When we think of childhood, toys are one of the first things that come to mind. We know that playing is fun, but do you also know that playing with toys is another way to help your baby's mind expand and grow?

Why Are Toys Important?

Most games we observe children playing are imitations of the things they see in the adult world. In the wild we notice that young animals practice their hunting skills before they are ready to hunt for their own food, by playing with their parents and siblings in mock sessions. Children often play house, school and love to pretend they are shopping. This type of play stimulates the brain and using games and toys is a wonderful way to promote the growth and development of your child's mind.

Children are like sponges in the fact that from infant hood they absorb what they see. When you give a child toys and games that are created with enrichment in mind, their brains are kindled to achieve higher goals. Developmental toys ease your child gently into learning the skills they will need to become functional adults and gives them a chance to find out how to interpret information as well as teach them many other necessary skills.

What are the Best Toys to Buy?

The toys you choose for your child should be picked with an eye towards challenging your child to ask questions, to help them better understand their world and above all learn something. Observing your child to see where they are at as far as developmental milestones will help you better choose appropriate toys to stimulate your child's mind. If you find that your child is lagging behind in some specific areas, you can find the ideal toys to help build proficiency in those areas.

It is said that the first 7 years of a child's life are considered the most formative. This means that their mental development, values, discipline and their personal attitudes will quickly assemble during these very important years. During these years, your child will learn how to handle the curve balls that life may throw and using toys to practice these skills will allow your child to be the best they can be.

Of course, toys and games can only provide your child so much. They should never take the place of the special interactions that your child has with you and others. Kids figure out how to use their brains in order to get the things they want and need. That is one of the greatest benefits that playing with toys and games can give your child.

How Do I Find the Right Toys?

Going into a toy store is like stepping into a child's greatest fantasy. There are so many choices, how is a parent to know what the best toys and games are? The best way to go about it is to read about the toy or game that you are considering. The box or container should contain much of the information you will need, such as the age appropriateness, how many people are needed to play and whether reading is involved. You can do your research at home before visiting the toy store or even better you can just order the toys online to save a trip to the store altogether.