Can a child be overexcited by toys?

Introduction

In our modern world, children are surrounded by toys that flash, beep, sing and move. While these toys are often presented as educational and stimulating, more and more parents and educators are asking the question: can a child be overexcited by toys? The answer is: yes. In this article, we explain what overstimulation is, how toys play a role in it, what the signals are and how to prevent overstimulation.

What is overstimulation?

Over-stimulation occurs when a child's brain receives more stimuli than it can process. Stimuli are external cues such as sound, light, movement, smell or touch. Each child experiences and processes these stimuli differently. Young children in particular, and children who are more sensitive (such as highly sensitive children or children with autism), are more likely to struggle with an abundance of stimuli.

How do toys cause overstimulation?

Toys are meant to entertain, stimulate and help children learn. But when toys are too intensive, complex or busy is, it can actually backfire.

Examples of stimulus-rich toys:

• Toys with flashing lights or bright colours
• Toys that makes noises or plays music
• Tablets or electronic devices with many image changes
• Interactive toys with multiple functions simultaneously (e.g. singing, moving and lights)

When children play with these types of toys for long periods, they are exposed to a continuous stream of sensory stimuli, which can lead to overload.

Signs of overstimulation in children

Recognising overstimulation is important for timely intervention. Children often cannot yet put their feelings into words, but show it through their behaviour.

Possible signals:

• Tantrums or crying for no apparent reason
• Withdrawing or isolating oneself
• Fatigue or irritability
• Restless or hyperactive behaviour
• Difficulty sleeping or eating
• Cutting oneself off from contact (not wanting to talk or play)

Every child reacts differently, so it is important to watch for changes in behaviour after playtime.

How to avoid overstimulation from toys?

As a parent or carer, you can do a lot to create a balanced play environment.

1. Choose toys consciously

• Prefer soothing toys such as wooden blocks, soft toys, puzzles or books.
• Avoid (or limit) toys with lots of electronic stimuli.
• Ask yourself: Do these toys stimulate my child or make him/her restless?

2. Offer toys in small quantities

• Don't put all the toys down at once. Alternate by week or theme.
• Less choice = more focus = less incentives.

3. Create a low-stimulus play environment

• Provide a tidy and quiet playground.
• Avoid loud noises or multiple sound sources at the same time (e.g. TV + toys).
• Let your child regularly play outside, in a natural and peaceful environment.

4. Pay attention to balance

• Alternate active toys with quiet activities (e.g. colouring, reading aloud).
• Provide plenty of resting moments between playtime.

For whom is this especially important?

Some children are extra sensitive to stimuli:

• Highly sensitive children (HSP): they process stimuli more deeply and intensely.
• Children with autism or ADHD
• Babies and toddlers, in whom the nervous system is still developing.

For these groups, it is especially important to be alert to over-stimulation and choose simplicity and quietness in toys.