Kids Are Happier with Fewer Toys
In the News
I've noticed that having lots of toys around does not keep my kids busier for longer. Then I read this article and learned that studies have shown the same thing. It's defintely making me rethink the Christmas shopping this year.
It's a bit of a cliché but they are so happy with cardboard boxes. I might save up some amazon ones for giant building blocks!
What's your opinion on this? Do the kids in your life have "too many" toys?
https://www.mother.ly/child/its-true-giving-your-kids-fewer-toys-at-christmas-makes-them-happier
I very much agree with you on this. As with many things in life, common sense should tell us these things rather than relying on 'experts' doing research.
I work in a contact centre and each room is full of toys, games, crafting etc all laid out on open shelves or lidless boxes. The children run in and it is brain overload, they don't know where to start and end up going from toy to toy but never settling to play with one or two.
I suggested that the toys be kept in age labelled cupboards and the children be allowed to pick the toy they want and then exchange it when ready. But of course sensible never gets anywhere in the workplace! The result would have been tidier rooms and organised play, as it is the rooms are full of broken toys, games unable to be used because so many pieces are missing and kids running around like headless chickens!!!
There was a playroom in the hospital when we were in with our son. The toys/books/craft items were all sorted into age appropriate drawers/cupboards/sections. It meant you could easily find what you wanted, there was more room for the children to play and was easier for the playroom assistant to keep organised and tidy up. You were allowed to take the toys to your room and then put them back where you found them. Totally agree that age related cupboards are the best way to organise items.
I can imagine this gets chaotic when they probably want to play with everything and worry about missing out on something good. It doesn't encourage a decent concentration span.
I ordered a travel cot for him for his Christmas visit to my parents. He spent ages playing with the box it came in! He does have a lot of toys but that is because they were bought as presents from lots of different people. We have only bought him 2 toys. He does play with them all but he has got his favourite toys. His granny has bought him a rocking horse for christmas and his other grandparents got him a walker for his birthday. We aren't buying him toys this Christmas as we has lots and will probably get more.
MrsCraig This really made me smile. It doesn't matter how old we all are - we still remember that cardboard box that we played with until it was tatty or flattened and torn beyond repair. The tunnel, the castle, the boat, the cave etc. It does strengthen the theory that imagination is the best toy ever!
angemski he couldn't believe that he was able to fit in the box and he spent ages just crawling in and out of the box. There is a tall cardboard box in our hallway, I can't wait to see his reaction when he figures out he can stand up in it! It is the look of delight on his face, I would love to know what he is thinking!
We're the same. My kids get so much from grandparents and aunts and uncles that it's more than enough and we don't need to get anything!
ClaireF1978 grandparents love to spoil their grandchildren. He is the first grandchild on both sides so he is very spoilt. Plus his grandparents friends buy him presents or give us their grandchildrens hand me downs. I keep joking I need a bigger house for all his stuff.... starting to worry it won't be a joke soon!
I think you can also apply this theory to other situations, and not just with Children.
If I go into a restaurant and there are 100 items on the menu, it feels like overload. Whereas, a couple of dozen choices makes it feel a lot easier.
You're right, it is like this. I never noticed before. I guess you kind of want to try everything so it's hard to make decision.
It’s the same for cats! No matter how fancy or pricy the gifts you get them, the moment that box opens, they are more interested in the packaging than the toy. Same goes for paper bags as well, and the wrapping paper
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