Children don't just "play." When they play, they are learning -- about themselves, about other people, and about how the world works. All of those are important for when they go to school.

The best kind of toys are the ones that let children play with them in lots of different ways. That way they can play about whatever is important to them at that moment.

Blocks, dolls, and cars have always been popular because these toys help young children feel in charge without actually being in charge. Today's electronic toys give children that sense of power in a different way.

Children also like toys that allow them to play about being grownups.

Whether you are thinking of making a toy for your child or buying one, here are some ideas about playthings for each age group. Of course, safety is always the most important thing to consider. Because young children tend to put things in their mouths, be sure to avoid small objects that could cause choking.

Infants (0-12 months)

• soft cuddly toys
• lightweight rattles
• cloth or lightweight balls like a beach ball
• cloth or cardboard books
• toys to explore (blocks or teething rings)
• toys to bang (wooden spoon and an oatmeal box or simple drum)
• toys that roll (with things that move inside as they roll)

Younger Toddlers (12-30 months)

• cardboard blocks for stacking and knocking down
• sturdy toy cars or trucks
• baby dolls, blankets, baby bottles
• containers for filling and dumping
• balls
• wooden or plastic trains
• riding toys (without pedals)
• sturdy picture books
• pull toys
• pop-up toys
• snap-together toys
• hinged toys that open and close
• toys that stack or fit inside each other

Older Toddlers (20-36 months)

Add to the above list for younger toddlers

• art materials -- stickers, glue, tempera paints with big brushes
• easy puzzles
• simple basic dress-up things, like hats, shoes and vests
• keys

Preschoolers (3-5 years)

• blocks
• toy cars and trucks
• toy people, furniture, animals
• dress-up clothes
• modeling dough, cookie cutters
• toy cooking utensils, like pots and pans
• puppets
• safe tools
• picture books and storybooks
• dolls, strollers, and doll clothes
• construction toys
• simple puzzles
• art materials -- crayons, markers, paper, glue, scissors, tape, tempera paints with big brushes

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