Made For Play
Explore child development through play, find inspiration for your next DIY project, and discover tips for selecting the perfect toys for your little ones.
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Complete Guide to Preschool
Parenting decisions are tough. Even the little things like choosing a multivitamin can feel ridiculously important. And the big decisions like where and when to send them to school? Talk about pressure. But no worries – we’re here to help! Our Complete Guide to Preschool can help you cut through some of the stress as you pick when and where you send your child to preschool and how to get them ready for the big first day! When Do Children Start Preschool? First, let’s be clear that there is no one right answer! When we think of preschool, we often think of the year right before kindergarten (often referred to as 4K). But preschool can *technically* start at any age. Even childcare facilities that accept infants often refer to themselves as preschools. In general though, what most people think of as “real” preschool activities –i.e. kids making crafts, singing songs, sitting in circles for storytime, and learning letters and numbers – start around two years old. Of course, that doesn’t mean your child needs to start at two years old. While kids do benefit academically from preschool, just one year in 4K is enough to give them those benefits. If you want them to start earlier, that’s great too! No one knows your child, what they need, and what they’ll enjoy better than you. Choosing the Preschool That’s Right for Your Family Full Time vs. Part-Time If you’ve looked up potential preschools, you’ve probably noticed that they describe themselves as full-day, part-time, or morning. Full-time preschools follow regular school hours, while “part-time” usually means school is 3-4 hours in the morning or that you can send your child just 2 or 3 days a week. If you think your child (or you!) aren’t ready for five days a week, part-time options can be great! Educational Models There are so many educational philosophies and pedagogies that we could never list them all, but these are a few of the more popular ones you’re likely to come across: The “traditional” preschool usually involves some circle time, a few teacher-led lessons, time for free play, and enriching activities like music and art. Most public preschools fall under this umbrella, though the exact curriculum will vary from school to school. Montessori preschools are child-led with stations children can choose to “work” at on their own. They emphasize practical life skills and learning through tangible materials. Lessons are often given to just a few students at a time as the classroom “guide” models how to use the materials. In the preschool setting, you’ll find a range of ages in one classroom (usually 3-6), allowing the kids to learn from and teach each other. Waldorf schools are similar to Montessori schools in that they are both child-led and emphasize children’s independence and innate ability to learn. The Waldorf approach places greater emphasis on the arts, fantasy, and children’s imaginations, whereas Montessori tends to focus more on practical life skills. Play-based preschool is an umbrella term. It’s sometimes used to describe Montessori and Waldorf schools, but some play-based preschools don’t specifically follow those philosophies. These schools tend to be less concerned with academic milestones (such as recognizing letters and knowing their sounds) and more concerned with how children develop creativity, confidence, social skills, and pre-academic skills through play. A lack of structured lessons doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a free for all – with thoughtful materials and knowledgeable teachers, kids still grow and learn in play-based preschools. Other Factors to Consider Of course, there are plenty of other factors that will influence your decision. Here are some of the things you might want to consider: Student to teacher ratios Class size What ages can attend Availability of outdoor play areas Approach to discipline Your initial impressions when you meet the teachers and directors Availability of after school care if you need it Food and snack choices Distance from your home Cost We know – tough! If you're struggling to narrow down your options, we recommend making a spreadsheet of all the local schools you’re considering. Make columns for things that matter to you to keep a running list of pros and cons – it’s way too easy to forget which school is which when you’re still in the online research phase. Applying & Registering Once you’ve narrowed your options down, you can start scheduling some tours. Come prepared with questions, take notes, and add it all to that master pro-con list. They’ll likely walk you through the application process and send you home with any relevant forms. Once you’ve made your decision, send in that application ASAP. Preschools usually start accepting applications early in the spring semester for the following year, and spots can fill up fast! Some preschools will perform low-pressure evaluations as part of their admissions process (often just for 4K). They’ll often subtly check children’s fine motor skills by seeing how they hold a pencil, note their social skills, and might ask them to count or recite their ABCs. Once you’ve secured a spot at your preschool, it’s usually just a matter of paperwork before you’re ready to start. Other than the school’s forms, you’ll usually need shot records, copies of insurance cards, and proof of address (if using a public preschool). Preparing for Preschool Now that your kiddo is all registered, what should you do to help them thrive in the classroom? Well, we have