Toys

The Importance of Play

Play has an undeniable influence on every aspect of a child's development, laying the foundation for reading, writing, mathematical reasoning, and creativity. Play is the work of children.

Through play, children develop

physical (gross motor) skills, as a child at play learns to reach, crawl, walk, run, climb, jump, throw, catch, and balance

fine motor skills (the use of hands and fingers), as he or she handles playthings

mental skills, through play that encourages problem solving and demonstrates cause and effect

language skills, which blossom as a child interacts with others and uses words for favorite playthings and activities

social skills, which are mastered by learning to follow directions, cooperate, take turns, abide by the rules, and share

emotional skills, as children experience pleasure, bond with others, and work through feelings during role play

self-esteem, so crucial to one's long term happiness and success, enhanced when children achieve goals through play

creativity and imagination; when a child pretends to be a doctor, a teacher, a parent, or a firefighter, he or she learns that life is full of possibilities and opportunities

Perhaps most important of all, play is fun. Years later, when we recall our childhood, it is the times spent playing with special people that we remember most fondly.

Our young fans look forward to visits to "The Blue Door Store" and seeing George, who always has all the best toys!

We are proud to be members of the American Specialty Toy Retailers Association