Introduction
Toys need to be appropriate for a child’s age and developmental level. An age appropriate toy can help a child develop confidence and self-esteem. A toy that is beyond his or her mastery will create frustration. Now, increasingly, toy safety is a concern too. Here are some guidelines for choosing toys that are both age appropriate and safe.
Steps
Step One
When choosing a toy for any age child, make sure it meets U.S. safety standards. Use care when purchasing older toys at yard sales or flea markets—some older toys may contain lead paint or may be unsafe for other reasons. Be wary of small magnets, sharp corners, and other potential hazards to young children. Some toys made in China have been found to be unsafe. You can find a list of recalled toys on the Consumer Products Safety web site ((www.cpsc.gov).
Step Two
Toys for babies should be brightly-colored and lightweight. They should also delight the senses. Ideas:
- Rattles
- Soft, washable animals or dolls
- Busy boards
- Bath toys that float
- Squeeze toys
Step Three
Toddlers are all about exploring their environment. Good toys for them include:
- Cloth or plastic books with big pictures
- Toys that play music
- Nesting blocks
- Push or pull toys (for safety, avoid long strings)
- Stackable toys
Step Four
Preschoolers like to use their imaginations and imitate their parents and older children. Good toys for the under-five crowd include:
- Books
- Blackboard and chalk, crayons, finger paints, clay
- Housekeeping toys
- Outdoor toys, such as a swing set or playhouse
- Tricycles and wagons
- Easy puzzles with big pieces
Step Five
Early school aged children need toys that will help them develop new skills and encourage creativity. Ideas:
- Card games
- Doctor and nurse kits
- Hand puppets
- Bicycles and helmets
- Jump ropes
- Roller skates with knee and elbow pads, and helmets
- Table games
Step Six
For older school aged children, let their budding interests be your guide. In general, hobby and scientific toys make good choices for this age group.
- Computer games
- Sewing, knitting, needlework
- Microscopes/telescopes
- Board games
- Sports equipment
- Hobby collections