good news – you can take the pressure off when it comes to preparing your child for preschool! Preschool is the prep work for kindergarten and beyond, so there’s zero need to make sure they know all the letter sounds or can count to 100 before they go. That being said, you do want to help make preschool a positive experience for them, so try to help them understand what they’ll do at preschool and get excited about it! Read Books about going to Preschool There are a ton of great books that will help kids learn what they can expect at preschool and address any fears they might have about their first day. Rosie Goes to Preschool by Karen Katz goes through an entire typical day at preschool – and makes it look super fun! Preschool, Here I Come! by D.J. Steinberg turns the typical first-day fears on their head as the brave brand new preschooler tells the mom not to cry and that she can go home. In Pete the Kitty’s First Day of Preschool, your kids can see how much fun one of their favorite characters has at preschool. There are tons of other books too, both for purchase and, more likely than not, for free at your library. Meet the Teacher Take advantage of Meet the Teacher nights and school tours. The more familiar your littles are with the people and places they’ll see at preschool, the fewer first-day jitters they’ll have. (Maybe?) Get Potty Training Done So this one definitely depends on your little one’s age. If they’re going to 4K for the first time, potty training is probably way behind you. If they’re attending a two-year-old’s class, most schools won’t require them to be fully potty trained before starting. But three’s – that’s where you might have to get the potty training train rolling. Most schools will require them to be able to use the bathroom independently by the time they enter a three’s classroom, so if it hasn’t happened yet, add it to your preschool prep to-do list (ideally at least a few months in advance). Get Crafty at Home Arts and crafts time is a given at basically any preschool! Of course, you definitely don’t need your littles to be master artists before preschool, but they are likely to feel more confident if they’ve seen similar materials at least once before. If you haven’t already, try introducing simple craft supplies like glue sticks, safety scissors, craft pom poms, popsicle sticks, metal brads, stencils, and stamps at home. You can create adult-directed crafts together and let them get creative and do their own thing – they’ll probably do a bit of both at preschool too. Clean Up, Clean Up Clean-up time is likely to be a part of the day, so it’s always great to practice picking up toys at home. Perfection isn’t the goal – just try to get your child used to picking up with a positive attitude when you transition between activities. (We know that’s easier said than done, so check out our tips on turning kids’ chores into fun!) Your kiddo’s teachers will definitely thank you! Set Up Some Play Dates Under normal circumstances, kids have probably played with plenty of other kids by the time they’re headed to preschool. In the midst of the pandemic, however, those park days and play dates may have been few and far between. If you feel like your child has suffered socially as a result, know that so many parents have the same concerns. Let go of any guilt, and remember that they don’t need perfect social skills (as if that even exists!) before they start preschool. Preschool is the training ground for interacting with peers, so in all likelihood, you’ll see those social skills blossom as the year progresses. If you’re especially worried that they’ll have a tough time starting out, try scheduling a few playdates with a few friends at a time before the first day. You’ll get a chance to see how they do in a group, and you can give their teacher a heads up on any obstacles your child faces when interacting with their peers.
How Activity Tables Support Child Development
Let’s gather round the table – the activity able that is– for a chat about how these fun furniture pieces can support your child’s development. What are activity tables? First off, let’s cover what we mean by “activity table.” While the term is sometimes applied to bouncer-style toys meant for babies, that’s not what we’re talking about here. Our definition is a little more straightforward…as in a kid-sized table meant for activities. Simple enough, right? Usually, those tables will be meant for one of three activities: building bricks (such as LEGOs or similar plastic bricks), train sets, or arts & crafts. Plus, some tables offer a reversible table top, making them suitable for multiple activities. So without further ado, let’s dive into just how these tables can support your littles as they learn and grow! Improving fine motor skills Playing with building bricks and toy train tracks and utilizing arts and crafts supplies requires the use of fine motor skills, such as grasping, pinching, and manipulating small objects. Building a LEGO masterpiece, managing a pair of safety scissors, or adjusting the loops on a train track help build hand-eye coordination dexterity. Developing spatial awareness Spatial awareness is one of those developmental skills that’s not talked about a ton, but is super important for proprioception (awareness of our body in space) and even academic skills like learning to read and write from left to right. One of the best ways to build spatial awareness in young toddlers? Block play! Building with blocks or building bricks requires kids to visualize and manipulate 3D objects in their mind, which can help develop their spatial awareness and understanding of spatial relationships. Similarly, playing with train sets requires children to understand spatial