What is the value of a toy? There are so many ways to answer that question! The true value of a toy can be seen in the smile it brings to your child’s face over and over again. Here are few of the benefits of toys.
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Benefits Of Toys: A Closer Look At The Value Of A Toy
Educational Value Of A Toy
The value in a toy can be defined by the educational lessons, developmental skills, and the confidence it gives the child. There are some toys, like Cugolino, that I feel make my children smarter because they have to really think and challenge themselves when they play.
Holds Child’s Attention
The value of toy can also be measured by how long it holds your child’s attention. There are some toys that my children have figured out and then they move on and don’t pick them up any more. There are toys that just sit in the corner because they don’t challenge their imagination. Then there are toys that my children have played with over and over for years and I can see that they will keep coming back to. Usually the toys that capture my children’s long term interest are also ones that I can get into with them because they are toys that encourage imagination and/or involve challenges.
Longevity Of The Toy
The value of toy is also determined by how well the toys holds up. What a bummer when a toy snaps and breaks shortly after purchase! There are some toys that are heirloom toys that can be passed on from parent to child. My husband gave his old wooden blocks to our children- a pretty cool present that inspired his imagination and building skills and now inspires theirs. Heirloom quality toys are that much more valuable as they can be used over and over by many children without the risk of breaking or loosing essential pieces that can not be replaced.
Opportunity For Continued Fun
Price, of course, is the true obvious measurement of value. But price does not always take into account all or any of the factors that I mentioned as defining the value of a toy. When I buy a toy, I think about how much play time that toy will get and how long it will last. I know that a toy that will get a lot of play time and last for a long time is worth much more (and has a lower cost per play) than a toy that has a less expensive price and is a less educational toy.
What factors do you consider in determining the value of a toy to your child? What do you see as the benefits of toys?
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