Parents often spend most of their time searching for the right toys for their children, yet they aren't satisfied after their final purchase. It happens due to a lack of proper guidance and awareness related to buying toys. 

The goal of this blog is to give Indian parents useful advice on how to choose better toys that their children will love and be unable to deny.

What is the role of toys in kids' development?

Toys help children develop mental and physical growth rather than just entertainment if selected properly. It helps kids gain self confidence, develop creativity, improve physical strength, and increase overall social interactivity. Also, not just these toys but also the environment in which toddlers play has an impact directly on their behaviour. 

A study reveals that 81% of kids developed more civilised behaviour with their friends when playing in green space. 

Proper planning with toys from an infant's early days helps develop skills such as sucking and grasping. As they grow, their development becomes more beneficial and supports their ability to develop sensory awareness of their surroundings, coordination with multiple body parts, logical thinking, and other skills. Furthermore, along with brain development, physical strength increases, and kids develop skills like walking, jumping, interacting, and playing with parents. 

Tips for parents to buy better toys for their kids:

When it comes to choosing toys for our children, as Indian parents, we often find ourselves bombarded with advice from various sources, which can make the decision-making process overwhelming. However, by focusing on a few key factors, we can ensure that we are selecting toys that are not only safe but also beneficial for our children's development. Here are five practical guidelines to help you choose the best toys for your kids:

Select the right toy colour: 

While it may seem insignificant, the colour of a toy can play a significant role in a child's development, especially in their early years. For newborns, bright colours such as yellow, pink, and orange can stimulate their senses and help them recognize and understand their surroundings. As children grow older, darker colours like green, red, blue, and purple can foster their cognitive development and creativity. By choosing toys with appropriate colours based on your child's age, you can support their learning and growth.

Look for toys that encourage physical and mental development: 

When choosing toys for your children, opt for ones that promote both physical and mental development. Toys that encourage movement, such as balls, blocks, and puzzles, can help develop fine and gross motor skills, coordination, and spatial awareness. Additionally, toys that stimulate creativity, problem-solving, and imagination, such as building sets, art supplies, and pretend play props, can enhance cognitive skills and foster a love for learning.

Avoid hazardous toys: 

Safety should always be a top priority when selecting toys for your children. Avoid toys with small parts that could pose a choking hazard, sharp edges or points that could cause injury, and toxic materials that could be harmful if ingested. Additionally, be cautious of toys with shooting mechanisms or projectiles that could potentially cause harm to your child or others. Always carefully read labels and warnings before purchasing a toy and inspect toys regularly for any signs of damage or wear.

Involve the child in the decision-making process: 

While it's important to consider your child's age, interests, and developmental stage when choosing toys, it's also valuable to involve them in the decision-making process. Take your child with you when shopping for toys and allow them to explore different options and express their preferences. By involving them in the process, you can empower them to make choices, foster independence, and ensure that they receive toys that they will genuinely enjoy and benefit from.

Maintain a balance between toy quality and budget constraints: 

While it's tempting to splurge on the latest and most expensive toys, it's essential to strike a balance between toy quality and budget constraints. Keep in mind that children often derive as much enjoyment from simple, open-ended toys as they do from flashy electronic gadgets. Consider investing in toys that are durable, versatile, and can grow with your child, rather than ones that are trendy or gimmicky. Additionally, explore affordable alternatives such as second-hand toys, DIY projects, or borrowing toys from friends or family members.

Conclusion:

Selecting the right toys for your children can be a daunting task, but by considering factors such as colour, developmental benefits, safety, involvement of the child, and budget constraints, you can make informed choices that promote your child's growth, learning, and happiness. Remember that the best toys are not necessarily the most expensive or technologically advanced ones but rather ones that inspire creativity, imagination, and exploration.