Here are a few questions to ask yourself prior to purchasing the "right" toy for your child. If you're able to answer "yes" to most of these questions, the toy is probably a good purchase.

1. Is the toy age appropriate for my child, is the toy safe for my child's age?
2. Is the toy engaging? Will my child want to play with it over and over? For several minutes or even up to a hour?
3. Is the toy well built? Will it hold up to continued use?
4. Is my child capable of operating the toy or is my child's imagination developed enough to fully enjoy the toy? 
5. Will the toy continue to motivate my child and leave him/her with a feeling of success after using it? Does it challenge my child's abilities just enough?
6. As my child grows will the toy grow with them? Will the toy still be appealing a year from now? Several years?
7. Can the toy be used in a variety of different ways? Can it be used creatively?
8. Will it help my child learn? Does it teach them about their surroundings, people, places, nature or how things work?

  

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Helpful tips on getting the most from your child's toys!
      Toys arranged on open, low shelves will be easy for your young child to see and locate. It will help promote independent play if your child is able to reach and return their toys on their own. 
   Item stored in toy chest or boxes can be hard to locate. Pieces often go missing or break.

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