As children grow older, their interests naturally evolve. Around the age of 10, many kids begin transitioning from toys to more complex activities like sports, video games, and socializing with friends. But does that mean it’s time for them to completely stop playing with toys? Not necessarily.
The Benefits of Play for Older Kids
While the toys they play with might change as they age, the benefits of play continue. For a 10-year-old, toys can still offer valuable opportunities for growth and learning. Here are four benefits to reference.
1. Encouraging Creativity and Imagination
Building blocks, action figures, and even arts and crafts materials aren’t just for younger children. These toys encourage creativity, helping kids think outside the box and solve problems. When a 10-year-old engages in imaginative play, they develop critical thinking skills that are useful in both school and daily life.
According to Dr. Stuart Brown, founder of the National Institute for Play, "Play is the most transformative and important thing in childhood development, as it enhances creativity, social skills, and intellectual growth." Toys that foster imaginative play are essential for a child's brain development and overall cognitive abilities.
2. Promoting Social Interaction
Toys can also be a great way for kids to bond with their friends and family. Whether it’s playing a board game, building a Sillbird set together, or even creating a world with action figures, toys can encourage teamwork, communication, and social skills. These interactions are essential in developing relationships and learning how to work with others.
3. Stress Relief and Relaxation
As kids grow, they may experience more stress from school, extracurricular activities, and social pressures. Playing with toys, especially ones that require focus or have a tactile component (like building sets or puzzles), can be an excellent way to relax and de-stress. It provides a break from the hustle and bustle, helping children refocus and unwind.
Dr. Peter Gray, a research professor of psychology at Boston College, emphasizes in his book Free to Learn that, “Play is not only fun; it is a vital process for relieving stress and anxiety. It allows children to engage their minds in healthy ways, which is essential in an age of increasing pressures.” Even as kids grow older, the need for relaxing, creative play is important for their mental well-being.
4. Enhancing Motor Skills
Many toys, such as building blocks, model kits, or crafts, involve fine motor skills. While younger children are often working on basic motor skills, older kids can continue to strengthen their abilities through more complex tasks. This physical activity is important for hand-eye coordination and dexterity.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), “Fine motor development plays a critical role in a child’s ability to interact with their environment and in achieving future academic success.” Engaging with toys that challenge motor skills, like puzzles or building sets, helps maintain this development as children grow older.
Why It’s Okay for Kids to Continue Playing with Toys
There’s no specific age when kids should stop playing with toys. In fact, the joy of play isn’t bound by age. Many toys, especially ones that engage the mind or encourage creation, are timeless. Whether it’s a building set, a creative kit, or a puzzle, these toys can remain engaging for kids as they grow.
Furthermore, toys provide an opportunity for kids to engage in screen-free, hands-on activities. In today’s world, where screen time is a growing concern, it’s important to balance digital entertainment with physical, creative play.
When Should Kids Stop Playing with Toys?
It’s not so much about age as it is about the child’s personal interest. If a 10-year-old still enjoys playing with toys and finds them fulfilling, there’s no harm in letting them continue. However, it’s also important to allow space for independence and new interests. Encouraging a balance of activities—ranging from toy-based play to more mature hobbies like reading, sports, or music—can help ensure that a child develops into a well-rounded individual.
So, should 10-year-old kids stop playing with toys? Absolutely not! Toys can still play an important role in a child's development, fostering creativity, social skills, relaxation, and more. Let’s encourage kids to enjoy their favorite toys for as long as they find joy in them, while also supporting their growth in other areas. After all, childhood is about exploration and imagination, no matter how old they are!
