Key Takeaways
- Ideal for ages 3+; encourages sorting and food recognition
- Durable, BPA-free plastic is easy to clean
- Supports fine motor, language, and imaginative skills
- Great for introducing new foods to picky eaters
- No assembly required; easy to store
Overview
The Learning Resources Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set is a vibrant, hands-on toy designed for preschoolers ages 3 and up. This set features a variety of plastic fruits and vegetables in five distinct colors, along with matching baskets. It is ideal for children who are learning to recognize colors, sort objects, and explore early concepts of healthy foods. The core play value lies in its open-ended nature—kids can sort, count, and pretend-play grocery shopping, making it especially engaging for children who are hesitant around new foods or picky eaters.
What’s Inside / Build Quality
The set includes 25 pieces of durable plastic produce (five colors, five types each) and five sturdy, color-coordinated baskets. All pieces are made from BPA-free plastic, ensuring safety for little hands. The produce pieces are sized for easy grasping, supporting fine motor development. Cleaning is simple—just wipe down with a damp cloth or mild soap and water. There are no sharp edges or small parts, making it a safe choice for supervised preschool play.
Learning & Development Benefits
This toy supports a variety of early learning skills. Sorting the produce by color or type encourages cognitive development and problem-solving. Handling the fruits and vegetables helps refine fine motor skills, while naming items and colors promotes language development. The set also offers opportunities for imaginative play, such as running a pretend market or cooking. For picky eaters, playing with toy foods can build familiarity and positive associations with real fruits and vegetables, which may help reduce food-related anxieties over time.
Setup & Use
No assembly is required—simply open the box and play. The baskets and produce pieces are lightweight and easy to store in the original packaging or a small bin. While the toy is designed for independent play, adult supervision is recommended for younger children, especially in group settings. Parents can prompt sorting games, counting challenges, or role-play scenarios to extend learning and engagement.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Supports color recognition, sorting, and fine motor skills
- Durable, easy-to-clean materials
- Encourages imaginative play and early food familiarity
- No assembly required; easy storage
Cons
- Limited variety of produce types compared to real markets
- Some children may outgrow sorting play quickly
- Not suitable for children under 3 due to potential choking hazard
Alternatives & Similar Toys
- Melissa & Doug Food Groups Wooden Play Food: Includes wooden fruits, veggies, grains, and proteins for broader food group exploration.
- Learning Resources New Sprouts Healthy Breakfast Basket: Focuses on breakfast foods with soft, toddler-friendly pieces.
- Hape Healthy Basics Wooden Play Food Set: Made from wood, this set features a mix of healthy food items for pretend play and sorting.
- B. toys Freshly Picked Fruit & Veggie Playset: Features soft, textured fruits and veggies for sensory and sorting play.
Verdict
The Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set is a valuable addition to any preschooler’s toy collection, especially for families seeking playful ways to encourage food exploration and reduce mealtime stress. Its simple design, vibrant colors, and durable build make it appealing and easy to use. While the play pattern may be limited for older children, it offers rich opportunities for sorting, language, and imaginative play for ages 3 to 5. For parents of picky eaters, this set can help foster positive attitudes toward new foods in a low-pressure, fun environment.
FAQ
What age is the Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set best for?
It is recommended for children ages 3 and up due to small parts and skill level.
How can this toy help picky eaters?
Playing with toy fruits and vegetables can build positive associations with real foods and make new foods less intimidating.
Is the set easy to clean?
Yes, all pieces can be wiped down with a damp cloth or mild soap and water.
Does the set require assembly?
No assembly is needed—simply unpack and play.
Are the materials safe for children?
Yes, the set is made from BPA-free plastic and designed with safety in mind.
Can this toy be used for group activities?
Absolutely! It works well for solo or group play, encouraging sharing and cooperation.
What skills does this toy support?
It supports fine motor skills, color recognition, sorting, language development, and imaginative play.
This review highlights many of the wonderful ways the Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set can support early learning. I’d add that toys like this not only build color recognition and sorting skills, but also encourage pretend play and language development when children “shop” or “cook” with the produce. Integrating simple play routines can boost social skills and creative thinking during these preschool years.
