ABSTRACT

Early play experiences set stages for further human development. Pretend play is the most important activity for children aged from 3 to 6. Play contributes directly to children's education and development, and toys stimulate and prolong play. The careful selection of toys can lead children to play with others, to cooperate and to develop particular skills. Through using toys, children master different skills and social models. Preschoolers often communicate with their toys, which serve as support for inner dialogue. Toys are increasingly becoming self-sufficient things meant to evoke surprise, admiration or curiosity instead of becoming media. The replacement of rudimentary toys by technological "toys," like iPads, iPods and other electronic devices, could carry fundamental changes in the mental development of children. The study of modern toys and their influence on the cognitive abilities and personal development of young generations is the primary task of modern psychologists.