Toddler toys for learning and fun

"Toddlers learn from toys that let them problem solve, construct, sequence and create," says pediatrician and author Ari Brown, MD, a contributor to MommyMDGuides.com. "It doesn't have to high tech. Look for toys that let your child use his brain." Here are a few that will give your toddler a chance to learn while having a blast:

Stand and play musical activity table

These fun tables offer visual stimulation and motor skill development while playing a catchy tune. Some offer ample opportunity to learn about letters, numbers and colors as kids bounce to the beat of learning.

Phonics toys

Toys that teach him about letters and letter sounds will keep him ahead of the curve. Bonus: Toys that attach to the fridge keep your tot entertained while you're making a meal.

Interactive plush toys

These soft singing and flashing toys are sure to be your little one's new pals. In a variety of animals and features, many offer entertainment through songs coupled with exposure to shapes and colors.

Blocks

Wooden, plastic, foam or paper, blocks will expand your toddler's imagination and help him develop his motor skills.

Building toys

Stackable, interlocking bricks -- perfectly sized for a toddler's hands -- can open the floodgates of your child's imagination. Whether soft and flexible or plastic, building toys will help develop his motor skills while he has tons of fun.

Wooden puzzles

Wooden puzzles can help develop your toddler's concentration, fine motor, problem solving, hand-eye coordination and abstract thinking skills as she figures out which shapes fit where.

Shape sorter

What toddler doesn't like to fill things up and dump them out? This fun learning toy comes in a broad variety of shapes, sizes and features, teaching your little one about shapes, sorting and colors.

Stacking cups

Whether in the tub or on dry land, nesting toys such as stacking cups are great for teaching your kiddo about counting and object permanence while developing basic motor skills.

Magnet letters

Your little tyke will step up the learning and fun when he interacts with classic refrigerator magnet letters. Work together to optimize learning and to ensure letters don't become a choking hazard.

Stacking rings

These colorful rings will stimulate your tot's senses, help develop his motor skills, and advance his cognitive abilities, just as they did when you were a kid yourself!

Toys can help toddlers learn as they play, but the way you interact with your child is just as important as the toy with which he's playing. So, remember to get down and play with your youngster; you may be surprised to see what you learn!

More on parenting toddlers:

• Toddlers and tantrums: Why they have them & how to stop them
• Loving your terrible, terrific toddler
• Starting the potty training stage for toddlers