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Household "Toys" That Teach
Fun and Learning for Little Ones from Items Around the House
By Katherine Bontrager
Plastic bags and bottles are also toys in disguise. Bottles can be converted into I-Spy bottles, Caverly says. "Fill an empty plastic bottle three-fourths of the way with salt or rice," she says. "Add small items such as crayons, toothbrush, tiny balls, bells, etc. Secure the lid (ideally with hot glue and colored electrical tape). Encourage your child to hold the bottle, slowly turning it so [items appear in the salt or rice]. Then have your child name items he recognizes, which builds language and intellectual skills."
Plastic sandwich bags can, with some quick stitching, become books that reinforce routines. "Stitch four to five zip-top bags together, leaving the zipper end open," Caverly says. "Put photos of your child doing everyday routines, such as getting ready for nap/bed time, getting diaper changed, etc. The book reinforces routines and promotes social emotional development."
Bongiorno also suggests collecting old clothes so kids can play dress up. "You can turn almost anything into dramatic play clothes for children – scarves, tinfoil crowns, old shoes," she says. "Putting on clothes helps with coordination and when they're a bit older they can start doing some role-playing and let their imaginations go."
Limitless play – and learning – can be found in the comfort of home. But as with any activity, it's important that moms and dads supervise the fun. "For all homemade toys, be sure the activity is supervised and all items remain safe and unbroken," Caverly says. "For children under the age of 3, items should not fit through a paper towel tube. If they do, there is the possibility of choking for the child who is still putting things in her mouth."
