Play : an educational process with special reference to the provision of educational toys

Abstract

Toys are an integral part of a child's life; together with play they promote development. Toy manufacturers increasingly develop new types of toys especially those with educational play value. From separate samples of parents and of children, and from forays into local toy shops, the author obtained information regarding the availability of educational toys on the local market, and on their use by various categories of people in Malta. These have revealed that in local shops the supply of educationally valuable toys is extensive and varied. Parental use of this availability depends on the educational level of the parents, the mother's influence being ostensibly greater. Children's preferences depend on age and maturation level, and on their opportunities for play at home and at school. The Handicapped child was also considered. Interviews and personal observation showed that for them toys are of greater importance and value. It is essential that parents be selective in purchasing toys for children.