Glossary: A Parent’s Guide to Play & Learning Terms

Confused by all the toy labels, certifications, and buzzwords? You’re not alone. This glossary breaks down the most common toy-related terms so you can shop with confidence and choose toys that truly benefit your child.

A

Age-Appropriate – A label that indicates the developmental stage for which a toy is designed. Always check age recommendations for safety and learning value.
ASTM International – An organization that sets worldwide safety standards for toys and children’s products.

B

BPA-Free – Indicates that a plastic toy is made without Bisphenol A, a chemical linked to health risks.
Building Blocks – Open-ended toys (wooden or plastic) that help develop motor skills, creativity, and problem-solving.

C

CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) – U.S. agency responsible for regulating toy safety and issuing recalls.
Creative Play – Activities or toys that allow children to express themselves through art, music, or storytelling.

D

Developmental Toy – A toy designed to support a specific stage of a child’s physical, emotional, or cognitive growth.
DIY Play Kit – A toy or craft set that children can build or assemble themselves, encouraging independence and hands-on learning.

E

Eco-Friendly Toys – Toys made from sustainable or biodegradable materials, such as FSC-certified wood or recycled plastic.
Educational Toy – Any toy that combines fun with learning, from STEM kits to alphabet puzzles.

F

Fine Motor Skills – Small muscle movements (like grasping, pinching, or stacking) that many toys help develop.
FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) – Certification that ensures wooden toys come from responsibly managed forests.

G

Gross Motor Skills – Larger body movements like running, climbing, or riding. Outdoor and active toys often target these skills.
Gift Guide – Curated lists of toys for holidays, birthdays, or age-specific recommendations (like the one on our site).

L

Learning Through Play – The concept that play is not just fun, but also essential for developing problem-solving, creativity, and social skills.
Loose Parts Play – Toys or objects (blocks, shells, sticks) that encourage open-ended, imaginative building and storytelling.

M

Montessori Toys – Simple, often wooden toys inspired by the Montessori education method. They encourage independence, problem-solving, and hands-on learning.
Motor Skills – Coordination of muscles for movement and control, often developed through toy play.

O

Open-Ended Toys – Toys that don’t have one fixed way to play. Blocks, dolls, and art supplies let children use imagination freely.

P

Pretend Play – Imaginative role-play activities, often using dolls, costumes, or play kitchens, that build creativity and empathy.
Puzzle Toys – Toys designed to challenge problem-solving and logical thinking.

S

Sensory Play – Activities that stimulate the five senses, like textured blocks or water tables. Supports brain development and calming regulation.
STEM Toys – Toys that encourage learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.

T

Toy Rotation – A play strategy where parents cycle toys in and out to keep play fresh and prevent overwhelm.
Tummy Time Toys – Toys designed for babies to use while on their stomachs, encouraging strength and motor development.

W

Wooden Toys – Durable, eco-friendly, and often Montessori-inspired toys that encourage creativity and focus.

Why This Glossary Matters

This glossary is designed to help parents decode toy marketing language, understand certifications, and choose toys that are safe, sustainable, and educational. Bookmark this page and use it as your go-to guide whenever you shop for toys online or in stores.