Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers can search photos from the original I Spy series for all kinds of toys, from a little toy train and a little blue mouse to a big blue rake and a big toy house.
From the ever-popular children's "I Spy" collection, this toddler-friendly edition is a great introduction to the little toys genre. Not only is the board book format sturdy enough to hold up against tiny hands but the objects are easily recognizable for young children, such as a toy truck, zebra or shoe. The pages have just enough clutter to add a hint of difficulty but not enough that a child would become easily frustrated. Children will love the bright colors and appreciated having the opportunity to interact with the book.
Toddlers can spend a good deal of time scouring each page for hidden objects. While each page only asks the child to find two objects, there are plenty of additional things that you can add to the list as your child gets older. It can turn into a counting game by asking a preschool-age kid to find a certain number of marbles or other common objects. It's also a great tool for learning colors. The last two pages of the book ask children to look through the entire book for a few more hidden objects, which adds a level of difficulty since there are about 12 pages to inspect.
It's great to see a child enjoying a book and this is definitely one that kids get excited about. I joined in the hunt for the objects with Emily, the three-year-old that I babysit, and we had a great time searching. We also found many additional objects and I believe that she's ready for more difficult find-the-object books.
--Abby
Although I got this book for Vivian, Ethan has been reading it as well. The book is very simple with just a few questions of things to look for on each page, so it's not overwhelming for Vivian. She's been flipping the pages and looking at all the pictures. Ethan and I have been going beyond the basic "I Spy" clues and naming other items on the pages and searching for smaller items. I love books that grow with your child- this definitely is one that does that.
--Carrie, Seattle, WA