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Every new mom knows that it is important for a child’s toy to multi-task. It must be safe, stimulating, interesting, mind expanding and attention holding to name a few of these tasks. It is also important for A child to be introduced to the right toy at the right time as toys that are too simple will bore a baby and toys that are too complex can frustrate them. Here is a few tips I have compiled for new moms to help when shopping and picking toys that will be just right for your little one.

The most important factor in choosing a toy for your little one is knowing your child’s personality and likes and dislikes. Because babies can not communicate verbally, often times it can be a little difficult for a new mom to determine a baby’s mood. This takes a little practice and each child is different, but you find after spending some quality time with them and observing them in different situations this becomes second nature. When giving a new toy to a child don’t be disappointed if you don’t get an overwhelmingly enthusiastic response, a baby may need to see a toy a number of times before they begin warming up to it. Also it’s good not to present too many toys or simulation at once as it may overwhelm and confuse your child.

Another good thing to do is to check the age recommended on the toy. Most baby companies will put the recommended age that the toy is targeted for on the box or labeling as well as simple instruction on how to get the best value from the toy. You can also check the internet and the companies sites for more information and support. Before buying an expensive item it is good practice to check online to see if there has been a safety recall for it. Sometimes companies release toys before realizing that there may be a health hazard involved, and it is always good to keep a close eye on your child whenever anything new is introduced to watch for allergic reactions or any other sorts of dangers.

Set an example for your child. As you may know or begin to notice, the first lessons a baby learns are learned by observing and imitating you. Everything from the way that you move your mouth when speaking and eating to the way you react to something he or she does. If a baby sees you dancing or swaying to the music, after too long your baby will want to be swaying and dancing along with you! If your baby is very young start slowly and show the child how the toy works a few times, and then follow with helping them to do the same action. Even if your child is not able to play with the toy by themselves, it will give them an example of how it should be played with and encourage them to practice reaching for it themselves.

Actively encourage and reward your child with smiles, kisses and touch for correctly imitating you and for putting their best effort in. Never discourage or yell at a child for not being able to do something, every movement is a learned action and it may take some time before they can reach their toy-centered goals. Also give your child some solo-time with the toy to help them practice the skill without immediate supervision, but make sure that if your child is becoming frustrated that you move on to a new activity or area of play to prevent them from being discouraged and getting upset.

Bright colors and varied textures are also very good for a baby’s development. These multi-colored and interesting toys help the baby to focus on small details and further set up a catalog in their minds of different sorts of patterns and textures. Very young children may not recognize their toys immediately but over time a child will begin to recognize and show ownership and want for a familiar entertaining toy. If your child has become particularly attached to a toy it is sometimes a good idea to either buy another one in case it is lost, or to buy a toy that is similar in a different color or style. The child will enjoy a similar toy because it is a familiar action but at the same time a different change from the usual.

In the long run, only you know best. Keep in mind that every child is different and the act of child-raising is not a perfect science. Be attentive to your child and their actions and soon you will find that play time is both you and her favorite time of the day. Children learn through playing, so help your child to expand their horizons and take time to play play play! You’ll be happy you did!

Tags: ages, learning, play, stages, stimulation, toys