The Best ABC Games For Toddlers

ABC games are fantastic ways of stimulating a toddler's senses and educating them at the same time. Traditionally, most ABC related games involve block toys which allow the toddler to physically manipulate objects (which are usually also bright and colorful to stimulate the senses) thereby improving spatial intelligence along with their cognitive abilities.

In this article, however, we'll look at all kinds of modern ABC games for toddlers, and the pros and cons of each variation, and not only block toys. I have done my best to collect an array of items which are backed by positive feedback from parents, as well as products which I deem safe and durable.

We'll start with a timeless classic -- with a twist! While researching a good ABC block cart I had initially settled on a product by Doug & Melissa, but was shocked to find that most of the blocks were too small (1 inch) and presented dangerous choking hazards. Thankfully, this model, while a little more expensive has larger, higher-quality blocks that don't peel off paint as easily. It's main features are as follows:

• Safe paint.
• 28 Larger (1.75 inch), colorful, high-quality blocks.
• In addition to the alphabet, each block has the picture and name of an animal on it.
• A sturdy wagon that houses the blocks, and anything else the toddler chooses.

The benefits of a block wagon is that it offers many advantages to stimulate growth. Pulling the wagon helps children with balance and strength, the blocks stimulate creativity (can be used for building as well as learning) and teach the child the foundations of language and letters. One detail I adore about these toys is that the cart usually becomes a multi-purpose toy, and a toddler will usually be seen proudly carting their favorite toys around the house with it!

Cons: Ages three and up! While the blocks are larger than most models, they always present a choking hazard to very small children.

This letter-based toy is a little more specific and educationally driven than the previous model, but balances amusement and fun surprisingly well. The concept involves kids practicing their spelling and spatial skills by placing letters in their corresponding cutouts thereby correctly spelling the design it houses.

• Recommended ages 4-7
• 16 separate pictures to complete.
• Colorful and elegant design.
• Stimulates cognitive and spatial skills.

Despite loving the idea, there are a few cons. There are complaints that the paint has a tendency to come off prematurely. The box also does not have a lid, which may annoy some parents because storage could become a little messy. If you like the toy, I would suggest finding a separate container to house them in (which is regrettable, as the original is cute -- but is obviously lacking).

And now -- as they say -- for something completely different. The magnetic word builder is a toy which can be secured to your refrigerator! The game itself is both simplistic and diverse. The letters magnetically attach themselves to the toy and can be used in three, fun different modes of play.

• The toy reacts phonetically teaching children the alphabet and the pronunciation of words.
• Three separate games. The word builder, the letter hunt and load a letter.
• Letters are followed by lights to highlight learning.
• Advanced modes such as rhyme recognition allows children to replace letters to form rhymes.
• The ability to build and learn over 325 different words.
• The addition of letters so children can spell double-letter words.

I feel that for older children, ages five and up, the toy is perfect because they will have already had an introduction to the alphabet. But for younger children this may not be as educational, as they will enjoy the sounds and interactivity more than the complexity of language itself.

In this era of computing and digital education, giving your child a head-start might not be a bad idea. This is also a great way to both make your child stop playing with your phone, and make them feel at ease because they now have their own!

Simply put, the ABC text and go game offers a multitude of games and options that are accompanied by crisp (and loud) interactive sound. The games vary in complexity and the child will be enthralled with the constant challenge, leading them from music, to language and skill.

• QWERTY keyboard. Getting a head-start with a normal keyboard layout is something I wish I had had as I diligently plod along.
• Four separate game mode buttons.
• Songs and a personal profile.
• A cell-phone like design that will appease curious children (what do these adults do with them all the time?).

I find the idea funny, and it is rightly one of the most popular games out there today, but I can't help feel a little sad about it personally. It is undoubtedly an extension of today's society, but I find the notion of a rapid introduction into this world a little uneasy. But then again, perhaps that's just my nostalgia and romanticism talking!