Retail Stores @ 118 Maling Rd Canterbury (Near Canterbury Train Station) Open Monday-Saturday 9:30am-5pm Call 130 000 3126 | Chadstone Shopping Centre (near Baby Bunting )
Retail Stores @ 118 Maling Rd Canterbury (Near Canterbury Train Station) Open Monday-Saturday 9:30am-5pm Call 130 000 3126 | Chadstone Shopping Centre (near Baby Bunting )
Dinosaurs have a unique hold on children’s imaginations. From roaring T-Rex figures to detailed books about fossils, dinosaur toys are staples in homes, schools, and childcare centres. But what is it about dinosaurs that captivates kids so much? At My Playroom, we explore the psychology behind the “dino obsession” and how parents can use it to support learning.
Dinosaurs represent a fascinating mix of reality and mystery. They’re real animals that once roamed the Earth, yet they’re completely unlike anything kids see today. Their size, power, and diversity spark curiosity and wonder, making them irresistible for imaginative play.
Children also love that dinosaurs are slightly scary—but safe. Pretending to run from a T-Rex or befriend a Stegosaurus allows kids to explore fear and bravery in a controlled, fun way.
Psychologists note that many children go through an “intense interest” phase, often focused on dinosaurs. During this time, kids memorise names, facts, and details with surprising accuracy. This deep focus builds memory, concentration, and perseverance.
By incorporating educational toys like puzzles, books, and figurines, parents can nurture this passion into learning opportunities. Kids practise categorisation (herbivores vs carnivores), sequencing (prehistoric timelines), and storytelling through role-play.
Role-playing with dinosaurs fosters expressive language and storytelling. Kids invent elaborate scenarios, from dinosaur rescues to epic battles. These dino role play ideas encourage turn-taking, cooperation, and emotional expression. Pairing dinosaurs with baby toys or props like play mats creates engaging small-world setups that enhance imagination.
Dinosaurs also support social learning. Children collaborate to build habitats, negotiate roles in pretend play, and practise problem-solving. For some children, dinosaurs become comforting “special interests,” offering a stable source of joy and confidence.
Dinosaurs provide a natural pathway into science. Kids fascinated by fossils often become interested in geology, palaeontology, and natural history. Take advantage of this curiosity by visiting a museum, reading non-fiction books, or using dinosaur excavation kits. These activities link play with real-world science and inspire a lifelong love of learning.
The fascination with dinosaurs transcends generations. Parents who loved them as kids often pass the interest along, creating a shared family connection. Unlike fleeting trends, dinosaurs maintain their appeal because they combine mystery, discovery, and imagination all in one.
At My Playroom, we stock a wide range of dinosaur toys that cater to toddlers, preschoolers, and older kids. Whether your child is stomping, roaring, or carefully cataloguing fossils, dinosaur play supports language, social skills, and a love of science.