While toys and games are fun for children, they also help kids develop valuable skills including imagination, creativity, problem solving and confidence.

Elementary school-aged students are beginning to understand and use strategy and probability skills. To foster these developments, look for board games and computer games, including Connect Four, Scrabble, Monopoly and Life.

Science kits, chemistry sets and telescopes help develop critical thinking skills.

Games like Talkin’ Tango and Petcha Didn’t Know encourage children to pay close attention and practice listening and concentration skills.

Recognize your child’s personal learning style, strengths and weaknesses. If your child struggles with math, encourage math games and activities to further develop their math skills. If science is a challenge, make science fun with a chemistry set.

To build, boost, and bolster self-esteem, play The Self-Esteem Game. Consider project-based toys such as model airplanes, ships or jewelry kits to help improve fine motor skills. Not only do these projects reinforce motor skills, children also learn to follow instructions and have a project they can work on for days.

Make playtime a regular part of a child’s routine — at school and at home. Teachers make time for playtime at recess, and parents should make sure playtime is incorporated into a child’s day.

Older children

Science kits become more advanced for older children — and provide an opportunity for children to experiment, be creative and follow directions.

Encourage a combination of group and individual play: Team sports like baseball and soccer or individual activities like reading, scrapbooking or journal writing.

Help children improve vocabulary skills with board games like Dictionary Dabble and Buzzword.

Whether it is music, reading or painting, match toys to your children’s interests.