relationships, such as how the train tracks fit together. Enhancing creativity and problem-solving skills LEGO bricks and train tracks offer kids endless opportunities to create their own designs and track configurations, and crafting lets kids get creative with a wide variety of different materials. And when those designs and ideas need adjusting? Kids get a chance to flex their problem-solving skills – a huge part of cognitive development – as they figure out how to re-build or troubleshoot their project. Encouraging persistence and resilience When those problem-solving skills come into play, your child’s persistence will too! And sure, persisting through a frustrating challenge can be super tough for a toddler. But letting them face these challenges is critical for building the grit and resilience they’ll need as they grow! So when the train track or brick tower doesn't work out as planned, it’s an opportunity to help your child develop a growth mindset, letting them realize that practice and persistence leads to improvement! Fostering social skills One of the best parts about activity tables is that they let kids engage in their favorite activities with a friend! The tables have that cool-factor that makes them a hit at every play date, and they’re spacious enough to let several kids join in on the project at once. Of course, you’ll probably spend a fair amount of time around the table as well, building, collaborating, and creating with your child. The takeaways… Overall, activities like train sets, building bricks and crafts offer a fun and engaging way to develop a range of cognitive and fine motor skills. And while you don’t necessarily need an activity table to do these activities, having one is a great way to encourage your child to engage in those activities regularly, providing a dedicated space that draws them in and lets them focus. Whether your kiddo is into building, crafting, or playing with train sets, you can find the perfect activity table for them here!
What is Montessori?
Maybe you’ve driven by a preschool with “Montessori” proudly displayed on the sign. Or maybe aesthetic pictures of low, open shelves with simple wooden toys have started to fill your Instagram feed. Or maybe your mom friends are throwing around terms like “sandpaper letters” and “maximum effort.” However you first come across the Montessori method, it can feel equal parts overwhelming and confusing and enticing and attractive. We’re here to help make sense of the basics of Montessori, so you can get your bearings and decide which parts of the Montessori method might be right for your family. Who was Maria Montessori? Maria Montessori was an Italian physician and educator who lived in the late 19th and early 20th century. After graduating medical school, she became intensely interested in education and pedagogy. She opened her first school for underprivileged children in the impoverished areas of Rome in 1907. The results were astounding – the children learned, progressed, and thrived. It wasn’t long before her method of education drew attention, and Montessori schools began opening across Western Europe and the U.S. within just a few years. The absorbent mind Montessori believed that children under 6 have an “absorbent mind,” learning and soaking in information effortlessly. During this stage, children develop language, are driven to explore, and learn from the environment around them. Her method takes advantage of this stage by presenting those “absorbent minds” with opportunities to direct their own learning. The prepared environment An absorbent mind + a prepared environment = child-led learning as kids explore the work available to them in their environment. Montessori classrooms are filled with “Montessori materials,” different manipulatives that lead children to solve puzzles, increase problem-solving skills, develop fine-motor skills, and learn academic subjects like math, reading, geography, and more. Some popular Montessori-inspired materials for babies and young toddlers include: object permanent boxes where children drop a coin into a slot and eventually learn to retrieve it by opening a drawer ball droppers where children drop small wooden balls into a toy and watch it slide down levels of ramps, teaching them cause and effect the wooden egg-in-a-cup or peg-in-a-cup puzzle for babies simple puzzles with one to three shapes sorting and stacking toys For older, school age and preschool age children materials might include: sandpaper letters for teaching the alphabet through sensory experience a “moveable alphabet” of wooden letters for early practice in spelling and forming words puzzles of the continents or countries manipulatives for teaching counting and other math concepts tracing boards or sand trays to trace letters You’ll also find plenty of “practical life” materials in a Montessori classroom such as child-size cleaning supplies, child-size water pitcher and cups, or low sinks to enable independent hand-washing. Maria Montessori believed that children have an innate appreciation for beauty that should be cultivated and that learning happens best in organized, clutter-free environments. Therefore, Montessori classrooms are usually organized and aesthetic. The toys and materials themselves are usually wooden, beautiful, high-quality and are presented to the children on low, open shelving. The strikingly simple-yet-beautiful aesthetic of Montessori classrooms and homes make for eye-catching social media posts and is likely at least part of the reason Montessori has had a resurgence in popularity recently. The prepared adult Montessori teachers, known as “guides,” are trained in specific methods that allow children to lead their own learning. They are taught to observe