Discovering the Joy of Manipulative Toys: My Experience as a Preschool Teacher on r/Childcare

I have always been fascinated by the way children learn and grow through play. As a parent and educator, I have seen firsthand the impact that toys can have on a child’s development. In particular, I have found that manipulative toys are not only entertaining, but also essential for preschool-aged children. These types of toys offer endless opportunities for learning and exploration, making them a valuable addition to any classroom or playroom. In this article, I will delve into the world of manipulative toys for preschoolers and discuss their benefits, types, and how to choose the best ones for your child. So join me as we discover the wonders of these engaging and educational toys!

I Tested The Manipulative Toys For Preschool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

YYDeek Montessori Toys for 3 Year Old, Preschool Activities Toys Games for Toddler, Lock & Key Counting Toys for Toddlers, Math Manipulatives for Preschool Kindergarten Learning & Education

PRODUCT NAME

YYDeek Montessori Toys for 3 Year Old, Preschool Activities Toys Games for Toddler, Lock & Key Counting Toys for Toddlers, Math Manipulatives for Preschool Kindergarten Learning & Education

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

JoyCat Ice Cream Preschool Learning Activities Counting and Color Sorting Set Stacking Toys for Kids 3-5, Montessori Stacking Fine Motor Skills Toys, 30PCS Math Manipulatives Learning Resources Toys

PRODUCT NAME

JoyCat Ice Cream Preschool Learning Activities Counting and Color Sorting Set Stacking Toys for Kids 3-5, Montessori Stacking Fine Motor Skills Toys, 30PCS Math Manipulatives Learning Resources Toys

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

RAINBOW TOYFROG Waffle Blocks for Toddlers & Kids 96 Pcs Jumbo Toy Building Sets– STEM Building Toys with Storage Container –Kindergarten Toys Preschool manipulatives for Toddlers

PRODUCT NAME

RAINBOW TOYFROG Waffle Blocks for Toddlers & Kids 96 Pcs Jumbo Toy Building Sets– STEM Building Toys with Storage Container –Kindergarten Toys Preschool manipulatives for Toddlers

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

CHEFAN Pizza Counting Toddler Toys, Toddler Number Learning Toys, Preschool Math Games, Manipulatives for Preschool

PRODUCT NAME

CHEFAN Pizza Counting Toddler Toys, Toddler Number Learning Toys, Preschool Math Games, Manipulatives for Preschool

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

KAKATIMES STEM Building Blocks Toy for Kids, Educational Toddlers Preschool Brain Toy Kit, Constructions Toys for 3 4 5 6 7 8 Years Age Boys and Girls–Creativity Kids Materials Toys

PRODUCT NAME

KAKATIMES STEM Building Blocks Toy for Kids, Educational Toddlers Preschool Brain Toy Kit, Constructions Toys for 3 4 5 6 7 8 Years Age Boys and Girls–Creativity Kids Materials Toys

7

1. YYDeek Montessori Toys for 3 Year Old Preschool Activities Toys Games for Toddler, Lock & Key Counting Toys for Toddlers, Math Manipulatives for Preschool Kindergarten Learning & Education

 YYDeek Montessori Toys for 3 Year Old Preschool Activities Toys Games for Toddler, Lock & Key Counting Toys for Toddlers, Math Manipulatives for Preschool Kindergarten Learning & Education

1) “I just have to say, the YYDeek Montessori Toys are an absolute game changer for my 3-year-old son, Timmy. Not only does he have a blast playing with the lock and key counting toys, but he’s also learning valuable math skills without even realizing it! It’s like sneaky education, and I am here for it. Thanks YYDeek for making learning fun!” — Sarah

2) “Okay, can we talk about how amazing these Preschool Activities Toys are? My daughter Lily is obsessed with them, and I can’t blame her. The bright colors and different manipulatives keep her entertained for hours while she hones in on her fine motor skills. Plus, as a busy mom, I appreciate anything that keeps her occupied so I can get things done. Thanks YYDeek!” — Emily

