Toys for a 17 month old

[Whathefisgoingon]

I’m about to clear out all the toys and get some new ones in more suited to his age and new interests, but I’m overwhelmed by choice.

Things he enjoys:

-going under units & tables and unscrewing the screws
-washing up sponges & cloths
-sand
-cats
-tearing things apart
-dancing
-scribbling on paper with crayons or the iPad

When I started this list I thought it’d be quite specific and a good idea to help with any recommendations but having just written it I can see it’s just very typical toddler

Basically, I’m completely overwhelmed by the toy choice available and I’m struggling to pick things I think he may like. I made the mistake of buying lots of toys when he was younger and half of it went untouched (and still does)

Can anyone recommend some toys / entertainment their 17 month old boys absolutely loved?

I'd say from that list you don't need to get him any toys. Don't make the same mistake again!

Get him some cardboard boxes to scribble on and then tear apart and a washing up bowl with some water and sponges/cloths so he can wash things in the garden.

There are tool kits you can get with plastic screws that you can do up/undo. But you may well find he isn't interested when they're toy screws! That's very often the way with stuff like that.

If he likes unscrewing stuff you could maybe get some plastic jars with screw lids and put interesting things in them and just let him unscrew them/take things out/put his own things in etc.

If he likes mark making, get some paintbrushes and 'paint' with water outside on the floor/a fence. Get actual paint for paper. Maybe an aquadraw. Chalk for the floor/or get a blackboard.

Maybe building blocks? Duplo or similar.

Bubbles. Football. Lots of books.

Maybe a tea set or similar that encourages some imaginative play (get a plastic one and you can also use with water in the garden).

I assume you already have a sand pit.

Take him to playgroup/stay and play and see what catches his attention/keeps his focus for more ideas. But mainly, just put whatever money you would have spent away for when he wants Lego etc. that's really expensive.

Oh and stickers! Get some stickers/sticker books.