TOYS AS TOOLS IN ENHANCING CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT AMONG CHILDREN AGES 2-4: AN INTERVENTION PROGRAM FOR YOUNG PARENTS

Abstract

This study aims to determine how children can develop skills and knowledge while engaging with toys and how parents can become more informed about the significance of toy preferences in their children’s character development. By understanding the impact of toys on essential traits, parents can make more intentional choices in selecting toys that contribute to their child's overall growth. This study employed a descriptive research method with a sample of fifty (50) young parents residing in Barangay Capri, Novaliches, Quezon City. The researchers used purposive sampling to distribute questionnaires and conduct surveys through paper-based questionnaires to assess the responses of the participants. Findings reveal that educational value ranked highest among the characteristics considered in toy selection. Since toys are observed to enhance key traits such as empathy, resilience, self-control, courage, and gratitude, parents are more likely to consider these factors when purchasing toys for their children. This study recommends that parents prioritize their children's overall academic journey and psychosocial well-being when selecting toys. By focusing on toys that nurture the identified character traits, parents can support their children's optimal psychological growth and development.