Children learn in different ways at different times in their development. What was exciting and interesting for a child at two years old can become boring when he turns four. Trying to find game elements that intrigue and stimulate a child can be difficult. There are thousands of options in toy aisles, each claiming to be the best.
And parents are not the only ones who make the decisions. As children get older, they want to participate in the selection process. TV commercials and peer pressure push kids to demand “must-have” toys, even if they are not age-appropriate. And since most parents quickly discern, the most popular toys are often the most expensive and the most difficult to find.
Most toys come with an age recommendation. This recommendation is based on a number of factors, including the child’s age, expected motor skills, and level of maturity. However, the old label must be taken with a grain of salt. Children mature at different rates, so it’s important to think about your child’s abilities when selecting a toy.
Here are some guidelines and tips for choosing age-appropriate toys:
Birth to 1 year: Kids this age don’t really play, but are intrigued by shapes, colors, and anything that makes noise. Soft cuddly toys, squeaky bath toys and big, colorful balls will intrigue these new people. Lay your child down on a quilt and place an “activity gym” on top of it. These gyms have hanging toys that will catch your attention, and he’ll try to grab or kick them, teaching you how to use your developing muscles. Kids this age love to be carried, so settle in with some cloth or vinyl books and introduce them to the world of reading.
Ages 1 – 3: As all parents know, children become mobile at this age, and their toys should also be mobile. Also remember that young children play alongside other children, rather than other children, so keep this in mind when selecting age-appropriate toys. Some great options for this age group include walking toys that kids can push, like baby strollers or small grocery carts. Children in this age group are beginning to work on their motor skills, so having plenty of paper and thick crayons is essential. Hitting toys are very popular (unfortunately!), And trucks and dolls are often the best toys for two year old boys of choice. It’s at this age that little people want to imitate big people, so simulating toy kitchens and phones can make them feel like mom and dad.
Ages 3-5: It’s time to hit the road, making a trike a great gift for this age group. Motor skills continue to rise, so buy big-piece puzzles and introduce them to safety scissors and simple crafts. Little girls will like to get dressed and have tea, while little boys will spend hours moving cars around a track. This is the time when fashions take over, so get ready to start a collection of whatever is in style.
5 to 9 years: Peer pressure hits this age group hard, and parents will find that only particular toys are acceptable. Keeping them learning is important, so make sure they have computer games and sports equipment. More complicated crafts can be introduced, and that complete bike will require a sturdy helmet. Age-appropriate science kits are available, and kids will love to put on the gear outside and go exploring.
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