You see them every holiday season. Commercials promising parents that a specific toy will make their child more successful, smarter, happier, etc. In some way or another they justify the high price tag by claiming to be unique and taking advantage of the latest technology. These games may be related to a popular video game, the latest movie, or a new trend. Regardless of what the commercials tell you, there are three kinds of toys essential to the development of your child.
What are these three kinds of toys? Let's take a look.
TOYS THAT ENCOURAGE THE CHILD TO MOVE AROUND
It is sad to see the serious lack of activity in so many children today. On-demand movies, video games, and the like have turned many children into couch potatoes. For good health and bone and muscle development, exercise is crucial. Here are some toys that promote exercise and physical activity:
- A ball – basketball, baseball, soccer ball, etc. – and anything that might go along with it such as a basketball hoop, a mitt, a bat, etc.
- Jump ropes
- Ice skates and/or roller-skates
- Bicycle or scooter
Note: Always encourage the wearing of safety gear. Think helmets, knee pads, elbow pads, etc.
Remember, by setting a good example, you’re showing your child how to be active. Get up and get moving with them whenever you can.
TOYS THAT PROMOTE INTERACTION WITH CAREGIVERS OR PARENTS
Crucial for building brain connections, interactions between adults and children are encouraged by these types of toys. In the emotional health of the child, the right toys can make all the difference by encouraging solid, strong relationships and building them. Starting a strong relationship with a parent early sets the pace so that, as teenagers, children can feel better about going to their parents with problems or for advice.
Truth be told, most toys listed on this page can be used to build parent and child relationships. But here are some more specific suggestions:
- Build a structure with your child from blocks.
- Color in a coloring book with them.
- For families, board games or checkers are perfect for relationship building.
- Build a model together.
- Camp out in the backyard with a tent and walkie-talkies (you can pretend that you’re on a big adventure).
TOYS THAT CAN BE USED IN DIFFERENT WAYS AND ENCOURAGE IMAGINATION
These toys are referred to as "starters". They get your child going in the direction of their choosing and let them take it from there. When a child plays with these toys, they have the opportunity to be creative, come up with ideas, and think things through.
Here are some examples:
- Dress-up clothing
- A play kitchen
- Dollhouses
- Airplanes, boats, cars,
- Materials for painting, drawing, and writing
- Blocks
KIDPOWERED HAS TOYS FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD TO PLAY WITH
At KidPowered, we understand how important it is to play with your child. Run a dairy farm with your child. Let them be the foreman at a construction site. Practice being a beautician, a homemaker, EMS worker – the possibilities are only as limited as your child's imagination… and yours, of course!
Look through our impressive inventory today. Shop by theme, brand, or category.