​Educational Toys & Games? Blah! Here's Why This Term Bothers the Heck Out of Me by Kari Ewest

Kids
5 years ago

​Educational Toys & Games? Blah! Here's Why This Term Bothers the Heck Out of Me

Educational toys. It’s the one phrase in the English language that makes me cringe every time I hear it. Don’t all toys have educational value? I wish people would see that there is more to learning than just knowing your shapes, colors, numbers and letters. All toys have value and teach children something. All toys are educational. Toys go beyond teaching the basics. Some toys teach empathycompassionproblem solving and everyday life skills.

The other thing that annoys me is adults who tell children how they are supposed to use a toy or how not to use a toy. When an adult does that, he or she inhibits the child’s imagination and creativity.

I remember years ago when I was a nanny for this family before my daughter was born, and we had a play date at a friend’s house. The girl was 5. They played with Barbies most of the time while we were there. Her mother was upset because we went to this house and all her daughter did was play with Barbies and didn’t do anything “educational” that day. Say what??? She was 5. She played with Barbies. There was so much learning going on that day. From sharing, people skills, life skills, problem solving and more.

I remember another time that I was a nanny for another family, and the kids were only allowed to have educational games. Here again, don’t all games have value to a child’s growth and learning?

Here’s the problem I see with that term: When we label toys as “educational” we fail to see the value in all toys. Playing is an important part of a child’s growth. Playing is a child’s job. Play fosters imagination and creativity and so much more. It allows for a child to learn at their own pace.

What do you think?

The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

Take 30 seconds and join the 30Seconds community. Inspire and be inspired.

Related Products on Amazon We Think You May Like:

30Second Mobile, Inc. is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Emotional Growth in Children: How & Why to Teach Kids to Cope With Their Emotions

The Nanny Life: Why Interviews Are Not a Waste of Time for Nannies or Employers

Parents, Say "Yes" to Kids Climbing Up the Slide: 7 Unexpected Reasons Why

Roughhousing With Kids: 6 Benefits of Rough Play With Children (You Won't Believe No. 2)

Tribe
Such a great point, you’re right
Elisa Schmitz
Never thought about it this way, Kari Ewest . But yes, all toys have some sort of educational value, don't they. Thank you for sharing your insights with us!
Mike Prochaska
Amen! Best toys aren’t even toys. Sticks, pots and pans, and whatever else catch kids eyes

join discussion

Please login to comment.

recommended tips

Teen Sleep Recommendations: Are Your Teenagers Getting Enough Sleep?

Worried Your Child Will Lose Their Glasses at School? Here's a Back-to-School Trick That Works!

How to Stop Germs From Spreading: Do Your Kids Know Their CCCs?

Hiring a Nanny? 10 Mary Poppins-Approved Questions You Need to Ask Each Child-Care Candidate