MORE THAN CHILD`S PLAY

Why toys are essential to child development?

Beyond just entertainment, toys now play a significant role in a child`s growth and development. Because children spend most of their time playing, almost everything learned during the early childhood years is done through a play. With this, the toys that should be made available to children are very important. Some toys may be labeled educational, but anything a child play with that enhances natural growth and development in a positive way can be an educational toy. Here are some ways by which toys prove to be essential aids for parents in raising their kids to be well-developed individuals. The best educational toys are those that invite children to explore a variety of ways to play with them. For example, balls and push-and-pull toys are most appropriate in developing a child`s gross motor skills. Meanwhile, natural wooden building block sets help children develop their fine motor skills and at the same time help stimulate their creativity. Other kinds of creative play activities include art sessions where children can draw, color, or even just tear papers. These classes stimulate imagination among toddlers and at the same time strengthen their small muscles which they use in holding pencils and scissors. On the other hand, for receptive and expressive language development, reading to your child and exploring books together can be the most beneficial tool. Also, word games enhance vocabulary as well as spelling skills.Board games teach a child to take turns and follow the rules while increasing language and counting skills. Jigsaw puzzles, scientific toys, electronic and computerized toys are all useful for cognitive development. Children can explore new ideas and interests with scientific toys like microscopes. These toys become venues where children can learn more about letters, shapes, science or geography.
Though not all toys provide educational benefits, any item that invites a child to explore, create, or discover can be considered educational. By bringing the possibility of linking playtime into learning, toys should aim to help children learn and aid in significantly influencing their minds. Toys have, indeed, moved from just items for amusement to essential partners of parent.