This is a piggy-back post to my recent blog about understanding sensory processing differences in kids.  With the holidays approaching, families are asking what toys will best promote play and language skills.

First, let me say that less is more when it comes to toys.  Too many brightly-colored toys packed into a space can be overwhelming and cause children to become over-stimulated.

Also, toys with bright lights and sounds can be distracting and passive.  You don't want to spend your time and money on a toy that only requires that your child watch and push the button. You want interactive toys that require your child to engage with a toy.

Look for toys that are open-ended.  The market is flooded with toys that tell your child how to play or that only offer one way to play.  Open-ended toys engage a child's imagination.  They can be anything and their function can change from day to day. (Think cardboard box).

"Top 10 Open-Ended, Interactive and Worth the Money SensoryToys"

1) large wooden beads

2) wooden blocks (of various shapes and sizes)

3) sturdy play kitchen supplies

4)Bilibo (www.bilibo.com) The ultimate open-ended toy

5) dough (homemade or of the play variety)

6) paint, brushes, sponges and plain paper

7)kinetic sand (www.wabafun.com)

8)Magna-Tiles (www.magnatiles.com)

9)  Tinker Toys (Caveat:  Many of the recently made "tinker toy" brands are not well made and, in my experience, break and crack easily) Try the "Makit" brand.

10)Squigz  (www.fatbraintoys.com)