Would you like to encourage your child’s imaginative play, but you are sick of the kid toys they don’t play with for more than a few minutes?  I have a list of ideas for you!

Playing Restaurant

If you don’t already have a play kitchen and some play food, or even a set of play dough for making play food, add that to your list first. Those are toys that got a ton of play in our house for many years from ages 2 to 7. However, if your child is ready to move to the next phase, set them up to be a server! Grab them a set of Guest Checks for servers and a server book. Both items come in a variety of colors and choices!

Playing restaurant is a classic kid game, and it is fun for multiple kids who can take turns trading between the kitchen staff and the waitress job. Personally, I played “bartender” a lot as a kid… it was the 80s’… not sure that was on me. But it is a cute way to get your kid to actually fetch you a real glass of water so you can stay hydrated!

Grabbers

As an OT, I used to give these out to folks to help them with anything from getting to dressed to getting things from under the couch.

But kids love grabbers! They can be used for all kinds of weird games and experiments. From using them to grab teddy bears off the floor without getting off the bed, to creating challenges of who can grab the smallest thing, they are fun! Plus, you can get extras for the grandparents!

Playing Doctor

Do you have an aspiring physician or veterinarian? You can set up a “real” doctor kit much cheaper than you might realize. While searching, I found several stethoscope options for less than $10! So, your child can work on hearing your heartbeat and also check out all the pets!

Add to the kit some ace wraps, band aids and a cheap thermometer and they are ready to get to work!

Maybe just make sure they know thermometers only go in the mouth…. okay so that one is very dependent on if your kid should be trusted with that. Maybe just stick with some really cute band-aids in that case, I really like the ones by Welly!

Don’t forget to get a cute medical bag to keep it all in! 

Get a Good Look at Life

If your child is interested in getting a better look at things, I’ve a got a few ideas for you.

Kid sized binoculars are great for hunting for birds and other wildlife. They are also fun for games of spy!

Microscope toys have come a long way and there are far more options for kids than ever before. I like this one because it has a reasonable price, and looks comfortable for little kids to use on their own. Regular microscopes can be hard for kids who can’t look well with just one eye. This one lets them get an up close view on the go!

Last, consider a telescope. This is one for slightly older kids, and more of something to enjoy as a family, but it is a great science tool idea.