Early education is the key: Parents are the first teachers, not toys

Childhood experts agree the best toys for children are simple playthings such as balls, blocks and hand held objects that a child can play with over and over in new ways.  However, by contrast, today’s American children get an average of 70 new toys a year.  Many parents feel guilty about what they are unable to provide their children due to work obligations and other time commitments.  This oftentimes leads to an innocent response by parents to “buy happiness” for their child through toys, because toys make children happy– right?  Learning to say no to the parenting consumer culture should make parents feel all the wiser while they figure out ways to tune in to their child’s development that are less costly in the future.  

Experts agree a child’s parents are the favorite toy in the early years.  Parents must invest time early or they will pay the hefty price later with tutoring fees, lack of respect from their own children and quite possibly abuse of drugs and alcohol.  Children will find comfort, attention and acceptance somewhere as it is a natural need for all human beings.  Things don’t make one happy but relationships do!  One day your children will be grateful for what you didn’t give them — and what you did for them instead.

Today’s toys tell the child what to do and then the toy responds in a very specific way.  When I was growing up, I was able to play with my Barbie dolls while using my imagination.  Today’s Barbie’s each have a specific purpose such as, hair salon, beach girl, etc…  What happened to buying one Barbie and a few outfits to have imaginary play?  Today’s toys take all of the fun out of thinking critically, problem solving and using one’s imagination.  Early education is the key!  Toys alone don’t educate even if they are marketed as learning toys.  Parents teach – join the revolution to develop your child’s love for learning at Wiggle Giggle Learn.