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 While there is no
denying the benefits of digital devices, and it is becoming
commonplace for parents to pass their tablets to Junior, research
shows that many adults want to limit the time their kids spend on
screens, large and small. Parents also actively encourage their kids
to play with toys that may help them reach critical developmental
milestones.
So how have traditional toys stood the test of time?
The various ways in which children play have remained largely
unchanged throughout time. In many cases, technology can help
amplify play by helping to introduce characters or tell a compelling
story.
When Mattel, the world's largest toymaker, asked moms their
opinions about toys and technology, the answers showed that even in
a digital age, moms continue to place a high value on traditional
toys.
"Kids today are digital natives and are immersed in digital
experiences," says Dr. Michael Shore, vice president of Global
Consumer Insights for Mattel. "However, when you walk into a child's
room and see what is visibly present and displayed on the shelves,
you won't see an app on the wall as an expression of who the child
is, what he or she loves, or as markers of the childhood experience.
For that, toys will continue to endure as ideal gifts for children.
After all, you can't wrap an app."
However, as experts and media debate whether digital devices will
one day replace dolls, cars, trains and action figures, most moms do
not think smart digital devices and traditional toys directly
compete with one another as a source of kids' entertainment. Rather,
each category remains fundamentally different.
While 75 percent of kids today play with devices like smartphones
and tablets, Mattel's research found that the time they spend with
these devices actually competes with the time they spend with other
screens, such as televisions and computers. In fact, 59 percent of
moms felt that smart portable devices will one day replace other
electronic devices, not traditional toys.
According to Mattel's findings, moms frequently associate toys
with social activities since toys are often used to play with
others, whereas digital devices are generally associated with solo
play (for example, keeping a child entertained when waiting at the
doctor's office or on a long car ride). Moms also credit toys with
providing opportunities for active play that allow kids to exercise
and burn off energy. Further, moms see toys as a great way to help
kids spark their imaginations and flex their creative muscles.
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Knowing that the leaders of tomorrow will be those who think
differently and solve problems in new ways, imagination is more
important than ever before. Shore offers some tips for using play as
a catalyst for fostering imagination and creativity:
In an increasingly
overscheduled world with a variety of things competing for kids'
time, it is easy to overlook the importance of dedicating time just
for play. Give your child the time and space to play, and watch his
or her imagination soar.
Provide a safe place to play and tools for play. Consider
starting a play group in your neighborhood or hosting play dates at
your home or local playground. Bring out the toy chest and see what
games the kids can create when they play together.
Encourage your kids to play with all that's available
— including their imaginations.
Two of the most important tools for play are toys and an
imagination. Help your children dream beyond what they see on screen
and encourage them to bring those cartoon characters to life by
using their toys and imaginations.
Get involved and play with your kids. Don't forget that play
is good for grown-ups too. Everyone loves a good old-fashioned tea
party or toy car race down the hall. Playing together is one of the
most fun and meaningful ways for parents and children to bond and
foster creative thinking for both of you.
[Brandpoint]
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