Traditional Nursery Toys & Gifts That Stand The Test Of Time

The world of children’s toys has not escaped the all-encompassing march of new technology, but amidst all the innovative new play items, some traditional toys are just as popular as ever. They hold a place in the hearts of both children and their parents, and have stood the test of time because they can play a meaningful role in a child’s development.

Here’s a look at the enduring appeal of some of the classic toys that have been handed down across generations, and are still delightful additions to the nursery or garden today. 

Dolls and Teddy Bears

Dolls and soft toys have been used as play items for children for centuries, and are still a firm favourite, even in today’s hi-tech age. When you see your child playing with dolls and accessories such as traditional prams, they are doing more than just amusing themselves and passing the time, so don’t discourage them.

Imaginative play is an important part of a child’s development, and making up games and stories as they interact with dolls is their way of exploring emotional and social relations. It is an opportunity to use the imagination and create make-believe situations, helping the child to build confidence in expressing themselves. 

Creating imaginary scenarios to interact with dolls or teddies also helps children to develop empathy and understand the needs of others better. It gives them a safe space to express nurturing and caring instincts and to imitate adult roles by looking after something in a way that doesn’t risk rejection or exclusion.  

A child will often talk to a doll or soft toy as they are playing with it, helping them to develop their language skills and speak fluently and unselfconsciously. Dressing the doll and pushing it around in toy prams or pushchairs can help to develop fine motor skills and the confidence and independence to take responsibility for their own personal care. 

Rocking and ride on toys

Traditional rocking horses make beautiful gift items that will be the focal point of any nursery, and they encourage children to develop mobility, balance and fine motor skills. They can also be gateways to the imagination, allowing young children to escape on imaginary wild rides through the countryside!  

Ride on toys such as trikes and pedal cars can also give children a sense of freedom and independence, and help them to develop leg strength and fine motor skills.

Building blocks

Building blocks are incredibly simple yet effective developmental toys that can be used to encourage problem solving skills, fine motor skills and creativity. They can be used to construct towers and spell out words or sequence numbers, for example. 

Coloured blocks can be used to teach children the names of the colours of the rainbow, and lettered blocks can be used to introduce them to the alphabet and to spell short words. Unbreakable and hard wearing, building blocks have stood the test of time and will no doubt continue to be a staple playroom item for generations to come. 

Board games

Traditional board games such as Snakes & Ladders are a favourite for older children and perfect for family nights in and rainy afternoons. They teach children about using numbers, thinking ahead, reading and language skills, taking turns, and learning how to deal with disappointment, frustration and success with equal grace!

Traditional spinning tops and yo-yos

Toys such as spinning tops and yo-yos are beautifully simple, yet they take a certain amount of patience and skill to master, making them the perfect challenge for children. They are small and light enough for younger children to handle easily, but they also need good hand to eye coordination to get good results.

They are great fun, and the skill level can be stepped up by mastering new tricks. They can be used for friendly competition between siblings and friends, or keep a solo child amused for hours at a time. Easy to store and inexpensive, these toys are a compelling way to reduce your child’s screen time.

Kites

Flying a kite on a breezy day is a simple joy that can get even the most reluctant children out in the fresh air and taking exercise. They take some skill and understanding of the weather conditions to master, helping children to learn more about the world around them.