You can learn from playing

Playing is not only fun, it is also really super important. Especially with young children, learning often happens naturally, through play. Educational toys help to stimulate their curiosity and to learn every day without realizing it. And no, it doesn't have to be boring: there is something fun and educational for every age.

The range of children's toys has expanded enormously in recent years. Smart games, creative craft boxes, building systems and real science tools: there is something for every age and interest. The great thing is that children often do not even realize that they are learning. For them it is just playing.

Little ones discover the world

For toddlers, it's all about discovery. They learn by feeling, tasting, stacking and repeating. Think of blocks, playing with shapes, stacking towers or toys that make sounds. This helps them train their fine motor skills, recognize shapes and colors, and learn cause and effect.

Good toys for 2 year olds are sturdy, simple and attractive. They have to be able to withstand a knock or two, because they will end up on the floor a hundred times anyway. Wooden toys remain popular, as do soft puzzles or musical instruments. Anything that engages the senses is a hit.

Role playing also starts at an early age. With kitchens, doctor's bags or dolls that need to be cared for, toddlers practice their imagination and social skills without you realizing it.

Curious play

Once children go to school, their way of playing changes. They want to understand how things work and are curious about the world around them. Think of experiment kits, building sets, quiz games or interactive books. This allows them to practice logical thinking, language, arithmetic and collaboration.

Children at this age enjoy building something or completing a task. Assembling a robot? Making their own slime? Learning to program? There's a good chance you won't hear from them for hours. And bonus: you might secretly learn along.

Classics such as memory, dominoes or other simple board games are also ideal for training attention, concentration and memory. And if you play together, it also has a bonding effect. Because a games night with the family is still fun.

Teenagers want a challenge

The older children get, the more critical they become about what exactly constitutes a "toy". You soon have to deal with screen time. But educational certainly does not have to be childish. There are cool sets with which you can build your own game, learn to take photographs or be creative with technology. Think of 3D pens, digital construction kits or sets with which you can make your own music.

Some teens love to delve into science and technology. There are engaging STEM kits for them that are truly challenging: from building a working solar robot to designing your own scale. You don't have to be a whiz kid to get started!