Make-believe play is more than just a source of joy for children; it’s a vital part of their development. Toys that emulate real-life tools provide a unique opportunity for kids to engage in imaginative play while building confidence and life skills.
In fact, UNICEF South Africa highlights that play enables children to process complex emotions, develop problem-solving skills, and build resilience. Additionally, a study conducted in KwaZulu-Natal found that imaginative play significantly enhances early reading skills among Grade R learners, allowing them to make sense of and apply what they’ve read in various contexts.
These insights underscore the importance of pretend play in fostering well-rounded development in children.
According to Timothy Isabirye, Marketing Manager for Husqvarna South Africa, this was one of the key reasons behind the launch of Husqvarna’s toy range a few years ago. Featuring a pretend chainsaw, lawnmower, leaf blower, and trimmer, these playsets are designed to replicate real-life tools, combining engaging play with educational value. “Each toy is designed with quality and durability in mind, ensuring they provide hours of imaginative fun while being able to withstand the lively play of young enthusiasts,” he explains.
When it comes to choosing the perfect Christmas gift for your kids, it’s easy to default to tech gadgets or adhere to their wish lists. However, Isabirye encourages parents—and even grandparents or other family members searching for thoughtful ideas for children—to consider incorporating imaginative play items into their gift selections.
Here’s why these toys can make a big impact on your young ones:
Boosts Creativity: Imaginative play can encourage children to create their own scenarios, fostering problem-solving and storytelling skills. Husqvarna’s toy chainsaw, for example, invites kids to imagine themselves as forest rangers clearing fallen trees to save wildlife. This type of creative role-play not only sparks their imagination but also helps them think critically about challenges and solutions.
Builds Confidence: Simulating real-life tasks can allow children to feel accomplished and independent, boosting their confidence. A child using Husqvarna’s toy lawnmower to “help” their parents in the garden, experiences the satisfaction of contributing to household activities. This instils a sense of pride and inspires them to tackle new challenges.
Develops Social Skills: Playing with friends or family can enhance teamwork and communication, teaching children valuable social skills. For instance, two siblings might role-play as a landscaping team, one using a toy leaf blower and the other a toy trimmer. They learn to divide tasks, collaborate effectively, and achieve a shared goal—skills essential for their personal and social development.
But that’s not all. Role-playing can also promote physical activity. Running around the garden “mowing the lawn” or “blowing leaves” keeps children active—what a welcome change from screens!
“These toys are more than just playthings – they are tools for development. They inspire creativity, build confidence, and encourage teamwork, all while ensuring children have endless fun,” concludes Isabirye.
Where to Buy
The Husqvarna toy range is available online at https://za-promo.husqvarna.com/collections/toys just in time to wrap up and place under the tree. Alternatively, you can contact your nearest Husqvarna dealer to check availability.