Nikki Bush, a parenting expert, explains that during childhood, the body acts as an “architect of the brain,” and that in order to fully comprehend the world around them, children must be exposed to a variety of scenarios to keep the brain stimulated.
She explains that school, home, and outdoor environments are important, as are educational toys and games, such as Lego, as well as arts and crafts. Conversation with adults and children is also a “big advantage” that promotes interaction and open communication.
Various stages, varying requirements
“Children go through different stages of development, all of which contribute to their overall cognitive development. Different environments, people, and valuable toys help to stimulate the young mind and assist children in accurately interpreting new information,” Bush says.
And a young brain is quick to pick up new information. She explains that the brain is “extremely plastic and elastic” during childhood. This means that young children have an easier time learning than older people.
“Have you ever heard of a child’s brain being like a sponge? That’s because children can easily absorb information and comprehend concepts when they’re young,” she explains.
Learning stages: concrete, semi-concrete, and abstract
The concrete learning phase is critical, according to Bush, who claims that no image on a screen or in a book can replace the real thing, and that “real” trumps everything in early learning.
“Three-dimensional learning is beneficial to children. The concrete phase allows a child to use their bodies to interact with a real object. They can feel the roundness of an apple, see its color, taste it, and smell it,” she explains. Bush believes that for a truly memorable learning experience, children should be able to internalise and experience with their bodies.
Three great games for toddlers
These games are fantastic for brain development…
My First Cars and Trucks with LEGO DUPLO
Suitable for children aged 18 months to five years
In this fun game, toddlers will learn how to combine wheelbases and colorful bricks to create vehicles of all shapes and sizes. This inspirational set contains endless possibilities for creativity and storytelling, as well as decorated bricks and building cards to inspire new ideas. The large DUPLO bricks have been specially designed to be safe and appropriate for small hands.
My First LEGO DUPLO Playhouse
Suitable for children aged 18 months to five years
As a perfect introduction to basic construction skills, combine the chunky pieces to build the playhouse. The specially decorated bricks depicting key aspects of daily life provide conversation starters for you and your toddler as you teach her about her day. The night/day brick contributes to the learning and role-playing environment. Help the two DUPLO figures get up in the morning, eat breakfast, brush their teeth, and have fun on the slide before laying them down in the beds to rest with this easy-to-build set. DUPLO bricks are brightly colored and designed to be safe and suitable for small hands.
Shooting Gallery with LEGO DUPLO
Suitable for children aged 2 to 5 years
The LEGO DUPLO Shooting Gallery stall’s three targets will entice young children to fire the cannon. Encourage your child to have fun knocking them over in the hopes of winning one of the two DUPLO figures. Help them get a drink from the juice stand, then put everything back together and play again!
- The above toys are all available from Toy Kingdom
