Every experience for a child is a learning experience. They are like little sponges absorbing the world. Did you know that children from birth to three years old are learning at the fastest rate they will ever learn in their lives? Babies and toddlers are making over one million new neural connections per second! That's why it is so important throughout all stages of development (but especially the early years) to provide toys and experiences that stimulate a child's growth.
If you are in the market for more than just entertainment, consider the following.
Education Games & Toys
1) Marble Run
Marble runs aren't just happy squeal inducing. They also support fine motor, problem solving, and critical thinking skills. Children must use the pincer grasp, an important developmental milestone that usually begins around eight months of age and is continually developed through the kinder years. Children can also design their runs in multiple configurations to manipulate the marble's course.
2) 3D Logic Puzzles
3D puzzles like color cubes, "snakes", and others will entertain the whole family for hours on end. Most can be worked in multiple configurations which means the fun and problem solving skills continue even after the main configuration is learned.
3) Chalk
Chalk is simple and inexpensive, but it is truly a treasure. Let your child's imagination run wild, teach them colors, numbers, shapes, letters, and words. Show them how to play hopscotch and tic-tac-toe. You can even draw epic landscapes for easy photo shoots. The possibilities are endless!
4) Active Books
Small children typically have board books which are more durable and help them learn how to turn pages. To step it up a notch, active books are available for all ages with flaps to lift, secret codes to decipher, and puzzles to solve. Soft busy books are excellent for young children, but they can also be fun to make for older kids.
5) Choose Your Own Adventure
Children ages six or older (and even adults!) may enjoy choosing your own adventure books. These chapter books are written in a way in which the story and ending change depending on decisions the reader is asked to make throughout the book.
6) Magnetic Dolls
Do you remember paper dolls? Those little dolls that had clothes with tiny tabs that you would fold? The modern version is magnetic. Kids can dress their magnetic dolls over and over again, and there are many sets available to appeal to different interests. Some are the traditional doll and clothing sets while others might have vehicles to drive and roads to assemble. Magnetic sets such as these are excellent for independent play, and you might just get more done in the kitchen!
7) Water Table
Water tables are fun for inside and outside. You can fill them with water as expected, or you can use dry beans, dry pasta, or rice. Some even use water beads or pebbles. Give your child scoopers and let them go. Sensory seekers can stay busy for hours scooping and digging. Add in small toys, maybe even a magnetic fishing set so children can catch and release to their hearts' content.
8) Cause and Effect Toys
While most educational toys are brain powered, some motorized and electric toys are designed to be very educational as well. For small children or children with special needs, toys with remote buttons are excellent for teaching cause and effect, an important skill in communication and developing independence.
9) Stacking Rocks
Whether you buy a set of smooth stones or source them from the garden, stacking rocks help children learn concepts like balance, weight, cause and effect, and of course, they develop creativity. You can even help your children paint their own rocks to stack or hide for others to find.
10) Dolls and Figures
Children often process their emotions and their experiences through pretend play. You'd be surprised at what a child's doll will do and say when you are in the other room! If you want to know what your child is feeling and what is important to them, just watch what their dolls do! They are an incredible tool for developing social and emotional intelligence.
Provide the possibilities, your children will handle the rest.
Author’s Bio: Lisa Eclesworth is a notable and influential lifestyle writer. She is a mom of two and a successful homemaker. She loves to cook and create beautiful projects with her family. She writes informative and fun articles that her readers love and enjoy. You can directly connect with her on email - lisa@lisaeclesworth.com or visit her website www.lisaeclesworth.com
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