Toys & Creative Play

Creativity doesn’t have to look like it was plucked from the sky. Rather, it is in our everyday comforts of home where we are most inspired to create. Think of how many of the world’s most innovative companies were started in garages. It can be easy to buy into the marketing hype that our children need more stuff to stay busy during playtime. But when it comes to toys, scientific research is finding that less is so much more. As a result, caregivers are turning to products made with high-quality craftsmanship that allow them to last and designed in a way that fosters creativity (here are some fun activities to develop gross motor skills!). Rather than stifling ideas with clutter—fewer, better, more beautiful toys can bring a child’s imagination to life.

Fewer Toys = More Creativity

It may seem counter-intuitive, but toddlers are actually more likely to play for longer and more happily when they have fewer toys to choose from. With fewer options, they are inspired to be more creative with their prolonged play. And with less to clean up, you are free to be more present in the time you spend playing together. This sets the stage for a lifelong creative thinker who has learned to view problems and experiences from different perspectives to find better solutions.

For so long, parents provide the primary narrative in their children’s lives. Many parents begin reading to their babies from day one (or even sooner), and this storytelling provides an invaluable service in developing their child’s budding vocabulary. But as children grow into toddlers and beyond, their playtime should also inspire them to tell their own stories. Parents can help by providing toys that foster open-ended play.

Here are some great toys for open ended play:

• Kitchen Play
• Animal figurines
• Dollhouse and doll play
• Car and truck play
• Dress Up and Role Play

Give these a try the next time your child is bored and looking for some fun ideas!