At Radio Flyer, we LOVE play. Through independent play, little ones develop imagination, cognitive skills, and of course independence. To help your toddler grow & develop their independent play skills, we’ve compiled a list of our 6 favorite independent play toys.
1. Best Interactive Ride-On Truck: Tinker Truck® with Lights & Sounds
Featuring 20 interactive activities, the Tinker Truck® with Lights & Sounds provides endless engagement that your toddler is sure to love. The activities vary in difficulty which keeps kids engaged over time. One day they might be fascinated by the sliding beads and the very next they could be captivated with the clicking buttons. Watch your child discover different features as they learn and grow. Shop the Tinker Truck® with Lights & Sounds.
2. Best First Wagon for Independent Play: My 1st Wagon®
Did you know that a wagon is the perfect accessory for any imaginative adventure? The My 1st Wagon® is just the vehicle for your little one to bring on their independent play adventures. This little wagon is perfect for carrying stuffed animals, small toys, and other treasures. Your child have a blast pulling all of their essentials all around the house or yard.
When your child is still in the early stages of learning to play on their own, you can help by prompting some pretend play ideas with their wagon – encourage them to go on a trip to the “store,” to the “library” and fill their wagon with books, or on a walk with their stuffed animal friends. Soon enough, they’ll begin to associate their wagon with these activities and take the initiative on their own! Shop the My 1st Wagon®.
3. Best 100% Kid Powered Independent Play Toy: Spin ‘N Saucer®
Complete with EZ-Glide caster wheels for 360° movement and 100% kid-powered, the Spin ‘N Saucer® leaves kids free to create their own motion with their feet and move in any direction – there is no getting stuck! The SafeSpin™ design of this ride-on offers a low-profile for stability, and the ergonomic handle gives your toddler the leverage they need to spin freely. This little red ride is perfect for both the outdoors and small indoor spaces for hours of grins & spins. Shop the Spin ‘N Saucer®.
4. Best & Cutest Ride-On for Motor Skill Development: Creativity Car
The Creativity Car brings imagination and learning together in one interactive ride-on. Your toddler can practice important gross motor skills of walking & scooting with this pink car, or they can sit & play with one of the 17 different interactive activities to develop fine motor skills. From interlocking gears and sliding beads to clicking dials and folding mirrors, the Creativity Car is a perfect ride-on for both independent play & motor skill development. Shop the Creativity Car.
5. Best First Horse for Independent Play: Boots™: Rolling Pony
Boots the Rolling Pony is ready for imaginative adventures when your toddler is – no assembly required. Thanks to the caster EZ-Glide wheels that spin 360⁰, toddlers can create their own motion and move in any direction. Boots’ soft fabric and plush, friendly horse face make this horse a perfect new friend for your little one, encouraging hours of independent pretend play. Shop Boots™: Rolling Pony.
6. Best Arm-Powered Action Toy: Radio Flyer Cyclone™
Zoom, spin, and grin with the Cyclone! With 360⁰ spins, roll forward, reverse, or spin in circles for independent, active play. Big kids and little ones alike will have a blast twisting and turning to control their ride.
Which toys are your toddler’s favorite for independent play? Do you have any independent play tips for other parents? Be sure to share on social media using #RadioFlyer!
