With shelves full of colorful, buzzing, blinking toys, choosing the right one can feel like a guessing game. From educational gadgets to classic teddy bears, toys come in all shapes, sizes and skill levels, leaving many people wondering where to start.
How do you know if a toy is really the right fit for a child’s age and stage? How can you make sure it’s safe, engaging and something they’ll actually play with?
Tracey Fejt, RN, a child safety expert with Banner Children’s, is here to help break it all down. Read on to learn what to look for when buying, tips to prevent injuries and gift ideas by age.
Preventing injuries: Safe toy buying tips
Every year, around 200,000 people in the U.S. are treated in the emergency department for toy-related injuries. Most of the patients were children 14 years old or younger. These injuries happen when toys are dangerous or used improperly.
To help prevent accidents and ensure safe playtime, consider these general toy safety tips:
- Read labels: Toys often come in bright, colorful packaging but look for these important labels to ensure safety:
- ASTM certified: This shows that the toy meets safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials. Look for “ASTM F963” on the package.
- Age recommendations: This label suggests the age range for the toy.
- Choking hazard warnings: Toys with small parts, such as balloons or marbles, should have a warning label. This is especially important for young children.
- BPA-free or phthalate-free: These labels indicate that the toy is free from certain chemicals, making it safer – especially if it ends up in your child’s mouth.
- UL label: Electronic toys should be labeled UL (Underwriters Laboratories) to indicate that they have been tested for electrical safety. Avoid toys without this certification, as they may lack safety features.
- CPSC approved: Toys with this label meet extra safety checks by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
“If you are unsure about a toy’s safety or proper use, call the manufacturer or check the Consumer Product Safety Commission,” Fejt said. “The CPSC sets up rules and guidelines to ensure products are safe and issues recalls when a problem is found with a product.”
Avoid toys with small parts: Don’t give small children, especially those under 3, toys with small parts. If you have children of different ages, make sure toys don’t get mixed up.
“Small parts can be choking hazards, and certain toys shaped like cups or bowls can pose a suffocation hazard if they don’t have openings,” Fejt said. “Loose magnets are very dangerous if swallowed.”
Throw away packaging: “Some of the packaging materials that toys come in can have pieces that can pose a choking or suffocation hazard, so throw away all the packaging after opening,” Fejt said.
Check sound levels: Some toys, especially electronic ones, can be surprisingly loud (and annoying) and potentially harm your child’s hearing. Test sound-producing toys in-store or research volume levels online.
Buy toys from reputable companies: “Try to avoid buying from websites like Temu or other sites where there are no product standards,” Fejt said. Sites like Temu are home to counterfeit toys that could be unsafe for children.
Check the batteries: If a toy has small or button batteries, make sure the battery compartment is sealed tightly so your child can’t get them out.
Watch out for loose cords, straps, ropes or strings: These can get wrapped around a child’s neck. Never hang toys with strings, cords or ribbons in cribs or playpens.
Buy protective gear: Purchase safety gear for the item, such as a helmet and wrist guards for skateboarding.
Choose durable toys: Make sure toys are well-constructed and can withstand rough play. Check toys regularly for wear and tear and fix or dispose of damaged toys.
Best toys for each age group
Birth to 6 months: Engage their senses
During the first six months, babies are just starting to explore their surroundings.
“Look for toys that stimulate sight, sound and touch,” Fejt said. “Newborns are especially drawn to bright colors, bold patterns and soft textures.”
Best toys for birth to 6 months:
- High-contrast soft toys
- Toys that crinkle, jingle or squeak
- Washable, soft rattles
- Mobiles or floor or activity gyms
Tip: Choose toys that are lightweight and large enough that they can’t be put entirely in the mouth.
6 to 12 months: Developing motor skills and coordination
As babies grow, so does their ability to reach, grasp and manipulate objects.
“Toys that encourage fine and gross motor skills are ideal at this stage, as they help develop coordination and dexterity,” Fejt said.
Best toys for 6 to 12 months:
- Stackable rings and cups
- Push-button toys that light up or make sounds
- Cloth, plastic or board books with large pictures
- Soft, washable animals or dolls
- Soft blocks for stacking and knocking down
Tip: At this stage, remember that babies still put items in their mouths, so avoid toys with small parts. Look for sturdy toys designed for mouthing.
1 to 3 years: Exploration and early learning
Toddlers are busy exploring the world. They’re learning how things work, building coordination and starting to use their imagination. Toys that let them move around, practice their hands-on skills and pretend are perfect for this age.
Best toys for 1 to 3 years:
- Shape sorters, stacking blocks and nesting cups
- Push-pull toys
- Dolls and stuffed animals
- Toddler puzzles
- Dress-up costumes
- Toy telephone, tea party sets, play kitchens
- Big chunky crayons for early drawing
- Tricycles, balance bikes and ride-on toys
Tip: “Remember, if you buy ride-on toys for your children, you should also purchase a helmet that is age-appropriate,” Fejt said.
4 to 6 years: Foster creativity and social skills
Preschoolers love role-playing, imitating adults around them and exploring their creativity. They are starting to understand things like letters, numbers and colors. Toys that make learning fun and let them act out different roles are great choices.
Best toys for 4 to 6 years:
- Action figures and Barbie dolls
- Arts and crafts
- Sports equipment
- Pretend play sets like dollhouses, kitchen sets, sweep or mop sets, lawnmowers, etc.
Tip: Always choose non-toxic, washable art supplies and encourage creative expression while keeping messes manageable.
7+ years: Exploring hobbies and problem-solving
Older kids have specific interests and enjoy toys that challenge them more. They’re ready for games and projects that involve thinking, planning and using new skills.
Best toys for 7 years and older:
- LEGO or building sets
- Beginner science kits
- Remote controlled toys
- Tickets to attractions and shows
- Board games and puzzles that require strategy
- Outdoor toys, like bikes and sports equipment
Tip: Always follow the age recommendations on complex kits, as they may contain small parts that could pose a choking hazard to younger siblings.
Takeaway
Finding toys for your child can be a fun and rewarding experience. Remember to focus on safety, developmental benefits and personal interests. With these tips, you can find toys to bring joy and support your child’s growth.
For additional tips, check out the American Academy of Pediatrics or talk with a Banner Health pediatrician.
