My Favorite Toys for Early Intervention as a Speech Therapist
Hi friends!
Whew! We are back and facing down a new year of therapy! I always find myself a little groggy during the month of January (hello cold temperatures and that post-holiday daze), so I like to put those Amazon gift cards to use and stock some new toys in my therapy bag to keep things fresh.
I’m always surprised at the wide range of toys we can use when working with the early intervention and school-age population, and I like to keep toys and materials that can work with a variety of them!
Here are a few of my favorites:
- For the Sensory-Seekers: I LOVE a good Parachute or Tunnel! These toys allow kids to have lots of movement, visual stimulation, and varied sensory experiences. Play peek-a-boo in the tunnel, have your child run under the parachute, or even pull them along on it if you’re feeling especially energetic! These are also great for obstacle courses with drill cards at the end, or for following directions!
- For the Animal Lovers: Sound Puzzles and a Play Farm are great for accompanying a round of “Old MacDonald” singing or for pretend play. I can even work on turn-taking by putting the puzzle pieces in the bag and letting the child and me take turns pulling them out and matching them up. And the farm? An essential for pairing with so many animal-based books!
- The Ice Breaker Toy: I bring the Spin-Again toy to every first early intervention session I have! Parents and kids alike are mesmerized and it’s definitely a unique toy they most likely have not seen before, which usually draws them in so we can begin establishing rapport.
- The Must-Haves: If you’re just starting out, I always recommend a Ball, Blocks, Toy Cars, and the Stack and Roll Cups. These toys are affordable, accessible, and easy to use with a variety of ages.
Want to know more of my recommendations, particularly for Early Intervention? Sign up below and get access to my entire FREE Early Intervention Toy Guide! It includes tips for choosing toys, my top ten toys, and how to promote play in the home!
>> CLICK HERE TO GRAB THE FREE GUIDE <<
Happy speeching!
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