Magnetic toys are widely used in STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) as a way for children to learn through play. For children with ADHD, toys like these can also be an effective and fun tool in reducing stress, improving their concentration, and developing motor and social skills.
Stress relief
Research has shown that, as well as being essential to encouraging various skills, playing with STEAM toys is a natural stress reliever for children. Many children with ADHD experience agitation and hyperactivity, particularly when they are under stress. The process of building and experimenting with magnetic tiles stimulates their senses, quickly - and significantly - reducing stress. Repetitive actions when playing with magnetic toys help channel negative stress in a positive way, providing a creative outlet that is relaxing and lowers stress, frustration, and tension. Lastly, the colours of the magnetic tiles have the ability to relax the amygdala, the part of the emotional brain that is associated with processing emotions and dealing with stress. This makes the pastel colours of the magnetic tiles a particularly valuable aid to reducing stress and instilling a sense of calm.
Improving concentration and creative thinking
Tactile stimulation can help channel the attention of children with ADHD and improve their focus, since manipulating magnetic components involves coordination and attention. Magnetic toys, particularly those for building, also encourage children to experiment freely with shapes, structures, and magnetic forces, and to build their own unique creations using their imagination. The creativity encouraged by magnetic toy also teaches children, in a simulated, make-believe environment, to solve problems in a less pressured way, which benefits their mental wellbeing.
Developing motor and social skills
Manipulating magnetic toys by, for instance, positioning and repositioning magnetic tiles helps develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. For children with ADHD with additional physical challenges, it is an enjoyable way to develop and strengthen these skills. Lastly, playing with magnetic toys can also encourage cooperation and social interaction, especially when children work together to build larger structures or solve problems.
In summary, magnetic toys can be a valuable tool for children with ADHD, because they help improve their concentration, lower stress, and develop their motor skills.
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