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Key Points
- Age recommendations on toys are based on research from manufacturers, indicating the age groups that can safely play with and enjoy specific toys.
- Infants require specific toys that are sanitary, washable, well-constructed, and free from small parts or decorations that could be swallowed.
- Toddlers can start learning with games, puzzles, and art supplies, but their toys should still be safe for exploration, free from toxic materials, and made of flame-resistant fabrics.
- Preschoolers can play with larger toys that stimulate their imaginations, such as puzzles, books, and dress up clothes, which should be easily cleaned, sanitized, and not too heavy.
- School-age children can safely play with toys made for older children, such as action figures, fitness materials, craft items, and computer games.
It's a Saturday in December and you're out and about trying to wrap up your holiday shopping. You have your lists and think you're just about done, all you have left is the kids. You think it'll be easy enough to find toys and you're done, right? Wrong. You need to find something appropriate for each child's age recommendations.
Why Age Recommendations Exist
Age recommendation is based on research from the manufacturers that pinpoints the most likely groups that can and will enjoy specific toys, as well as which age can play with the toys safely. It helps you narrow your search to a specific target field. It also prevents you from buying toys that are too old for younger kids, which can cause them to harm themselves.
Infants
Babies require specific toy recommendations to ensure their safety. Choose toys that are sanitary, washable, and well-constructed. Make sure the weight of the toy isn't too heavy and that it doesn't have rough edges that can cause cuts and scrapes. Don't buy toys with small parts or decorations that can come loose. Babies easily can put these objects in their mouths and swallow them, causing them to choke. Make sure the toy itself is not too small so the baby doesn't try to swallow it or put it up her nose. Read the label and make sure it does not contain poisonous substances, such as lead paint. If your child does come across harmful materials, contact an urgent care center at once.
Toddlers
Older babies are ready to play with toys that will help them start learning. This includes games, puzzles, and art supplies. But toddlers are still exploring everything around them, so you need to be sure that their toys are safe for them to do so. Read labels and be sure the toys don't contain toxic materials and make sure fabric toys are made of flame-resistant fabrics. Buy stuffed animals that are machine-washable. Only buy art supplies that say ASTM D-4236, which means they've been evaluated by the American Society for Testing and Materials.
Related: Playing It Safe: 4 Steps to Playground Safety
Preschoolers
Preschool-aged
children have longer attention spans than toddlers. Their toys will
keep them busy for hours on end. Select toys that will help them
continue their development while keeping them safe. Puzzles, books,
dress up clothes, and larger toys that stimulate their imaginations are
great choices. Make sure these toys are not made with harmful
materials, can be easily cleaned and sanitized, and aren't too heavy for
them to handle on their own.
School-Age Children
Once your child is older, he'll have a better understanding of how to play with his toys safely. He'll no longer be trying to swallow small or broken parts or lick his toys. You can now safely buy toys made for older children, such as action figures, fitness materials, craft items including paint and clay, and computer games.
Related: In the Nurse's Office: Common Sicknesses in Schools [Infographic]
Shopping for kids is
one of the special activities involved in the holidays. Create a good
memory by following the basic age recommendations. Pay attention to
them, and everyone will have a very happy holiday.
Frequently asked questions
Why do age recommendations exist for toys?
Age recommendations exist to ensure safety and enjoyment for children. They are based on research from manufacturers that identifies which age groups are most likely to safely enjoy specific toys. This helps prevent the purchase of toys that are too advanced for younger children, which could potentially cause harm.What specific recommendations are there for infant toys?
For infants, toys should be sanitary, washable, and well-constructed. They should not be too heavy or have rough edges that can cause injury. Small parts or decorations that can come loose should be avoided, as infants could potentially swallow these and choke. The toy itself should also not be too small for the same reason. Lastly, ensure the toy does not contain harmful substances like lead paint.What should I consider when buying toys for toddlers?
When buying toys for toddlers, consider toys that will help them start learning, such as games, puzzles, and art supplies. The toys should be safe, without toxic materials, and fabric toys should be made of flame-resistant fabrics. Stuffed animals should be machine-washable, and art supplies should be evaluated by the American Society for Testing and Materials, indicated by the label ASTM D-4236.What types of toys are recommended for preschoolers?
For preschoolers, toys that stimulate their imaginations and help continue their development are recommended. These can include puzzles, books, dress-up clothes, and larger toys. These toys should be easily cleaned and sanitized, not made with harmful materials, and not too heavy for them to handle on their own.What kind of toys can be safely bought for school-age children?
For school-age children who have a better understanding of how to play safely, you can buy toys made for older children. These can include action figures, fitness materials, craft items like paint and clay, and computer games.How can I ensure that the toys I buy are safe for my children?
To ensure the toys you buy are safe, always check the age recommendations and read the labels to ensure they don't contain any harmful materials. For younger children, avoid toys with small parts that could be swallowed. For older children, ensure the toys are appropriate for their developmental level.Why is it important to pay attention to age recommendations when buying toys for children?
It's important to pay attention to age recommendations to ensure the safety and enjoyment of the child. Buying a toy that's too advanced for a child's age can lead to frustration or potential harm, while a toy that's too simple may not engage their interest.How can following age recommendations for toys contribute to a happy holiday?
Following age recommendations can contribute to a happy holiday by ensuring that the toys children receive are safe, enjoyable, and appropriate for their developmental stage. This can help avoid potential accidents and ensure the children are engaged and happy with their gifts.
