Staff Co-Authored How to Choose Toys for Children

   Choosing toys for children might seem simple, but there are a lot of factors to take into consideration. It’s important to think about durability, pricing, safety, educational value, and, of course, fun! Choose plush toys and rattles for babies and musical instruments, stacking toys, and outdoor fun for toddlers. For preschool-aged children, select dress up clothes, blocks, crayons, and books. Older children will enjoy kites, bicycles, puzzles, and board games. 

Picking Toys for Babies and Toddlers

Choose stimulating objects for babies up to 1 year old. Look for toys that will engage developing senses, such as toys with bright colors, simple patterns, different textures, and squeaking or rattling noises. Plush toys with embroidered eyes, large stacking rings, rattles, and toys which allow babies to press buttons or sort shapes are all popular options.

Select tactile toys for children between 1 and 2 years old. At this age, children are learning to explore their world. Choose brightly illustrated books made of pasteboard or cloth, bathtub toys, unbreakable mirrors, or anything that makes noise.

Choose toys that will allow babies to mimic the activities they see around them.Dolls, pretend kitchens, workbenches, and toy phones and tablets are always a hit!

Look for musical instruments. Babies love to make noise, and playing instruments helps children learn cause and effect as well as develops their love of music. You can find simple musical instruments like drums, kazoos, xylophones, and keyboards at any toy store. Get down on the floor and show them how it works, and they'll be making beautiful music before you know it.

Try interactive indoor toys for children that are 2 to 3 years of age. Allow kids to get hands-on and stimulate their imagination with toys like play dough, large crayons, a pegboard with big pieces, brightly colored books with music, or a dollhouse. These are especially great options for a rainy day

Buy dress up clothes. Toddlers love to play pretend. Look for clothes which will allow them to dress up as their favorite superhero, princess, or TV character. You can also think of different professions to help you come up with outfits, including police officers, astronauts, chefs, or nurses.