Playing for keeps

To say something is “child’s play” implies it’s easy, uncomplicated and trouble-free. But watch closely as children actually play. Or better still, read the research from experts who have studied many children at play. You’ll soon discover how complex child’s play really is.

Studies show that play provides the most intense learning environment children will have in their early years. It’s during playtime that children refine skills in every area of development including: thinking, problem solving, talking, moving, sensing, cooperating and making moral judgements. Play helps children make sense of the world (not easy at all) and sets the stage for future learning. It’s through play that children work out problems and fears.

The research confirms what parents have known for ages -- play is essential for a child’s overall healthy growth and development.

But, unfortunately, play is not always trouble-free. Some types of toys, the tools of a child’s play, undermine the benefits of play. And the worst offenders are some of most popular toys on the market today. 

Most store-bought toys are marketed through children’s TV shows, movies or video games. A lot of these toys rob children of opportunities to use their imagination because they are so structured and linked to popular media. Many promote violence, sexiness or an unhealthy focus on consumerism.

Combine a child’s tendency for intense learning during play with toys that convey inappropriate messages and undesirable interactions and play loses its healthy influence faster than a speeding bullet.

So how is a parent to know which toys are healthy and which ones to avoid?

According to Teachers Resisting Unhealthy Children’s Entertainment (TRUCE), the best toys have what they call enhanced play value. They:

• Can be used in many ways
• Allow children to determine the play
• Appeal to children at more than one age or level of development
• Are not linked to video games, TV or movies
• Can be used with other toys for new and more complex play
• Will stand the test of time and continue to be part of play as children develop new interests and skills
• Promote respectful, non-stereotyped, non-violent interactions among children
• Help children develop skills important for further learning and a sense of mastery

Try to avoid toys that:

• Make violent themes the focus of play
• Are linked to movies, TV shows and video games rated for older audiences
• Encourage gender stereotypes and premature sexuality
• Make shopping the focus of play

If you are looking for a unique present for a young child you may want to try TRUCE’s idea for a Shoe Box Gift. The gift consists of small, familiar objects all contributing to a particular theme and placed in a colourfully decorated shoebox. For example, a garden theme shoebox might contain some potting soil, seed packets, small watering can, popsicle sticks, garden tools and gardening gloves. Or, for your nature explorer, include a nature guide with pictures of birds or insects, small sketch book and coloured pencils, binoculars, plastic magnifying glass, play camera, small vest or backpack with pockets, small Ziploc bags and bag of birdseed.

We all have a responsibility to help children choose healthy toys. After all, they’re playing for keeps!