Page 16 - My School Voice_HCSK Newsletter_September 2022

The District Project Consultant Mrs. Moumita Reang with an aim to help
PEACE CLUB SEMINAR ON 'KNOWLEDGE ON THE USE OF DIFFERENT KIND OF TOYS
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participants gain knowledge on the use of different types of toys, conducted the Peace
Club Monthly Meeting in Holy Cross School, Kumarghat on 02-07-2022 under the
title “Anti-war Toys”. The consultant began with a brainstorming, asking the
students on the use of toys during their childhood. She said that Playing toys is critical
for young children. It’s a way for them to process the world around them and to learn.
Through play, children build a foundation for later academic and social success. And
we should make sure children have plenty of opportunities to engage in self-directed,
meaningful play.
She too explained as of which type of toys are good that we can introduce to children.
She spoke to the students that how children’s entertainment and using of war toys are
affecting the play and behaviour of children. Introducing toys to children such as
guns, swords, knives, bows and arrows, war planes etc. defined as ‘aggressive’ and can
promote the expressions of anger. Also, they experience conflict in a variety of
situations across their home and social lives. She also said that children are seen
manipulated into replacing the violent content they see on television, videos, violent
cartoons and tend to imitate these in real life. And it is very likely that many of us at
some point of time will have to shop for children’s present, for example for a birthday
or holiday. As we walk down the toy aisle, we will soon notice some toys tell a story of
conflict. So, as adults who value peace and co-operation, we must learn to pass these
values on to the younger generations. And whenever
we think of buying war toys, we may also ask ourselves
what role ‘war toys’ play in children’s development.
She concluded by saying that children should choose
games that develop team spirit and intelligence, rather
than purchasing any war toys that promotes
aggression, anger and hatred.
- Francis VL Auva Lushai