Thursday, October 23, 2008

Manipulative Toys and Motor Skill Development Toys Engage Curiosity and Learning


Motor skills are some of the first skills that children learn at the early stage. Gross motor skills are those that involve using a large number of muscles to make big movements, such as rolling over, crawling, running and jumping. Gross motor skill development can be encouraged through play with larger toys or games. Animal Bean Bag Toss Game is a great toy for developing gross motor skills since in this game you would have to toss a bean bag into different wooden animals. Physical activities improve gross motor skills also, like when babies push the baby walkers around.
Fine motor skills consist of smaller movements usually those of the hands and fingers which can be done by playing, for example, with lacing toys or rollercoaster toys. Magnetic maze toys are also beneficial. Many toys are good for developing fine motor skills. Blocks and puzzles are two of the simplest and the best.
From wooden Alphabet Magnetic Trace Letter Set to manipulating objects such as the Dog Stacking Toy, children with poor fine motor development often struggle in the classroom. Rather than forcing long hours of handwriting practice, parents and teachers can turn to these children's toys that promote fine motor development. These toys and activities are suited for toddlers through school age children as they channel kids' energy and allow for fun, tear-free experiences. Older children learn at school but they can also continue to learn through play with toys such as Science Kits that can bring casting material.
Remember that there are many different activities which your kids can do and improve their motor skills and the more they play with their manipulative toys and motor skills development toys, the more they can learn and become more advance. Play is an important part of a child’s development. For babies and toddlers, playing is the best way to learn. When you engage both their curiosity and their desire to have fun, learning comes naturally.

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