Did you know you can custom order a busy board these days?? YEAH. You can hand select which features you want included. But some elements are going to engage your child more than others. Here are our recs for what to ask for and what to skip!

MUST ADDS!

Items you don’t want a child interacting with in everyday life. Think outlets, light switches, etc. Functional outlets are unsafe for a child to play with, but for some reason so irresistible to little fingers. Go figure ;) Light switches have an obvious implication… strobe light city. Direct them to the busy board instead!
Any kind of lock. This will promote fine motor practice and problem solving. When these are on a busy board they’re not protecting anything valuable or dangerous, they’re more of a puzzle that could occupy your child for a loooong time.
Sensory features. Velcro is great because children can see, hear and feel its properties when they engage with it. They might even taste it if you have an older infant or young toddler.
Clocks. This has a very obvious benefit, it helps children become familiar with the practice of telling time! You can explain the difference between the short hand and long hand, or even just point out that both exist. When they’re old enough to understand the nitty gritty, you can manipulate the hands and “run drills” together.
Phones. At this point a phone with a cord is definitely retro, but fun nonetheless. It will offer a dramatic play option amidst a board of sensory and fine motor activities!

SKIP IT!

1. Shoelaces. Just use real shoes when teaching your kids how to tie their laces, easy peasy!

2. Instruments. Xylophones and horns don’t need to take up space on your busy board when you could have them on their own. They’re also more portable that way!

3. Puzzles with loose pieces. Let’s be honest, those pieces will probably disappear. Just play with real puzzles independent of a busy board!