Children learn and make sense of the world around them through play. While they are having fun, they are developing their cognitive, physical, social and emotional skills. But play is also key in building your child’s mental health and is a great way to relieve stress. Our bodies release endorphins when we have fun, promoting a feeling of well-being. The right toys can play a vital role in supporting children’s emotional development and mental health. Here we explain how different toys that help foster positive mental and emotional health;
Creative toys and activities, such as Jar Melo Rock Painting and Aquabeads Beginners Studio, provide children with a creative outlet. Being creative allows children to express their thoughts, emotions and experiences visually. When they engage in activities such as painting, drawing or collage, they can communicate and process their feelings in a nonverbal and symbolic way. This form of expression can be especially beneficial for children who struggle to articulate their emotions verbally. Creating art also provides children with a focused and absorbing activity that allows them to be fully engaged and present in the moment. This can help them to temporarily detach from their anxieties or negative thoughts, and helps them to relax. Children are also free to experiment with different colours, textures, and materials to represent their emotions, helping them gain a deeper understanding of their feelings and experiences. READ MORE....
Board games, such as Snakes & Ladders and Ludo, and The Logo Board Game, provide opportunities for children to connect with others and develop their social skills. Whether playing with family members or friends, children will learn important skills such as taking turns and playing by the rules which teaches empathy, cooperation, and communication skills. Additionally, playing games like these offers an enjoyable and engaging way to divert attention from any worries or anxieties a child may have. While playing, children need to be focused and concentrate - a great way to just ‘be in the moment’.