What toys are appropriate for what age group?

What toys are best for what age? Discover what to look for when shopping so you can easily spot the answer.
When you peruse the aisles of the department stores, the number of toys on display boggles the mind. What toys should you get for what age? There are a couple of ways you can figure it out. First, do some research to see what reviewers recommend for each age group. And second, look on the toy’s packaging to see which age group the product is safety-rated for.

On top of the classics that have been around for decades, hundreds of new toy products come out every year, usually just before the Christmas season. And every year, too many toddlers are treated in emergency situations because of toy-related injuries. Children under three years old are particularly at risk because they tend to put small objects into their mouths.

Toy and game manufacturers who sell their products in Canada have to meet the requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Act of Canada. These regulations set strict standards to prevent accidents from choking, ingestion or inhalation in children under three years old.

That determines, among other things, the size of rattles, the strength of training wheels on bicycles and the kind of stuffed animals that are deemed safe. Although manufacturers aren't required to indicate on their packaging the recommended age, most of them do. So, the simplest way to know if a toy is appropriate for a child is to read the packaging.

Parents should also supervise young children while they play. Beware of vintage toys, which may not conform to current safety standards.

Toys should be large enough so they can’t be swallowed (at least three centimetres in diameter and six centimetres long). Avoid toys that are smaller than that, such as balls, coins and battery-operated toys whose parts can be removed easily.

Make sure a young child’s toy doesn't break easily and doesn't have sharp edges or small easily detachable parts. These guidelines are important for plush toys as well, whose eyes can sometimes be pulled off.

Bicycles, skateboards, rollerblades and scooters should never be used without helmets that meet current safety standards. Children should also wear protection for the hands, elbows and knees when doing these activities.

Don’t hesitate to ask for advice if you don't know what toys to buy for what age group. Survey a few experienced parents or ask a toy store clerk. They'll probably be ready to talk toys for hours.