With 25 days until Christmas, there is no doubt the word Christmas is rolling off our tongues in daily conversations; some of which revolve around Christmas gifts for our children.
Last year, Toddlekind provided an inspiring Christmas gift guide for children aged 0 - 6 years, parents, and grandparents. There are some fabulous, unique gift ideas for the whole family, which you can view here.
As a play mat company, Toddlekind is a big believer in the importance of play so this year's Christmas gift inspiration focus' on play.
Interested to read more? We have previously discussed the importance of play with Occupational Therapist Leah, read here.
Different types of play
Play doesn’t have to involve an elaborate or expensive set-up. Simple play that allows your children to work with their hands and bodies, explore their space and observe their surroundings often costs very little and reaps the biggest rewards.
Play forms a big part in our little one’s development, but we don’t often appreciate just how important it is.
Go for a walk, you'll quickly see how a child will find play no matter where they are. Play involves climbing, shouting, hopping, spinning, touching, and running. Or pretending to be an adventurer searching for lost treasure, as they collect treasures - like leaves, flowers, and acorns - from the ground.
We talk more about the importance of playing outside, and being active here: Collecting Memories, and spending more time together as a family.
Essential for every child’s development – play is the most important thing they can do. During play, children develop and hone the vast majority of the skills they will need in life. From imagination and manipulation skills to socialization and emotional intellect.
Believe it or not, the list is longer than you think and includes more than imaginative and independent play.
Independent play is something you should always encourage. It allows you to get things done, or drink your cup of tea while it is hot! Once your little one can reach and grasp things they are moving into independent play. Toys vary according to age: babies will enjoy a rattle or teething ring. Toddlers and children will enjoy everything from a play (or mud) kitchen, dolls, books, blocks, and Lego!
Children are naturally curious, so will find “play” at almost every opportunity. But did you know there are different kinds of play?
Let’s take a look at the different types of play, and Christmas gifts that can help encourage and support play-lead learning.
Baby: 0 - 12 months
We are often at a loss for gift ideas when shopping for baby. My children always found joy playing in with the wrapping paper more than the gifts, so the key is to keep things simple.
Interested to read more? We have previously discussed the importance of play with Occupational Therapist Leah, read here.
Different types of play
Play doesn’t have to involve an elaborate or expensive set-up. Simple play that allows your children to work with their hands and bodies, explore their space and observe their surroundings often costs very little and reaps the biggest rewards.
Play forms a big part in our little one’s development, but we don’t often appreciate just how important it is.
Go for a walk, you'll quickly see how a child will find play no matter where they are. Play involves climbing, shouting, hopping, spinning, touching, and running. Or pretending to be an adventurer searching for lost treasure, as they collect treasures - like leaves, flowers, and acorns - from the ground.
We talk more about the importance of playing outside, and being active here: Collecting Memories, and spending more time together as a family.
Essential for every child’s development – play is the most important thing they can do. During play, children develop and hone the vast majority of the skills they will need in life. From imagination and manipulation skills to socialization and emotional intellect.
Believe it or not, the list is longer than you think and includes more than imaginative and independent play.
Independent play is something you should always encourage. It allows you to get things done, or drink your cup of tea while it is hot! Once your little one can reach and grasp things they are moving into independent play. Toys vary according to age: babies will enjoy a rattle or teething ring. Toddlers and children will enjoy everything from a play (or mud) kitchen, dolls, books, blocks, and Lego!
Children are naturally curious, so will find “play” at almost every opportunity. But did you know there are different kinds of play?
Let’s take a look at the different types of play, and Christmas gifts that can help encourage and support play-lead learning.
Baby: 0 - 12 months
We are often at a loss for gift ideas when shopping for baby. My children always found joy playing in with the wrapping paper more than the gifts, so the key is to keep things simple.
