Learning should be fun– and with engaging toys it is! Preschool and elementary years mark a pivotal stage in a child’s linguistic journey. During this time, the right toys can be instrumental in shaping language skills, fostering communication, and igniting a love for learning. Toys, beyond their entertainment value, can be powerful tools in enriching speech development.
Talking Cactus and Hamster
First up, talking cactus and hamster (https://amzn.to/3SN8UTs)! These are the perfect toys to target speech development. Both toys mimic noises, words, and phrases spoken to them. The talking cactus has song capability as well, and can sing songs such as “Happy Birthday”. Both toys elicit and encourage the users to communicate with them. They are bound to be classroom and household favorites, as well as a built in communication partners to your students or children!
Squigz
Next, a toy that can be used in a variety of settings and for many different purposes, Squigz (https://amzn.to/3QPIWwb). These multi-color silicon orbs can be suctioned onto almost any flat surface. Squigz are great for targeting words such as “on” and “off”, as well as working on color identification and counting skills.
Spinning Stacking Toy
Another favorite, the spinning stacking toy (https://amzn.to/46i5ZFH) shown above, is a toy used to target speech. The spinning stacking toy can be used to target “stop” and “go” when spinning the tiles, as well as “on” and “off”. Additionally, the multi-colored tiles can be used to work on colors and shapes.
Voice Output Switches
Finally, voice output switches (https://amzn.to/3SIcWwy) are a great assistive technology toy to reinforce speech. Sold in multi-packs, these switches can be recorded to say anything. Students enjoy using their own voices to record messages, as well as repeat the words and phrases that are pre-recorded. Voice output switches give users facilitated independence to help aide communication.
