The Impact of Sri Lankan traditional toy design on child development

Abstract

Toys are one of the most rooted memories in every child's life. From early childhood to teenage ages children used to play with different toys. Sometimes this bond lasts long for the rest of the life. Sri Lanka, enriched with different traditions and values, has a special place for toys as well. This study explores the significant role of Sri Lankan traditional toys when it comes to child development. Sri Lankan traditional toys have different material variations, colors, and assembly processes. The study utilizes 6 unique cases of Sri Lankan traditional toys such as wooden toys, game boards, and toy guns. The study further evaluates cognitive skills, emotional development, physical development, social development, and creative thinking parameters based on a rating scale. The results revealed that gameplay with these toys fosters emotional and problem-solving abilities. Through group play toys foster emotional and social development. This research highlights the influence of traditional toys on child physical, cognitive, and social development.