Toys are great learning tools for kids of all age groups. The best kids’ games are ones that help them develop cognitive skills, boost their creativity, improve their motor skills or develop their problem-solving skills. Depending on the type of toy and activity, you can help kids to learn at least one new skill.

Here are some ways toys can aid in children’s overall development.

Rattles can help infants with sensory stimulation.

Crayons are often your kid’s first introduction to artistic activities. Finger painting and scribbles on paper (or walls) not only boost their artistic senses, but also develop their fine motor skills needed for tasks such as writing, using spoons and forks, zipping and buttoning. Creativity is the ability to generate new ideas. It is not only useful for artistic endeavors, but also to solve real life problems. You can teach your kids anything through creative games. The best kids’ games to bolster creativity are ones that encourage them to think, imagine, touch or solve a problem.

Puzzles and building games help a child learn to solve problems. These games encourage critical thinking and decision making. You can give preschoolers simple puzzles to solve and increase the complexity of games as they grow older. Learning for kids doesn’t need to cost a lot of money. You can make some cheap toys and puzzles using your own imagination. Maps, pictures of animals, flags of countries and foods can all come in handy to create simple puzzles for preschoolers. These can be great learning tools for your kids.

Games that involve role play help kids with improved social skills and imagination. It can shape their minds as well as help them develop social skills. For role play games, you don’t even need expensive toys. Everyday items at home are actually sufficient. Pillows, cushions, sheets, empty cartons and utensils can help kids set up forts, camps and scenes to act out scenarios.

Word puzzles, alphabet songs, interactive books, musical toys and instruments can help with a child’s language development.

Instead of buying cheap toys from the market in terms of poor quality, opt for simple toys, but those that are made non-toxic materials for your kids. The important thing is to help your kids grasp concepts through toys and games. And the best games are those that make your kids happy.