Educational Toys and Gifted Children
Toys, educational toys in particular, can play an important role in a child's healthy development and learning. The question is, do gifted children benefit from the same toys as other children?It's estimated that there are approx. 3 million gifted kids in grades K-12 in the United States. That's about 6% of the student population. So how do you tell if your child is one of them? Consider the Characteristics of Young Gifted Children. Some kids will show signs of an excellent memory, strong vocabulary, or an extended attention span; especially in an area that interests them. They may master basic skills quickly, and with less practice. They may exhibit an elevated aptitude for music or the arts. Some will show signs of exceptional imagination and curiosity. Others may display unique powers of observation and attention to detail. But, it's important to note that a child doesn't have to possess all of these traits to be gifted; as with all children, gifted kids have widely different needs, strengths and weaknesses. The fact of the matter is that a gifted child enjoys the same games, toys and activities as other children. However, the speed of mastering those activities will vary and, as a result, the leap to more complex activities may be accelerated. Consequently, parents may notice that their intellectually advanced child is attracted to toys that are intended for older children. And there's no harm in letting them delve into the more challenging toys and games, as long as the child's abilities are taken into account, and provided they pose no physical risk, like a choking hazard. Gifted kids enjoy a challenge. Educational toys, puzzles and games that exercise their minds, allow for creativity, or contain elements that feed his or her area of interest, will keep them engrossed longer than those that are easily solved or require repetitive actions. Toys that come fully assembled, or require little or no creativity or imagination, will most likely end up under the bed in a matter of minutes. Playing is an important function for all children. Even though they may speak and act like adults at times, gifted kids, especially those who have heightened senses of imagination and creativity, need to play. Appropriate toys, games and puzzles will address the unique characteristics of a gifted child, and keep their busy minds satisfied. |
