Plastic in the children's room: A modern material for contemporary learning
When it comes to toys, we often gravitate towards what is familiar - and for many of us, that's the classic wooden toys of our own childhood. But in a world that's constantly evolving, it's time to reassess the potential of a material often seen as wood's antagonist: plastic. In this article, we explore why plastic, when chosen and used responsibly, can be an excellent choice for toys that are not only fun, but also educational in the spirit of Montessori pedagogy.
The advantages of plastic toys
Versatility and innovation
Plastic allows for a variety of toy designs that are often difficult to achieve with wood. The flexibility in shape and color allows plastic toys to offer a wide range of sensory experiences, stimulating children's curiosity and creativity.
Durability and care
Plastic is a highly durable material that retains its shape and color even with frequent use. It is water-resistant and easy to clean, making it a hygienic choice - an important aspect, especially for the very young.
Safety and accessibility
Modern plastic toys, manufactured to strict safety standards, are free of BPA, phthalates and other harmful substances. They are also often lighter and less hard than wooden toys, which minimizes the risk of injury. Plastic toys are also often cheaper to buy and therefore accessible to more families.
Keeping an eye on the environment
Environmental concerns about plastic toys are legitimate, but the industry is making progress. Recyclable plastics and bio-based plastics offer more environmentally friendly options, and reusing plastic toys helps reduce the environmental footprint.
Plastic in the Montessori environment
Although wooden materials have traditionally dominated Montessori classrooms, plastic toys can also provide valuable learning experiences. For example, plastic can be used to create realistic models, which are central to Montessori education for learning through real-life experiences. Transparent plastic blocks can also teach concepts such as color mixing and physics in a fun way.
A plea for diversity
While we appreciate the tradition and naturalness of wooden toys, we cannot overlook the positive aspects of plastic toys. A diverse toy box containing carefully selected toys made from both materials offers children a rich selection of learning opportunities and experiences. It is ultimately about finding the balance and combining the best of both worlds.
Final thoughts
The choice of wooden or plastic toys should not be seen as an either/or, but a both/and. In an ideal world, children benefit from the strengths of both materials. The challenge for parents and educators is to choose the toy that best supports the child's development while being responsible for our planet's resources. Let's not write off plastic, but redefine its role in our children's education and play.