Holiday Gift Guide for Preschoolers

Preschoolers are developing active imaginations, refining their motor skills, and learning problem solving skills. Today's list includes toys to promote development of pretend play, creativity, and fine motor skills in young children.

Melissa and Doug Toys
It is hard to go wrong with toys made by Melissa and Doug. This brand consistently makes high-quality, educational toys. A few of my favorites include:

Cutting Food Box
I always encourage parents of picky eaters to immerse their children in food related toys and books. This set does just that. Great for pretend play, this toy also introduces the concepts of parts and fractions.


Magnetic Fishing Puzzle
This is a great puzzle for encouraging eye-hand coordination. Also great for counting and learning colors.


Beginner Pattern Blocks
Great for working on colors, shapes, patterns and counting. Also good for matching and developing visual perceptual skills.



Zoomorphs
Zoomorphs are great for fine motor development and encouraging pretend play. The pieces are all interchangeable and the creations are endless. Zoomorphs come in a variety of sets, including Safarimorphs, Petmorphs and Dinomorphs (pictured below).



Hi-Ho Cherry-O
This classic counting game is also great for developing fine motor skills when picking up and counting the little cherries.
 

Hape Stormy Seas Balancing Game
Develops fine motor skills while introducing strategy.
 


I hope you find this list helpful! Check back tomorrow for a gift guide for elementary school aged children!

What are your favorite toys for preschoolers?