Your toddler’s playtime is his first real learning experience, and toys can act as catalysts in your child’s growth. The benefits of educational toys are many and varied, and by choosing the right toys, you create an environment that is fun and conducive to learning vital skills.
But these days it’s hard to find what you need if you don’t know what you’re looking for. With a million toys on the market today, it’s hard to pick the best combinations of fun and learning. However, each beneficial toy should be fun, safe, and help the child develop and exercise some skill. When faced with so many options, asking yourself a few simple questions about your child’s development can help you make the best choice.
The following is a list of features to look for in a good educational toy:
1. Sensory Appeal: How many senses will the toy engage? Does he respond to and with lights, sounds, or movement? It’s colorful? Does it have a smell or a texture?
2. Activation Method: Will the toy provide a challenge without frustrating your child? Will it be a fun and rewarding experience?
3. Self-expression: Will the toy allow your child to express himself, be creative and make decisions?
4. Potential for success: How many “right” ways are there to play with the toy? Can the game be opened without correct or incorrect answers? Will the toy suit your child’s ability and style?
5. Ways of using: Can the toy be used in many different positions? Can it be used in different types of game?
6. Popularity: Is it a popular toy? Can it be linked to other media, such as storybooks, television, or movies?
7. Flexibility: Does it have adjustable volume, speed, and level of difficulty?
8. Opportunities for interaction: Does the toy provide an opportunity for you or other children to participate? Will you develop social skills?
9. Individuality and growth: Will the toy engage your child in activities that indicate the developmental age and growth of the child? Does it reflect the interests of the child?
10. Safety and durability: Is the toy durable, considering the age and strength of your child? It is safe?
Therefore, giving your child the right toys will be a win-win. Your child’s playtime is not only a fun and developing time for him, but it can also be a great way to relax and enjoy your child’s company. With educational toys, you can follow, monitor and direct your child’s development and find great excitement and fun in her play activities.
