It’s been a long while since I’ve lived in the throes of life with preschoolers. Looking back, I’m hit fresh with gratitude for God’s mercy & grace as I stumbled along as a young mama armed only with a heart of vision and hopes for my kids, resolved to figure out how to thrive (not just survive) the season of raising littles. Whewww!

We’ve all head that saying: The days are long but the years are short.

So, today’s post is about helping your crew get through those looonnng days. How? By having some intentional learning resources on hand to keep littles occupied!

Below is a round-up of some of our faves (or newer alternatives, since many of the ones we have are no longer being sold), plus share new ones we’ve come across that would be great for life with little learners.

If you want to read more about how to not just survive, but thrive, in life with preschoolers, head to this post!

Fine Motor Skills

Salt Tray

My kids loved using their salt trays. We just used a cookie sheet and salt, since there was nothing like this on the market back then. But I love that this have a holder for cards as well as a stylus.

Doodle Board

This is a great alternative to paper and markers, especially when traveling! It comes with an attached stylus for mess-free writing/drawing practice.

Lacing Beads

The beads are nice and chunky which is great for small hands being able to grasp onto them while they learn to put the string through the holes.

Lacing Cards

My kids had these and was great for practicing hand-eye coordination while they laced the string through the holes.

Busy Boards

I loved that there are a variety of activities packed into a convenient carrying case that is great for both at home and while out and about or visiting other people.

Playdough

A children’s classic! Not only does it help with motor skills (sculpting and using tools on the dough) but cultivates creativity with the endless possibilities of creations kids can make.

Sensory Bins

I made our own, but it did take time, energy, and money purchasing the bins, sand/rocks, and toys! I love that there are ready-made options now!

Learning Through Play

Learning Resources Toys

We had a number of things from this brand; they GET learning through play! Lots of fun and engaging toys that also teach. Below are just a couple of options that don’t take up a lot of room but have a variety of learning activities packed in:

Self-Correcting Puzzles from Melissa and Doug

This is another favorite brand our ours. We had all kinds of learning and imaginative toys from them!

Building/Construction

Wooden Blocks from Melissa and Doug

We still have both of these sets! Even though its been YEARS since my kids have played with them, they are such a classic that I’m holding onto ours for grandkids.

Geometric Stacking Blocks

These are so unique; I don’t think these were around when my kids were little! The angles shapes help build balancing and creative problem-solving skills.

Construction Blocks

My kids LOVED Legos growing up but since those are smaller in size, these are perfect for preschoolers!

Fort Construction Set

My kid had a similar set when they were younger and these were a ton of fun. We’d build all kinds of hideouts and shapes, use blankets to go over the frame, and they’d spend hours playing in and with them.

Pretend Play

Play Kitchen from KidKraft

Our play kitchen was a staple in our home. Not only did our kids enjoy it daily but other families’ kids loved playing with it too!

Play Grocery Store Items from Melissa and Doug

Talking Cash Register

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Clearly, there are so many resources I can be sharing here. But these are the kinds that my own kids played often with that help with building different skills as well as their imaginations.