- Mix in real-life experiences: Pair the set with trips to a real farmers market or grocery store to reinforce color and food vocabulary.
- Practice counting and grouping: Use the fruits and vegetables to introduce counting, basic math, and pattern-making games.
- Encourage storytelling: Invite your child to create stories about where the foods come from or how they might be used in meals.
- Explore textures and senses: Add real or play foods with different textures to compare and talk about similarities and differences.
Space is tight in our house, and I’m wondering how compact this set is for storage. With two kids’ toys piling up fast, can everything fit back in the original box, or does it need extra bins to stay organized?
It’s understandable to want toys that won’t take over your living space, especially with two little ones. The Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set is fairly compact: all pieces generally fit back into the original box if you pack them carefully. Try having your kids help sort the play food into the baskets and stack the baskets inside the box to save space. For very small play areas, you might consider storing just a few color baskets out at a time and rotating them. Always keep small pieces out of reach of toddlers under 3 for safety. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
Do you have tips for making the sorting activities more engaging for a two-year-old who is a bit behind with color recognition? Are there ways to adapt the play to better fit younger toddlers’ developmental pace?
It’s wonderful that you’re meeting your child where they are with color recognition. For a two-year-old, keep sorting activities simple by focusing on just two colors at a time and naming them as you play. Make it fun: you can pretend to shop for fruits together or match play food to colored plates. Offer lots of opportunities to touch and explore the pieces—describe textures and shapes as well as colors. Always supervise closely to prevent mouthing small parts. Remember, it’s okay to go slowly and celebrate any progress. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
Our speech therapist suggested more hands-on play, but my child also has some mild sensory issues with certain textures. Are the plastic produce pieces smooth overall, or do any have rough surfaces or small parts that might bother sensitive kids?
It’s great that you’re thinking about both play and sensory comfort for your child. The Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set generally features produce pieces made of smooth plastic, but some items have slight texturing to mimic real fruits and vegetables—nothing sharp or rough, but a few pieces might feel bumpy. They’re large enough for preschoolers, with no small parts that pose a choking risk, but supervision is always wise. You might want to inspect and handle the pieces yourself first, then introduce them gradually to your child, watching their reactions and removing any that make them uncomfortable. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
Our little one sometimes has a hard time choosing between screen-based learning games and physical toys like this. Do you have advice on how to encourage more hands-on play with this set without causing a power struggle over limiting tablet time?
It’s understandable to want to encourage hands-on learning without turning it into a battle. You might try setting up the Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set in a cozy, inviting spot and joining your child in pretend play to spark interest. Offer short, fun challenges—like sorting by color or making up a grocery story game—to get them engaged. Try designating certain times for screen-free play, framing it as special playtime together rather than focusing on restrictions. For preschoolers, physical play supports fine motor skills and social development, and the pieces are designed to be safe under supervision. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
Do you have any tips for storing the baskets and produce so pieces don’t get lost over time? We have a small apartment, so I’m always looking for toys that are easy to keep organized.
It’s understandable to want to keep toy sets tidy, especially in a small space. Try storing the baskets and produce in a clear, lidded plastic container so everything stays together and is easy to spot. You can sort produce by color into zippered pouches or small bags before placing them in the bin for extra organization. Keep the set on a low shelf so your child can help with cleanup, which also builds responsibility. Always check for loose or damaged pieces, especially since these are small and best for preschoolers under supervision. This isn’t medical advice; if you have concerns, check in with your pediatrician.
The article notes that adult supervision is recommended, especially in group settings. Do you have any tips or routines for storing toy sets like this so that they are only accessible during supervised playtime, particularly when there are younger siblings around?
It’s understandable to want to keep small toy pieces safely out of reach when younger siblings are around. Try storing the set in a clear, lidded container on a high shelf or in a locked cabinet, and establish a routine where the set comes out only during designated playtimes with an adult present. Involve your preschooler in clean-up by making it a fun part of the activity, ensuring all pieces are counted and stored away afterwards. Labeling the container can help family members know it’s for supervised use. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
You mention that parents can prompt sorting games and counting challenges. Could you give a few specific examples of language-based activities using this set, especially aimed at kids who are behind in speech?
