PT & OT Inspired Gifts for Development
The holiday season is the perfect time to give gifts that spark joy and support healthy development. With so many toys on the shelves, it can be hard to know which ones truly help little ones learn, grow, and reach important milestones. That’s why members of our pediatric therapy team—Natalie Miller, DPT; Ashley Hahn, PTA; and Brooke Ott, COTA—has created a curated holiday gift guide for newborns through age five.
Drawing from their daily work with infants and young children, our therapists selected toys and activities that encourage movement, sensory exploration, communication, fine-motor skills, and early problem-solving. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, this guide offers developmentally supportive ideas that make playtime both meaningful and fun. Give with confidence this season—these gifts are designed to inspire growth at every age and stage.
0-3 Months: 
- High contrast toys
- Toys that promote tummy time tolerance:
- Pillow props, mirrors, etc.
- Large teethers
- Toys that come in various textures and sounds
- Books
3-12 months:
- Rattles
- Frozen food teethers
- Vinyl and board books
- Push walkers (after child begins to pull themself up to stand)
1-3 years:
- Pretend toys
- Dolls, kitchen, cars, etc.
- Toys to build with
- Pull apart toys
- Puzzles
- Start with peg puzzles and transition to jigsaws when ready
- Jumbo markers and crayons
- Foam blocks and cushions that encourage climbing
- Soft balls to toss and catch
- Balance bike
- More books
- Web/saucer swings
3-5 years:
- Talking flashcards
- Busy books/boards that promote self help skills (zippers, velcro, etc.)
- Puzzles
- Scooters
- Balance and obstacle activities such as stepping stones and tunnels.
Download this list with visual examples here.
There are many activities you can do at home to help encourage a child's development. If you have concerns about your child's development, or if they are not acheiving the recommended milestones - therapy may be able to help. Your primary care provider is a great resource for you and can help you decide if physical, occupational, or speech therapy may be neccesary. Give Grant Regional Health Center's Rehabilitation Department a call today at (608) 723-323 for any questions on our fantastic team and services.
We wish you and your loved ones a happy holiday season!