Before I had children, I never really thought much about the influence of toys on kids. When I was in college to become an occupational therapist it became more clear about the different kinds of craft materials and toys you can offer children to get them to explore and create.
I always tried to avoid buying toys that are passive. I mean, things where children just push buttons and something is going to happen. Not much of the imagination and creativity is sparked by these kinds of toys. I always promised myself to have a good amount of craft, building materials and books in the house. The same goes for giving presents. I always hope that other parents would appreciate my efforts:)
Below you’ll find a list of craft materials and educational toys.
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Craft Materials
Here is a list with craft materials, also sensory integration materials I’ll always have in my house.
- coloring pencils
- washable markers
- crayons
- safety scissors
- stick glue, tacky glue and glue gun with glue sticks (kids ages 6 and up)
- colorful and white card stock paper
- tissue paper
- washable paints
- brushes
- foam rollers
- old tooth brushes (to make splatter pictures)
- pieces of fabric
- yarn
- plastic needles
- toilet a kitchen paper rolls
- cardboard (boxes)
- Sensory bins with sand, rice, beans, noodles (elbow pasta), water, shaving cream. Finding all kinds of things in them like magnet letters, small plastic animals etc.
Educational toys to buy
I love to support small businesses and people who hand make items so beautifully with quality materials.
Please support these wonderful people as well.
Thank you!!!
- Felt Fish and Fishing Pole
- Magnet Shapes or these magnetic building blocks.
- Wooden Geoboard with Pattern Cards
- Traditional wooden Shape block box
- Wooden board with screws and tools
- STEM games in a tin box
- Wooden game, catch the ball
- Wooden Slingshot with felt balls
- Sand toys
- Sewing kit with buttons
- Embroidery Kit
Hello everyone,
Welcome to my Crafty Dutch Girl blog! Grab a cup of “koffie” and browse through fun blog posts about our Dutch family expat life in the USA, Dutch history, Dutch recipes, Dutch things to do in the USA and all kinds of crafts and activities. Don’t forget to connect with me for new ideas! “Groetjes en tot ziens”.