Hobbies And Interests
Puzzles
Numerous puzzles and games are offered that make learning fun by utilizing kids most favorite fuzzy, furry animals. For toddlers and preschoolers, peg puzzles offer pieces the entire size of the animal; children then work with not only animal identification but shapes, as well. Older children can enjoy varying themes including sea and farm life as well as zoo animals, and various categories such as Arctic animals, amphibians and mammals. Companies such as Melissa and Doug also offer large floor puzzles. The big pieces are easier for small hands to manage, and kids enjoy playing on the floor rather than sitting at a table.
Fun Activity Kits
If you have a budding scientist on your hands, entertaining, educational kits are an option. Various animals are highlighted in these kits, and children can read about their habitats and habits in the included book while completing the activities. My First Penguin Activity Kit by Scientific Explorer is one example of this option. Children as young as four years old can make edible penguin Popsicles and complete a quiz to find out what kind of penguin they are most like.
Electronic Toys
Numerous options abound when searching for appropriate educational electronic toys. Whether your child longs to have her favorite animal cartoon character in her hands to entertain and teach her basic ideas, or you are venturing off into unknown territory, finding fun gadgets is simple. Sesame Street offers a popular line of toys that speak, sing and teach children colors, body parts, phrases and manners. As of 2011, Let's Rock Elmo and Count the Crunch Cookie Monster are two new options.
Building and Construction
If you think you've got a budding architect, contractor or engineer on your hands, building or construction toys are a suitable option. If you're entertaining a toddler or preschooler, start with animal themed building blocks before moving up to animals that kids can build. Children five and older will find a challenge, as well as visual stimulation, in snap-together animal building sets like the ones offered by LaQ. These building sets offer 3-D effects and sturdy click-together pieces.