Follow the Leader

Did you ever think that some toys can influence leadership qualities in children? We have been testing toys here at the Toy Tips Research Institute for close to 20 years and have noticed that over the last decade or so companies have done a really great job introducing toys that enhance character development. We have also seen many that don’t (scantily dressed dolls, super-violent videogames, musical toys with non-age appropriate musical lyrics, knock-offs).

Now, you can’t turn a child into a leader just by the toys he/she plays with but you can definitely stimulate those traits through play. Whether it is in the classroom or at home, playing board games, puzzles, sports toys or with age appropriate dolls and non-violent action figures, kids can emphasize skills such as taking turns, listening to opponents, speaking clearly, having patience and showing full concentration. This can quietly earn the respect of their playmates further enhancing those leadership qualities.

Skills that facilitate a child to do their best, share, work with others and to be responsible are important to overall growth and help to shape who a child becomes. Honesty, integrity, telling the truth and doing the right thing all contribute to teaching children needed skills for later in life.

Kids who show leadership qualities by age 10 probably have it in them to become a leader in life. It’s best for parents and teachers to notice this early on so they can motivate these kids to use these skills. This will give them an edge up  to reach their potential. Sadly, not all born-leaders do. But, it’s best to notice and try.

For a list of character-based toys, visit toytips.com and follow our database functions to choose toys with character development skills. (You can choose by age)

Marianne
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