Educational Toys That Support Early Years Development, Special Educational Needs

At Edx Education, we believe every child learns best through play. For children in the early years who may be developmentally delayed or have special educational needs such as ASD (autism spectrum disorder), ADHD, ADD, selective mutism, or other challenges — play-based learning can open up a world of opportunities.

With the right educational toys, calm spaces, and clear routines, children can build confidence, improve focus, and learn essential skills at their own pace.

Why Learning Through Play Matters

Learning through play helps children build key skills in a fun and engaging way. It supports:

• Early maths skills

• Problem-solving

• Fine and gross motor development

• Social and emotional growth

For children with additional needs, play may look different. They might need extra support, quiet areas, or open-ended educational toys that encourage creativity and exploration.

How to Support Children with Developmental Needs

Here are simple ways to support your child’s learning and development through play:

Use Visual Aids

Picture cards and visual schedules help children understand routines and activities. They reduce stress and make play more predictable and fun.

Break Instructions Into Steps

Keep instructions simple and clear. Instead of saying “Build a car,” try “Let’s join two blocks, then add wheels.” This approach is called scaffolding and supports learning through small, achievable steps.

Create a Calm Play Space

Children with sensory needs may feel overwhelmed by noise or busy environments. A quiet play area helps them focus and feel safe.

Top Educational Toys for Early Years and Special Needs

At Edx Education, our toys are designed to support all children — including those with additional needs. Here are some of our best educational toys for early years maths and creative learning:

Linking Cube

Perfect for building number sense, patterns, and shapes. These cubes are great for maths, sorting, and motor skills.

MyGears®

An ideal toy for children who love movement and problem-solving. Great for STEM and early engineering skills.

Pattern Blocks

Help children explore maths concepts like symmetry, sorting, and shapes. A calming activity for independent play.

GeoStix®

Flexible sticks children can use to make shapes, letters, and numbers. Great for early literacy and creativity.

Construction Toys

Building helps develop motor planning, spatial awareness, and resilience. Try towers, tunnels, or their own creative designs.

Sensory Trays

Fill with rice, sand, or water to help children explore through touch. Sensory play calms the mind and boosts fine motor skills.

Tips for Play-Based Learning at Home

• Follow your child’s interests – Let them lead the play.

• Celebrate small wins – Every step matters.

• Repeat favourite activities – Repetition builds confidence.

• Involve siblings or friends – Encourage social play when possible.

• Stay flexible – Some days will be calmer than others.

Educational Toys That Grow with Your Child

Whether your child is just starting to explore numbers, enjoys building, or needs a quiet space for sensory play, Edx Education toys support early years learning in fun, flexible ways.

We also offer free downloadable resources, guides, and expert advice to help you make the most of playtime at home. And don’t forget to check out our podcast — Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education — for more tips, interviews, and play inspiration.

Let’s make learning fun and meaningful — for every child.

Explore our full range of educational toys for maths, STEM, creativity and more at www.edxeducation.com.