Fancy toys can cause mental harm to children, know better options and scientific reasons

The use of fancy toys to distract children may seem convenient and effective at first glance.

We often get such toys for our children, but their long-term effects can be negative on mental and intellectual development. Let's understand this in detail.

Possible harm from fancy toys that distract attention

Reduction in attention stability: Fancy toys have bright lights, sounds and movements, which prove to be overstimulating for children. Due to this, the child gets used to changing attention frequently and is unable to focus on any one activity for a long time.

Effect on imagination and creativity: These toys already present the complete experience - like the car moves on its own, the animal makes a sound. This reduces the child's imagination and tendency to do creative play.

Decline in independent thinking and problem solving: When a child becomes dependent on toys that do everything for him, he does not develop a habit of active engagement. He does not participate in the process of thinking like “what if…”.

Habit of instant gratification: Through fancy toys, the child wants reactions like light, sound and movement all the time. This makes him addicted to “instant gratification” and reduces the ability to have patience.

What are better options for children?

Simple, non-electronic toys – like wooden blocks, clay, puzzles, balls, drawing materials.

Imaginative games – like house-house, doctor-doctor, kitchen games.

Telling stories/reading books – this helps in language development, concentration and imagination.

Spending time with nature – soil, water, plants, open fields – these promote the child’s sensory understanding and connection with the environment.