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Why do role-play toys sell so well?
Role play toys are not only enormous fun, but they are important to healthy development. That’s why you’ll always find a ‘home’ or ‘shop’ corner in preschools and reception classes. Role play toys encourage creativity and imagination, and when used with other children or grown-ups have an enormously important role to play in how children learn to cope in social situations and develop problem-solving abilities. There’s a long list of developmental benefits derived from role play, including, improving language and communication; supporting physical development, aiding emotional and social development and help to develop cognitive skills. Physical development is on the list too – both fine and gross motor skills. Suddenly that make-believe tea party seems far mor beneficial than you first thought!
Of course, play always has to be fun – otherwise it’s not really play! So, whatever skills little ones may be learning, role play should inject some joy into their lives. Who could possibly fail to smile at the Leap Frog Smart Sizzling BBQ Grill, with its smiley face, interactive skewer, and realistic sizzling sounds! It’s just like at the family barbecue – except you don’t need the sun for this one! Learning through play has been identified as one of the key methods of learning and development for very young children. Being able to use our imagination is a major cognitive skill – and is key to succeeding in life. There’s a wonderful quote that says: “Logic will get you from A to Z; imagination will get you everywhere.” Role play toys help children to take themselves into a whole new world – one where they are in charge and where they get to tell mummy and daddy what to do (what parent hasn’t had to pretend to eat that wooden piece of cake, or drink an imaginary cup of tea?). It enables children to visualise – a skill that helps us enjoy reading and is used by top-flight athletes to reach their goals.
Playing with role play toys also allows small children to experiment with social and emotional situations. It allows them to find out who they are, understand about other people and see where they fit into the world, and to develop vital skills such as co-operation, empathy, and responsibility. Imagine a couple of children playing with the Janod’s fabulously retro Janod Big Cooker Reverso. They must learn to take turns, assign roles to make sure they don’t both try to get their bakes out of the oven at the same time, and decide who is doing the washing up. Collaboration and cooperation are skills that they will need as they enter school and then the wider world of work. And learning how to ‘be someone else’ helps little ones to develop empathy.
Role play also affords children the opportunity to experience freedom – they may not be able to run to the ice cream van when they want, but they can pretend to do just that, with the Leapfrog Scoop & Learn Ice Cream Cart. It’s a safe way to experiment with rules and boundaries, helping them to build confidence along the way.