Family life with little ones often means balancing chores, milestones, and the endless energy of curious kids. For moms, the question is always: How can I make playtime both fun and meaningful?
That’s where play-based learning comes in. For preschoolers, learning doesn’t start with worksheets—it starts with play. Every sound, color, and texture can spark curiosity, and with the right toys, play becomes a powerful tool for early childhood development.
Preschool Teacher-Approved Toys That Nurture Kids’ Curiosity
Meet Aila Serrano, also known as Teacher Iam. She’s a preschool teacher, host, and mom of two—Himig and Harana. With over 15 years of experience in early education, she knows firsthand how toys can be more than just entertainment.
“Kids learn best when they’re allowed to explore and imagine,” Teacher Iam shares. “The right toys help them discover the world in their own way.”
Many of her top toy picks come from Anko, an Australian lifestyle brand now in the Philippines. Their range of educational toys supports both exploration and imagination—making them mom-approved, teacher-approved, and most importantly, kid-approved.
For 18 Months and Up: Sensory Play and First Discoveries
Toddlers are little scientists, testing how textures feel, how sounds work, and how objects respond.
Teacher Iam recommends:
- Toys with textures, sounds, or safe moving parts
- Wooden and fabric toys for tactile play
- Simple cause-and-effect toys
Anko toy picks: Foodie Cushy Plush Toys (₱350), Alphabet Peekaboo Pram Book (₱660), Small Block Puzzle (₱130)
“These toys don’t need to be complicated,” she explains. “They just need to invite interaction. That’s how toddlers begin to connect what they do with what happens.”
For Ages 3–5: Imagination and Early Expression
Preschoolers love independence and creativity. This is the perfect time to introduce toys that build imagination and routines.
Teacher Iam recommends:
- Magnetic tiles for open-ended building
- Sensory bins for calming hands-on play
- Reward charts to encourage good habits
Anko toy picks: Magnetic Tiles Play Sets (₱440–₱2,490), Under the Sea Sensory Bin (₱660), Reward Chart Daily (₱240)
“This is when kids start building their own little worlds,” she says. “They’re not just stacking blocks anymore—they’re shaping stories and making sense of how things fit together.”
For Ages 6 and Up: Pretend Play and Bigger Thinking
As children grow, play starts to mirror real-life scenarios.
Teacher Iam recommends:
- Craft kits to foster creativity
- Doctor play sets for role-playing empathy
- Learning boards for problem-solving
Anko toy picks: Learning Boards (₱530), Doctor Play Set (₱880), Beads and Charms Set (₱350)
“They crave more challenge,” says Teacher Iam. “Even when they’re playing quietly, they’re testing ideas, expressing emotions, and making sense of the world.”
FAQs About Preschool Teacher-Approved Toys
Q: What makes a toy “teacher-approved”?
A: Toys that encourage exploration, creativity, and problem-solving—not just passive play.
Q: How many toys do kids really need?
A: Fewer than you think! Teacher Iam suggests choosing thoughtful toys that grow with your child.
Q: Why is sensory play important for toddlers?
A: Sensory play strengthens fine motor skills, language development, and early problem-solving.
Q: How do reward charts help preschoolers?
A: They create positive reinforcement and help kids build routines without pressure.
Q: Can pretend play really teach life skills?
A: Yes! Role-play encourages empathy, planning, and independence in school-aged kids.
Final Thoughts from Teacher Iam
“You don’t need a house full of toys,” she reminds parents. “Just a few thoughtful ones that allow your child to be curious and imaginative. That’s where real learning begins.”
Discover more playful parenting ideas by following @anko_philippines on Instagram and TikTok, or join the Anko Club App for parenting inspiration.
