Time to thinker
with our toys*
*(Instructions optional)
Think + tinker = thinker
Parenting should be intentional
How intentional parenting supports your child's learning
Just as intentional learning is a goal-oriented process where individuals actively engage in learning with specific objectives (rather than passively absorbing information), intentional parenting is also about actively engaging with your child with the aim of achieving particular outcomes instead of just throwing information and resources at them to figure out on their own.
This is not to say you should become fixated on reaching the outcome, but rather to be proactive and deliberate in your action while looking at a long-term plan rather than reactive, "quick-fix" solutions. This requires a deep understanding your child through quality time spent together, and setting a clear vision and goals for their development.
In contrast to unintentional parenting, or letting the education system dictate the outcome of your child's learning journey, a parent can take a more holistic and active role in determining the result.
By being less reactive to the stresses children may experience from learning and understanding new things, it is more likely that you will improve the end result by doing simple things well that have long term effects on your child's future development.
Learn more about thinkering
What it is and why you should be interested
Thinkering is a portmanteau that combines 'thinking' + 'tinkering'.
The writer Michael Ondaatje first coined the term in his novel The English Patient to describe how one is thinking about something while tinkering with the hands.
For many of us the process of learning often ends up being a source of frustration because it lacks a balance between thinking and doing - that is, too often we are asked to think without acting on it, or to act with thinking about it.
Thinkering Toys changes the conversation that takes places in the educational environment. They are designed for parents and children in such a way that engages multiple senses, and encourages parents and children to explore and discuss while in the process of learning.
Toys that have colours, patterns, shapes, textures and even smell that stimulate various senses help make multiple connections in your brain while you learn about new concepts.
We believe that parents who thinker with their children are able to enrich the learning journey in a way that goes beyond what can be achieved with apps on digital devices or most of the mass produced toys and games you find at stores.
Critical facts & figures
For too long we have overlooked the importance of early childhood education, especially when it comes to the involvement of parents separate from educational institutions.
$25k
Costs per year that a family with two kids can be expected to spent for childcare.
90%
The size of an adult's brain that a child's brain reaches by the age of five.
0-5 years
The best opportunity we have to make a difference in the lives of our children. During these early years that a child’s brain develops more, and more rapidly, than at any other time in life.
Create the ideal environment where parents and children can engage in meaningful conversations.
Families that thinker together grow together!
What it meant for 7 year old Molly Wright
And why she is talking about the importance of early interactions she shared with her parents before reaching the age of five.
What it meant for 12 year old Tom Suarez
With encouragement and support from his parents and teachers, Tom was able to find his passion at a young age.
All children are special
Thinkering Toys also believe in the normalization of the diversity of the human condition regardless of diagnosis, age, race, religion, income, sexual orientation, gender or gender expression. All children have the right to have their voice heard and their needs met where possible.
We can all do more to ensure the right for all children to have their voice heard.
Are we neglecting certain children because of:
Diagnosis
Age
Race
Religion
Gender
Gender expression