the children closely to understand their interests and abilities. They present lessons to the children individually or in small groups when the child shows an interest in a particular subject or material. Above all, they begin from a place of deep respect for the child and their innate ability to learn. Freedom of choice As we’ve already mentioned, children direct their own learning in a Montessori classroom and can choose which materials they want to work with. By letting children explore their own interests, the Montessori method aims to inspire a true love of learning instead of rote memorization for a test. But don’t think that “freedom of choice” means “license to go crazy” – Montessori classrooms and homes still have limits and expectations, and in general, they cultivate a calm environment that lets children focus and explore. Independence One of Maria Montessori’s most quoted lines is “Never help a child with a task at which he believes he can succeed.” Montessori was all about teaching young children to be as independent as possible, and from a surprisingly young age, children in a Montessori environment learn to get dressed, practice personal hygiene, prepare food, and care for the home and the classroom. One way Montessori environments foster this independence is by offering child-sized furniture and tools. In a typical Montessori classroom, you’ll see a wide array of pint-sized objects, including tiny tables, chairs, cleaning supplies, water pitchers, and more. Learning from peers Montessori classrooms have mixed ages, allowing younger kids to learn from the older kids and the older kids to learn as they teach the younger. Typically, classes are divided into 3-6 year olds, 6-9 year olds, and 9-12 year olds. What about Montessori for parents? Now that you’ve got an idea of what a Montessori school is like, you might be wondering, “Why are so many parents crazy about Montessori too?” Because the Montessori method is meant to help the whole child flourish (as opposed to simply teaching them academic subjects), many aspects of Montessori transfer to home life as well. In fact, Maria Montessori wrote pretty extensively about the ideal environment for a child at home, even down to the type of bed a baby sleeps in. (Spoiler: it’s a floor bed… to foster freedom of movement and independence, of course.) So when a parent says that they are a “Montessori” family, they could mean that they are homeschooling their children and using Montessori materials and methodologies. But they could also mean that they are parenting with Montessori philosophies in mind. They might set up their home with child-sized furniture, provide Montessori-inspired toys, and encourage independence in self-care and practical life activities. For a deeper dive into how parents can implement Montessori, we recommend the “Montessori at Home” Youtube series from Montessori parent and educator Ashley Yeh. Further Resources Feeling inspired to dive into all things Montessori? The amount of resources available online can be overwhelming, so we’ve compiled a few below that are all great places to start. All are written or created by long-time trained Montessori guides and parents. Youtube channels: Hapa Family, Ashley Yeh Books The Montessori Baby: A Parent’s Guide to Nurturing Your Baby with Love, Respect, and Understanding, Simone Davies and Junnifa Uzodike The Montessori Toddler: A Parent’s Guide to Raising a Curious and Responsible Human Being, Simone Davies How to Raise an Amazing Child the Montessori Way, Tim Seldin Blogs The Kavanaugh Report, Nicole Kavanaugh Guide & Grow, Sylvia Arotin Podcasts: The Montessori Notebook, Simone Davies Shelf Help, Nicole Kavanaugh and Amy Dorsch
Benefits of Climbing for Kids
If you’re a parent, you don’t need anyone to tell you that kids love to climb. You’ve seen it for yourself first hand as your toddler scales the furniture or your kindergartner attempts to climb any tree with a branch within reach. But do you know why kids have a natural drive to climb? Read on to find out and learn how you can support this important developmental activity! 1. Vestibular system development We do a ton of things to support the development of our kids’ fine and gross motor skills, language, and cognitive function. But their vestibular system? Not something most of us have heard of. Our vestibular system is largely responsible for our balance and how well we can orient ourselves in a space without the use of our other senses like sight and sound. In other words, if you can close your eyes, stand on one foot, and still keep your balance, you have a strong vestibular system to thank for that! Climbing, spinning, and hanging upside down are some of the best ways to support the development of the vestibular system. It’s thought that this is why young kids are so naturally drawn to these behaviors! Providing safe opportunities to climb is a great way to help your kids develop strong balance and enjoy physical activity throughout their lives1. 2. Risk-taking play Risky play may not sound like a great idea… but most psychologists consider it an important part of childhood and healthy development2. When kids engage in risk-taking play (like climbing high or jumping from the swings), they learn to evaluate risks, take caution, and gain confidence3. So, while we’re usually tempted to shout “Be careful!” at the first sign our kids are going to climb that ladder too fast or try to go down the slide backward, we better serve them when we let them explore age-appropriate risks. Of course, there is such a thing as too much risk, and parents should always make sure their kids are taking risks within safe contexts. (Free play at the park? Sounds great. Playing in a busy street? Not so much.) Kids climbing structures provide a great balance of safety and reasonable risk for most age groups, allowing kids to have fun and explore their natural desire to take risks.. 