Recommended toys for boys as playtime companions

5 Fun toy recommendations for boys

Every child has different interests and ways of playing, so toys can be selected based on their age, activities, and developing abilities. IKEA offers a variety of children’s toys that can accompany children as they play and explore.

1. UPPSTÅ crane with blocks

UPPSTÅ combines vehicles, blocks, and lifting activities using a crane. The crane and blocks use magnets, while the trailer truck can be taken apart and put back together, allowing children to explore different ways to play.

2. UNDERHÅLLA 40-piece wooden building block set

With 40 solid wooden blocks, UNDERHÅLLA gives children plenty of possibilities for building and knocking down different structures. The blocks are designed for children aged 18 months and above, with a lightweight design and rounded corners that make them easy to grip.

3. BLOMFLUGA 13-piece toy tool set

For children who enjoy taking things apart and making something, BLOMFLUGA can be a fun choice. The set includes a toolbox, hammer, wrench, screwdriver, wheels, pins, and several parts to assemble.

4. LILLABO 3-piece vehicle set

LILLABO includes a fire truck, tow truck, and sports car that can be used for different play stories. Children can assemble, take apart, and create their own variations using the vehicle parts.

5. UPPSTÅ toy hammering block

UPPSTÅ encourages children to hammer eight colourful plugs using a wooden hammer. This repetitive activity can help develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, while introducing colours, textures, and sounds through play.

Also read: Educational toys for kids to build a warm learning world at home

How to choose toys for boys

Choosing toys becomes easier when you consider your child’s overall needs rather than focusing only on the toy’s shape or colour. Here are some things to consider:

• Choose according to age: check the recommended age and level of difficulty so your child can use the toy comfortably.

• Consider your child’s interests: if your child enjoys vehicles, toy cars or trucks may be a good choice. Children who enjoy making things may prefer blocks or construction toys.

• Choose toys that encourage exploration: toys that can be assembled, taken apart, combined, or played with in different ways give children opportunities to try new ideas.

• Consider safety: check the size, materials, and small parts, especially for younger children.

Benefits of play for children’s development

Play gives children opportunities to learn and develop various skills through enjoyable activities. Here are some of the benefits:

• Developing fine motor skills: activities such as stacking blocks or assembling toy parts help develop hand movements and hand-eye coordination.

• Supporting gross motor skills: games that involve plenty of movement can help develop balance, body coordination, and physical movement skills.

• Developing thinking skills: games involving shapes, colours, rules, or problem-solving give children opportunities to learn, think, and understand cause-and-effect relationships.

• Developing social and emotional skills: playing with parents or friends helps children learn to take turns, follow rules, communicate, and understand other people’s roles.

• Encouraging imagination and creativity: pretend play and open-ended activities give children room to create stories, try ideas, and express themselves.

Toy choices based on age

Age can be one consideration when choosing toys so that play is appropriate for a child’s abilities. Here are some play options that can be adjusted according to age and developmental stage:

• Around 18 months–2 years: choose toys that are easy to grip and play with, such as stacking blocks or games that develop hand coordination.

• Around 3 years: simple construction toys, vehicles, and pretend play can give children opportunities to explore and use their imagination.

• 4 years and above: children can begin to enjoy games with more challenges, such as building shapes, following simple rules, or trying activities that involve problem-solving.

Always check the recommended age for each product, as every child may develop at a different pace.

Let children play without taking over

Parents do not always have to decide how a toy should be used. Give children opportunities to try things their own way, then offer help when they genuinely need guidance.

Playtime can also be an opportunity to teach simple habits. After playing, encourage children to return their toys to their proper place so they can gradually learn to take care of their belongings and tidy up their play area.

Also read: Ways to boost children's imagination through play activities

Choose toys that make children want to play again

Every child has different interests when playing, from building with blocks and moving vehicles to making things and engaging in pretend play. Choose toys that suit your child’s age, interests, and preferred ways of spending their playtime.

If you are looking for toys to accompany playtime at home, IKEA offers a variety of children’s toys that can be matched to your child’s developmental stage and interests.

Visit IKEA.co.id to discover more inspiration that can help make playtime enjoyable as well as beneficial.

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