[Feb 28, 2007] Toys today seem to come with a host of electronic features. They can dance, sing, jump, giggle even wet their nappies (why would anyone want a toy like that?).
However, some child psychologists actually advise against giving very young children any electronic toy. They believe that babies and toddlers need to develop their hand and eye coordination, their imagination, and their motor skills—so giving something that moves and grooves at the touch of a button is counterproductive. The best educational toys are the Classic Toys.
Dolls Dolls are certainly Classic Toys. Archaeological excavations have unearthed dolls that date back to thousands of years (talk about being sturdy!). These dolls may not have been able to sing or walk on their own, but they helped comfort a sick or frightened child, and were part of several imaginary adventures. These classic toys are also important in practicing social skills. As your child “interacts” with the toy, she plays out gestures or roles that she’s observed from adults around her. One of the best accessories for dolls are dollhouses, which make the imaginary games so much more real.