Toys That Develop Empathy

The Mudpuppy Kindness 4-in-a-Box Puzzle Set is an engaging way for young kids aged 2 to 5 to learn about empathy while developing critical problem-solving skills. With four progressive puzzles, little learners can build their confidence as they move from simpler 4-piece designs to the more challenging 12-piece ones. Each puzzle features delightful animal illustrations that spark conversations about kindness and sharing, making playtime not just fun but also valuable for social-emotional development. 2-5 years

Mudpuppy's Love in The Wild 500 Piece Family Puzzle is a delightful way to explore the fascinating world of love in the animal kingdom! As we piece together colorful illustrations of penguins, lions, and monkeys, we not only engage in quality family time, but also delve into discussions about nature, empathy, and the different ways animals express affection. This puzzle fosters critical thinking and fine motor skills as kids age 8 and up navigate through the challenge together, creating lasting memories while turning screen time into screen-free bonding time. 8+ years

Mudpuppy I Can Be. . . 4+ years

The GUND Pusheen The Cat Classic Pose Plush is a delightful companion for cat lovers and plush enthusiasts ages 8 and up. Not only is this charming 12” gray kitty soft and huggable, but it also serves as a great conversation starter about kindness, friendship, and caring for our furry friends. Incorporating elements of imaginative play, the Pusheen plush encourages storytelling and creativity while bringing smiles to faces, young and old. 8+ years

The GUND Pusheen Pusheenicorn is a magical companion for kids aged 8 and up! This 13-inch plush toy not only brings a sprinkle of whimsy into a child's life but also encourages imaginative play and emotional growth. With its soft, cuddly design, it’s perfect for snuggling up during storytime or for sparking conversations about friendship and creativity. 8+ years

Chronicle Books Peace: A Card Game offers a delightful twist on the classic game of War by challenging players to showcase acts of kindness. This educational card game promotes social-emotional learning as children and families engage in discussions about generosity, empathy, and the impact of kind gestures on relationships. It's a wonderful way to encourage positive behavior and foster a caring mindset among kids, all while having fun together! 6+ years

The Comitys Emotional Game brings emotions to life through 64 vibrant cards that enhance emotional literacy for children. Designed for parents and educators, this engaging tool helps kids name, understand, and express their feelings, boosting self-esteem and fostering social skills. By interacting with a diverse array of 177 emotional states, participants learn crucial conflict resolution and nonviolent communication skills, paving the way for healthier relationships and better emotional regulation. 5+ years

Learning Resources Stethoscope lets little ones dive into the exciting world of medicine! This engaging pretend play toy not only fuels imagination but also provides a hands-on introduction to how our hearts work by allowing kids to listen to their own heartbeat. As parents and educators, we know how important it is to make doctor visits less intimidating; this fun role-playing experience helps ease anxieties while building empathy and curiosity. 5+ years

The Breyer Traditional Veterinarian with Vet Kit is an engaging way for children to explore the world of veterinary care and animal welfare. With fully articulated figure Laura and her array of accessories, kids will develop empathy, fine motor skills, and problem-solving abilities as they care for their Breyer herd. This educational toy nurtures imaginative play while introducing children to the important role of veterinarians in animal health. 5+ years

The Learning Resources Pretend & Play Doctor Set Blue brings the magic of the medical world to our little ones, making doctor visits less intimidating and more fun! This 19-piece kit not only encourages imaginative role-play but also enhances essential skills such as social interaction, fine motor coordination, and language development—perfect for little hands and big dreams. Whether they’re checking for a heartbeat or bandaging a teddy bear, kids delight in creating their own scenarios while building confidence and empathy along the way. 3+ years

Melissa & Doug Giant Dalmatian is not just a stuffed animal; it's your child's new best friend and an exciting avenue for imaginative play! With its lifelike design and huggable size, this adorable 2-foot tall Dalmatian encourages kids to engage in storytelling, build empathy, and develop social skills during playtime. The durable, soft polyester fabric ensures countless hours of cuddles and adventures, making it a perfect companion for dog lovers of all ages. 3 to 103 years

The Monogamy Board Game is a unique experience designed to deepen connections between couples. This engaging game encourages communication, exploration, and shared laughter, fostering essential relationship skills like empathy and teamwork. It’s a wonderful way for partners to gain insights into each other's perspectives while making learning about each other both fun and interactive. Adult couples

Badger Basket Wooden Toy Doll Bed with Storage, Mobile, and Bedding to Pretend and Play is the ultimate playset for nurturing creativity and imagination! This beautiful heirloom-quality doll crib is perfect for kids aged 3 and up, helping them develop essential skills like empathy and storytelling as they care for their 'little ones. ' With a working musical mobile and a personalized touch featuring name decals, it inspires personalized playtime while also encouraging responsibility as children organize their dolls' essentials in the handy storage compartment. 3+ years

