Educational Toys

www.educationalinsights.com
www.backtobasicstoys.com
www.fatbraintoys.com
www.learningresources.com
http://abctoyzonecatalog.com/
www.creativebrainsonline.com
www.discoverthis.com
www.naturepavillion.com
www.etacuisenaire.com
www.creativekidstuff.com
www.sensationalbeginnings.com
www.mindware.com
www.thinkgeek.com

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http://www.educationaltoysplanet.com/

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Anything that requires thinking and imagination:
-any building toys, like blocks, legos/duplos, etc.
-pretend play toys, again legos, playmobils, dolls, dress up, house play
-problem solving toys (games and puzzles) and arts and crafts, paints, stringing and beading, drawing, gluing, cutting (all these skills prepare kids for school)
-making things: keep all those TP tubes, berry baskets, cereal boxes, bubble wrap, used wrapping paper and bows, fabric scraps, cardboard containers of all sizes, etc. and a LOT of masking tape, kids LOVE to make something out of nothing
Just provide them with materials which allow them to play, think, learn and grow. You don't need to spend money on "educational" toys, these items are all around them :)

1 mom found this helpful

Add to Mamazita's great list:
wood figure toys from Holtztiger
Plan City railroad and other city/transporation sets
books
yes, masking tape--painter's tape comes in a variety of colors
unlimited supply of computer paper, crayons, pens, markers, etc.

1 mom found this helpful

we have some usborne puzzles and books

It really depends on what you're looking at them for and what age.

Plan Toys, and Haba each have a lot of open ended toys. Many of the smaller toy stores have loads to options and great staff who are happy to help you find what's just right.

Is your last sentence worded correctly?
You don't want fisher price or anything from walmart/target?
Those stores carry a lot of the major brands. Are you wanting independent brands of toys?