Who among us hasn’t at least been tempted to remove the batteries from a loud, light-flashing, noise-making toy? We know our children are having fun, but to adult ears, the noise is all but overwhelming.

While children are certainly drawn to sensory-stimulating toys that light up and make noises, these toys take away from the social engagement play is meant to provide, meaning parents and children alike communicate verbally less often when electronic toys are in use. Even toys marked as “’educational” -- according to the American Academy of Pediatrics – can ”elicit fewer adult words, fewer conversational turns [and] fewer parental responses than during play with traditional toys or books.” Like sugar, these toys light up the reward centers in our children’s brains without providing any real value to help them grow.

That said, what’s a parent to do with Christmas around the corner and all the shiny, new, battery-powered toys on display? Our advice is to go old-school! And if that makes you think of woodgrain building blocks and tinker toys, remember that there are plenty of non-electronic toys that are also fun and exciting! Here are some examples:

• Pretend Play Toys: Think Barbies, action figures, animals, and dinosaurs. Many franchises have their own line of toys, including low-tech options, that your child will get excited about. These are a great option for toys that have a “wow” factor while still giving children the opportunity to use language and stories to learn about the world around them.
   
• Manipulative Toys: This category includes woodgrain blocks as well as LEGO® sets, building kits, puzzles, and trains. These toys foster children’s fine motor skills, and some can also build early math skills.
   
• Art Supplies: Crayons, markers, coloring books, and paints all make great gifts that children can have fun with while building their creativity. If you want something more elaborate, art supply stores often sell activity kits you and your child can work on together.
   
• “Experience” Gifts: Does your child love sea creatures? Give them tickets (or even a membership) for a nearby aquarium. If your children are sports fans, consider tickets to a game. Classes – from painting and pottery to dance or martial arts – are great gifts your child can get excited about.

When it comes to gifts involving screen time, it is important to set screen time limits. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends no screen time for children under 18 months (except video calls), one hour per day for ages 2-5, and no more than two hours of recreational screen time for ages 6 and older, not including homework. Too much screen time can lead to a decrease in attention span, affecting their abilities to focus at home and at school. Also, it has been found that kids with the most excessive screen time often do not get enough physical activity, leading to an increase in their risk for obesity and other subsequent long-term health issues. 

In short, choose toys that spark your child’s imagination, give them the chance to explore their world and encourage bonding with their family members. Just be sure the toy is age-appropriate for your child. In the process, you might save your sanity with less roar from noisy toys – and more peace and quiet.