Things to Consider
When choosing toys for your preschooler there are several things you need to consider, but most importantly there is safety, quality, and age appropriate learning.
Safety
Once your toddler reaches 3 years, you can start introducing smaller toys or toys with smaller parts, but do so with caution. While your preschooler is officially past the infant stage, there will still be times when toys end up in the mouth, or up the nose! Toys with small parts should be used with supervision, and be put away carefully after use – especially if your child has younger friends or siblings.
While children seem very grown up at 3 or 4, the reality is they are still growing and developing, and they will trip, tumble and fall every day. Make sure your child’s toys have no sharp edges, or pointed protrusions which can cause serious injury if fallen on.
Quality
Quality is a huge issue when it comes to buying toys, not only because high quality toys are generally safer, but because they last longer as well. Many of the toys which are appropriate for this age group, will be enjoyed by your child (and subsequent children) for many years to come. It is worth paying a little bit more to ensure they last the distance.