This Week's FAQ from eBeanStalk

This week’s Frequently Asked Question from eBeanStalk

What’s up with all the electronic toys?
By: Gopi Patel, MSE.d Special Educator

Question: Are children being exposed to too many electronic toys and should parents consider limiting these types of products?

Answer: In general, I believe we as parents should firmly monitor what toys are children are exposed to. And because of this, parents should get involved with toys right away as it’s a wonderful tool that we parents have today in teaching many different skills.

Regarding electronic toys…yes, I do believe that children are being exposed to too many electronic toys, even if they are considered educational toys. BUT Children should always have some electronic toys around especially when they are learning to explore new and novel toys independently. Here’s a hint – it’s easy simply take the batteries out of certain toys and still be able to fully play with them. One thing to keep in mind, as children get older certain electronic toys are a wonderful way of learning letter sounds, numbers, colors and more.

Cautions: Sometimes when toys make too much noise or light it actually takes away from the child exploring independently, and tunes out. Some children will stop babbling if toys make too much noise. It’s important to have toys that have many different senses involved as possible when selecting toys for little ones.

In general, I prefer learning toys that encourage creativity like blocks and crayons. Of course children always seem to gravitate towards toys that simulate things they see their parents using such as remote controls and cell phones. These also encourage imagination and having different types of toys creates a good balance. I was happy to hear the tip above about taking the batteries out of toys because I hardly ever replace the batteries in our kids toys once they run out (mostly, I can never find a screw driver!).

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