Most parents would agree that the best kinds of toys for children are those which teach and challenge them as well as provide entertainment. The wide range of educational pu slow rebound toys available can teach children of all ages numeracy skills, literacy, dexterity, speech, problem-solving or even emotional development. Here are just some of the most popular toys and games you might want to consider putting in your little one’s Christmas stocking this year:Building blocks such as Lego, or Duplo for younger children, have been consistently popular for decades and the reason for this is clear. Learning to put the bricks together aids dexterity, whilst the almost endless possibilities for creating new and exciting objects from these colourful blocks encourages imagination as well as speech skills as you ask your child to tell you about what they are making.

Puzzles come in many shapes and sizes, but one of the most enduringly popular forms is jigsaw puzzles. Perhaps one of the reasons for this is their versatility. You can buy jigsaw puzzles for children of all ages, from the most simple two-piece kinds to the more complex and detailed varieties reaching into hundreds of pieces. Working out which pieces go with which is a great way to develop problem-solving skills, and if you give a child a puzzle which is just challenging enough without being frustratingly difficult for their age bracket, then completing it can give a great sense of achievement and boost their self-esteem.Electronic toys such as Speak & Spell or Speak & Read can be slightly more expensive but are very popular amongst parents when it comes to teaching their children numeracy and literacy skills in a clear, concise and entertaining manner.

However, for those who prefer a more traditional toy, a beaded abacus for example is an equally effective way of teaching a child to count and also encourages a higher level of parent/child interaction.Modelling clay such as play dough is another great way to encourage artistic and imaginative skills, as long as you don’t mind your child getting a bit messy. It is perhaps one of the most versatile toys of all as it can be moulded into any shape and can be used again and again so it is also great value for money for those who are on a strict budget. In fact, you can even make it yourself using a few simple ingredients including salt, flour, cream of tartar and food colouring.