Good Parenting

It comes as no surprise that educational toys are extremely popular with parents, grandparents and caregivers alike.

Using the ever-rising demand for educational toys to their advantage, toy manufacturers are meeting the challenge by constantly introducing impressive new technology. As a result, educational toys have morphed into toddler sized PC’s and hand-held video games that motivate by means of bells, whistles and flashing lights.

And while they undoubtedly have educational value, these electronic toys do little to increase social skills; nor do they encourage imagination, creativity or physical play.

Consequently, these types of toys should be mixed with those that provide both physical and imaginative play that requires a high level of interaction – specifically those tried and true toys that have stood the test of time, despite their lack of modern technology.

The good news is that, even in today’s economic climate, providing these toys needn’t be expensive.

Things like crayons, construction paper, scissors, pipe cleaners, glue and modeling clay are affordable, and encourage creativity. Sidewalk chalk or a pile of sand and a bucket with a shovel are other low-cost materials that will have them producing masterpieces day after day.

Traditional board games like Hi-Ho-Cherry-O and Candy Land can be purchased new or gently used. Board games are available for every age and skill level and can help strengthen letter and color recognition for the younger child, or increase strategy and sequencing skills in older children.

Things that recreate real life experiences like dollhouses, dolls, play-kitchens, and toy cars will encourage imagination and allow children to express their own ideas. Provide them with play clothes and costume jewelry (even grandma’s hand-me-downs) and imaginations will flourish.

Supplying children with a healthy balance of educational toys can be done affordably and will give them the opportunity to develop new skills through a variety of play that’s essential to their healthy development.