Toy ambulances are a great gift for toddlers as well as many older children. Many toy ambulances are highly detailed with a number of moving parts, such as side and back doors that open. Some are even remote-controlled and have realistic sirens.
If you are interested in a toy ambulance that’s durable enough for toddlers and complex enough for older kids, check out the PLAYMOBIL Rescue Ambulance. Our top choice, this model comes with poseable figures, a stretcher and more.
Some toy ambulances come individually packaged, while others are part of a set that may include other vehicles or figures, like nurses or patients. The different vehicles and parts in toy ambulance sets are usually around the same size. Purchasing a set over an individual toy ambulance gives your child more opportunity for engagement. Sets are also great for inspiring creativity and role-play when your child interacts with other children.
Complex, interactive toys such as toy ambulances have several benefits to a young child’s development. They help teach fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination as well as help with cognitive development.
Along with this, toy ambulances and other interactive toys facilitate role-playing, which can help develop the child’s imagination and creativity. This can have many other benefits, such as improving their problem-solving skills or communication.
Like other toys for toddlers, most toy ambulance trucks consist of hard plastics, such as polypropylene or polyethylene. These materials influence the durability of the toy, as well as the weight. For instance, a toy ambulance or car made of high-density polyethylene is usually strong and lightweight. Some toy ambulances for toddlers are made of wood, but be sure any paint used on the toy is non-toxic.
When it comes to toy ambulance tires, they are typically made from PVC, or polyvinyl chloride. This rubbery material is also durable and allows the toy vehicle to move when rolled.
Some toy ambulances, particularly those made for older audiences, consist of die-cast materials.
Many toy ambulances come with sound effects, like sirens or the sound of tires screeching on the road. These sounds add a level of realism to the toy.
In addition to the sirens, some toy ambulances may have lights that stay on or flash. Keep in mind that toy ambulances meant for toddlers may have some of these features or none at all.
Toy ambulances with interactive features may require batteries. They are also typically more expensive than manual ones.
More complex toy ambulances have other features that make them unique and fun to play with, such as:
Younger and older kids can enjoy toys with some moving or intricate parts, but if you’re looking for something for a toddler, go with something simpler.
If you want to add to the complexity and fun of the toy ambulance, consider these accessories:
Most toy ambulances cost $5-$30. Those that come as part of a set may cost more depending on the number and quality of accessories.
A. Some toy vehicles come with small moving parts that could be dangerous if swallowed. To avoid choking hazards, look for larger toys without a lot of intricate or tiny components. If the toy ambulance is made of plastic, make sure the child playing with it doesn’t try to chew on it.
A. Although plastic is generally safe if not ingested, a more eco-friendly option is wood. Keep in mind that wooden toy ambulances with nontoxic paint don’t usually have moving parts or features like sound or lights. If you want something environmentally safe, look for a toy that uses nontoxic vegetable or water dyes.
What you need to know: This realistic toy ambulance comes with several toy figures, including a patient and EMTs, that engage children and help them learn about taking care of others.
What you’ll love: This ambulance toy truck comes with soft, rubber tires, a stretcher and several other accessories for interactive play. The figures can sit, bend and turn their heads as well.
What you should consider: The roof comes off fairly easily during play. The space inside the toy vehicle is also a little tight, especially in the driver’s and passenger’s seats.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: Made from a combination of die-cast metal and plastic, this toy ambulance is perfect for children and anyone who wants to start a model collection.
What you’ll love: This toy ambulance has rear and side doors that open and a pullback motor for realistic play.
What you should consider: The vehicle is on the small side, so it may be difficult to find figures that fit inside.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
JOYIN 4-Pack Friction Powered City Hero Play Set
What you need to know: This set comes with several emergency vehicles, including a toy ambulance truck, police car, helicopter and a fire truck, making it a perfect start or addition to a miniature town.
What you’ll love: These matching toys are friction-powered, meaning they can move on their own after an initial push. Each toy has unique features, such as ambulance doors that open and a rotating helicopter propeller blade.
What you should consider: The build quality may be a little fragile. Also, the siren sound on each vehicle is the same.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Angela Watson writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
