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8/1/25:
As a pediatric speech-language pathologist, I spend a lot of time on the floor — playing, laughing, pretending, and learning alongside little ones. One of the questions I’m asked most often by parents, caregivers, and even daycare staff is:
“What toys should I get to help my child with language?”
The good news? You don’t need anything fancy! In fact, the best toys for building language are often the simplest — the kind that invite creativity, connection, and back-and-forth interaction. Below are some of my tried-and-true favorites and how I use them to support early language development.
** Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. That means if you click and purchase, I may earn a small commission -- at no extra cost to you. I only recommend toys I truly use and love as a Speech-Language Pathologist! **
Blocks
Blocks
Blocks are endlessly open-ended! Whether we’re stacking, knocking down, or pretending they're food or buildings, there’s always room for imagination.
Try this: Pair blocks with toy cars to make garages or ramps. Or pretend the tower is a birthday cake and “blow it out!
My favorite? Find it here!
Ring Stacker
Ring Stacker
A classic toy (with a twist) that supports color recognition, size concepts, and repetition — which toddlers *love*.
Try this: Turn the rings into pretend donuts and open a bakery — one of my kids’ favorite spin-offs!
My favorite? Find it here!
Shape Sorter
Shape Sorter
Why I love it: It builds problem-solving skills and is great for modeling words while matching or trying again.
Try this: Model functional messages, such as, "put in", "take out", "we did it!"
My favorite? Find it here!
Pop Tubes
Pop Tubes
These are fun, funky, and full of possibilities! They make noise, they stretch, they connect — and the giggles they spark are unmatched.
My favorite moments: When I wear them as necklaces or hats and a child yells “Nooo!” — but then five minutes later, they’re doing the same thing. I love seeing their creativity bloom.
My favorite? Find it here!
Animals
Animals
Great for pretend play, animal sounds, and storytelling. We can build entire adventures with just a few animals and blocks!
Try this: Use blocks or play dough to make habitats or food for the animals. Cue the feeding frenzy!
My favorite? Find it here!
Food
Food
Cooking pretend meals brings out tons of communication opportunities — and it’s a hit with almost every child.
Try this: Let your child serve you a silly combo like pizza and bananas — then act surprised. The laughter builds connection *and* language.
My favorite? Find it here!
Puppets
Puppets
Puppets (specifically ones with mouths) can break the ice with shy kids and give them a low-pressure way to engage. They’re also great for modeling communication in a playful way.
Try this: Feed the puppets play food and model words like “eat it,” “yum,” or “yucky!” You can even pretend the puppet bites your finger — cue dramatic “Ouch! No thank you!” and see if your child wants to do it again. That kind of silliness builds shared attention, imagination, and expressive language.
My favorite? Find it here!
🏠 Everyday Items That Spark Language & Play 🏠
🏠 Everyday Items That Spark Language & Play 🏠
You don’t have to buy new toys to create rich language experiences. Some of my favorite sessions have used nothing but household items and a little imagination.
Here are some ideas:
Tupperware & food containers – Use as drums, nesting cups, or towers to stack and knock down. Bonus: lids are great for matching and fine motor practice.
Utensils – Pretend they’re drumsticks, magic wands, flutes, or horns. Let your child lead the way!
Grown-up clothes – Raid your closet for a quick game of dress-up. Use new words like “fancy,” “silly,” “too big,” or “just right.”
Treasure hunt – Hide little objects (toy animals, keys, stickers) and draw a simple treasure map on paper. Say “look!” “found it!” “where next?” as you explore together.
Boxes and bags – Great for peek-a-boo, sorting, pretending, or carrying special items on a pretend adventure.
✨✨ Language doesn’t come from the toys — it comes from the interaction. That’s where the magic happens. ✨✨
💭 Final Thoughts: 💭
💭 Final Thoughts: 💭
The best toys are the ones that bring you and your child together in joyful, creative play. Whether you're using blocks, puppets, or a kitchen spoon, you’re building more than language — you’re building connection, confidence, and communication skills that will last a lifetime.
If you’re ever unsure whether your child’s communication is on track, or if you’d like ideas tailored to your family, I’m here to help.
📍 Looking for support or a speech therapy evaluation?
Speech Now Therapy Center is a warm, affirming space where every voice matters.
We proudly offer in-home services and individualized support for children from birth to 21.
Contact us below to learn more.
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