Advantages of Toys
Babies learn a lot through play. In fact, play is one of the major ways that encourage a child’s development. Sufficient playtime for your baby is important as babies can express themselves through activities, even as they release their extra energy.
Toys should, therefore, be chosen with the baby’s development in mind. Here are some of the advantages of toys:
- Learning and enhancing problem-solving abilities
- Conflict resolution, sharing and compromising through multiple plays
- Development of fine motor skills
- Nurturing baby’s imagination and creativity
- Positive self-esteem
- Developing independence
What to Look for When Choosing Toys
The first thing you need to consider when picking toys is the age of your baby. By doing this, you provide the right amount of challenge to push your baby to learn without being frustrated. One you find the pile (Or section) holding age-appropriate toys, consider that they meet the following requirements:
- Blunt-edged- Smooth and round edges enable a baby to play safely
- Non-toxic- Consider examples such as crayons and paint that children can ingest. Ensure all items have the Kenya Bureau of Standards sticker as a validation for such toys.
- Choking hazards– Legos, for instance is fun to play with, but can become hazardous if a child is left unsupervised.
Maintaining the Safety of Toys
Emergency sections in hospitals witness a countless number of baby emergencies due to toy-related injuries yearly. With children younger than three years likely at risk of choking, choosing the right toy for the right age is essential. Before buying a toy, check whether the toy;
- Is flame- resistant
- Is washable if it’s a stuffed animal
- I painted with lead-free paint
- Has non-toxic parts used in manufacturing
- Is tested and fit for use by checking for the KEBS mark
Supervision During Play
Some toys such as building blocks do not necessarily need constant monitoring. However, your baby should never be left unattended even with the safest of toys. Watch them and constantly check their toys’ wear and tear.
Disclaimers:
#Please note that development differs from one child to another
# Content intended for educational purposes only, and should not be substituted for medical advice from your doctor.
# Be careful when using any products mentioned on this website. We hold no regulations for such products or their providers.
Last reviewed January 2019
Sources: educationalplaycare, psychcentral, cccf-fcsge, kidshealth