The Melissa & Doug Giant German Shepherd is a lifelike plush dog that brings joy and educational play into the home. This oversized friend can spark imaginative storytelling, improve social skills through role-playing, and even help teach responsibility as kids care for their furry companion. Perfect for dog lovers of all ages, it provides a screen-free experience that enhances emotional development and empathy through nurturing interactions. 3 to 103 years

Community Helpers & Careers Pocket Flash Cards offer a vibrant way to engage children in learning about various occupations that shape our communities. With 27 unique jobs represented, these cards introduce kids to important concepts in language arts while promoting diversity and inclusion through varied imagery. They are not just fun and informative; they help develop crucial skills like critical thinking and communication as children discuss and explore each profession. 8+ years

The Melissa & Doug Giant Cheetah is not just a plush toy; it's an imaginative doorway to the wild! Standing nearly 3 feet tall, this lifelike companion encourages children to explore animal characteristics and habitats through pretend play, enhancing verbal skills, sensory awareness, and empathy. Its stunning detail and realistic design make it an eye-catching addition to any learning space, appealing to kids and adults alike, and fostering curiosity about wildlife and conservation. 3 to 103 years

The Melissa & Doug Giant Sea Turtle is a lifelike stuffed animal that's nearly three feet long, making it an enchanting addition to any child’s playroom. This beautifully designed plush turtle encourages imaginative play, helping kids learn about marine life, develop empathy towards animals, and enhance social skills during interactive storytelling or role-playing. With its soft polyester fabric and realistic details, it's a wonderful gift for animal lovers of all ages, fostering hands-on, screen-free engagement that delights both children and adults alike. 3 to 103 years

The Melissa & Doug Giant Tiger is a lifelike stuffed animal that brings the wild right into your home. Measuring over 5 feet long, this plush companion inspires imaginative play, encourages storytelling, and fosters a love for wildlife while helping children develop empathy and social skills. It’s a wonderful way for parents and educators to promote creative thinking in a screen-free environment that sparks joy in kids ages 3 to 103. 3+ years

The Mary Meyer Flip Flop Buddy Buffalo is a delightful 12-inch plush companion designed to engage children's imaginations and foster emotional development. This incredibly soft and floppy toy encourages nurturing play, helping little ones develop empathy and social skills while providing endless opportunities for storytelling and role play. With its award-winning design and safe materials, Buddy Buffalo is the perfect addition to any learning environment for children of all ages. All ages

Douglas Chase Border Collie Dog Plush Stuffed Animal is more than just a cuddly companion; it's a tool for imaginative play and emotional development! With its expressive eyes and soft, poseable body, Chase encourages storytelling and role-playing, which are key for fostering creativity in our little ones. Plus, as children engage in caring for their new friend, they're building empathy, responsibility, and fine motor skills. 2+ years

I Never Forget a Face is a captivating memory and matching game designed to enhance little ones' patience and memory skills. Featuring 24 diverse children's faces from cultures around the globe, this game not only sharpens recognition and concentration but also fosters empathy and curiosity about our world's rich tapestry of cultures. It's a delightful way for kids to learn to celebrate differences while having fun, making it a top choice for parents and educators alike. 3+ years

The GUND Jirra Kangaroo with Removable Joey is a wonderfully crafted plush toy perfect for children aged 1 and up. This delightful duo not only provides comfort through its soft, huggable design, but also sparks curiosity about wildlife and nature, encouraging kids to engage in imaginative play, promote empathy, and develop their storytelling skills. With its functional pouch for the adorable joey, Jirra invites preschoolers to explore themes of nurturing and responsibility while fostering early emotional intelligence. 1+ years

The Le Toy Van Daisylane Bunny & Guinea Accessories Play Set is a delightful addition to any child's dolls house collection. This beautifully crafted set not only inspires hours of imaginative play but also teaches little ones about empathy and responsibility through caring for their wooden pets. Perfect for nurturing creativity and encouraging social skills during solo or group play, it’s a charming way to introduce the joy of animal companionship. 3+ years

The Aurora® Adorable Mini Flopsie™ Chip™ Stuffed Animal is your child's new favorite cuddling partner! This delightful 8-inch chipmunk not only offers cloud-like softness but also enhances emotional well-being, encouraging empathy and nurturing behavior. As children engage in imaginative play, they develop storytelling skills and creativity, making Chip an ideal companion for learning through play. All ages