From STEM Kits To Building Toys: 6 Types Of Toys For Kids That Can Support Learning And Growth

From crawlers to toddlers, every stage of child growth requires the right toys to support development. Here is a guide to types of toys for kids that can support skills, creativity, and imagination.

By Parul Sharma Published On: Sep 11, 2025 12:12 PM IST Last Updated On: Sep 11, 2025 12:33 PM IST

Types of toys for kids that can support development and growth

Gone are the days when remote-control cars or dollhouses were enough for children and their playtime. Nowadays, there is a wide variety of toys available for kids of all ages, which play a unique role in their development. From musical toys to introduce a harmonious world to STEM toys for playtime mixed with knowledge, the list is never-ending. However, choosing the right toys can allow little Einsteins to develop creativity, problem-solving, and many other skills. Not sure where to begin or what to get? Don't worry. Here is a complete guide to types of toys for kids of all ages.

Introduce your kids to these toys and mix playtime with knowledge

Introduce your kids to these toys and mix playtime with knowledge
Photo Credit: Pexels

7 Important Types Of Toys For Kids

1. Educational Toys

As the name suggests, educational toys are designed to mix playtime with informative concepts. These toys can impart knowledge to young learners without boring them. From alphabet blocks and number puzzles to interactive learning tablets, there is a wide range of educational toys for children. 

These toys may help improve problem-solving, vocabulary, and memory skills. They are great for early childhood development, as they help kids grasp basic concepts faster. Moreover, educational toys offer hands-on experience with different subjects.

2. Building and Construction Toys

Building and construction toys help little learners use individual pieces to create structures, models, vehicles, and so much more. This category can include Lego sets, magnetic tiles, and wooden blocks. Children will have so much fun building new designs every day. 

Building toys can encourage children to develop creativity, logical thinking, and fine motor skills. Moreover, many of these toys are made from non-toxic plastic, making them safer for everyday playtime. 

3. Art and Craft Toys

The art and craft category of children's toys can include creative kits and supplies that allow children to express creativity through drawing, painting, and clay modeling. These activities help children explore their creative side and inner artist while playing with toys. Thanks to their wide variety, children can enjoy hands-on building activities all day. 

For the uninformed, craft sets often include coloring books, beads, or origami papers that keep kids engaged for hours. In this way, these toys can help kids develop patience and focus.

Art and craft toys help children explore their inner artist

Art and craft toys help children explore their inner artist
Photo Credit: Pexels

4. Outdoor And Sports Toys

Outdoor toys and games are excellent for parents who want their young ones to spend more time outdoors. These can include balls, skipping ropes, bicycles, and cricket sets that help kids stay active while having fun. 

As you might have already guessed, outdoor and sports toys can promote physical fitness and stamina. They are excellent for highly active children who don't like sitting idle inside. 

5. Role Play And Pretend Toys

The next category of toys to include in your child's playtime is role play and pretend toys. These refer to interactive sets designed to imitate real-world activities. This category can include play toys like kitchen sets, doctor kits, and dollhouses. 

These games can be played inside or outside the house with friends. Or, you can join the children while they cook your favourite dish or call out your name as the next patient. They can encourage imagination, storytelling, and understanding as kids take on different roles. 

Also Read: Affordable Birthday Gift For Children: Check Out Top Picks At Minimum 60% Off On Amazon

6. Musical Toys

Musical toys, such as keyboards, drums, and xylophones, are another option to introduce children to something other than cars and dollhouses. These toys can introduce kids to the world of music with rhythm, pitch, and hands-on experience. While simple rattles and toy pianos are great for younger children, older kids can try their hands and skills on advanced instruments. Moreover, musical play can even spark an early interest in learning music professionally.

Musical toys give children a break from the constant remote control cars and dolls

Musical toys give children a break from the constant remote control cars and dolls
Photo Credit: Pexels

7. STEM And Tech-Based Toys

If you are looking for something advanced for older kids, STEM and Tech-Based toys are excellent options. They focus on science, technology, engineering, and math, preparing kids for future skills. This special category includes robotics kits, coding games, and DIY science sets to make complex subjects fun and approachable. 

If you want your child to develop curiosity and innovation skills at an early age, STEM toys are definitely a good option. 

Overview Of Types Of Toys For Kids

At A Glance: Types Of Toys For Kids
Types Of Toys For Kids Examples Key Benefits
Educational Toys Alphabet blocks, number puzzles Helps toddlers and early schoolers grasp concepts
Building And Construction Toys Lego sets, wooden blocks Can help kids enhance imagination and motor skills
Art And Craft Toys Colouring books, origami kits, and clay modeling Can help toddlers practice creative skills 
Outdoor And Sports Toys Balls, bicycles, skipping ropes Help promote exercise in kids
Role Play And Pretend Toys Kitchen sets and doctor kits Can help kids understand real-world scenarios
Musical Toys Keyboards, drums, and xylophones Can help kids develop an interest in music
STEM Toys Robotic kids, coding games, science sets Can make STEM concepts easy to understand

By choosing age-appropriate toys, parents can give their children playtime that is both fun and meaningful. Because toys are not just for giving children a break from school and study, or just to keep them busy. Instead, these types of toys for children can provide endless joy and developmental benefits. And you can even check out toys for kids online to explore a whole new world of playful knowledge.

Products Related To This Article

1. Mechanix-4, DIY STEM Toy, Building and Construction Set for Boys and Girls Age 7+ Years

2. Handycrafts Funskool Glass Painting Kit

3. Handycrafts Funskool Little Florist

4. FunBlast Interactive Children Book

5. PlayShifu Math Games for Kids

6. TOYTASTIC Learning Boy Girls Toys Age 4-5

7. The Little Ones Mechanical Vehicle Building Kit

8. Robocoders STEM Robotics Kit for Kids Ages 8-14 yrs

9. Butterfly EduFields 100+ STEM Engineering Project Kit for Girls Ages 8 10 12 15 Years

10. Butterfly EduFields 5in1 STEM Robotics kit

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the types of toys for kids?

Some popular types of toys for kids include educational toys, building sets, art and craft kits, role play sets, puzzles, and STEM toys.

2. How do you categorise kids' toys?

Kids' toys can be categorised by their purpose, type, and age group.

3. What are educational toys for kids?

Educational toys are designed to make learning enjoyable. This category introduces kids to various concepts like numbers, alphabets, and colours. 

4. What are STEM toys for kids?

As the name suggests, STEM toys focus on science, technology, engineering, and math concepts. They encourage children with hands-on exploration. 

5. Are STEM toys helpful for kids?

Yes, STEM toys can be very helpful for kids. They may help kids develop future-ready skills in a fun way

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.

Also Read