3. Memory and cognitive function Research suggests that climbers can provide cognitive benefits as well as physical ones. One study found that participants’ working memory improved after engaging in dynamic activities like climbing and balancing4. Researcher Ross Alloway points to benefits for kids as well as adults: “By taking a break to do activities that are unpredictable and require us to consciously adapt our movements, we can boost our working memory to perform better in the classroom and the boardroom.” 4. Strength, coordination, and exercise It’s no surprise that climbing helps kids develop strong muscles and motor skills. Toddlers are naturally driven to climb to develop their gross motor skills5, and this inclination lasts well into school-age years as kids continue to develop their coordination and muscle strength. Providing opportunities to climb helps kids easily fit in the CDC’s recommended 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity per day6– something that is becoming tougher to accomplish as screens compete for kids’ time. KidKraft’s climbers and swing sets are a fun, safe way to do just that! (To see all of our swing sets specifically built with climbing in mind, select “Rock Wall” under the Play Features drop-down menu to refine your search results.) 1 How to Improve the Vestibular System 2 Children’s Risky Play from an Evolutionary Perspective 3 Why Kids Need to Take Risks in Life 4 Climbing a tree can improve cognitive skills, researchers say 5 Why Is Your Toddler Climbing on Everything? 6 How much physical activity do children need?
The Connection Between Playtime and Attention Span in Children
Our kids’ attention spans can be a real mystery at times. One minute, we’re super impressed by their laser-like focus on that Lego tower they’re building. And the next, we swear they have the attention span of a goldfish as they literally forget to put pants on. In this post, we’ll try to clear up at least a little bit of that mystery and explore how we can help our children grow in focus and attention through their favorite thing: play! Understanding Attention Span in Children Attention span refers to the ability to concentrate and sustain focus on a task or activity. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, “a normal attention span is 3 to 5 minutes per a child's year of age.” In other words, a two-year-old can usually focus on a task for 6-10 minutes at a time; a three-year-old for 9-15 minutes, and so on. But it’s important to remember that these ranges are only estimates, and your child’s attention is influenced by a variety of factors, including hunger, tiredness, how much physical activity they’ve had, their own interest in the task at hand, and the environment around them. Rather than a set-in-stone time frame, it’s more helpful to think of your child’s attention span as a flexible range that can vary depending on the current circumstances. You’ve likely seen this firsthand! When your little one is well-rested, has a full tummy, and has had plenty of time running around outside, they can give impressive focus to an engaging task like doing a puzzle or building a block tower. But when they’re sleepy, hungry, and have been cooped up on a rainy day? They may have very little ability to focus on that very same task. In general, your child’s attention span will increase on its own over time, but that doesn’t mean we can’t help our children grow in this area. By being intentional about our home environment, our kids’ schedules, and plenty of playtime, we can help set them up for success! The Role of Playtime in Child Development Scientists are still exploring exactly how play develops kids’ attention. We do know that play is critical for all aspects of a child's development, including physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth. It fosters creativity, imagination, problem-solving skills, and communication abilities. And as these abilities grow, so do kids’ attention spans. Play allows children to experiment, explore, and make sense of the world around them. They learn to regulate their emotions, interact with peers and adults, solve problems, create new things, and discover their own individual interests. For a deeper dive into all the ways play drives development, check out our Child Development series. Research Studies on the Connection Between Playtime and Attention Span So what does the science have to say about play and attention? Unsurprisingly, research backs up what parents and teachers observe on their own every day: opportunities for play improve kids’ attention span on other tasks later. Physical play, in particular, seems to boost kids’ ability to focus. This 2021 study found that kids who got more physical activity had better self-regulation and more “cognitive readiness” for preschool, both of which are critical factors for attention and focus. And many studies have found that kids have better classroom behavior and more attention for academic tasks after recess or “brain breaks” that include physical play. It’s also well-documented now that excessive screen time negatively impacts children’s attention spans. Engaging kids in play rather than screen-centered activities is a great way to protect them from the negative effects of screen time. Strategies to Enhance Attention Span Through Playtime: Practical Tips for Parents and Caregivers So, how can parents and caregivers use that research in their day-to-day life? These practical tips will help you create an environment and routine that prioritizes play and supports kids’ focus