Why Tutoring Your Toddler is Smart Parenting

Some of the toys identified as educational may not be so to a toddler. Toys that do all the work will not stimulate eye-hand coordination and cause-and-effect most toddlers are learning naturally. "Educational toys should allow for the toddler to be active—to do something and not just be entertained in a passive manner," advises Dr. Squibb. Toys should be age appropriate, safe, and durable. Unbreakable mirrors, squeeze toys, texture balls, fill and dump toys, rhythm instruments, play dough, and simple puzzles all promote development.

"Parents should consider a range of toys to stimulate different aspects of the toddler's development. Toys should stimulate the child's imagination," says Dr. Squibb.