Children’s learning needs change throughout their lives. In the beginning babies learn the fundamentals of physical development and social skills. When they enter school their learning needs change and the way they play adapts to their maturity and level of understanding. As life goes on, their abilities and needs change and so do the toys or games.
However, the question to ask do young children need toys? In early childhood the imagination is most fertile, children can make links between objects far more freely – for instance imagining that a broom is a horse or a blade of grass is spinach. Play is very important for babies and toddlers. Play is something enjoyable, that does not necessarily have a definite goal or end result. It is spontaneous and voluntary. Toys help broaden childrens’ knowledge of the world around them. We can group them into 3 different types:
- Toys can represent real life objects, for example fire engine or an ironing board. They are a means of expressing feelings or emotions. Toys can represent things, can allow your child to act out situations.
- They are a channel for communication. Having an object of interest allows children to interact with other children or adults, to discuss things, to take turns, and so on.
- They are used to learn. Manipulating objects allows children to develop concepts, for instance, pouring sand and water out of containers allows children to understand about movement and gravity. Metal things make a particular noise when they bang together; wooden things make another type of noise. Exploratory play is what is most important for a baby, so concentrate on these types of toys at this stage.
Toys create the basis of knowledge and preparation for childhood, school and adult life. Playing the same game or with the same toy many times means she is practicing what she already knows, she will become confident to make the next step. Once she explores further she will encounter new experiences and develop with ease. This is where the parent plays an important role knowing when she is ready or help her to reach for the next step. For the busier parent, it is easier done with the right type of toys.