6 EDUCATIONAL TOYS FOR TODDLER TWINS
Parents of twins and multiples know that there is definitely some truth to the concept that big families are happy ones.
However, you may have also learned that it is hard work to keep several kids entertained while making sure to meet their different developmental needs, even among multiples who do develop at different rates.
The best child development toys should be safe and designed to teach your toddlers important skills that encourage them to move their bodies and think about the world around them.
When you find yourself scratching your head trying to find ways to keep your toddlers busy, use this list of educational toys to give your multiples activities that keep them challenged and entertained.
KEEP KIDS ENGAGED ON-THE-GO WITH CLIP-ON TOYS
Every parent knows that a bored kid is an unhappy one, and certain parts of your day may not be interesting to your toddlers. Clip-on toys come in a variety of different forms that play music, are textural, and come in fun colors that are all mesmerizing to toddlers. Since these toys clip onto car seats and shopping carts, you can use these to keep your kids happy anytime you need to bring them along as you run errands. Have on hand clip-on toys in several different styles so that you can switch them up among the kids and keep them interesting.
ENJOY THE OUTDOORS WITH WAGONS AND TRIKES
Toddlers need safe ways to burn off energy and outdoor toys are great for helping them develop their gross motor skills. As your kids pull each other around in wagons or learn how to ride tricycles, they strengthen their muscles and develop their coordination. Keep in mind that twins may also love to ride together sometimes, so choose outdoor toys with room for several kids to enjoy at once.
MAKE SOME MUSIC WITH INSTRUMENTS
Families with twins, triplets or more are like a ready-made band, so why not give the kids a head start on developing their musical skills? Toy instruments such as miniature tambourines and drum sets encourage kids to learn about rhythm which is an important element in developing early language skills. Keep in mind that toddlers may want to play the same instrument at the same time, so do get one of each kind for everyone to minimize tantrums.
GIVE THEM A FUN CHALLENGE WITH PUZZLE GAMES
Puzzles have long been favorite child development toys that are used both at home and in educational facilities to foster critical thinking skills and special recognition. For twins, triplets and more, be sure to choose ones that are made from durable materials such as wooden puzzles so that they last for many hours of play. Puzzles for toddlers may also have knobs to increase their ability to hold the pieces and obvious shapes that make it easier for them to figure out where each piece goes. As you pick out brain teasers for your twins, be sure to also select puzzle games to suit children at different ages so that each one has the perfect level of challenge. This strategy also lets the puzzles grow with your kids so that they continue to build new skills.
SHARE A LOVE FOR READING WITH BOOKS
In addition to puzzle games, soft books help to introduce new concepts such as vocabulary. Books made of cloth are easier to clean, and their durable materials stand up to frequent readings from multiple kids. Make sure that the books that you choose are age-appropriate and contain simple language that your toddlers can understand. Then, keep them set out on a low shelf so that they can help themselves with a book whenever they want to check out the pages.
ENCOURAGE IMAGINATIVE PLAY WITH DOLLS AND DRESS-UP CLOTHES
Toddlers today should still be receiving limited screen time which means that many classic toys still work to keep them entertained. Imaginative play activities such as feeding a baby doll or pretending to play house are great activities that teach your children creativity. Props such as dolls and dress-up clothes also encourage your children to play as a group. While toddlers often prefer to play side-by-side rather than interact, you may still be surprised to discover your kids working together as they pretend to cook a meal for their doll or get dressed up to play house.
Whether you have twins, triplets or more, you know that you have to constantly have a plan to keep your kids entertained. With these fun and exciting toys in your house, you can look forward to knowing that your kids always have an activity to do that stimulate their development and keep them busy.
About the Author
Riya is a writer who enjoys decorating her home, crafting, and trying new recipes.
She is also a runner who likes to enjoy the morning breeze. Connect with her on Twitter.