Playtime is meant for fun, but it can also be a time to help kids learn, grow and reach their milestones. Dr. Anson Koshy, our chief of developmental pediatrics, answers these 6 questions about what to consider when picking out gifts for the little ones on your list.
What type of toys are best for children’s development?
When determining the best toy to buy for a child there are few things to consider. The first is how old the child is, because age alone can be one marker of what toys may be a good fit.
For infants, consider toys they can grasp, shake or place in their mouth safely. As an infant grows and becomes more mobile, they may want to engage with toys they can dump, stack, manipulate with their hands or engage with in functional play.
For toddlers, cause and effect toys, or toys that involve basic forms of problem-solving like simple wooden puzzles or toys that can connect together, are great for skill development and fun.
Kids in preschool and kindergarten may be able to sustain their attention a bit longer and can engage in creative activities with markers, crayons and paint. Building more complex structures with magnetic tiles or traditional interlocking shapes as well as larger puzzles are other practical options.
More information may need to be considered for children with a developmental delay or sensory related preference. When in doubt, ask a parent or talk with your local toy shop owner for suggestions on what to buy and even what toys to avoid.
Is there a specific age group that benefits most from developmental toys?
Kids of all ages can benefit from toys that are developmental in nature – from basic retro-inspired baby toys like the ones above, to more complex strategy games for older kids that can be played with the family. Supporting a child’s ability to engage in play that is not tied to a screen is more important now than ever.
Is there a type of toy that’s universally beneficial to multiple age groups and abilities?
For all age ranges, simple toys like balls of all sizes and toys that support physical play and movement make easy gifts. Similarly, books ranging from board books for the little ones, to more detailed pictures books with words for preschoolers and kindergarteners, to young adult literature for kids 12 and older, all make great gifts.
What types of toys would you recommend avoiding?
There are so many options for toys and games it can be quite overwhelming. Keep an eye out for the recommended age ranges often provided with toys. It can be frustrating for younger kids to try to play with toys or games that may be well ahead of their chronological or developmental age. Similarly, try to think about safety issues. Could there be concerns about lead-based paint on certain toys? Are there parts that could be broken off or cause a choking hazard?
What are your recommendations when it comes to video game systems and electronics?
If you’re buying or upgrading a video game system, consider coming up with clear and specific rules around when and how the child can use or access the device before opening it. Make expectations clear regarding parental control settings, when they can access gaming devices (like after homework or chores or even physical play), online safety rules or tasks they must complete to “earn” video game time on weekends. These types of conversations are often best when a child is anticipating a gaming system instead of trying to implement rules after play is well underway.
Where can adults get help if they have questions about the benefits of toys they’re considering purchasing as gifts?
My best advice when buying toys as gifts is to befriend your local toy store owner. They can keep you up to date on the latest and greatest toys and provide specific guidance if you know the child you are shopping for has specific developmental or sensory related needs. The added advantage of shopping local is the opportunity to support our neighbors, particularly those who provide sensory friendly toys and options that serve kids of all abilities and needs.