Many adults have trouble solving problems and imagining the future because they are set on using things as they are intended. The term for this is "functional fixedness". Constructive play and imaginative games help children to have a more flexible understanding of how things work. This skill is invaluable as an adult. Pretend play gives children the creative ability to overcome obstacles and solve problems.
Start working your toddler's brain up to solving difficult problems by engaging them in constructive play.
Certain developmental toys and preschool toys can help children get to that higher cognitive level of understanding that is necessary to expand their creative mind. Learning toys, such as activity tables, teach children cause and effect. After they figure out what happens, then they will start to try to control the outcomes. Use other toys or items around the house to show them how they can expand their play even further.
