Open-Ended Toys...What You Realized is Much Needed

Has your child ever started to play with a toy, and 5-minutes later they are done?  They want to move on to the next thing.  They start playing with that toy and then the same thing?  Yup, me too!  Frustrating right?  Once I started to have more open ended toys, I noticed a change.  This blog will talk about open ended toys, benefits, and some of my favorites!

Open-ended toys are toys that children can play with that have multiple uses.  They are never “done”.  There are no “set rules” or “directions” on how to play.  Children simply decide how they want to play.  And the best part… Children are learning without even realizing it.

Benefits to Open-Ended Toys

• Can be used in many different ways

• Children choose how they want to use that toy

• Encourage creativity, imagination, and problem-solving

• Longer independent play

• Less overstimulation

• Less batteries! 

  
  

The best thing is, the same toy a toddler uses will look completely different than the way an older child will.  Open-ended toys are great for many ages! 

My Favorites and Must-Haves in My House

🧱 Blocks

Wooden blocks, plastic legos, mega-blocks… Any of these are considered open-ended.  Even magna-tiles.  

How it helps:

• Build problem-solving skills

• Strengthen focus & patience

• Support early math & engineering thinking

Same blocks at age 2 = stacking

Same blocks at age 6 = towers, castles, buildings

🎨 Art Materials

Crayons, paper, scissors, glue, paint sticks

How it helps:

• Boosts creativity through thinking

• Strengthens fine motor skills

• Encourages planning & step-by-step thinking 

Same art supplies, different children, children artistic outcomes

👐 Play-Doh

Honestly I am for the name brand here.  Not sticky, last longs, non-toxic!

How it helps:

• Sensory regulation

• Strengths fine motor skills

• Encourages creativity

Sometimes kids AND adults just need to squish, roll, and make.

🧸 Pretend Play

Kitchen, dolls, cars, dress-up

How it helps:

• Makes real-life connections

• Spark imagination

• Develops independence through confidence

They’re not just playing — they’re practicing life-skills.

You don’t need more toys. You just need the right kind. I promise you, you will not regret the purchase of an open-ended  toy! Which one would you want to try first? Comment below!