Back-to-school toys that make learning fun

Speech-language pathologist and toy expert, Erika Cardamone, stopped by PHL17 with some educational toys and games that make learning fun, while boosting critical skills. These hands-on activities not only support classroom learning but also build confidence and excitement for the year ahead.

Crayon Board and Safari Zoo Playset by Doodle Face

• A reusable drawing surface that pairs perfectly with included wipe-away crayons.

• Erasing and redrawing also supports coordination and bilateral hand use—skills foundational for academic tasks.

• Whether doodling faces, animals, or story scenes, each stroke strengthens expressive language and storytelling skills through visual art.

Hippodontist by Battat

• Cheerful hippo character that will get kids excited about dental hygiene, routines, and pretend play.

• Realistic tools, future dentists follow checklists, make “stains” vanish when sprayed with warm water, and practice their impeccable bedside manner. hey practice narrative routines, question/response structures and imaginative storytelling.

Pete the Cat Match It! Game Tins by The Learning Journey International

• Designed for preschoolers, this engaging puzzle game features 20 self-correcting puzzle sets, each reinforcing foundational concepts in colors and counting from 1 to 20.

The Original Tapple Mini by The Op

• Fast-paced word game that transforms vocabulary practice into a high-energy, laugh-out-loud experience

• Skill of rapid word recall within a defined category—think “things you wear” or “types of fruit.”

Ultimate Learn to Read Bundle by Think Tank Scholar

• Sight words are the building blocks of fluent reading.

• The bundle includes boxed sight-word for students in Pre-K through 3rd grade, along with activities (flashcards, practice sentences, and quick games) that give repeated exposure