Why Your Child Likes to Collect Things
So your child brought home another object he found outside, and you may be a little concerned because his room is already overflowing with stuff. Not to worry — he is not a hoarder! Collecting things is a common behavior among children. Our private schools in Orlando explain why your child likes to collect things, and why it’s crucial for his developmental and learning skills.
Fun
Your child likes to collect different things because it’s simply fun! Grouping them into categorizes stimulates his brain and is enjoyable for him. There’s a challenge in finding items, then organizing them, which brings him pride.
Learning
When your child collects objects (say, stones and shells), he learns more about it. He will start questioning where it came from, what it’s made from, and why it looks the way it does. Analyzing objects and problem-solving are important skills to have into adulthood.
Control
A child who collects thing is in control. Your child will be able to make choices about what he collects, where he collects it from, and how many he needs. Feeling in control will empower your child.
Concepts
By collecting objects in his world, your child will start to build an understanding of categorizes and concepts, such as animals, people, and houses. He will practice the ability to classify and group items by exercising the ability to make decisions about the objects’ attributes. Thinking skills are natural to his development, and building specific collections helps him develop.
Individuality
Your child expresses his individuality through his collections. His collections are specific to his interests and are a sign of uniqueness from his peers. Embrace his individuality!
Communication
Your child has a curiosity and his collection cures it! Support him in his endeavors by talking to him about it. Ask him questions about the items he chose to collect and about his experience collecting them. When you show interest in his activity and encourage him to perform it, it will heighten his enjoyment. Join him in the fun, so it can be a great family-bonding activity!For more than 50 years, private schools in Orlando have been helping children grow to their fullest potential and become leaders within their communities. We offer unique and dynamic learning environments that engage students and encourage them to become confident and responsible adults. To learn more about what makes us different, contact us today.