No expensive toys! What are the real toys your child needs for growth?
Min Jung Kwon
The importance of play in children's development cannot be overstated. And the selection of toys, a key tool for this play, is a crucial task for parents and various child care professionals.
In the digital age, there are more and more expensive and high-quality toys available to children. Recent research reveals some interesting facts, so today we'll explore which toys are most necessary and important for children's development.
Let's take a look at the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). A report published by the AAP states:
1) Simple toys help stimulate a child's imagination and creativity.
2) Older toys are more helpful in promoting language development and social interaction than digital toys.
3) Toys such as blocks, puzzles, and art supplies are most helpful for a child's overall development.
These recommendations are based on several studies. A 2020 study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that toys we consider simple were more effective in improving children's focus and creativity.
How do simple toys, as we might think, help children develop?
- Stimulates imagination: Since there is no set purpose, children can play freely using their imagination.
- Improves problem-solving skills: Blocks and puzzles help develop your child's logical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Promotes language development : Simple toys encourage more conversation between parent and child.
- Develops social skills : Toys that can be played with together help children interact with their peers.
- Improves concentration : Simple toys are said to help children improve their concentration in the long run, rather than complex electronic devices.
So, let's take a look at simple toys that the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends for each age.
• Infancy (0-1 years): Tactile books, rattles, soft blocks
• Toddlers (1-3 years): Large blocks, balls, simple puzzles, crayons
• Preschool age (ages 3-5): Lego, art supplies, role-playing props, board games
• School-age (ages 6 and up): Complex puzzles, science kits, board games, and craft supplies.
Here are some ways to make more effective use of toys your kids likely already own:
Ask open-ended questions: Stimulate your child's imagination by asking questions like, "What can I make with these blocks?" If your child struggles with this, expand the play by offering options for their creations.
- Model a variety of expressions and ways to play with others : Help your child develop language and social skills by playing with them.
- Suggest multiple uses: Show your child how to use a single toy in multiple ways. Combining your child's imagination with your own can lead to even more exciting possibilities.
- Be patient: Wait for your child to solve the problem on his own. -
Create a play environment: Create an environment where your child can freely explore and play. Create an unrestricted space where your child can unleash their creativity and imagination during play!
The most important thing when choosing toys is to consider your child's developmental stage and interests . While there are so many expensive, flashy toys out there, they may seem more appealing to your child. Remember, simpler, more readily available toys can actually be more beneficial for your child's development!
Furthermore, more important than toys is interaction with others . Playing with your child, talking to them, and respecting their interests are incredibly beneficial to their overall development.
Always remember that every child is unique and has individual differences. Spend quality time playing with your child. Through play, your child can discover limitless possibilities and grow!
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