Did you know that choosing educational toys that match your child's interests and developmental level is not only super important but also very enjoyable? In this blog, we'll tell you all about it!
Toys that match my child's developmental level?
Yes, exactly! By choosing toys that align with your child's needs and developmental level, they develop new skills much faster. Since children develop specific skills in different stages of their lives, choosing appropriate toys is a smart move as a parent. This keeps your child engaged in play or sparks their interest in learning a new skill in a playful way.
When young children are restless or express frustration, parents often think it's due to overstimulation or tiredness. But have you ever considered that it could also be due to understimulation? If your child has toys that are too challenging or too easy, they can become frustrated and ignore the toys. However, if you choose toys that match your child's developmental level, they can play with them longer and better understand the toys. This prevents frustration and keeps playing fun.
Age and developmental level in children
You've bought toys that your child didn't like or that were too difficult to play with. Sound familiar? Then you know how important it is to check the age range of the toy before buying it. Why, you may ask? Imagine buying a skateboard for your 6-month-old baby; that's not going to work. Maybe the little one is interested in the colorful design, but actually playing with it is still impossible. Plus, it's dangerous to buy toys that are not suitable for your child's age. By paying attention to the age range of toys, you ensure that you buy toys for your child in the right developmental stage. Here's a general overview by age:
0-6 months: Babies need toys that help them develop their senses, such as a soft plush toy or a rattle.
6-12 months: Now your baby starts to become more active and mobile. Graspable toys like blocks, toys with different textures, or a push-along toy are good choices at this stage.
1-2 years: Toddlers are more focused on exploring, so they need toys that help develop their fine motor skills. Examples include puzzles, stackable blocks, play kitchens, and musical instruments.
3-4 years: Preschoolers tend to seek more social interaction and use their imagination. Suitable toys include dollhouses, LEGO sets, board games, and dress-up clothes. This allows them to unleash their imagination!
5-6 years: Children of this age start to develop more advanced skills and can handle more challenging toys. Think of toys like science kits, building sets, and sports equipment like balls and bicycles. You'll also notice as a parent that children develop personal preferences at this stage. Pay attention to your child's interests!
It's important to remember that the above age indications are just guidelines. Every child is different and develops at their own pace. Ultimately, as a parent, you know best which toys match your child's interests and developmental level.