It’s great that you’re looking for ways to support your child’s speech development during play. Try narrating actions, like saying, ‘Let’s put all the red apples in this basket,’ and pause to let your child repeat or respond. Name each fruit’s color and shape as you sort, encouraging your child to echo simple words or phrases. Play ‘find and show’ games: ‘Which one is the banana? Can you give it to me?’ Keep sentences short and clear, and celebrate any attempt to communicate. Always supervise to prevent mouthing small pieces. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
For families with limited space, how compact is this set for everyday storage? Is it realistic to keep all the baskets and produce in the original box, or would a separate container work better?
It’s understandable to want toys that don’t take over your living space. The Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set includes five baskets and 25 pieces of play produce, so while the items are lightweight and not bulky, the original box can feel snug for daily use. You might find it easier to store the pieces in a small, clear container or a basket with a lid for quick access and tidy cleanup. Just be sure that any alternative storage keeps small parts out of reach of children under three to avoid choking hazards. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
My toddler just turned three and still puts things in her mouth sometimes. Since this set is for ages 3 and up, how small are the produce pieces? Would you recommend this for kids who are still mouthing toys or should I wait a bit longer?
You’re thoughtful to consider safety with your three-year-old still mouthing toys. The Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set includes produce pieces that are about 2 inches long, which helps reduce choking risk, but they are not too big for a toddler to try to mouth. If your child regularly puts toys in her mouth, it may be safer to wait a bit longer or use the set only with close adult supervision. You could also remove any pieces you feel are too tempting. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
Space for storing toys is limited in our home. How compact is this set when packed up, and do you find that all pieces fit easily back into the box, or does it need extra storage bins?
It’s understandable to want toys that fit neatly into small spaces. The Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set comes in a sturdy box, and most users find that all pieces fit back in if packed carefully, though it can be a tight fit. Try having your preschooler help sort and return the fruits, baskets, and activity cards to encourage responsibility. Store the set in its original box on a low shelf for easy access and safety. If the box shows wear or becomes difficult to close, a small plastic container with a secure lid is a safe alternative for keeping pieces together. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
I noticed you mention the pieces are sized for easy grasping and there are no sharp edges. Could you clarify whether any of the produce pieces or baskets are small enough to fit into a toddler’s mouth? I am concerned about possible choking hazards even though the set is recommended for ages 3 and up.
It’s great that you are thinking carefully about choking risks. The Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set is designed for preschoolers, so the produce pieces and baskets are larger than typical choking hazards, and there are no sharp edges. However, some pieces may still be tempting for toddlers to mouth, especially for children under 3, who are at increased risk. Always supervise play, especially if younger siblings are present, and store the set out of reach when not in use. If you have any concerns about your child’s safety, it’s best to consult your pediatrician. This isn’t medical advice; always trust your instincts about what’s safe for your child.
My child can be overwhelmed by too many colors or textures at once. Is it possible to introduce the produce and baskets gradually, or does using the whole set at once make it more effective for learning?
It’s completely understandable to want to keep things manageable for your child. You can absolutely introduce the produce and baskets gradually—start with just one or two colors and a few pieces, letting your child get comfortable before adding more. This slower pace can help sensitive children engage without feeling overwhelmed, and still supports learning. You might also let your child explore the textures of each item at their own pace and remove any pieces that seem bothersome. Always supervise play and be mindful of small parts for younger children. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
For families trying to limit toy clutter, how compactly does this set store when not in use? Does everything fit back in the original packaging easily?
It’s great that you’re thinking about minimizing toy clutter while supporting your child’s learning. The Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set is designed so that all the play pieces—the fruits, vegetables, and baskets—fit neatly back into the sturdy box it comes with. After playtime, encourage your child to help sort and pack the items, which can also reinforce cleanup habits. Just be sure to supervise little ones under 3, since some pieces are small. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
I noticed the set is recommended for ages 3 and up, but my child is almost 2 and loves sorting games. Would supervised play still be safe at this age, or is the choking hazard too significant to consider?