and attention span! Get moving! Research confirms what we know intuitively: kids are made to move! Getting plenty of physical activity and movement helps enhance kids’ attention span for less-active tasks later. Integrate active play into your daily routine, preferably outdoors whenever possible. Our 5 Tips to Get Kids Outdoors and Active Play Ideas can help! Limit screen time Along with physical activity, limiting screen time may be the most important thing we can do for our kids’ attention spans. We love the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Family Media Plan Tool. It helps you identify your goals and craft a media plan that works for your family! Encourage open-ended play We know that physical play is critical, but other types of play help kids develop focus and attention too! Provide children with toys and imaginative and creative play. Open-ended play allows children to engage in self-directed activities, encouraging them to focus, problem-solve, and sustain attention. Play games that require focus Engage children in games that require concentration, memory, and attention to detail. Examples include memory games, puzzles, and board games that involve strategy and problem-solving. Create a play-friendly environment Minimizing clutter and other distractions can help kids focus on their play for longer periods of time. By simplifying and providing a few quality toys, you can help your kiddo focus on one activity at a time. Prioritize playtime It sounds simple, but between errands, scheduled activities, preschool, and more, it can be tough to make play a priority. Be mindful of how much time your child spends in structured activities (like school, organized sports, clubs, etc.) and set aside dedicated time for unstructured play, both indoors and outdoors. Final thoughts Will increasing playtime suddenly increase your child’s attention span by hours? Nope. Will it support their overall development and gradually improve their attention span over time? Absolutely. By making sure our kids get adequate unstructured playtime, especially active play outdoors, we give them the breaks they need to regulate, reset, and give focused attention to other tasks later. We can also help them out by minimizing screen time and fostering other types of play instead. Create an engaging play environment at your house with our selection of open-ended toys. Use our Shop by Skill page to find toys geared towards active and outdoor play, cognitive play, imaginative play, and more!
Exploring STEM Concepts Through Train & Car Play
Want a fun way to introduce your preschooler to STEM concepts (science, technology, engineering, and math)? Look no further than their toy train set! From early experiments with motion and force to building tracks and roads to counting and sorting, train and car toys offer a wealth of stem activities for preschoolers and toddlers. So hop on board and explore how you can ignite your child's curiosity while having a blast together. Understanding Motion and Forces Ever watched your child push a toy train or car across the floor over and over, marveling at how it moves? They’re already experimenting with basic physics concepts like motion, speed, and direction. You can support their curiosity by helping them experiment with different surfaces and inclines to observe how they affect the motion of the toy. Take it up a notch by asking questions and having them form hypotheses: “Which one do you think will make it down the slide first? The big truck or the little car?” “What could we do to make them go faster?” “What if we try to roll them over the carpet?” This encourages their analytical thinking but also sets the stage for understanding how varying forces can impact the speed and direction of an object's movement. Building and Designing Tracks and Roads One of the many benefits of playing with toy trains – other than all the fun!– is that it can help your kiddo discover a love for engineering and design. As your child experiments with different track layouts or road configurations, they’re fostering their own creativity and problem-solving skills, figuring out how to connect pieces and keep their trains and cars on track through all the twists and turns. As they envision a track and bring it to life through trial and error, they just might find that they love the challenge and sense of accomplishment that come with a successful engineering feat! Counting and Measuring with Trains and Cars Who says kids don’t like math? You can sneak in lessons on basic math skills with your kiddo’s trains and cars – and they’ll just think they’re having fun! You could ask them to build a track with 10 pieces or to count the number of cars they have on the road. To sneak in some measurement learning, try tasks like "Can you find something that's as long as this train?" or "Let's measure how far the car can travel in one push." These activities introduce them to concepts of length, distance, and comparison, and most importantly, they’re fun! Sorting and Comparing Sorting is actually an essential pre-math skill – and one of the easiest ways you can practice stem for preschoolers! And nothing makes it more fun for your kid than using their favorite toys! Ask your child to sort the vehicles by color, and keep it fun by making it a part of the game. For example, you can pretend that the red cars need to line up by color for a parade! Once sorting by color is easy, you can have your child move on to more challenging tasks like lining cars up from smallest to biggest. Introducing STEM concepts into your child's playtime doesn't have to be daunting – and if you have toy trains or cars handy, you already have the perfect tools to do it! Remember, the key to teaching STEM to preschoolers is to keep it light, interactive, and age-appropriate. As you build twisting train tracks and race toy cars, you’re making memories with your child and helping them discover a love for STEM subjects. Ready to hop aboard the STEM Express with your little engineer? From elaborate cityscapes to simple starter sets, we have a train set for every age and skill level! Shop our full line of train sets and activity tables.,
