Toys for Language

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Betsy Cutler Schreiber M.M.S. C.C.C. | Smart-Kid-O-Meter | Toys for Language | Ask Questions Here! | To all my little ones and their parents...
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Here are some examples of how play-time can be made to be more language enriching: click here

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Young children between 2 and 3 years of age develop language at such a rapid rate that within the space of one year they may jump from only saying a few words to speaking in paragraphs!
How can we make sure they use their time wisely and still have a great deal of fun? (Remember, all the vocabulary and experiences they store now will help them succeed in school)
Older children develop vocabulary and expand their ability to handle more and more complex language by having alot of experience with many language environments. They need to read, to take notes on reading materials from school, discuss the content and meaning of these materials. If you don't really have the time, there are many ways you can make sure your child is "connecting" with language. All teachers have extra help times to develop reading and study habits. A high school kid who is a good student can help.And you can also hire a professional if you feel your child needs more. Sometimes a few sessions with a professional tutor can get some good habits started.

In order for a toy to be language enriching, the child must interact with and recreate different stories with the toys.

Different types of toys can stimulate different senses and develop coordination.

For language, we want children to develop an INNER monologue, symbolic behavior (could be gesture) and eventually words to describe what's going on.

When a child plays with cars and garages, he is beginning to develop an idea of his own from his experience. The adult caregiver or older child can enrich his creation by making up a "story". This teaches the child that he/she can create his/her own story with the toy. What POWER!

That's why some toys last forever and others are interesting for a short time, then sit on a shelf.

For a good educational toy source check out *Discovery Toys Inc.*

What toys to buy?

Toys fall into several categories:

1. manipulatives- blocks, shape sorting, building toys playdough

2. imaginative- dress up, dolls/men, matchbox sets,
playschool sets, pooh bear sets, pirates

3. sports-little gyms, trampolines,tricycles, rocking horses

4.games- board games, computer games, busy boards

5. musical instruments and toys

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Online toy recommendations and demos to come...
(under construction)