Books are perhaps

Books are perhaps the singlemost important activity as they work on linguistic fluency, encourage creativity and build the parent-child bond.

 

Arts and crafts sets are a great idea, as they provide practice in both creativity and fine motor control. 

 

Both gardening kits and science sets are wonderful ways to introduce science in a fun way.

 

Sorting, matching and sequencing activities are excellent practice for math skills, as are blocks and construction kits.

 

Age-appropriate puzzles challenge young minds, while exercise and sports related activities (balls, hoops, bikes) are great for the body. 

 

Imaginative play sets (doctor’s kits, cooking sets) are outlets for purposeful creativity.