If you have children of different ages living in your house, you probably know how tricky it can be to create a space that is engaging for the older children but still safe and age appropriate for the younger ones. What is the trick? The trick is finding toys that are open ended that appeal to all children, young and old. After a year at home with a baby, 3 toddlers and a 6 year old I have gotten an idea of what specific toys work for us in this type of environment. Here are a few of our favorites:
** Note that some of these items are a bit pricey. I usually try to look for things second hand first! If I can’t find them, I either wait for birthdays or Christmas and justify the price by knowing that these are items that will grow with the children and last for years and years to come.
Grimm’s Rainbow – The options are endless with the wooden rainbow. We have 3 rainbows along with a few other wooden Grimm’s set. They get used daily! And I’m always so surprised to see what type of new creations they come up with!
Grimm’s Wooden balls – What kid do you know that doesn’t like balls? These are a perfect size to go with their rainbow creations, race across the floor, and not be too small for the littlest babe! Lots and lots of wooden marble runs have been created in our house by both children and adults!
Basket of interesting things – When my oldest daughter was 2 I found two of these baskets and couldn’t resist them because they were so cute. Never did I think they would get this much use! Children love to collect things! Collecting nature, playing grocery store, carrying a snack to the park, collecting shells or rocks, and gathering our delicious finds from the farmer’s market are a few of our favorite things. The children are constantly finding reasons to gather objects in their “basket of interesting things.”
Radio Flyer Push Wagon – My youngest daughter got this wagon for Christmas when she was just starting to stand. This was another item that I did not anticipate to be such a hit for ALL the children. Sometimes it is used as a race car pushed by the oldest with the baby riding squealing with joy and sometimes it is used as a baby stroller or shopping cart.
Magnetic Board – This is fun one! It’s one of those toys that just draws you in whether you are 1 for 43 years old. There are hundreds of magnetic balls with a magnetic stylus. This is also a great toy to keep in the car!
Play Kitchen – When my oldest daughter was younger we used this for real food prep work and pretend play. The play kitchen is another item that gets used daily by all the children. And if you are into Montessori you may also be a fan of opportunities to practice grace and courtesy. I have found the kitchen, whether it be used for real or pretend food, is a great place for the children to practice those grace and courtesy skills!
Foam Kids Couch and Play Blocks – Children need to move! We have the Blocksy from Foamnasium but the Nugget is very popular! This give the children so many different opportunities to move, build, climb, summersault, and so many more fun things. And when they aren’t actively using it, you can use is as a comfy space to read or relax. So many fun options with this piece!
Magnetiles – Magnetiles will attract children and adults of all ages. What is it about magnets that are so satisfying? The fun shapes and versatility will keep the children busy for hours, or at least a little while ;). And as they grow older, they can get more and more creative with their building!
