When I asked around on my personal blog what Adoptive Parents wanted to learn more about Toy and Product reviews came up.It makes sense, everyone likes the Mom tested and kid approved favorites. It seems that there is a overwhelming array of toys and educational products to choose from. There is nothing more frustrating that seeing the toy that you searched for and probably shelled out alot of money on just sit in the corner gathering dust and not being played with.


I often see the same toys at resale shops and thrift stores.I have found many of Livi's toys at the children’s resale shops or thrift stores. I get some of them home and I realize why they were there in the first place. The children had no interest in them. My best toy advice, keep it simple. We all want to give our children the best advantage and early start. Those educational toys are so appealing but sometimes its the simple toys that the children really love and they can still learn those same lessons- the old fashioned way.



1.Stacking cups- Time tested and still a favorite in our home- we have two sets a smaller set and a larger set. My four-year-old nephew even loves these and plays with them.


2.Push or Pull toy- a small doll stroller, a small wagon, a pop corn popper, play shopping cart all of these are considered push or pull toys... great for a new walker, and for an older active toddler. When Livi was evaluated they asked if she could push or pull a toy into a corner and back it out.

3.Legos- Duplo by far this is Livi's favorite Christmas present


4.Play dishes- cups, plates, play food, real food boxes( empty) again gender neutral. The Housekeeping area was always the most popular area with both boys and girls when I taught preschool.

5.Dress up clothes for dramatic play- take an plastic storage bin and fill it with old hats, sunglasses, shoes, necklaces, purses- great for both boys & girls

6.I know I said Top Five... but Beans are a favorite in our house and any child who comes over loves playing at our bean table- scooping, pouring and spooning dried beans is a favorite with all children. We have them in a sand table- but have also used a low shallow plastic container with a lid.