First things first Rhimamory – what exactly are open ended toys?
Very simply they are toys that can be used in many ways as opposed to those toys/games that have a very specific use – electronic games or gadgets for instance. These are perfectly fine too especially when you are trying to develope your child’s knowledge or skills in that area.
On the other hand – an open ended toy can be used in a variety of ways; to teach so many things and perfect so many skills. In short it is like a whole lot of toys rolled into one – and that’s very attractive in this era of rising prices!????
An open ended toy can also grow with the child. So an open ended toy that was played with at 3 years can be played with at 5 years but in a different way! This encourages the child to be creative and use their imagination!
Ok Rhimamory – this sounds quite interesting but can you give us some examples?
Certainly!
These wooden beads and laces can be used to strengthen your child’s fine motor skills, pincer grip as well as their hand – eye coordination. This resource can be used to teach colours, counting, sorting, shapes as well for lacing activities. You see! So many uses from a single resource!
Learn and create with Stems – the award winning STEM construction toy made of flexible plastic!
Build up an understanding of basic geometry, fine motor skills, hand – eye coordination as well as logical thinking in your little one with this resource.
This 3D globe puzzle can be used in a variety of ways. You can use it to teach younger children to count. They can be encouraged to sort according to colours or in sets of 5s /10s etc. Picking up the pieces strengthens their fine motor skills as well as their hand-eye coordination.
For older children – the arranging of the the puzzle builds up their logical thinking processes as well as their problem solving skills. When arranged, it can be used to teach geography and so much more!
Open ended toys are a delight to behold and explore.
So why not invest in some today?