The choice of toys often depends on the child's age, interests and level of development. Here is an overview of which types of toys are typically suitable for which age ranges:
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Newborn - 6 months:
- Tactile and sensory stimuli such as soft toys, stuffed animals.
- Sound toys or music boxes.
- Simple images with contrasting colours.
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6 Months - 12 Months:
- Teethers and rocking toys.
- Simple jigsaw puzzles (with large pieces).
- Colourful books and simple plastic blocks.
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1 - 2 years old:
- Big blocks and puzzles.
- Simple musical instruments (e.g. plastic flutes).
- Moving toys like cars, lorries.
- Soft ball and ball shooters for small children.
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2 - 3 years old:
- Coloured pencils, paints and paper.
- Simple role-playing toys with figures (e.g. dolls, animals).
- Moving toys such as bicycles and pushers.
- Simple construction sets.
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3 - 5 years old:
- More complex building sets (such as LEGO).
- Costumes and role-playing toys.
- More advanced puzzles.
- Bicycles, skateboards and other outdoor toys.
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5 - 7 years old:
- Play dough and moulds.
- More advanced strategy and memory games.
- Larger puzzles and building sets.
- Books, science kits and art supplies.
Of course, every child is different and this is only a general guide. Toys should be chosen taking into account the child's interests and skills. Also, safety is always the top priority, so toys should be age appropriate and attention should be paid to small parts.