It’s great that your child enjoys sorting games and you’re thinking about safety. The Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set is labeled for ages 3 and up mainly because some pieces may pose a choking risk for younger children. If you decide to let your almost-2-year-old play, always supervise closely and remove any smaller pieces that could fit in your child’s mouth. You might also consider modeling sorting with just a few larger, easier-to-handle items from the set. Remember, never leave your child unattended with small parts, and always check for wear and tear that could create new hazards. This isn’t medical advice; if you have any concerns, check in with your pediatrician.
How would you recommend storing the pieces if our toy storage space is very limited? Does the original packaging hold up to daily use, or is there another compact storage solution that works better?
It’s understandable to want a tidy, space-saving solution with limited storage. While the original packaging works for a while, it may not withstand frequent opening and closing by little hands. Consider transferring the pieces to a sturdy, clear plastic container with a secure lid—this keeps everything visible and compact. You could also use resealable freezer bags, grouping similar colors or types together for easy access. Make sure whichever option you choose is easy for your preschooler to open and close safely, and always check for any sharp edges on new containers. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
My toddler is sensitive to certain textures and colors. Do you have tips for introducing this sorting set in a way that would work for children with mild sensory aversions?
It’s great that you’re looking out for your toddler’s comfort and sensory needs. Start by letting your child explore just one or two fruits in neutral or preferred colors, observing their reactions. Offer the pieces by touch first, without any pressure to sort, and describe the textures together in simple terms. Gradually introduce new colors and textures at your child’s pace, keeping sessions short and positive. Always supervise play to ensure safety, especially since the set has small parts. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
Storage space is pretty limited in our home with all the new daycare gear. Can the baskets and produce be stored compactly in their original packaging, or would you recommend a better way to keep everything organized?
It’s understandable to want to keep things tidy when space is at a premium. The Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set does fit back into its original box, but over time the packaging can get worn and may not hold up well. You could try nesting the baskets together and storing the play produce in a single container or zipper bag to save space. A clear, lidded plastic bin is a safe alternative that keeps small pieces together and makes cleanup easy for preschoolers. Always supervise to avoid misplaced pieces, especially if you have younger children around. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
I saw that the set is BPA-free and the pieces are described as durable and easy to clean. For parents who have children that tend to chew on their toys, do you think these pieces hold up well, and is there any risk if a child tries to bite or mouth the play food?
It’s completely understandable to be concerned when your child likes to chew on toys. The Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set is made of BPA-free plastic, which is reassuring, and the pieces are designed to be sturdy and withstand typical preschool play. However, always supervise play, especially with younger children or strong chewers, to watch for any wear or damage. Regularly inspect the pieces for cracks or loose parts that could pose a choking risk. If your child is under 3, be extra cautious about small pieces. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re ever uncertain, check with your pediatrician.
Since the pieces are made of BPA-free plastic, do they have any noticeable smell, or is the texture likely to bother a sensory-sensitive toddler? We’re trying to avoid anything that could be off-putting.
It’s great that you’re thinking about your child’s sensory comfort. The Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set is made from BPA-free plastic, which generally has little to no noticeable smell right out of the box, but some children with strong sensory sensitivities might notice a faint new-plastic scent at first. I recommend opening the set and letting the pieces air out for a day or two before play. The texture is smooth and lightweight, which most toddlers handle well, but if your child is especially sensitive, touch each piece yourself first to check for any rough seams or unexpected textures. Always supervise play to ensure safety, especially if your child tends to mouth toys. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
Do you have any tips for using the Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set to help a picky eater get more comfortable with real fruits and vegetables? I wonder if there are specific pretend play scenarios that work best for easing food hesitancy.
It’s great that you want to use play to support your picky eater’s comfort with fruits and vegetables. Try setting up a pretend farmer’s market where your child ‘shops’ for produce, names the colors, and ‘prepares’ meals with the toy foods—this can make real fruits and veggies feel less intimidating. You can also match the play food to real items, letting your child touch and smell both during play. Role-playing as a chef or customer, and inviting stuffed animals or dolls to join, can reduce pressure and make new foods more fun to explore. Always supervise to ensure safety, especially with younger children and small parts. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.