subject: Choosing the Right Educational Toy for Your Child [print this page] Choosing the Right Educational Toy for Your Child
Every parent wants their child to have the right stimulation with their toys, and many of the toys found for children in toy shops are aimed at stimulating the child's mind in some way. However, it is important not to get too wrapped up on trying to find a toy that is going to turn your little nipper into the next Einstein. After all, toys are what we associate with fun and games, which is exactly what your child needs. Their brain will be stimulated with a toy no matter what it is. Simple things such as building blocks or jigsaws will all aid your child's development without necessarily making your child feel as though they are learning.
Presenting your child with hundreds of educational toys and not as many light-hearted toys will probably leave them feeling tired and frustrated. Children love to be creative, which is why arts and crafts sets are a cheap form of entertainment for your child. Whilst your child will thoroughly enjoy painting (and making a mess for you to clean up) the creativity of arts and crafts is stimulating their mind, allowing them broaden their imagination.
Educational toys are essential in helping your child's development but they should remain as toys, as fun and not as a testing, challenging toy. One way to try and encourage your child with educational toys without forcing certain ones upon them is to let them choose which one they want to play with. This way you can be assured that your child wants to play with this toy and they don't see this toy as a challenge.
Start with basic educational toys for young children and build up to more complicated ones. Hydes Toys and Gifts Ltd stock a fantastic range of toys for children of all ages; starting with something like the Fisher Price Ducky Rattle Stacker and working up to more complicated toys, e.g. electronic toys.