• Add description, images, menus and links to your mega menu

  • A column with no settings can be used as a spacer

  • Link to your collections, sales and even external links

  • Add up to five columns

  • Grandparenting in the Digital Age: Why Good Old-Fashioned Play is Still Essential

    Grandparenting in the Digital Age: Why Good Old-Fashioned Play is Still Essential

    As technology continues to evolve, so does the way we play. In today's digital age, it's becoming increasingly common for kids to spend hours glued to screens, often at the expense of physical activity and social interaction. While there's no denying the benefits of modern technology, it's important to remember the value of good old-fashioned playtime, especially when bonding with your grandkids.

    So let's explore the benefits of traditional play and check out some unique toy options that modern grandkids will love. Get ready to leave your smartphone on airplane mode and dive into quality classic playtime!

     

    Benefits of Old-Fashioned Play  

    There's a reason why traditional play has stood the test of time: it offers numerous physical, cognitive, and social benefits that are essential for child development. From developing fine motor skills to fostering creativity and imagination, here are just a few of the ways that old-fashioned play can benefit your grandkids:

    Physical Development: Classic toys like balls, jump ropes, and building blocks can help kids develop their gross and fine motor skills, balance, and coordination. Running around outside, climbing trees, and playing games like tag and hide-and-seek can promote physical activity and help prevent childhood obesity.

    Cognitive Development: When children engage in open-ended play with toys like puzzles, building sets, and arts and crafts, they use their imaginations and problem-solving skills to come up with creative solutions. This type of play also promotes critical thinking, memory, and spatial awareness.

    Social Development: Playing with others helps children learn valuable social skills, such as sharing, taking turns, and communicating. Traditional games like board games, card games, and group activities also promote teamwork, sportsmanship, and leadership skills.

      By providing your grandkids with classic toys and encouraging traditional play, you can help them develop essential skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. And with a selection of quality old-fashioned toys for modern grandkids, it's easier than ever to introduce yours to the joys of traditional play.

       

       

      Five Old-Fashioned Toys for Modern Grandkids 

       

      1. Kids Montessori Interactive Educational My Farm Day Book

      a grandson playing with the montessori my farm day book

        The Kids Montessori Interactive Educational My Farm Day Book is a multi-page activity book designed to help kids develop basic skills in a fun and interactive way. This toy teaches kids about the role of agriculture, clock reading, and understanding the weather.

        This fun activity book helps kids develop their gross and fine motor skills while engaging in healthy, active play. This toy is perfect for small kids aged 3-6 years and is an ideal option for grandparents to engage in playtime with their grandkids.

         

         

        2. The Ring Toss Game Set  

        grandkids playing with the ring toss game set

          The Ring Toss Game Set is a fun and interactive game designed to improve hand-eye coordination in kids aged 3-12. This complete game set comes with two cross arms, five scoring spikes, and five ABS plastic rings, making it easy to play indoors or outdoors.

          Playing the game allows grandparents to engage in quality playtime with their grandkids and create lasting memories. Additionally, this toy helps kids develop essential motor skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.

           

           

          3. Doctor Kit Toy

          a grandson with the doctor kit toy

            This portable Doctor Kit Toy is a complete set that allows kids to role-play as doctors, dentists, or other healthcare professionals while bonding with grandparents in pretend play. This toy helps kids develop their imagination and creativity while exploring the medical field.

            With over 23 realistic medical tools, this toy is an educative source of fun for kids aged 3-8. It's easy to use, eco-friendly, and safe for kids. The toy kit comes in a spacious doctor's bag, making it easy to carry for on-the-go playtime. This toy kit can also inspire a future career path for kids who have shown an inclination toward the medical field.

             

             

            4. Custom Name Montessori Wooden Board

            grandchildren using the custom name montessori wooden board

              The Custom Name Montessori Wooden Board is a personalized children's puzzle that encourages independent play and helps develop essential skills. The large, smooth pieces make them intuitive and easy to handle for small hands.

              The board's non-toxic, durable wood provides a safe, long-lasting play experience. The colorful shapes and letters of this puzzle make it easy for kids to learn how to spell their names in a fun way. This toy is ideal for kids ages 2-6 and is a perfect option for grandparents to engage in playtime with their grandkids.

               

               

              5. Math Wooden Counting Sticks

              math wooden counting sticks

                This Math Wooden Counting Sticks toy is a classic set featuring colored sticks and wooden blocks with math symbols. It allows children to develop basic math skills while engaging in fun and interactive playtime. With so many combinations to create, this toy provides hours of educational fun and keeps children engaged.

                Made with 100% natural wood and water-based paint, it's non-toxic and safe for kids. This fun toy is a reliable choice for grandparents who want to provide safe and educational playtime for their grandkids ages 3-7 years old.

                 

                Tips for Memorable Playtime 

                Now that you have some great toys to play with, how about some tips for grandparents to make the playtime with their grandkids even more memorable?

                 

                1. Set a regular playdate: By setting a playdate, grandparents, and grandchildren can look forward to spending time together and building a meaningful bond. It's also an ideal opportunity to introduce new toys, like the Kids Montessori Interactive Educational My Farm Day Book, and take them to a local farm or farmer's market to continue the learning experience.


                2. Create a friendly competition: Adding a little competition to playtime, such as with the Ring Toss Game Set, can make it even more exciting for kids. They'll enjoy developing their coordination skills and a more engaging playtime.


                3. Encourage imaginative play: Using toys like the Doctor Kit Toy can help stimulate a child's imagination and inspire them to roleplay. Grandparents can join the fun by acting as a medical patients, creating a fun and memorable experience.


                4. Incorporate learning into play: The Custom Name Montessori Wooden Board and the Math Wooden Counting Sticks are great examples of toys that can help teach kids basic skills while they play. Incorporating learning into play can help children develop essential skills and create a fun and engaging playtime.


                5. Take the play outside: Outdoor playtime can be a great way to engage in physical activity, like with the Ring Toss Game Set, and provide a change of scenery and fresh air. It can also set the tone for a healthy, fun, relaxing environment for grandparents and grandchildren to bond.

                   

                   

                  Conclusion  

                  While technology is an effective tool for learning and entertainment, it is important for grandparents to also engage in traditional playtime with their grandkids. The benefits of old-fashioned play, such as physical, cognitive, and social development, are numerous. The recommended toys are all designed to promote traditional playtime and offer educational value for kids.

                  By following our tips for memorable playtime, grandparents can create lasting memories with their grandkids while helping them develop essential skills and have fun at the same time.

                   

                  Jenny B. kids toys blog article writer

                  Written by

                  Jenny B.

                  Share to


                  Related article

                  Discover more
                  10 Best Gifts for Your Grandchildren: Creating Cherished Memories
                  10 Best Christmas Gifts for Kids in 2023