Why fewer toys are often better: the power of minimalist play

Introduction

Many parents recognise it: an overflowing toy cupboard, toys on the floor, and yet your child complains of being bored. How can that be? And why does your child sometimes seem to play longer and deeper with one wooden block than with a cupboard full of flashing and singing gadgets? The answer lies in a surprising principle: fewer toys is often better.

In this article, you will discover why a minimalist approach to toys benefits your child's concentration, creativity and peace of mind.

What is minimalist play?

Minimalist play does not mean that a child has nothing left to play with. It means that the child:

• plays with fewer but better-chosen toys,
• without constant distractions of busy colours, sounds or screens,
• is given room to to shape play yourself, without everything already being pre-programmed.

The aim is to give the child the freedom to play more deeply, creatively and quietly - Without overstimulation.

Why fewer toys works better

1. More concentration, less chaos

Children get easily distracted if they have too much choice. Limiting toys helps them focus on what is there. This increases their attention span and helps develop deep concentration.

2. Stimulates creativity

Simple toys such as blocks, dolls, sand or craft materials challenge children to invent something on their own. They need to play shape yourself, instead of the toys doing the work for them.

"A car with light and sound drives by itself. A wooden block becomes a car, a telephone or a rocket - anything your child comes up with."

3. Less stimuli = more rest

Toys with flashing lights, bright colours and sounds constantly stimulate the nervous system. On the contrary, a low-stimulus play environment promotes relaxation, calmness and self-regulation.

4. Improves interplay

When toys are simpler, children are more likely to play together. There is room for imagination, negotiation and cooperation. This promotes social development.

5. Better appreciation for what is there

Children who have many toys quickly get bored of something new. With fewer toys, they learn handle their belongings more carefully and develop more appreciation.

How to switch to fewer toys

1. Break down into themes or categories

Divide the toys into groups: building, role-play, creative, books, outdoors. Choose a few items from each category and temporarily store the rest.

2. Make use of a toy rotation

Store some of the toys out of reach and Alternate weekly or monthly. What has been gone for a while feels like new!

3. Consciously choose toys that are open-ended

Choose toys that in multiple ways to be used. Think about:

• wooden or silicone blocks
• dolls
• rags or cloths
• role-playing toys
• open-ended toys

Avoid toys that only one function has or where the child only has to press a button.

4. Define a fixed storage space and limit

For example: one shelf, one basket or one drawer. If it doesn't fit, it's time to get rid of or swap something.

5. Involve your child in the process

Explain at child level why you will use fewer toys. Let your child help choose what can stay or 'go on holiday'.