Play Everyday

Everyday Play

So, Santa's been generous, and now your kids seem to have enough toys to start a toy store. Here are some tips on what to do when your little ones have an excess of toys, and how you can find a solution while playing.

Play is the key to children's learning. It's through play that they grasp the workings of their world, develop social, emotional, and communication skills, and hone their problem-solving and critical thinking abilities. Toys play a significant role in this learning process. But why can too many toys be problematic?

Ever had that moment when you're trying to get something done, but there's clutter everywhere, making it impossible to concentrate? Well, the same goes for kids and their toys. A cluttered play space can overwhelm them, making it tough to decide, focus, or deeply engage in play. This often leads to tantrums or the familiar refrain of "I'm bored" or "Can I watch something?"

Sounds like a scene from your household? Here are some strategies to address this issue (hint: it's best tackled when the kids aren't around).

Declutter: Start by getting rid of broken or incomplete toys. Then, sift through the toys your child has outgrown or accumulated too many of. Donate these to charity shops or pass them on to younger kids. Having fewer toys, neatly organised, creates a calmer environment, reducing overstimulation and fostering better behavioural regulation in children.

Organise: Once you've cleared out some toys, consider putting a few away for a while. Initially, you might feel guilty about taking toys away, but you might be pleasantly surprised by your child's reaction. With fewer toys to distract them, your child can focus more deeply on play, reaping the benefits of longer, more immersive experiences. As a bonus, rotating toys every few weeks can revive interest and keep playtime fresh.

Get Creative with Everyday Items: If you're worried about having too many toys or not enough, remember that open-ended play is invaluable. Everyday household items can serve as fantastic 'toys'. Sheets can transform into cubbies, old cereal boxes can become towns, creatures, or costumes, and grown-up clothes can fuel imaginative dress-up games. Even sticks and seed pods can inspire creativity, whether it's making patterns or crafting intricate designs. And don't forget the kitchen – it's a treasure trove for role-playing and messy play adventures.

Play Together: Above all, remember that your child values playing with you more than any toy. So, join in the fun! These shared moments not only deepen your bond but also enrich your child's development. Whether it's talking, reading, singing, or playing games, make time for these interactions every day. After all, these simple moments are the ones your child will treasure most.

This article has been written to help increase the knowledge and understanding of the Bundaberg community and is part of Bundaberg Regional Libraries First 5 Forever. Learn more about Baby and toddler Storytime at Bundaberg Library here. 

First 5 Forever is an initiative of the Queensland Government, coordinated by State Library of Queensland and delivered in partnership with local government.