8 Sensory-Stimulating Toys To Help With 2020's Never-Ending Stress

Did you know that sensory toys can help with your little oneâs anxiety? Even if you and your family think youâve got this new normal figured out, minor stressors (damn you, bottomless inbox) can unravel the day faster than your kid can say, âCan I have another snack?â Kids are like emotional lint rollers, they pick up on your attitude before you even realize it. Now for the good news: when your little one (and you) are dealing with that stress, sensory toys for kids and constructive sets can be a huge help.
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When you play with sensory toys and talk about how they look, feel, or sound youâre demonstrating that you care about the same thingsâand that feels reassuring. âDuring such an unpredictable and stressful time, child-directed play can provide children with the attention they need, and they may be less likely to seek it during other times, such as when youâre trying to work,â says Daniel Bagner, Ph.D., a board-certified licensed clinical child psychologist and psychology professor at Florida International Universityâs Center for Children and Families. Sounds pretty good, right?
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Baby sensory toys can help your little one develop color, number, and even social skills that they would have otherwise learned later. Sensory toys for autism also make a huge difference in your kiddoâs life. Even a brief one-on-one playdate can have lasting effectsâespecially when it comes to your kidâs bedtime routine. Think of it this way, engaging with your kids through play is like filling up their emotional gas tank with happy fuel. So when they are faced with a mid-day dilemma, they are better equipped to tackle when not running on empty. Constructive and sensory toys are great for this because the engagement level is so high. âWhile children tend to play independently with these types of toys, itâs interactive play that is critical for optimal social-emotional development, including the ability to self-soothe,â adds Bagner. âWhen parents praise their children for staying calm during play, it increases the likelihood that the children will be calm in other situations.â
You donât have to be Willy Wonka to succeed. Sensory toys, like a fluffy stuffed animal or a squishy ball, helps in creating safe and comfortable play. Give them the tools and do what you can to help make that playdate happen.
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Stay calm and play on with other mom-approved toys your kids will enjoy all year long.
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