Playful Progress: A Physiotherapist’s Holiday Toy Guide

— 3 min read —

When it comes to child development, play is one of the most powerful tools to encourage learning, growth, and recovery. Through play, children not only explore their imagination and creativity but also build essential skills in cognition, coordination, and mobility. For children recovering from injuries or working on developmental milestones, the right toys can transform play into an engaging and therapeutic experience, fostering progress in a fun and meaningful way.

If you're on the hunt for last-minute holiday gifts for the kids in your life, consider options that bring joy while also supporting their physical and cognitive development. These thoughtful gifts can provide hours of entertainment while encouraging growth in key developmental areas:

0-6 months:

1. O-ball 

2. Baby mirror 

3. Mobile

4. Water mat

6-12 months:

1. Suction cup toys - Spinners & Squigz 

2. Sensory books - Poke-a-Dot, See Touch Feel, or Jungle Tails

3. 3-in-1 Play Table 

4. Walker push toy

1-2 years old:

1. Nesting/stacking cups

2. Ride-on scooter

3. Shape-recognition toys

4. Soft play climbing blocks

2-3 years old:

1. Tricycle 

2. Matching and sorting games

3. Key/twisting toys

4. Tossing game board

3-5 years old:

1. Balance board

2. Stepping stones

3. Large floor puzzle

4. Children’s basketball hoop & ball

5-9 years old:

1. Stomp rocket

2. Ankle Skip-It 

3. Outdoor Corn Hole

4. Obstacle course set

This holiday season, give the gift of growth and joy with toys that inspire learning and development. By choosing physio-approved gifts, you’re not just spreading holiday cheer - you’re supporting the little ones in your life as they reach important milestones through play. Whether it’s a balance board for an adventurous preschooler or sensory books for a curious infant, these thoughtful gifts will bring smiles and lasting benefits well beyond the holiday season.

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physiotherapy for babies + children

From sports injury rehabilitation to developmental milestones, our therapists work one on one with each child to improve range of motion, build strength and endurance and improve balance—all while having a blast!

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This post was written by wellbe’s physiotherapy resident Stephanie Vettese. Click here to learn more about pediatric physiotherapy at wellbe.