Expert Offers Advice on How to Choose Age Appropriate and Safe Toys for Children During the Holidays

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center suggests parents consider their child’s age, interests, and skill levels when purchasing toys.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, parents can help prevent toy-related injuries by purchasing age appropriate toys such as the following:

Zero to one year-olds explore with their eyes, hands and mouth.

- Crib gyms
- Floor activity centers
- Activity quilts
- Squeaky toys
- Soft dolls or stuffed animals

One to three year-olds climb, jump, walk, throw and play rough and tumble games.

- Soft blocks
- Large blocks
- Push and pull toys
- Books
- Pounding and shaping toys

Three to five year-olds like to use their imagination and have toys that are close companions.

- Nontoxic art supplies
- Pretend toys (e.g. play money, telephone)
- Teddy bears or dolls
- Outdoor toys (e.g. tricycle and a helmet)

Five to nine year-olds like to be challenged with complex games that teach specific skills and concepts.

- Arts and craft kits
- Puppets
- Jump ropes
- Action figures
- Miniature dolls   

Nine to 14 year-olds develop lifelong skills, hobbies and enjoy team and individual sports.

-Handheld electronic games
- Board games
- Sports equipment with protective gear
- Model kits
- Musical instruments


*Excerpts taken from Hybrid Moms website at http://www.hybridmom.com/articles/live/parenting/expert-offers-advice-how-choose-age-appropriate-and-safe-toys-children-durin#comment-267.  View the full article.