Did you know that choosing educational toys that matches the interests and development level of your child is not only super important, but can also be very nice? In this blog we will tell you all about it!
Toys that connects to the development level of my child?
Yes, exactly! By choosing toys that match the needs and development level of your child, they develop new skills a lot faster. Because children develop specific skills in the different phases of their lives, choosing matching toys is a smart move as a parent. In addition, you also keep your child involved in playing or wake the interest in learning a new skill in a playful way.
When young children are eager or frustration, parents often think that this has to do with overstimulation or fatigue. But have you ever thought that this can also be under stimulation? If your child has toys that is too difficult or too easy, it can get frustrated and ignore the toys. But if you choose toys that match your child's development level, he or she can play with it for longer and understand the toys better. This way you prevent frustration and playing remains fun.
Age and development level in children
You bought toys that your child did not like or that was too difficult to play with. Recognizable? Then you know how important it is to check the age range of the toy before you buy it. Why do you wonder? Suppose you buy a skateboard for your 6 -month -old baby, that will of course not work. Perhaps the little one is interested in the colorful design, but actually playing with it is still impossible. Moreover, it is dangerous if you buy toys that is not suitable for the age for your child. By paying attention to the age range of toys, you are sure that your toys are buying for your child in the right development phase. Below a global overview per age:
0-6 months: Babies need toys that can help them develop their senses, think of a soft hug or a rattle.
6-12 months: Now your baby starts to become more active and move. Grasp toys such as blocks, toys with different textures or a walking car are a good idea in this phase.
1-2 years: Toddlers are more busy discovering and exploring, so they need toys that help develop their fine motor skills. Examples of this are puzzles, stackable blocks, toy kitchens and musical instruments.
3-4 years: Toddlers tend to look for more social interaction and use their imagination. Toys that are suitable for this include dollhouses, LEGO sets, board games and costumes. This way they can let their imagination run free!
5-6 years old: Children of this age start to develop more advanced skills and can handle more challenging toys. Think of toys such as science sets, building kits, and sporting goods such as balls and bicycles. As a parent, you will also notice that children are a personal preference. Listen especially to the interests of your child!
It is important to remember that the above age indications are only guidelines. Every child is simply different and develops at its own pace. You as a parent ultimately know best which toys fits with the interests and development level of your small one.