Know how to buy the best Toys !
Baby toys need no introduction, however while making a purchase every parent should know or follow some guidelines such that babies can actually play with them. The best baby toys are the ones, which allow babies to use their eyes, ears & touch.
Some good examples are building blocks which babies can build & as they fall down, it motivates babies to build again, similarly toys like peek-a-block, allow children to place blocks which actually fit into different places on the truck, when he is crawling It sings a song whenever the wheels move. These types of baby toys use all of baby's senses & hence make a great play & pastime.
Should i follow some criteria before purchasing toys ?
Parents should evaluate the baby's skills & check if he is enjoying or happy with a particular toy, then he should be given similar toys.
If the baby is lacking development in an area, parents should carefully study that & purchase a toy, which is geared towards specific development.
Toys are only a substitute to parents play time with kids, parents should ensure that they spend time with their kids, & this helps the two of you to build memories that will last a lifetime.
When the child is over 1 year, baby toys are more enjoyable when shared with friends than alone.
Toys should never be non-combative & non-aggressive
If the baby toy is gender specific?
Toys most importantly when both parents are working should be able to let children play when left alone. This is not encouraged, however when there is no other options toys are the only way.
Buy Safe Baby Toys
Keeping the child safe at all costs is the most important factor, in raising a child. Parents should look out for the following when purchasing baby toys.
Toys should be checked not to have any sharp edges, toxic paint or little pieces that can fall off and become a choking hazard.
Purchase the right toy for the right age; children who are 6 months old should not be given toys, which are for 3 year olds.
Parents should read the labels carefully & follow all instructions
When children are playing with projectiles type toys --toys that shoot out a dart or an arrow into the air, parents should be always around.
Baby toys such as balloons, beads, or small play blocks should be out of reach of young children who tend to place items in their mouth.
Before buying a toy, bend it a bit to see how breakable the plastic is, some times products are manufactured with cheap plastic, which might leave sharp or jagged edges.