In a colourful world where toy stores can be found on every corner (and every toy in any play section of almost any store), wondering what to get your little one can be a tricky thing. And every child is different. Not every child favours dolls, while others might just be looking to have fun with their playthings. With that in mind, here are three toys that are sure to be an important part of your little one’s life and development.

Black Dolls

Little ones love living in their own private worlds. Places where they can hold tea parties with their toy guests, whether they are plastic dolls or fluffy teddies. Dr Sarah Gerson said: “When children create imaginary worlds and role play with dolls, they communicate at first out loud and then internalise the message about others’ thoughts, emotions and feelings.” In short, playing with dolls is how your little one begins to understand the world and people.

It is because of this that African baby dolls are important to the life of your little one as they grow up.

With their bulbous noses, thick lips, and melanated skin, not only are these anatomically correct dolls the perfect plaything for your little ones, but they are also an affirmation to them.

For children who aren’t people of colour, black dolls can help promote empathy and make it a little easier to have hard conversations about racial problems. Dr Nanika Coor, a clinical psychologist, noted that: “Play is how kids process their lives and their worlds; it’s how they develop social and emotional awareness and learn about social values like compassion, self-esteem, and leadership.”

By getting your little ones Black dolls, like Imibongo kaMakhulu Handmade Black Dolls, you would be teaching them about diversity as people who live in a rainbow nation. And if your little one is a Black child, the doll will make them feel seen, loved, and beautiful.

Play Money

If Monopoly is too hard to understand, Play Money is a worthy alternative. Play Money, which comes in Rands, comprises bank notes as well as coins, all of which aren’t real.

However, what is real is the education you can give to your little ones using these toys. With Play Money, you can start your child off on the path of financial savviness. You can teach them about saving and the basics without worrying about losing any real money. A handy toy to help educate your young you about the value of handling money.

Star Night Light

Star night lights are the things all dreams and fantasies are made of.

Unlike the usual night lights that shine their tame light on one end of the room without finding all the corners, the star night light is fun and imaginative. Available in an array of unique designs, these babies can turn a dark room into a bedroom floating in outer space with its rotating host of stars.

Dr Harvey Karp, a paediatrician and the author of the best-selling parent guide Happiest Toddler on the Block, said, “A very dim, warm yellow night light helps some kids sleep better. As we all know, the dark can make a child’s imagination run wild.”

Star night lights are more than a novelty toy, they are a fairytale backdrop to beautiful dreams and even wonderful bedtime story readings. This a special way to help personalise your little one’s space, especially if they are afraid of the dark.