A Peoria Park District Facility

Shop at the PlayHouse

Gift Shop Hours

Open during our regular hours of admission!

Mon: Closed
Tues: 9am - noon
Wed-Sat: 9am - 4pm
Sun: noon - 5pm

 

"Play is the work of the child."     --Maria Montessori

If play is the work of the child, toys are the tools. The right toys can help children:

  • Figure out how things work
  • Pick up new ideas
  • Build muscle control and strength
  • Use their imagination
  • Solve problems
  • Learn to cooperate with others

Toys are also just plain fun! But with a world of toys available, WHAT and HOW do you choose? Different types of toys engage children in different styles of play, helping them to develop the skill sets they will need in the future. Below are five categories of toys, that help children develop different skills.

Building Systems

Give your child a toy that helps them invent new worlds! Building toys also increase small motor skills and teach problem-solving.

Imaginative Play

Imaginative play is a great way for kids to gain mastery of their worlds and create new imaginary stories and spaces.

Tools for Exploration

Give your child a toy that helps them explore the world around them.

Infant Toys

Toys for very young children help with basic skills like object permanence, small motor coordination, and an understanding of shapes and connections.