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Come see us at our NEW location! 5437 W. Saginaw Hwy. Lansing, MI 48917
Come see us at our NEW location! 5437 W. Saginaw Hwy. Lansing, MI 48917
Bunny Hopkins Triangle and Rock Wall Toys

Creativity is Developed by Playing with Simple Toys

In recent years, there has been a shift towards electronic forms of entertainment for children, such as smartphones, tablets, and video games. While these devices can be educational and provide a means for children to stay connected with others, they also have the potential to replace traditional forms of play, such as imaginative and open-ended play.

Open-ended play is when children use their imagination to create their own games and stories, rather than following a set script or rules. This type of play allows children to develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and creativity. It also helps them to develop social skills, as they learn to share, take turns, and work together to achieve a common goal.

Electronics, on the other hand, often have pre-set rules and objectives, and can limit children's ability to think creatively and independently. Additionally, excessive use of electronic devices can lead to a lack of physical activity, which is essential for healthy child development.

Research has shown that children who engage in open-ended play have better academic performance, higher levels of creativity, and better social skills. They also tend to be more physically active and have better overall health. In contrast, children who spend excessive amounts of time in front of screens are at risk of developing attention problems, difficulty with social interactions, and poor academic performance.

It is important for parents and caregivers to ensure that children have a balance of both electronic and non-electronic forms of entertainment. Encourage open-ended play by providing children with simple materials, such as blocks or balls, and allow them to use their imagination to create their own games and stories. Setting limits on screen time can also help to promote healthy development. Additionally, parents should lead by example and limit their own screen time.

At Mother & Earth, we pride ourselves on offering a wide variety of toys that encourage open-ended play. We want our toys to be an essential part of your child's development. While electronic devices can be educational and provide a means for children to stay connected with others, it's important to limit their use and provide opportunities for open-ended play.

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