Sally's Blog

Hi

There was so much in the newspapers over the weekend about young children and television. Firstly there was research reported that too much television viewing in early years is hampering mathematical ability, reading recognition and comprehension in later years. But also that too much television is linked to sleeping problems, and obesity.

I dont think this is telling us anything that we dont know is it! But I understand that when Mums are busy, the temptation to let the telly babysit for a while is very strong! I relied on the television plenty of times when mine were little. I wish I had really understood at the time though, that a really good quality toy that fires up a young persons interest and imagination can be just as effective a babysitter as the television, and, because they are playing and learning actively, rather than passively, will be far better for their development as well as giving Mum a well earned respite. Watching children and picking up on their interests to provide toys that will naturally engage them is the way to go for a quiet and fulfilled life for the whole family!

It is easy to be taken in by people who seem to know what they are talking about though. For instance, it seems the lady who invented the Teletubbies has done it again and come up with a new show - In the Night Garden - which she feels apparently will help childrens thinking skills develop. Good grief! It is a very well excepted fact that young children learn the most when they are active. Children deserve far more than the second-hand learning that they get from programmes such as these.

So switch off the set, and switch on to your childrens individual interests to find good toys that will prompt their first hand, active learning in the real world! Have a look at my playtips on the Elemental Toys website - www.elementaltoys.co.uk for ideas of where to start!

Speak soon

Sally.