Simple toys deliver big results for lifelong effects on infant and toddler development
Push and pull-style toys may be more critical to the development of your baby’s fine and gross motor skills than you think. They might clutter up the room and perhaps your toddler may only be interested in them for a few minutes at a time, but when it comes to building muscles in the arms and legs, perfecting coordination and balance, and developing spatial skills, there are few toys more invaluable to the physical development of your little one. This is especially true for push and pull toys that also include extra features that stimulate cognitive skills, which would include symbolic play (such as pretending the toy is a pet on a leash, a lawnmower, or a vacuum cleaner).
How Push and Pull Toys stimulate physical and mental development
Giving access to push and pull toys provide a fully comprehensive exercise opportunity for the mind and body of your toddler. Learning to manipulate an object by muscle exertion forces their little bodies to push themselves into using new muscles and new movements, introducing them to complicated, compound exercises that go far beyond crawling, rolling, or walking. It also teaches them how to balance since they are moving themselves and another object that they must also steer or control in some way, teaching them to divide their concentration and move themselves and something else towards the same location. It may sound silly to us, but push and pull toys can be hard work for a little, developing mind!
What kind of toys should I give them?
There are thousands of toys to purchase that will help your child to develop their motor skills, balance, and coordination, but sticking to finely-made, quality toys that will withstand years of abuse (and will be passed down to future siblings or friends) are a must. Brands such as Leo & Friends offer quality push and pull-style toys that are not overly stimulating, are safe to use, and finely made with unique characteristics that will make them special family treasures for years to come. Happy-looking animals can become imaginary pets or friends your child may develop a special fondness for, and the quality components, and soft, painted, wooden surfaces are wonderful, tactile objects they will love to get their little hands on. When shopping for toys for your toddler, never sacrifice quality and safety.
Don’t forget: safety first!
It may seem obvious, but never underestimate your toddler’s ability to hurt themselves as they explore and learn about the world around them. Never let your little one play with their push or pull toys near steps, ledges, or other spaces where they could fall onto a harmful or harsh surface. Make sure the rope or cord attached to the toy is short enough that they won’t be in danger of tangling themselves against something harmful or would cause them to pull or push unnecessarily hard and cause a tumble. If they are especially little, encourage use of the toy during a time and in a space where there will be little distractions and their concentration can be on their own play or you as a guiding presence. Most of all, simply remember to relish the moment with your little one and have fun.
About Leo & Friends
Leo & Friends manufactures and distributes the coolest wooden toys on the planet for toddlers and young kids to help them with learning, problem solving, sharing, and family fun. From wooden puzzles to activity cubes, and trucks to shape sorting toys, even toy kitchen playsets. There is no other company out there making cooler, safer toys for kids. Learn more about the company by visiting their website at https://www.leoandfriendstoys.com/.
