Summer vacation is winding down and it seems that back to school is seen on the horizon. However, we know that for some there are still a few more weeks of summer break left.
With these long days of summer still upon us, we understand that children might need some extra activities or things to play with.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, “Research demonstrates that developmentally appropriate play with parents and peers is a singular opportunity to promote the social-emotional, cognitive, language, and self-regulation skills that build executive function and a prosocial brain.”
Play is a fundamental aspect of learning for children. There are a lot of options for toys and games that are available for children today. In our classrooms, we have educational toys and games that our students absolutely adore playing with during free time. And we believe it is important to schedule in free play for kids. This is a great time to allow for choices on what games they are interested in. Games are good for imaginative play, reviewing concepts taught, pre-teaching, practicing skills . . . and for FUN.
Below are some educational toys that we recommend for children to play with. Many of these games we have or would love to have in our classrooms.
- Video Game Creation Kit
- Cardboard Tool Kit
- Build Your Own Marble Coaster
- Botany Experimental Green-House
- Osmo- Genius Kit for iPad
- Osmo- Pizza Co. Game
- IQ Builder- STEM
- Zingo Sight Words Early Reading Game
- Money Bags Coin Value Game
- Squishy Human Body Anatomy Kit
- Magna Tiles- House
- Playstix
- Plank Set
- Brain Blox
- Straw Constructor
Games and play are essential for development. It is important to make time for play at home and in the classroom. At times we may prioritize more structured learning, but as we love to bring up, it is all about balance. This type of development is just as important!
Check out this resource we found on The Power of Play
Got game recommendations? Let us know in the comments below!
