Toys SELECTION SAFETY OF TOYS TOYS n n

. . . Toys. . . SELECTION & SAFETY OF TOYS

TOYS n n n The word “Toy” comes from an old English term that means : TOOL Toys are TOOLS for a child. With these tools, children are allowed to use their senses, fine and gross motor skills, and their imaginations. Cognitive and social skills are also increased as a child plays with toys. Toys are valuable TEACHING tools.

Toy Evaluation Questions n Is the toy safe? – Make sure there are no small parts that could be swallowed or sharp edges that could cut a child. – Make sure that the toy is not flammable, or easily burned – Make sure that the toy has no lead-based paints, which could be poisonous.

Toy Evaluation Questions n Is it well made and durable? – Will the toy withstand the use it will receive? n Will it be easy to care for? – Make sure stuffed animals are washable. – Books are able to be wiped down.

Toy Evaluation Questions n Will it encourage the use of imagination? – Look for simple toys that can be used in a variety of ways n Is it colorful? – Young children respond more readily to colorful objects. – They also encourage children to learn the names of colors.

Toy Evaluation Questions n Will it be easy for the child to handle? – Think about the size of the child in relation to the toy. n What skills are being developed? – They can aid in large and small motor skills. – They also help children learn to share and cooperate with others.

Age-Appropriate Toys n Toys should also be appropriate for a child’s age and development level. n Infant toys are usually not challenging enough for 3 year olds.

Age Appropriate Toys One to Two Years n Many of the best “toys” are items found in the home. – metal pans – wooden spoons – plastic storage containers n Anything that allows the child to use large muscles is popular. – – Swings Riding Toys Balls Wagons

Age Appropriate Toys One to Two Years n Also enjoy – Small dolls – Stuffed animals – Sturdy books – Simple puzzles – Toy cars n Be careful to avoid small parts that could be swallowed.

Age Appropriate Toys Two to Three Years n Child wants to do what adults are doing. – Child-sized broom – Small shovel – Plastic/wooden tools – Play dishes n Art supplies are also popular at this age – Crayons – Clay – Large beads with string

Age Appropriate Toys Three to Four Years n Improved motor skills and increased imagination bring interest in toys requiring small motor skills. – Dolls to dress – Cars and trucks n They love to mold clay, color and paintespecially finger paint.

Age Appropriate Toys Three to Four Years n Spend longer period with books and enjoy listening to music. n They enjoy puzzles and using ladders, swings and slides.

CHILD PROTECTION & SAFETY ACT n Passage of this act was influenced by complaints regarding the safety of many toys. n The CHILD PROTECTION and TOY SAFETY ACT was passed in 1969. – Gave Food and Drug Administration the authority to remove and keep off the market toys and other products that are dangerous to children.