What We Know: The benefits of play are well documented. Not only is play fun, it's how kids learn. Play teaches kids the skills they need to read, share, create, and become happy, well-adjusted adults. However, as more and more kids' toys become embedded with chips, buttons, and controllers, the way kids play is changing. It is in the interest of businesses, educators, and consumers—both children and parents—to make sure that how kids are playing today, and the toys that they're using, provide them with the kind of open-ended experiences that stimulate creativity and foster critical thinking.