Early Childhood Learning Aid/Toy Research:

1. What is "Early Childhood"?

Early Childhood is the distinct period between birth and eight years old during which children
grow and develop rapidly, and the brain is especially susceptible to environmental factors.

2. What are some of the things (knowledge and/or skills) children in early childhood
should be learning? Back up your answer with research.

According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), language
and literacy skills are crucial for young children to develop in early childhood. These skills
include listening, speaking, reading, and writing, which are essential for communication and
academic success. Children who develop strong language and literacy skills in early childhood
are more likely to succeed academically and have better long-term outcomes.

Young children in early childhood should be learning cognitive skills such as problem-solving,
critical thinking, and creativity. These skills help children learn how to think independently,
develop new ideas, and make decisions. A study published in the Journal of Experimental Child
Psychology found that children who engage in creative activities like drawing and painting are
better able to solve problems and think critically.

3. What is meant by "sustainable product design"? Why is it important for toys to be

sustainable?

Sustainable product design is creating products that minimize negative environmental and
social impacts throughout their life cycle, from raw materials extraction to disposal. It involves
considering factors such as material selection, energy efficiency, and waste reduction.

4. Find examples (minimum 5) of successful Early Childhood Learning Toys. Explain

what skills/knowledge they are trying to teach. Explain why you think they are well-
designed. Post photographs/visuals.

This learning toy is well-designed because it

helps children strengthen their problem-solving
skills as they’re required to sort out the numbers
in order. The shapes also have specific
allocations, encouraging children to analyze the
board and make the right decision.
 This learning toy helps children sharpen their eye and hand
coordination by moving the multiple blocks of different shapes
through the wires.

This learning toy helps children develop their mathematical

skills as they have a visual presentation to help them solve
problems.

This learning toy is excellent for developing a child's hand-eye

coordination, and control of hand and finger movements as they
create shapes with the use of rubber bands.

The nut and bolt toy is an open-ended activity that

keeps children engaged while helping them to develop
fine motor skills, concentration, coordination, and
independence. The practice also helps them
strengthen hand muscles and teaches patience and
accuracy.
5. What safety considerations must designers consider when designing early childhood
toys?

● Age appropriateness: Designers must ensure that their toys are age-appropriate for the
intended age range. The toy should not be too advanced or simple for the child’s age, as
both can lead to potential safety hazards.
● Choking hazards: Small parts or pieces that can come loose easily and fit through a
toilet paper roll should be avoided in toys for young children, as they can pose a choking
hazard.
● Non-toxic materials: Toys for young children should be made from non-toxic materials
that are safe to put in their mouths, as young children often explore the world through
their mouths.
● Sharp edges and points: Toys should not have sharp edges or points that can cause
cuts or injuries to children.

8. Based on your investigation, develop 5 specifications you want your toy to meet.

A specification is a set of considerations, constraints, and requirements for a solution: what the solution
must or must not have to be successful. Every aspect of a specification must be specific, measurable,
achievable, realistic and testable (SMART).

● Safety: The toy must be safe for children to use, with no small parts that could be
swallowed, no sharp edges, and no toxic materials. It should meet safety standards and
regulations, such as ASTM F963.

● Durability: The toy should withstand rough handling and be made of sturdy materials that
won't break easily. It should withstand typical wear and tear from the use by young
children.

● Educational Value: The toy should have educational value, helping to promote the
development of fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, problem-solving, and cognitive
development. It could also encourage creativity and imaginative play.

● Age-Appropriate: The toy should be appropriate for the child's age, with appropriate
complexity and size for their developmental stage. The toy should be designed to be
challenging but not frustrating for the child to use.

● Engaging: The toy should be engaging and interesting to the child, with attractive colors,
textures, and sounds. It should be able to hold the child's attention and encourage them
to play with it for extended periods of time.