Play & Progress​

Navigating sibling relationships can sometimes feel like steering a ship in stormy seas –one minute it’s smooth sailing, the next, you’re in the middle of a squall over who gets the last cookie. Play has this unique ability to anchor those rocking boats by offering a healthier way for siblings to bond besides plotting the next prank on their parents.

The age difference between siblings can sometimes feel like they’re worlds apart, leading to even more reasons for the occasional tiff. “It’s not fair, he always gets to choose the game!” sounds familiar, right? The right toy or game has the power to transform “It’s my turn!” into “Let’s play together!”

So, while it might seem like siblings only find harmony in the mischief of ganging up on their parents, there’s a whole world of toys out there that can channel that energy into cooperative and constructive play.

Choosing the right toys to bridge the age gap between siblings can be difficult, so we’ve compiled some of our top tips for picking the right toys, plus some recommendations to get you started:

Music has a unique way of bringing people together, creating the perfect medium for collaboration. Engaging with musical instruments and toys can help siblings find common ground, regardless of their age difference.

They learn to appreciate each other’s tastes, cooperate in creating harmonies and respect taking turns. These experiences not only build a foundation for musical skills but also strengthen their emotional connection through shared achievements and fun.

And our favourite musical toy rec? The DJ Mix & Spin Studio, which invites siblings to take turns laying down tracks, adjusting tempos, and blending sounds. It’s a fantastic way for brothers and sisters to bond over beats, learn about music, and even develop their own unique tunes together.

The act of building, whether it’s a towering structure or an intricate layout, is a cornerstone of cooperative play. It requires planning, problem-solving, and creativity, which can be boosted when siblings work together. This collaborative effort not only leads to impressive constructions but also fortifies siblings’ ability to work as a team, resolve conflicts, and support each other’s ideas.

The Race to the Finish Marble Run from Quadrilla allows siblings to challenge each other’s designs and engage in friendly competition to see whose path the marbles will race down fastest. It’s a playful way to encourage critical thinking and celebrate each other’s successes.

Creating train routes together isn’t just about where the tracks lead but how they get there – through teamwork and shared decision-making. Managing their little railway world brings a special kind of joy and a sense of achievement that’s all theirs, something they’ve built together from the ground up.

When it comes to collaborative play, we love the City Train Bucket Set. This set encourages siblings to plan together, solve logistical puzzles, and immerse themselves in an imaginative play that bridges age gaps.

Role-playing is a fun way for siblings to step into different roles, offering a playful glimpse into seeing the world through each other’s eyes. It’s about exploring new scenarios together, which can really help siblings get a sense of each other’s thoughts and feelings.

Most role-play toys will do, but we think the Tea Time Playset is a delightful addition to providing the perfect setting for siblings to engage in social play and enjoy the simple pleasures of playing together.