Toys that are “open-ended” (have no beginning, middle or end) are especially good because they can be used creatively in a number of ways. These toys can get a child talking for many different reasons; not just to label but also to request, protest, show, comment, problem solve, ask questions and role-play. Open-ended toys include the more basic “traditional” toys such as:
Language learning takes place during the back and forth interactions between you and a child. So although some toys are better than others for encouraging speech and language skills, don’t worry too much about which toy you should use. You have a bigger influence on a child’s language development than any toy.
Although many children enjoy playing with a toy that makes sounds, lights up, or “talks” – it can be more difficult to interact with a child if they are too occupied with the toy.