These days children are inundated with toys but child psychologists say that too many playthings can actually hamper child development. Studies have shown that children faced with an excess of toys get overstimulated and are unable to concentrate on one activity for any length of time.
So with this in mind, what's the difference between a good toy and bad toy?
A good rule of thumb is to ask not what the toy can do, but what can your child do with it? If it offers lots of opportunities for creative play then you're onto a winner.
Most stores and on-line companies offer toys for indoors and out. Here are some recommendations:
Educational and exceptional quality
There are fantastic brand names that are synonymous with both educational and good quality toys such as:
Hamleys
The Early Learning Centre
All Kids.co.uk
Thekidswindow.co.uk
Izziwizzikids.co.uk
Books
Not strictly toys, but books will give your child hours of pleasure, even just by looking at the pictures and especially when you read to them. Studies show that the earlier a child or even a baby develops a love of books, the quicker they learn to read and the better they do at school, in all subjects.
Usborne books
M&S
Ladybird Books
Borders
Wooden Toys
There are some fantastic on-line sites which offer beautiful, solid, wooden toys ranging from those that are small and educational to train sets, kitchens and even shops:
JoJo Maman Bebe
Toy-Choice
Tulip Toys
Wooden Choice
Traditional toys
Although a little more difficult to find there are companies that specialise in making exquisite traditional toys such as dolls houses and rocking horses:
The Dolls House Emporium
The Rocking Horse Shop
Toyday.co.uk
Wooden.co.uk
Arts and Crafts
As toddlers become more inquisitive and experimental there are a host of wonderful things to do to keep their minds and bodies engaged. Why not try painting, drawing, bead making, pottery painting, playmobil and jigsaws to name a few. Get what you need at:
Hobby Craft
Toys r us
Smart Start Toys
Tickseeds.co.uk
Littlemonkeystoys.co.uk
Beyondtherainbow.co.uk
Littlebundles.co.uk
Outdoor Toys
Whether it's a swing, sandpit, playhouse or an out of this world climbing frame, it's essential that it's built to last and will stand up to the elements. Good places to find outdoor toys are:
Letterbox
Mothercare
Early Learning Centre
Rainbow Play
John Lewis
The Outdoor Toy Company
