Unleashing Your Child's Creativity and
Development Regardless of Age

In today's digital age, it's becoming increasingly common for children to spend a significant amount of time engaged with electronic devices. While technology certainly has its benefits, it is essential for parents to recognize the importance of non-electronic play for their children, especially those aged 8 and older. Non-electronic play offers a wealth of developmental advantages, allowing kids to explore their creativity, enhance social skills, promote physical activity, and foster a well-rounded and balanced childhood. In this blog post, we will delve into the compelling reasons why non-electronic play should be an integral part of your child's life.

Let’s start with stimulating imagination and creativity.  Oftentimes parents come into the shop and believe their child is beyond this stage.  That said, there are several options for non-electronic play that offers children the opportunity to tap into their imaginations and develop their creativity. Simple toys, building blocks, art supplies, and role-playing activities encourage kids to think independently, problem-solve, and create their own narratives. These activities allow children to express themselves freely, fostering a sense of self-confidence and unleashing their boundless potential.

• Trestle Tracks give children an option to build a traditional marble run with a unique twist that allows them to click in but also see the marbles as they go through the constructed  
• Joke or Magic Sets for a child to role play a bit while learning to follow directions and present to a crowd.
• Crafts will always be a great option to break a child off from their screen.

We all know that COVID had a big impact on our children’s social skills.  Rebuilding these skills can be a challenge when a child is attached to technology.  Non-electronic play often involves interaction with others, which promotes the development of crucial social skills. Engaging in group games, board games, or sports helps children learn how to communicate, cooperate, negotiate, and resolve conflicts. These skills are vital for their future interpersonal relationships and can contribute to their emotional intelligence.

• Age appropriate board games are a great way to connect children with each other as well as the family.
• Sports like hockey, badminton, or football are great opportunities to build connection with teammates 
• Tabletop games like pinball, shuffleboard, or air hockey can be a great option for a child who wants to play but may not be able to run around.

Try to encourage physical activity as an option.  Many electronic devices and games promote sedentary behavior, leading to a more inactive lifestyle. Non-electronic play, on the other hand, encourages physical activity, promoting healthy habits and a strong foundation for overall well-being. Outdoor activities, sports, and active play improve motor skills, coordination, and strength. Additionally, physical play helps children release pent-up energy, reducing stress levels and enhancing their overall mood.

• Pick-up games like baseball or hockey with friends or neighbors is a great way to get up and outside
• It doesn’t have to be a spot either - you could set up a slip and slide or sprinkler to get the kids running around outside.

Non-electronic play stimulates cognitive development in various ways. Puzzles, memory games, and strategy-based board games enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. Hands-on activities also improve hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and fine motor skills. These cognitive abilities are essential for academic success and overall cognitive growth.

• There is a puzzle for every age and development level.  Whether it’s larger pieces, chunky wooden puzzles or your more traditional puzzle building, you can choose one that engages the child’s needs.
• Memory games are a classic and for a good reason.  You can play with card or tiles and kids of all ages can get involved.  Older kids? Add more cards.  Younger kids? Start with just a few and then build up.
• Strategy games are great if you’re trying to turn up the critical thinking but make sure that you’ve set aside enough time.  They can be a great time that may take a little bit longer but will create tons of memories along the way.

Fostering family bonding and child development is really at the heart of how we believe toys should engage your child.  Non-electronic play provides an excellent opportunity for families to bond and spend quality time together. Engaging in activities such as board game nights, gardening, cooking, or crafting allows for meaningful interactions, shared laughter, and the creation of lasting memories. These shared experiences strengthen the parent-child relationship and build a foundation of trust and connection.

• Science and STEAM kits can be a great way to get the whole family involved in a project that will result in seeing the fruits of your labor.  Something like building a robot or candy claw machine could be a great to do together.
• Gardening is one of my favorite ways to create a family bond and have some fun on the way.  It is the project that keeps everyone involved as you watch the plants grow and are required to tend to them.  It is great for both indoor (root viewers) or outdoor activities (creating your own garden).

Promoting mental health and well-being can be a challenge for all of us as we navigate this new climate. While technology has its merits, excessive screen time has been linked to various issues, including increased stress, anxiety, and decreased sleep quality in children. Non-electronic play offers a break from the constant digital stimulation, providing a chance for children to relax, recharge, and focus on the present moment. Outdoor play, in particular, has been associated with improved mental health, reduced stress levels, and increased overall happiness.

• Gratitude Journals are all of the rage as we work to get our children focusing on being mindful and aware of their emotions.  
• Giving kids a ride-on that will allow them to focus on the present moment but get them out of the house.  Something like a nontraditional swing like the Swurfer, a scooter or skateboard will get them moving and focusing on their body and mind.

In a world increasingly dominated by electronic devices, it is crucial for parents to prioritize non-electronic play in their children's lives. By encouraging non-electronic play, parents can support their child's creativity, social skills, physical well-being, and cognitive development. Limiting screen time and offering alternative play options can foster a balanced childhood and create a solid foundation for their future success and happiness. So let's rediscover the joy of non-electronic play and witness our children thrive in a world full of imagination and possibilities. Remember, however you decide to engage your child on a non-electronic device is great and right for you.  We are all doing our best and it is great to have the options available.