For Our Health

When purchasing children’s toys, a daycare must take into consideration the age-appropriateness of each toy. Safety, of course, is a big issue because some toys may be hazardous for younger children and daycares must constantly monitor for recalls. However, age appropriateness can also apply to interest, challenge and creativity. If the toy does not fit the age group that it is being used by, it could sit in the corner and gather dust.

The Safety Factor

One of the primary concerns for any daycare has to be the safety of the children. That’s why children’s toys are generally separated into different rooms designated for each age group. Even under close supervision, toys that are appropriate for a five year old may be a choking hazard for toddlers or infants.

Recalled Toys

Recalled toys are another hazard that a daycare must deal with. Often these toys are bought by parents or staff thinking they are perfectly safe. However, there are steps a daycare can take to minimize this danger. First, they need to purchase children’s toys from a known source such as a specialty store and avoid pre-owned toys. The centers should sign up for the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s free email notifications, which can then be passed along to parents.

Interests Levels

When purchasing children’s toys for a daycare, the toys must be age appropriate in terms of interests. The most expensive toy in the world will remain unused if it doesn’t hold the interest of a child. Of course, interests can be very individualized, but different age groups do have some things in common. For example, babies are generally fascinated with anything that appeals to the five senses, while toddlers love physical activities such as pulling, pushing, emptying and filling.

The Challenge of It

The challenge level of the children’s toys must also be carefully considered. It truly is a balance. If the toy is too challenging, the child will get frustrated, but if the toy is too easy, then the child might get bored with it. Either results in the child abandoning the toy in favor of something else. This is why a daycare should also consider the educational needs of the age group. For example, a preschooler learning to master shapes might benefit from and enjoy a shape puzzle.

Encouraging Creativity

A daycare must also provide toys that encourage age-appropriate creativity. For older children, giving them a toy Simba from The Lion King would generate less creativity than giving the child a generic lion. Playing with the Simba tends to limit the imagination of the child to re-enacting the movie, whereas the generic lion might include the movie but could also move beyond it. However, younger children might benefit more from the Simba because they lack the skills to create their own story.

All children’s toys should be carefully screened by a daycare. Safety is the primary factor so that smaller children are not subjected to unnecessary hazards. Plus, centers should consider other age-appropriate factors such as interest, challenge and creativity. Children at various ages have different interests based on their development and the challenge must be just right. In addition, it is important to note that creativity needs can change as a child grows. Parents should always ask their current or prospective daycare about their toys.

By Angela K. Walker