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Toy Story: Guidelines for Toys for Children under 3
 From the March 2001 Early Childhood newsletter.It's an oft-discussed subject: play and stimulation are essential to the positive development of infants and toddlers. But what are the best toys for children at each development stage? Parents and early childhood professionals can take note of the suggestions offered by the American Toy Institute, a division of the Toy Manufacturers of America. Age Group Guidelines First and foremost, toys should stimulate the senses. Although newborns cannot grasp objects with their hands, bright colors and noises attract their attention. Toys recommended for infants less than 6 months of age include musical and chime toys, soft dolls, mobiles, safety mirrors, and teething toys. Any hanging objects should be removed when an infant is able to push up on his or her hands and knees. As typically developing infants approach their first birthday, they enjoy toys they can manipulate and that move along with them as they begin crawling and walking. Musical instruments, toys that pop-up or can be pushed/pulled, balls (larger than 1-1/2 inches in diameter), soft blocks, stuffed animals, and picture books are some of the toys recommended for the 6-month to 1-year set. When children develop the skills to move around, they enjoy exploring and pretending. Art supplies, wagons, backyard gyms, play household items, sandboxes, playhouses, and dolls are some of the suggestions given for appropriate toddler toys. Parents and caregivers should remember that at this age, children enjoy watching and imitating adults. Any props that allow them to do this are always exciting. After their second birthday, typically developing children are much more coordinated and imaginative. Recommended toys for these toddlers include storybooks, building blocks, clothes for playing dress-up, puppets, and tricycles (with a helmet). Safety First Parents and caregivers who care for children are important first playmates for an infant or toddler. They are urged to take an active role by joining in their child's activities and suggesting new ones. This not only provides regular interaction between parent and child, but also allows for close supervision of a child's activities. Adults who care for young children are advised to supervise all play closely, whether a child is playing alone or with friends. The ATI reminds caregivers that most play injuries are avoidable with adequate supervision. Adults should make sure that toys are put away after use to avoid tripping accidents and should see that toys are being used by the intended age group. A cardinal rule is to never allow a child to play with a toy that was intended for older children.
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