When you hear crochet toys, does your mind immediately think of amigurumi: Dolls, teddy bears and other loveable creatures to cuddle with? My goal is to change that today and want to introduce you to some wonderful toy crochet patterns that are more than just a stuffed animal. Many toys can be imaginative & educational, even when they are crocheted.
My kids are nearly all grown (all are in high school-my eldest graduating from high school in a couple weeks), but even when they were little, I preferred to give them toys that encouraged learning. There is nothing wrong with traditional stuffed animals and dolls, they also inspire imaginative play which has lots of benefits. However, the focus of todays’ blog hop is to elevate imaginative and educational play.
Featured Imaginative & Educational Patterns
First Book by Ami Dolls Ami Toys
You HAVE to check out this darling book. Not only is it crochet, it is full of learning activities. Be sure to click the link to see the video of what all is inside-you will seriously be Amazed!
At the time of this post the crochet pattern is 30% off, but I am not sure how long that sale will last. So, don’t delay:
Fishing Set by On A Whim Crochet
We have all seen the magnetic fish sets but have you seen it crocheted? It is too cute! The added element of the color match buckets to the fish, not only makes this toy imaginative, but includes an education aspect through the color recognition and match.
Finger Puppet Set by Thread Tutorial
10!!! That’s right 10 of the cutest animal finger puppets I have seen. Check out the detail, they even have feet and tails. Not only do the finger puppets encourage imaginative play as puppets, but for solo play you can even just use them as mini stuffed animals. I know so many little tykes who would love a few of these!
Memory Game by The Happy Loop
Playing Games sparks learning in young children’s minds. It’s a fun and engaging way to play and this darling crochet memory game would be so much fun to make. Each card is identical so would be a quick crochet project to bring along in the car then work on the cute applique details at home in the evenings.
Grandma Mouse’s House by Lau Love’s Crochet
This feature has so many things that I love. A house/purse that you can carry with you anywhere! A cute little mouse character to play with! And so many cute home accessories to spark any child’s imagination. My daughter would have loved to take this to all her brother’s games when she was little.
3 in 1 Infinity Cube by Svetla Art Crochet
Who else is obsessed with puzzles! I know I go through my phases and this infinity cube would have been one of my favorite toys. The challenge of rearranging the pieces to make them match keeps the brain working in a fun and engaging way. This would be a great toy for road trips this summer.
Discount Code!! Get 20% off your pattern order with code “CHRISTINE” on her entire shop, good through June 30, 2024.
Bowling Set by Amigurumisnl
Bowling is always a fun game! I never would have thought about bowling in my house. But, with this adorable crochet set, I kind of want to make one for me! How cute are those animal tops, the stripes, and the joy on the kiddo’s face when they knock down the pins. This is truly one of my favorite crochet toys, who else is ready for a game night at home?
Fairy Tale Puppet Collection by EkayG
We all love a good children’s fairytale. Why not crochet these charming hand puppets and create your own story, encourage your children to use their imagination and put on a performance of their own fairy tale. Puppets are a fun way for children to learn and express themselves.
Construction Tool Belt Set by Sweet Potato 3
This construction tool belt set encourages kids to pretend to fix things around the house, in the yard or on their toy ride along jeep. But remember to be safe and wear your hard hat too! I created this pattern over 10 years ago, and it is still one of my top sellers. I hope you love it too.
Dog Stacking Toy by Candy Yarn Shop
We all have seen the ring stackers that every kid has when they are little. But, there are so many cute ones now with animals or other create characters. I think this dog, is honestly the cutest. Not only does he have the stacking rings, but then he can also be played with as dog. Multi-functional!
But, that’s not all! Candy Yarn Shop sells the pattern for you to make your own. She also offers the option to by a KIT that includes the pattern, yarn and safety eyes, plush nose, stuffing, etc.
Crochet Numbers & Symbols by Anna Nas Toys
Everybody needs flash cards to help with math. I can picture it all: sitting on the floor and rearranging these crochet cards to practice those first math problems. Again, this crochet pattern encourages kids to love the learning process! Make them in different shades of your child’s favorite color to make them love it even more.
Weather Baby Cube by Raffamusa Designs
Baby cubes are a great first toy! They encourage motor skills as your child begins to practice using their hands. Skills like moving the rings from one side to the other, turning the sun, a variety of textures and the included teether make this sensory toy stand out.
Raffamusa is so kind and created a code for you! Get the Weather Cube crochet pattern for 40% off today only (Friday May 31, 2024), use code SP3TOYS on Etsy!
Other Crochet Round Ups You May Love
- Free Pet Amigurumi Patterns – click HERE
- Darling Animal Applique Patterns – click HERE
More Crochet Fun
I am sure you will love these home décor crochet patterns. When you make one, I would love to see a photo of your project. I host an interactive Facebook group called, “SP3 Crochet & Conversations”. You’re invited to join this community; it is a great spot to share photos, ask questions and have fun. Join by clicking HERE.