The Pediatric Orthopedic Gift Guide: Toys That Build Strong Bones and Coordination – Children's Orthopaedic and Scoliosis Surgery Associates, LLP

The Pediatric Orthopedic Gift Guide: Toys That Build Strong Bones and Coordination

December 19, 2025:

Many parents and grandparents are on the last minute hunt for the perfect gift. As pediatric orthopedic specialists we see firsthand how play shapes a child’s physical development. The right toys don’t just provide entertainment, they build bone density, improve balance and sharpen fine motor skills. To help you navigate the toy aisle we have put together a guide to gifts that support your child’s growing musculoskeletal system.
Active Play
Choose toys that build motor skills and encourage whole body movement like running, jumping, balancing and throwing. Items include tricycles, balls, indoor climbing structures, hula hoops and obstacle course elements (tunnels, steps).
Precision Play
Orthopedic health is not just about legs and spines; it’s about the complex mechanics of the hands and wrists. Snapping bricks together and pulling them apart builds significant hand strength and dexterity. Items include classic building blocks (LEGOs), modeling clay, and arts and crafts kits.
Big Ticket Items
If a big-ticket item like a scooter, skateboard, or bicycle is on the list remember that protection should be part of the gift. When gifting wheels, always include: Multi impact helmet, wrist guards and knee pads.
Avoid the Tech Slump
Many kids will be receiving gaming consoles or tablets this year. While these are fun, they often lead to tech neck (a strain on the cervical spine caused by hunching over screens) To protect your child’s posture, consider ergonomic additions to a tech gift. Items include laptop or tablet stands, junior ergonomic chairs, wobble stools or yoga ball chairs that engage the core muscles while the child is gaming.
A Note for Parents
The best gift you can give your child is time spent being active together. Whether it’s a family walk to see holiday lights or an indoor obstacle course on a rainy day, movement is the key to a healthy childhood.

It is important to take your child to pediatric specialists who are experts in treating only kids. At Children’s Orthopaedic and Scoliosis Surgery Associates, LLP our board certified, fellowship trained, specialists provide the best child-friendly care using the latest cutting-edge technology that results in the safest and most accurate outcomes. Please call our office at (727) 898-2663 to schedule an appointment.

Medically reviewed by Daniel C. Bland, MD Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon.

Children’s Orthopaedic and Scoliosis Surgery Associates LLP provides information and articles as a service to our readers. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician. This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, or in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment, If you have a medical concern, you should consult with your health care provider or seek other professional medical treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately. The opinions and views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, health practice or other institution.

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