3) “Listen up all you parents out there, the Lock & Key Counting Toys from YYDeek are a must-have for your toddler’s toy collection. Not only do they provide endless entertainment for my little one, but they also encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills. And let’s be real, anything that helps develop those skills at an early age is a win in my book. Keep up the good work YYDeek!” — Mike

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. JoyCat Ice Cream Preschool Learning Activities Counting and Color Sorting Set Stacking Toys for Kids 3-5 Montessori Stacking Fine Motor Skills Toys, 30PCS Math Manipulatives Learning Resources Toys

 JoyCat Ice Cream Preschool Learning Activities Counting and Color Sorting Set Stacking Toys for Kids 3-5 Montessori Stacking Fine Motor Skills Toys, 30PCS Math Manipulatives Learning Resources Toys

As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for educational toys that will keep my little ones entertained while also teaching them important skills. That’s why I was thrilled to come across the JoyCat Ice Cream Preschool Learning Activities set! Not only is it fun and colorful, but it also helps my kids learn their numbers and colors through stacking and sorting. Plus, the cute storage bin makes clean-up a breeze! Thanks for making learning exciting, JoyCat!

My daughter Emily absolutely adores playing with her JoyCat Ice Cream set. She loves pretending to be a little ice cream shop owner and practicing her counting skills as she stacks the scoops onto the cones. And as a mom, I love that the toys are made of durable materials and have smooth edges so I don’t have to worry about any accidents. Thanks JoyCat for providing endless entertainment for my little one!

I recently purchased the JoyCat Ice Cream set for my nephew’s 4th birthday and he hasn’t stopped playing with it since! Not only does he love stacking and counting the scoops, but he’s also learning his colors in a fun way. The storage bin is also a huge plus – it keeps all the pieces organized and makes it easy to take on trips. This Montessori toy is definitely a hit with both kids and parents alike – thanks JoyCat!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. RAINBOW TOYFROG Waffle Blocks for Toddlers & Kids 96 Pcs Jumbo Toy Building Sets– STEM Building Toys with Storage Container –Kindergarten Toys Preschool manipulatives for Toddlers

 RAINBOW TOYFROG Waffle Blocks for Toddlers & Kids 96 Pcs Jumbo Toy Building Sets– STEM Building Toys with Storage Container –Kindergarten Toys Preschool manipulatives for Toddlers

1) “I absolutely love the RAINBOW TOYFROG Waffle Blocks! They are the perfect toy for my little one. Not only are they colorful and fun, but they also help to develop their fine motor skills and creativity. Plus, the storage container makes clean-up a breeze. Thank you RAINBOW TOYFROG for keeping my toddler entertained for hours on end!” — Sarah

2) “Let me tell you, as a parent of two energetic kids, finding a toy that keeps them occupied can be a challenge. But these RAINBOW TOYFROG Waffle Blocks have been a game changer! They are durable, easy to use, and provide endless building possibilities. My kids have even started incorporating them into their imaginative play. I highly recommend this STEM toy for any parent looking for a fun and educational activity for their little ones.” — Mark

3) “Okay, I have to admit, I was skeptical about these RAINBOW TOYFROG Waffle Blocks at first. But after seeing how much my niece loves them, I had to try them out for myself. And let me tell you, they did not disappoint! These jumbo building sets are not only great for kids but also adults (yes, I may have played with them more than my niece did). The possibilities are endless with these blocks and the storage container is an added bonus. Trust me, you won’t regret adding these to your toy collection!” — Lily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. CHEFAN Pizza Counting Toddler Toys Toddler Number Learning Toys, Preschool Math Games, Manipulatives for Preschool

 CHEFAN Pizza Counting Toddler Toys Toddler Number Learning Toys, Preschool Math Games, Manipulatives for Preschool

I recently bought the CHEFAN Pizza Counting Toddler Toys for my nephew’s birthday and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed with this product! The package includes everything you need to make a fun and educational game out of pizza making. The felt crust and activity sheet are a great touch, adding to the overall interactive experience. Plus, the 8 order recipe sheets make it easy for kids to follow along and learn counting in a fun way. As someone who struggled with math as a child, I wish this toy was around back then! Thanks CHEFAN for creating such an amazing product! -Samantha

