“Go and play.” Who of us doesn’t remember this request from our parents? For generations of children, this suggestion resulted in us spending time outside with friends, or playing in our rooms with traditional toys. Today’s pop culture, along with screen time, entices children away from the beneficial play with toys, such as blocks, puzzles, books, trucks, paper dolls, coloring and drawing. The child does not have to use their imaginations at the level they do, when they engage in traditional play.
The benefits are many when children play with traditional toys. The child at that time is in charge of the action and so the action moves at their pace. Children have time to process the scene, because they are in charge of it. Traditional play sets the foundation for decision making, problem solving and concentration. It also enhances fine motor skills. One engaging alternative to screen time is interactive paper doll play. This is a timeless activity that fosters creativity, imagination, and hands-on learning.
In this blog we'll explore the benefits of imaginative play with one of the all time favorites toys of children, interactive paper dolls. We will discuss the benefits of paper doll play and compare it to benefits when children spend time in front of a screen.
CREATIVE DEVELOPMENT
Interactive Paper Dolls: Interactive paper dolls allow children to express their creativity through art and design. They can color, cut, and customize their paper dolls and fashions, giving free rein to their imagination. This process encourages artistic skills and an appreciation for aesthetics.
Screen Time: Excessive screen time can limit creative development, as children are often passive consumers of content rather than active creators. While some digital apps and games can promote creativity, they may not offer the same depth of artistic expression as tangible activities.
FINE MOTOR SKILLS
Interactive Paper Dolls: Cutting, coloring, and manipulating paper dolls and their accessories require precise hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. This hands-on engagement strengthens children's dexterity and control.
Screen Time: Extended periods of screen time can hinder the development of fine motor skills as children primarily use touchscreens, which provide less resistance and tactile feedback compared to traditional toys and activities.
SOCIAL INTERACTION
Interactive Paper Dolls: Playing with paper dolls can be a social activity, fostering collaboration, communication, and negotiation. When children engage in imaginative play together they become more creative, because they are sharing ideas and learning cooperation.
Screen Time: Excessive screen time may lead to isolation as children become absorbed in individual experiences on devices. Limited face-to-face interaction can hinder their ability to build essential social skills and relationships.
COGNITIVE ENGAGEMENT
Interactive Paper Dolls: Interactive paper dolls encourage critical thinking as children plan and design outfits, mix and match styles, and create storylines. This form of play enhances problem-solving abilities, promotes cooperation and stimulates the imagination.
Screen Time: While some educational apps and games can offer cognitive benefits. Passive consumption of content, such as binge-watching videos, may not challenge a child's cognitive abilities or encourage active problem-solving.
SCREEN TIME ENGAGEMENT
Interactive Paper Dolls: Parents and caregivers can easily control the time children spend playing with interactive paper dolls, ensuring a healthy balance between screen time and other activities.
Screen Time: Managing screen time can be challenging, especially when children have access to various digital devices. Without proper supervision and limits, excessive screen time can lead to negative consequences on physical and mental health.
CONCLUSION
For children, interactive paper dolls provide a valuable alternative to excessive screen time. They promote creativity, fine motor skills, social interaction, and cognitive engagement. While technology has its merits, it is essential to encourage a balanced approach to play and learning, incorporating traditional play activities and toys to support a child's holistic development.
If you would like to see our beautifully illustrated paper dolls visit us on our website at
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