Forming Your Toddler’s Emotional Intelligence
When we hear “intelligence”, we tend to think test scores. But emotional intelligence is just as important as academic intelligence. Emotional intelligence refers to someone’s ability to understand and manage their own emotions and empathize with those around them. Even though toddlers aren’t exactly known for their emotional control, building emotional intelligence in kids and toddlers is not only possible – it’s absolutely essential for their wellbeing. Here are some day-to-day techniques parents can use to help their toddlers grow up to be emotionally intelligent, empathetic adults. Name Emotions There’s no doubt that little toddlers feel BIG feelings – and those feelings can be even tougher to handle when they don’t have language to express them. You can help your child learn how to identify and verbally express emotions by naming them and empathizing with them. Next time big feelings bubble up, try something like this: “You seem really frustrated that you can’t get your gloves on by yourself. That would frustrate me too.” “You’re feeling angry that you can’t have another cookie right now. I know it’s tough to have to wait.” “You’re disappointed that it’s raining and we can’t go to the park. I understand, and I’m disappointed too!” “It seems like you’re nervous about sleeping at Grandma’s tonight. New things can feel scary sometimes, but…” Dr. Daniel Siegel, the author of the bestselling Whole Brain Child, calls this technique “Name It to Tame It.” The idea is that the more kids know how to talk about their feelings, the better they’ll be able to control them. Oh, and don’t forget to name the positive emotions too – you’ll love hearing your child talk about times they feel excited, fascinated, and happy, thankful, etc. Show & Encourage Empathy We already mentioned empathy in the tip above, but it’s worth repeating because it’s that important. It can be all too easy to dismiss toddlers’ emotions, but even though they may not always be logical, they are real – especially to your toddler. So, the next time your three-year-old cries because you peeled her banana wrong, instead of saying, “It’s not that big of a deal!” or “Stop crying!”, try something like “You’re really upset that you didn’t get to peel the banana the way you wanted. I’m sorry you’re disappointed. Maybe we can peel it that way next time!” Silly as it seems, this approach teaches toddlers they are safe to feel big feelings and express them to you. This doesn’t mean you indulge inappropriate behavior or cave to tantrums. It simply means you acknowledge what they’re feeling as you try to find a solution to the problem. You can also help your toddler practice empathy by helping them notice and think about the feelings of others. For example, if a character is crying in a book, you can point out that they’re sad, ask your toddler if they know why they feel that way or what might make them feel better. Discuss Behavior After the Storm Has Passed As we mentioned, showing empathy doesn’t mean that inappropriate behavior goes unaddressed. Kids still need boundaries and need to know that some ways of expressing feelings are not okay. When your toddler bites you in the middle of a big tantrum, that obviously needs to be addressed… just don’t count on anything sinking in during the tantrum. After the tantrum has passed and your child is calm, they’ll be far more likely to actually listen. You can help them process through why they acted the way they did, why it wasn’t okay, and what they should do differently next time. Of course, sometimes correction just can’t wait. When behavior needs to be stopped immediately (like hitting a sibling or trying to run away with the dishwasher pods), remove your child from the situation and follow up with discussion once they’ve calmed down. Be the Example One of the best things we can do to help our toddlers’ emotional development is to be good examples of emotional intelligence ourselves. When our kids see us yelling during arguments, slamming doors, or constantly disregarding others’ feelings, they’ll likely do the same as they grow up. No parent is perfect, but reflecting on your own emotional intelligence can help you recognize some unhealthy patterns in your own life. Emotional intelligence is a lifelong journey, and we all have areas where we could improve. Striving to do so will help our kids and better our own lives and relationships as well. Model Apologizing & Owning Mistakes As much as you try to model healthy emotional behavior, we’re all bound to make mistakes. When you lose your cool in front of your child or at your child, don’t beat yourself up. Use the moment to explain why your response was wrong and show them how to apologize and own mistakes. Your humility will help them feel more comfortable apologizing and owning mistakes as they get older too. Handling our emotions well and empathizing with others is a journey for all of us – especially for easily-overwhelmed toddlers. Even as you implement the techniques above, know that it will take plenty of time for your toddler to become naturally empathetic and self-controlled. But keep at it. Helping your child develop their emotional intelligence will improve their future and let you share an even deeper, sweeter relationship as they grow!