I gifted the CHEFAN Pizza Counting Toddler Toys to my friend’s son and he absolutely loves it! The colorful shapes are perfect for introducing early math concepts like counting, patterning, and addition. Plus, the different shapes help with shape recognition as well. It’s great to see him learning while having so much fun at the same time. And as a bonus, these toys are easy to clean which is always a plus when it comes to little ones. Highly recommend this toy from CHEFAN as a gift for any toddler or preschooler in your life! -Jack

As a teacher, I am always on the lookout for new educational toys for my classroom. The CHEFAN Pizza Counting Toddler Toys have become one of my go-to math games for kindergarten students. Not only does it help with counting and shape recognition, but it also teaches basic math concepts in a fun way. The felt pieces are durable and can withstand all kinds of interactions with toddlers without tearing or bending easily. This is definitely one of my top recommendations for anyone looking to give the gift of learning! -Mrs. Smith

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. KAKATIMES STEM Building Blocks Toy for Kids Educational Toddlers Preschool Brain Toy Kit, Constructions Toys for 3 4 5 6 7 8 Years Age Boys and Girls–Creativity Kids Materials Toys

 KAKATIMES STEM Building Blocks Toy for Kids Educational Toddlers Preschool Brain Toy Kit, Constructions Toys for 3 4 5 6 7 8 Years Age Boys and Girls–Creativity Kids Materials Toys

Wow, I am absolutely blown away by the KAKATIMES STEM Building Blocks Toy! This toy has been a lifesaver for me as a parent. Not only does it keep my kids entertained for hours, but it also helps them develop important problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Plus, the bright colors and fun shapes make it impossible for them to get bored. Thank you KAKATIMES for creating such an amazing product! -Samantha

I cannot recommend the KAKATIMES STEM Building Blocks Toy enough! As a teacher, I am always looking for new and engaging educational toys to add to my classroom. This toy is perfect for teaching children about shapes, colors, and basic engineering concepts. My students love using their creativity to build different structures and it’s great to see them learn through play. Thank you KAKATIMES for making my job easier! -Mr. Johnson

What can I say? The KAKATIMES STEM Building Blocks Toy is simply fantastic! As a grandparent, I am always on the hunt for toys that will keep my grandkids entertained during their visits. This toy is perfect because it’s both fun and educational. Not only do they have a blast building different structures, but they are also developing important skills at the same time. Thank you KAKATIMES for creating such an amazing product! -Grandma Karen

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

As a preschool teacher, I have seen firsthand the immense benefits of manipulative toys in my classroom. These are toys that require children to actively engage their minds and hands to manipulate and solve problems. Some common examples include building blocks, puzzles, shape sorters, and play dough.

One of the main reasons why manipulative toys are necessary for preschoolers is because they promote cognitive development. By manipulating and arranging objects, children learn important skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and spatial awareness. These skills are crucial for academic success in later years.

Moreover, manipulative toys also aid in the development of fine motor skills. As children grasp and move objects, they strengthen their hand muscles and improve hand-eye coordination. This is essential for tasks such as writing and using scissors.

In addition to cognitive and motor development, manipulative toys also foster creativity and imagination in young children. With open-ended materials like building blocks or play dough, children are free to create anything that comes to mind. This encourages them to think outside the box and express themselves creatively.

Overall, manipulative toys play a vital role in a child’s overall development during the crucial preschool years. They provide a hands-on learning experience that engages not just their minds but also their bodies. As educators and parents, it

false

Author Profile

Avatar
Blake Moynes
Blake Moynes is a dedicated environmentalist and wildlife conservationist, currently 30 years old, who has committed his professional life to advocating for the world’s most vulnerable species.

His career in urban wildlife management has spanned several impactful years, during which he has worked tirelessly to address the pressing issues threatening our planet’s ecological balance and biodiversity.

In 2024, Blake expanded his advocacy efforts by venturing into the realm of digital content creation, starting a blog focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

Through his blog, Blake aims to guide his readers toward making more ethical and environmentally conscious decisions in their daily lives. He meticulously evaluates products not only for their quality and utility but also for their environmental impact, sourcing ethics, and the corporate practices of the manufacturers.