Pegs and Pegboards: Not Just for Toddlers

1. Pegs and Pegboards: Not Just for Toddlers I must confess; I never bought pegboards for my sons. I saw pegboards as being rather limited in play and having lots of pieces to pick up. Was I ever wrong! It was only when I returned to college to study Early Childhood Development that I learned about the many, many educational benefits ofPegs and pegboards fortoddlers. And multiple pieces can easily be contained in storage bags or boxes. It was too late for my boys but I certainly made sure these great educational and fun toys were part of preschools and day cares where I worked. I also discovered that pegboard sets can grow with the child. Used in different ways, they are also superToys for 3 year old boysand girls. While toddlers are concentrating on placing the jumbo pegs in holes or stacking one on top of the other, 3 year olds are busy making more complex patterns. When toddlers are learning colors and basic shapes, 3 year olds are talking about hexagons and rectangles. Toddlers may sort pegs by color and 3 year olds may sort them by shape or size. Although pegboard activities may be guided by adults, this can also be a toy with no rules. Toddlers and older kids will be led by their own interests and developmental level. Pegs and pegboards for toddlers are super for older kids too. AnActivity cube for toddlerswhich integrates pegs and pegboards is an ideal toy that develops with your child. There are many activity cubes for toddlersthat are attractive to this age group but are limited to that level of skills. An activity cube for toddlers which can also be used for higher levels of learning is cost saving and versatile. Toddlers will use the cube by dropping the shapes through the proper

2. holes. 3 year old boys and girls may match the shapes to the more complicated patterns. One disadvantage to activity cubes is that there may be too many activities and be over stimulating; it may lead to sensory overload. An activity cube that can dismantled like a puzzle can be used as individual games, letting the child focus on one skill. As always when choosing toys for a toddler or toys for 3 year old boys and girls, you will be looking for ones that are safe, long lasting and easily cleaned. They need to be age appropriate and stimulating. The best toys offer multiple learning opportunities and can be used in a variety of experiences. Pegs and pegboards for toddlers and activity cubes for toddlers will keep the little ones busy and entertained. And they aren't just for toddlers.