Have you ever wondered why we donate our kids’ toys as they get older?
It’s easy to think that it’s because they’ve “grown out” of it. While that’s true in a way, the real reason behind it is that their cognitive, communicative, and motor abilities associated with that toy have been earned. In other words, the toy has done its job.
There’s no such thing as a toy that’s too “childish”. However, there is such a thing as a child whose cognitive skills have surpassed the use of a toy. That’s why you always want to choose toys that are appropriate for your child’s age!
Here are some examples of toys and the most appropriate ages for their use.
Baby Books (0 to 1 years old)
Baby books are perfect for the development of language and fine motor skills.
Because children under the age of two are still in the beginning of their exploration phase, they need to use their little hands, fingers, and imagination to make sense of their environment. Baby books allow them to explore different elements and places, such as their faces, the sea, and the forest – all inside handy books!
Sensory Paths (0 to 3 years old)
When it comes to helping babies and toddlers develop gross motor skills – such as walking, running, and jumping – sensory paths are the way to go. This type of sensory play can also help them get to know different textures, while learning descriptive words like soft and wrinkly.
As an example, Brainy Cubs offers two types of sensory paths: Basic Texture, which can be used during tummy time for 0 to 1 year-olds, and Complex Texture, which can be used while children from 2 to 3 years old start learning to stand and walk.
Busy Books (Above 1 years old)
As our babies grow up, they become…curious. They may start throwing tantrums or wanting to play with screen devices all the time because, well, they see us doing it all the time. The awesome thing about busy books is that your children can take them anywhere.
They’ll be so enthralled by all the different textures, colours, and sounds that busy books just might replace shiny screens for a while. Little do your kids know, busy books will also be their best teachers.
Busy Cubes (1 to 2 years old and above)
Busy books aren’t the only option available for children who want to stay busy, do fun activities, and grow smarter at the same time.
Busy cubes are also an exciting sensory play option, giving children rich sensory experiences through multiple textures, colours, and sounds. The best part? A compact, portable cube is where all the magic happens.
Children learn through sensory play – therefore, playing with a Beezy Cube is like holding the entire world in their hands.
Which Phase is Your Little One In?
Are they in the busy book phase? The sensory path phase? The busy cube phase? Or are they somewhere in between?
No matter which skills they’ve developed or will develop, the ideal toys are out there waiting for them.