Unplugged Play: Why Traditional Toys Matter in the Digital Age
If you’ve ever found your kids’ screen time getting a bit higher than you’d like, trust us – we get it! In the digital age, it’s easy to turn to screens to keep kids occupied. But as the holiday season approaches, it's the perfect time to rediscover the importance and the joy of traditional toys. Classic toys not only offer timeless fun but also provide developmental benefits that can't be replicated by screens. We’re delving into the benefits of a few classic kids’ toys to inspire your gift-giving this year. The Power of Traditional Toys These classic toys are sure to earn you some big holiday hugs when they're unwrapped, but they do so much more than that! Traditional toys possess a timeless charm that transcends generations, fostering essential skills like creativity, problem-solving, and social interaction. Unlike their digital counterparts, these toys encourage tactile exploration, imagination, and open-ended play, nurturing a child's cognitive and emotional development in ways that screens simply can't replicate. In an age dominated by screens and technology, the enduring power of traditional toys lies in their ability to spark genuine joy, stimulate meaningful learning, and create lasting memories. Wooden Play Kitchens Wooden play kitchens have been a staple of childhood for generations. Why? Kids love simple, imaginative play! These timeless toys ignite kids’ imaginations, encouraging them to explore dramatic and social play…and maybe even discover a love for cooking! Classic Dollhouses Dollhouses are a sure way to inspire your child’s love for storytelling and pretend. As kids invent stories for the dolls and act out multiple perspectives, they’re fostering skills in communication, creativity, and empathy. Interactive Train Sets All aboard! Classic toy trains are a timeless classic that captivate kids of all ages. As they lay down tracks, maneuver trains, and orchestrate their mini-railway systems, children are building essential problem-solving skills through constructive play. Timeless Playsets From fire stations to pirate hideouts, simple playsets can open up a world of possibilities for kids. They’re a great alternative for kids who don’t want a traditional dollhouse but would still love to engage in that type of imaginative play! As they act out scenes with their action figures, children are strengthening their narrative skills, creativity, and emotional expression. Outdoor Playhouses When it comes to play, it doesn’t get more classic than the great outdoors! Outdoor playhouses offer a perfect blend of imaginative play and outdoor adventure. Kids can create a secret spy hideout, play house, or cozy up in a fairy’s tiny cottage. With kids’ imaginations, the possibilities are really endless, making playhouses an ideal way to encourage more outdoor play! Parent-Child Bonding Through Traditional Play One of the most beautiful aspects of traditional toys is the opportunity for parents and kids to play together – something we often have to fight for in the digital age. We’ve all seen how digital entertainment can completely command a kid's attention, isolating them in a virtual daze. But classic children’s toys do just the opposite – encouraging kids to get creative and invite parents to join in the fun! Whether it's cooking up a storm in a wooden kitchen, building a train track together, or playing with dolls in a dollhouse, classic toys help create moments of togetherness and lasting memories. The Cognitive and Emotional Benefits Beyond the fun and bonding, playing with traditional toys does wonders for kids’ cognitive and emotional development. These toys promote cooperation and interaction with parents, siblings, and peers, fostering kids’ language and social skills. Constructive toys like train sets stimulate critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and pretend play toys like play kitchens and dollhouses foster creativity and imagination. Beyond Screens: Discover the Joy of Unplugged Play with KidKraft! In a world where it’s all too easy for childhood to be dominated by screens, classic toys offer a chance to give modern kids the best parts of childhood: simple play and warm interactions with loved ones. This holiday season, consider giving the gift of play to the kids in your life with KidKraft’s classic wooden toys. Not only will you be nurturing their development in ways that screens simply can't match, you’ll also be giving yourself the chance to join in on the fun and make holiday memories that last!
