulatives/puzzles.

4 years: simple board games, toy camera, bike with training wheels, art supplies, flashlight, garden tools, mini people, animals, food, playhouse or tent, roller skates, water play materials, jigsaw puzzles.

5 years: simple card games, simple crafts, clay/play dough, dress up costumes, jump rope, scooter, kite, science materials (magnifying glass, stethoscope, bug catcher/jar).