At some point, we have all faced the question of whether the toy we have chosen is the right one.
It is advisable to consider each child’s developmental stage and interests when selecting toys that best support their imagination and play. Toys are an effective tool for stimulating learning and fostering the development of skills such as communication and creativity.
We must bear in mind that different types of toys stimulate different areas of development:
- Sensory: Toys that incorporate music, sounds, bright colours or varied textures help children explore and learn about the environment through their senses.
- Motor: Toys that require hand-eye coordination, precision, and the use of fine or gross motor skills, such as jumping, crawling, or dancing, that help to enhance psychomotor development.
- Social: Group games, whether played with peers or family members, support the development of communication skills, relationship building, understanding and acceptance of rules, turn-taking, and other key social skills.
- Knowledge: Toys like board games or construction sets promote, development by engaging skills like, memory, creativity, attention, logic and even musical ability.
As a general guide, age can be a reference;
- From ages 0 to 3, a child’s development centres on sensory abilities. They progress from following brightly coloured objects with their eyes to touching and tasting everything, and eventually mastering balance. However, it is important to remain mindful of their rapid development to avoid a mismatch between the toy and the child’s ability to engage with it.
- From ages 3 to 6, children’s interest shifts towards toys that encourage dexterity, physical activity, and creativty. Any toy that promotes physical, intellectual and social development will be benefical.
And don’t forget…
THE BEST TOY FOR YOUR CHILD IS YOU!!
Sources: AMEI, World Association of Early Childhood Educators
Pedagogical Coordination
