How to Choose a Toy by Age: Tips for Parents

Choosing a toy for a child is not as simple as it might seem. It requires attention and care, as the toy should not only entertain but also contribute to the child's development. It's especially important to consider the child's age, as their needs, interests, and abilities change every year. In this article, we will share tips on how to choose the right toys based on your child's age.

1. Toys for Newborns (0–6 months)

For the smallest ones, safety is the most important factor when choosing a toy. The toys should have no sharp edges, small parts, and should be easy to clean. In the first months of life, babies actively explore the world through their senses, so toys for newborns are often bright, soft, and produce interesting sounds.

What to choose:

• Soft rattles and toys: small rattles or musical toys that the baby can hold in their hands.

• Textile toys: toys made of soft material with various textures, which babies can taste.

• Toys with bright colors and contrasting patterns: these toys grab the baby's attention and help develop their visual perception.

2. Toys for Children Aged 6 to 12 Months

At this age, babies start crawling, and some may begin to try standing. Their focus shifts to manipulating objects. Toys should be varied in shape, size, and material to stimulate physical development and improve coordination.

What to choose:

• Activity mats with hanging toys to encourage the baby to reach out and grab them.

• Teething rings and chew toys: perfect for easing teething discomfort.

• Soft toys with interactive features: toys that make sounds when pressed, such as toys with buttons or mechanical parts.

3. Toys for Children Aged 1 to 3 Years

This is the period of active exploration and the beginning of developing independent skills. Children begin to play with more complex toys, learning their functions and using imagination more actively. Toys should be engaging, as well as help develop fine motor skills and cognitive abilities.

What to choose:

• Building sets and puzzles: simple elements that can be assembled to develop fine motor skills.

• Interactive toys: toys that respond to the child's actions (e.g., talking toys or light-up toys).

• Blocks and stacking toys: toys that help develop spatial awareness and teach children about shapes and colors.

4. Toys for Children Aged 3 to 5 Years

At this age, children begin to master more complex games, often with role-playing elements. They are interested in toys that can stimulate their imagination, help with socialization, and develop communication skills.

What to choose:

• Role-play sets (e.g., kitchens, shops, cars, dolls). These toys help develop social skills and teach children how to interact with others.

• Creative sets (paints, clay, molding sets). These foster imagination and help improve motor skills and artistic abilities.

• Mechanical toys: toys that move or perform specific actions.

5. Toys for Children Aged 5 to 7 Years

Children in this age group begin to develop intellectual and creative abilities. Toys should focus on expanding knowledge and skills, as well as encouraging the development of logic and critical thinking.

What to choose:

• Board games: games that help develop attention, memory, logic, and strategic thinking.

• Building sets with larger pieces (e.g., LEGO or similar brands). At this age, children start building more complex structures, which enhances their imagination and engineering skills.

• Books with pictures and texts for reading: at 5-7 years old, children begin reading, and books become an important part of their development.

6. Toys for Children Over 7 Years Old

By this age, children become more independent in their play and hobbies. It's important that toys not only entertain but also develop intellectual and physical skills, while engaging their imagination and problem-solving abilities.

What to choose:

• Logical games and puzzles: these toys help develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and patience.

• Robots and programmable toys: these foster an interest in technology, robotics, and programming.

• Sports toys: balls, outdoor sports equipment such as rackets, jump ropes, or sports sets.

Conclusion

Choosing the right toy depends not only on the child's age but also on their individual interests and needs. It's essential to remember that the toy should be not only safe but also developmental, helping the child acquire new skills, develop creativity, and enhance their intelligence. By following these simple guidelines, you'll be able to choose a toy that will delight your child while supporting their growth and learning.

When purchasing a toy, always pay attention to its quality and the materials it's made from. Making the right choice ensures not just your child's happiness but also their harmonious development.