Tag Archives: imaginative play

Learning Through Play

Learning Through Play

I love it when toys are able to imitate what is out there in the real world. Not only would the child get to learn the different functions the particular item has in relation to reality but experience, in a way, what could potentially be the real world. With many toy manufacturers going the automated and battery operated way, it’s nice to know that there are toy companies out there that still value the good old “body mechanism” and imagination. One such company is Zimbler, a family run company that has stood the test of time and passed down from one generation to the next. From a company that started from selling quality leather and fur, it has evolved to having quality toys and hobbies. Their range of toys include collectible vehicles, trains, and even toy vehicles that function just like what they would in the outside world.

Zimbler houses the Bruder range of toy vehicles, which were designed with realistic detail and function to ensure a more believable experience for the child. I was lucky to be given a DHL truck while I was at the Bloggers Brunch a few weeks back, to trial. Master 5 was overcome with joy when he saw the package on the desk waiting for him. No need for an after school snack and he went straight to open up the box and played with it right away!

The DHL Delivery Truck rrp$110.00

The DHL Delivery Truck with the forklift and pallets rrp$110.00

I had to beg him to let me have a look at the truck to see the different functions. There was an amazing level of detail. The delivery truck came with a fork lift and 2 pallets. Master 5 used other things around him to cart onto the pallet and then using the manually driven forklift to place it into the back of the truck.

The level of detailing - steps that fold down, latch to open & close the back doors.

The level of detailing - steps that fold down, latch to open & close the back doors.

 

Doors that can all be opened

Doors that open, Miss 7's littlest pet shop toy was the assigned driver that day.

All the doors to the truck could be opened and there was even a latch on the back door of the truck, just like the real thing. It was made from sturdy plastic, so you can be rest assured that it would last awhile. But, if in the likelihood that some parts do break, you’re able to get a replacement just by contacting Zimbler. Now THAT’S service.Prices start from $55 for tractors and all the way up to nearly $200, depending on how big and how items there are in the vehicle. They also have a line that is suitable for much younger children – the Roadmax series, which would be great for children from 2 years of age and up.

 

To find out where the Bruder and Roadmax range of toys are stocked, simply head on to the Zimbler site.

 

How old is too old for imaginative play?

How old is too old for imaginative play?

Imaginative play to me is an essential part of a child’s development. It encourages the child’s creativity, especially when it comes to using the different toys and equipment as props that we adults would sometimes never think of! It also developes a child’s sense of imagination, when they create different “worlds” or scenarios with their toys and props. Imaginative play can start at a very young age, but when should they stop or should they even stop at all?

My children love imaginative play, ok, so they LOVE toys, can’t get enough of them. The eldest will turn 8 early next year and the second one is 6. I don’t mind them getting (birthday presents from me) or buying (with their pocket money) toys like dolls, littlest pet shop, etc. To me, it encourages their imagination in forming the different worlds, and I also have a view of how they view the world too, through the language they use. I have a few family members however who have a varying view on this. To them, because the girls are in primary school, they should be playing “teachers”, doing writing, playing computer games and these imaginative play are considered childish. Of course being the person I am – I ignore those comments. They are after all my children and under MY care. But, what do you think? Should there be a limit to imaginative play? And this includes dressing up, and playing pretend too. What are your views? Share your thoughts with us.