It is better to understand a little than to misunderstand a lot, and children rely on us to provide the groundwork for their social development.

This can be implemented through the clever use of educational toys which are used in role play.  Children love to play act, so encouraging this behaviour allows them to sample many of the emotions they will encounter when they start nursery or school.

Toys to nurture social development include dolls, puppets and teddy bears (stuffed animals are also known as plush toys).  Play is one of the best ways for your child to rehearse the realities of life. It also provides the additional benefit of stimulating the imagination, nurturing skills and boosting self-esteem.

Presents for a boy which develop these core areas are action men or dolls, which build a sense of confidence through interactive ‘battles’ with other boy dolls.  Dolls and teddy bears make great presents for a girl  as young ladies often build up friendships with their favourite toys, a valuable resource when making friends in nursery.

Educational toys fulfil the needs of children by allowing them to escape from the ‘real’ world for a while and practise the art of giving rather than receiving.  They also allow parents to bring out the best of their children’s natural skills.  Books help develop concentration and stimulate the imagination.  Introduce lots of song and dance into your child’s world to coax an affinity with music.  Play cookers, hoovers and gardening tools encourage cooperation, sharing and responsibility.

Make it your aim to make your child’s life as fulfilling and rewarding as you possibly can and hone in on their natural creative and social skills. Baby toys are extremely effective tools in promoting social and educational development.