Importance of Sub-skills

We often think of learning an ability as mastering a single skill.  However, most abilities are complex, that is they consist of several sub-skills which combined constitute the given ability. This is particularly important to keep in mind when teaching young children. For example the ability to read consists of many sub-skills: Letter recognition Letter […]

Autism and Early Intervention

by Larry Mestyanek, Ph.D. – President, TAG Toys, Inc. Early intervention with an autistic child has proven to be the most promising approach for stimulating normal development. Like all infants and toddlers the primary source for stimulating physical and mental development for an autistic child is through the basic senses of seeing, hearing, touching and […]

Great Gifts for Nephews, Nieces and Kids of All Ages

We are asked, “I have no idea what to buy for my one year old nephew, can you please recommend a good, reasonably priced gift?” Geo Form Boards The one-year old’s we know best tell us that the toys they like the most are the most simple, straightforward and brightly colored toys.  From simple building […]

Puzzles Develop the Mind of Toddlers and Babies

We are asked, “What is the educational value of puzzles for toddlers and babies? Puzzles are a very important part in the development of concepts, fine-motor skills and confidence for babies and toddlers.  From simply connecting colors that are alike, to fitting shapes together and to developing simple hand skills like grasping, holding and placing […]

Toys that Teach, Entertain and Give Kids Exercise

We are asked, “Are there any toys that can simultaneously help teach my kids and also give them physical exercise at the same time?” Educational games that have physical components are well grounded in multi-sensory learning theory, which suggests that as more relevant dimensions (sight, hearing, tactile, physical involvement) are added to a learning experience […]

Educational Toys that Teach Kids Numbers and Counting

We are asked, “What kind of toys do you have that teach children about counting?” It is really never too early to start teaching children about numbers, counting and even simple math. From the earliest days, parents can make a routine out of counting just about anything from steps and stairs, to the number of […]

Fun Toys That Also Give Physical Exercise to Kids

We are asked, “I’d like to encourage my youngster to move around more without suggesting to them, that they need exercise. What kind of toys do you have that are fun and encourage physical activity?” Kids who play with other kids tend to be more physically active than are children who do not have friends […]

Games that Teach, Entertain and Give Kids a Workout

We are asked, “Are there any toys that can simultaneously help teach my kids and also give them physical exercise at the same time?” Educational games that have physical components are well grounded in multi-sensory learning theory, which suggests that as more relevant dimensions (sight, hearing, tactile, physical experience) is added to a learning experience […]

Educational Toy Helps Children Develop Thinking Skills

A reporter asks, “I’ve been browsing your collection and have seen a lot of toys that deal with sorting (beads, blocks, etc). What is the educational value of sorting? What does this activity teach?” Sorting is a skill that is related to conceptual thinking, or the mental process of being able to identify objects and […]

Toys That Help Children Improve Memory Skills

We are asked, “My child is really good at memorization and I would like to encourage her natural skill.  What kind of educational toys do you have that help children develop a good memory?” A common technique for improving memory skills is to experience material being presented through multiple sensory dimensions. This multiple sensory memory […]