Some books, toys and other activities foe specific age and development

Providing different age-appropriate activities, experiences and toys are essential in children’s development journey, remember that children's interests and development vary widely. It's important to encourage exploration, creativity, and problem-solving, and provide opportunities for both guided and unstructured play. Always consider your child's individual preferences and adapt activities and materials to their needs, abilities and interests. The following recommendations are based on the stages of a child's development. Keep in mind that children develop at their own pace, and these are general guidelines.

Infants (0-12 months):

Books:

High-contrast board books with simple images.

Touch-and-feel books with textures.

Cloth or soft books with crinkly pages.

Toys:

Soft rattles and teething toys.

Baby gyms with hanging toys.

Mirrors for self-discovery.

Soft, cuddly stuffed animals.

Activities:

Tummy time to build neck and upper body strength.

Peek-a-boo games.

Sensory play with soft toys, safe household items, and fabrics.

Toddlers (1-3 years):

Books:

Simple picture books with few words.

Board books with interactive elements (lift-the-flap, textures).

Rhyming books.

Toys:

Building blocks (large, soft ones for safety).

Shape sorters and stacking toys.

Musical instruments (drums, xylophones).

Push and pull toys (e.g., toy cars or animals on wheels).

Play kitchen or tool set for pretend play.

Activities:

Simple arts and crafts (finger painting, playdough).

Exploring nature (collecting leaves, rocks).

Singing and dancing to music.

Role-playing with dolls or action figures.

Preschoolers (3-5 years):

Books:

Picture books with longer stories.

Alphabet and counting books.

Fairy tales and classic children's literature.

Toys:

Puzzles with large, colourful pieces.

Building sets like LEGO Duplo.

Art supplies (crayons, markers, coloured pencils).

Dress-up costumes for imaginative play.

Activities:

Outdoor play (swinging, running, jumping).

Science experiments (simple ones like baking soda and vinegar volcanoes).

Educational games (memory, matching, bingo).

Visiting museums, zoos, and nature centres.