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Toys

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Playing with Toys



The value of a toy lies in the number of applications that can
be extracted from it. Good toys enhance play.
 
Toys should add something to all of the types of play
described. A set of 'jacks' increases the challenge and
interest of Function Play; construction toys offer new creative
construction and fantasy opportunities. A long skipping rope
contributes to social interaction, since a team of little girls is
needed, and competition and negotiation are entailed.
 
Toys help develop personality and abstract values.
The fundamental relationship between cause (kicking the
tower of blocks) and effect (the giant crash) is illustrated.
The parental comments on the action become part of
socialisation. And there is the satisfaction felt over the
tower itself.
 
Good toys link the child's world to the real world, creating
a bridge to abstract or symbolic thinking.

 

© 1993- 1995 Alexander Manu ©1995 Danish Design Centre "ToolToys - Tools with an Element of Play "
The author grants permission to make a digital or hard copy of part or all of this work for personal use provided that copies are not made or distributed for profit. The copyright notice and the title of the publication must appear on all printed copies.