Toddler Toys That Teach Important Lessons

Talking to kids about race, climate change and other topics is an important part of parenthood, but those conversations aren’t always the easiest to have, but these toddler toys that teach important lessons can help. 

Coolest Kid on the Block

Your cutie too young for a Tesla? Nope. Radio Flyer, the maker of the iconic little red wagon, has teamed up with the car company to create the first Tesla for the littlest drivers with working horn and steering that matches the authentic design for the full-size version – My First Model Y. Ages 1 ½-4. Get yours for $99, here. 

Tackling Racism from the Start

Make sure to have a copy of Antiracist Baby, by Ibram X. Kendi, on the bookshelf to introduce the youngest readers (and the grown-ups in their lives) to the concept and power of anti-racism in nine easy steps. Get it for $8 on amazon.com and don’t forget to check out our list of books to help you explain racism to kids for more options, too. 

Inspire Self-Love

Support a Black-owned toy company, Healthy Roots Dolls, while promoting the beauty of diversity with Zoe, a life-like 18-inch doll with beautiful curly hair that can be washed and styled just like your little girl’s own hair. Get yours for $79.99.  

Creating Families

My Family Builders calls itself ‘Toymakers for a better tomorrow.’ Its wooden building blocks allow kids to create families that look like theirs, whether multi-racial, two moms, two dads and every other type in between. Runs $34.95-$74.95. 

Just Like Mommy

TOMS has teamed up with Once Upon A Farm, an organic family food company co-founded by Jennifer Garner, to create some whimsical shoes for Mommy and her little. As always, these shoes are earth-friendly and $1 of every $3 made buys shoes for people in need. Runs $24.95-$59.95.