7 Toys From Your Childhood That Were Secretly Therapy Tools

If you grew up in the 80s or 90s, there is a good chance a few of your favorite toys are still sitting in a closet at your parents' house. Here is the fun part: many of those toys build the same skills we work on in speech, feeding, myofunctional, and occupational therapy. You were doing therapy homework and did not even know it.

Here are seven classic toys and the skills hiding inside them.

1. Lite-Brite

Pushing those tiny pegs into the board takes a precise pinch between the thumb and pointer finger. That same pincer grasp, along with small hand muscle strength, supports holding a pencil, buttoning clothes, and picking up small bites of food.

2. Etch A Sketch

Turning one knob with each hand asks both sides of the body to work together. This is called bilateral coordination, and it is a building block for cutting with scissors, tying shoes, and handwriting.

3. Mr. Potato Head

This one is a language powerhouse. Kids learn body part words, follow directions like "put on his ears," and practice silly pretend play. Try asking, "Where should the nose go?" and see what happens.

4. Simon

Watching and repeating a pattern of lights and sounds builds attention, memory, and listening skills. It also practices turn-taking, which is an important part of every conversation.

5. Party Blowers and Bubbles

Those noisy party favors were secretly myofunctional exercises. Blowing takes lip rounding, cheek strength, and steady breath control. Bubbles are a gentle way to practice the same skills, and they are a favorite tool in our therapy rooms.

6. Play-Doh

Squishing, rolling, and pinching dough builds hand strength for writing. It is also a low-pressure way for kids to get comfortable with new textures, which can help children who are cautious about trying new foods.

7. Hi Ho! Cherry-O

Picking up tiny cherries one at a time is great fine motor practice, and counting them out builds early math and number words. Plus, waiting your turn is a skill all on its own.

You do not need fancy toys

The best therapy tools are often simple, and the most important ingredient is you. Playing together, talking about what you are doing, and keeping things fun gives your child lots of chances to practice.

If you have questions about your child's speech, feeding, fine motor skills, or mouth posture, we are here to help. Call our office to schedule a free phone consultation with our team.