What is an Educational Toy?
Many people ask me what constitutes an educational toy. Most people assume that academic based toys like those related to alphabet, spelling, numbers and mathematics are the extent of educational toys, however the spectrum of educational toys is much broader than just academics.
What do children need to learn?
Educational toys, simply put, are those that inspire learning. We are all aware that learning is so much more than academics. During early childhood children learn in many areas. They learn to communicate effectively, interact and socialise, express and cope with feelings, problem solve efficiently, be creative, use and coordinate their body, use their imagination, concentrate and bring all of these things together to be a fully functioning and contributing person within society.
So how do children learn all of these things?
Research tells us that play is the way that children learn. Play is essential for growth, development, learning, intelligence and wellbeing. It is the ‘work’ of children and although it may look simple from the outside looking in, complex and sophisticated life skills and competencies are being learned and constructed.
Where do Educational toys fit within learning?
Children use educational toys in their play as props or, an educational toy can even become the focus of play. An educational toy is one that encourages good quality play by inspiring learning, imagination, creativity, problem solving, thinking and a range of developmental skills. Educational toys also build confidence and foster a healthy self–esteem by sending positive messages to children about body image, appropriate and respectful behaviour and equal opportunity. Educational toys can be structured ie. only one outcome or one way of using it, such as puzzles or board games. Or they can be open-ended ie. used in many ways with a multitude of outcomes, such as wooden blocks, figurines, etc.
For a list of the best educational toys please stay tuned for my next post.
Happy playing,
Emma
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