Are you wondering what to buy your 12-15 month old this holiday? Let us make it easy for you! As Speech-Language Pathologists, we are often asked what toys to buy to target speech and language through play. We decided to put a list together so that parents will have the right toys to encourage language development this holiday season. We want to help YOU! Please enjoy this free holiday gift guide download.
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Your 12-15 month old should begin or continue to:
- Use phrases such as “uh-oh” and “oh-no”
- Use words or word approximations to express self
- Greet people with “hi”
- Say “no”
- Hand you an object when asked
- Give or blow kisses
Toys that are appropriate for your 12-15 month old include:
- Stacking and sports themed toys
- Toys that encourage physical activity such as walking and pull to stand
- Outdoors toys and swings
- Books, large crayons, musical instruments
- Toys that encourage early learning
- Pop up and peg board toys
- Push and pull toys
- Balls with various textures
We know there are so many options out there! Remember that you can target speech and language with almost anything just remember to keep it FUN. Here are the 5 things we recommend for your 12-15 month old.
1. Stacking Cups
There is SO much language to target through simple stacking cups- try modeling words and concepts such as in/out, up/down, big/small/, on/off, first/last, long/short, and under! Choose one or two concepts to model for your child every day. Remember to keep it fun!
2. Drop & Go Dump Truck
What a great way to target “uh-oh” , push/pull, and in/out. Children find this toy so funny! This game also has bright and colorful buttons with music and phrases. Watch your child dance and explore as they pull this around the room. We love that this toy encourages gross motor movement (i.e. walking), fine motor movement, and perceptual skills in space.
3. Ball Popper
There are many variations of this toy around! Great toy to practice concepts such as in/out and “go”. I love targeting wait time with this toy by putting it in and making a big dramatic pause before turning it on.
4. Textured Balls
These are so fun for sensory play! Child can explore all the different textures. Target language such as go, roll, up, kick, throw, fast, and slow. This toy will encourage gross motor movement as child follows ball around the room.
5. Fisher Price Poppers
This toy is great for hand eye coordination, increased self confidence, and fine motor movement. Target fun words like “woah” and “pop”! This is another great toy for targeting wait time and joint attention.
We hope that this list is helpful to you! Find the free download for the 5 gifts we recommend for your 12-15 months old below. Send it to family members to make their lives easier this year! Need more ideas? Check out our gift guide for a 16-24-month-old, 2-3 year old, 3-4 year old, 4-5 year old. What toys are YOUR favorite for your 12-15-month-old? Please share so we can add it to our list.