12 May 2016

Toys are more than just fun and games for children.

In an interview with Smiley face Day Care Centre teacher, Ms Patricia Moseki of Bobonong, said toys provided opportunities for children to learn.

She said toys engaged a child’s senses, sparked their imagination and encouraged them to interact with others.

Ms Moseki said giving children toys that were safe and stimulating will help them discover their senses.

She stressed that toys with contrasting colours are fascinating to children and stimulate their development vision.

Ms Moseki emphasised that every new shape, colour, texture, taste and sound is a learning experience to children.

“As children grow, they use toys to explore objects permanence as well as cause and effect relationship”, she continued.

Moreover, Ms Moseki said when a child reaches pre-school age, it is time to start learning about letters, numbers and language skills.

She cited puzzles and high tech electronic gadgets as some of the toys that encourage learning.

Ms Moseki added that it is important to supplement children who are in pre-school with fun toys.

She said giving children the opportunity to have fun while practicing the things they are learning in school will increase their retention.

According to www.child-development-guide.com website reveals that toys are vital tools that help foster the mental, physical, emotional and social development of boys and girls.

The website stresses that toys are basic instruments for the development of children fantasy, thoughts and creativity.

Outdoor baby toys support the right to play during childhood which is essential to healthy child development.

 She emphasised that children gain a strong foundation for learning through play. ENDS