Last month I talked about the new Joy of Learning Playtime Guide on the Fisher-Price website. As I wrote that post, we received a huge delivery with  some great toys inside. An end of summer treat for the kids that has made them very happy – and has allowed me to see learning through play coming to life right before my eyes.

Charlie, at almost 11 months, is very, very active. He’s already taken his first steps – my earliest walker! He’s so proud of his cruising, of standing without holding on, and crawling just isn’t as fun as it once was. He’s interested in what toys can do when he manipulates them with his hands and already knows how to stack blocks or cups or roll a car’s wheels. He seems considerably brighter than the other two did at this age, at least to my faded memory. So the new Stand-Up Ballcano? Is absolutely perfect for him. If you have a bit of time, play the video and watch him in action:

He’s learning gross motor skills, balance and coordination, and cause and effect. He’s using problem solving skills and many of his senses. I highly recommend this toy for your 6-18 month old.

All three boys have been playing with the super awesome Eagle Talon Castle. Well, the older two fully play with it, and baby Charlie acts as sort of a Godzilla-like attack creature who swoops in and tries to eat a flag. But it’s still a good time for everyone.

I love this castle. It’s still providing us with many hours of cooperative play. I love that they totally apply their imagination to the castle setting, unlimited by the latest huge cartoon character or television show. We all love the cool features, like the cannon that not only fires, but makes the castle responsive. I am hoping I can find some additional playsets to go with the castle for upcoming birthdays and holidays.

This toy flexes their creative muscles, and allows them to practice fine motor skills, sharing and cooperation, listening and communication and imagination and creativity. This would be great as a big gift in December, if you are looking for ideas for the holidays.

Learning through play. And none of them even quite realize it. Thanks, Fisher-Price.

Disclosure: I am a Fisher-Price Mom and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Related posts:

1. Boys and their Fisher-Price toys
2. Fisher-Price: The Joy of Learning Playtime Guide
3. Parent’s helper: Fisher-Price FastFinder™ Diaper Bags
4. Winter indoor activity ideas – Fisher-Price
5. February Fun with Fisher-Price