How to Select the Right Educational ToysPosted by Nick Niesen on November 1st, 2010 Is it Safe?Without a doubt the most important factor when choosing any educational toy for your baby is safety. The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) has published a number of articles regarding safety standards & safety information, as well as keeping a ban list and recalled items list. This is recommended as your first point of call when researching any products for your baby. Beware of second-hand and hand-me-down toys as they may be broken, missing pieces, or missing important safety information. Be sure to give them a thorough inspection before allowing your child to play with them. Remember: You are the last line of defense when it comes to your child's safety, always ensure they are supervised especially when playing near water, even very shallow amounts. Choosing Age-Appropriate ToysThe best guide for buying toys for children is to see what they enjoy playing with, and be sure to keep an eye on the manufacturers recommended age. 0 ? 6 MonthsSimple toys to help your baby practice his grasp and learn that his hands are useful tools, high contrast colours (black, white, red) to help him focus and keep his attention:
6 ? 12 MonthsToys that encourage her to push, pull, press and move working parts, noise making toys, hard and soft toys of different textures:
12-18 MonthsToys that can be pushed, pulled, ridden, stacked, filled and dumped.
18 - 24 MonthsInside and outside toys with plenty of room to crawl, walk, run, and jump:
24 - 36 MonthsOutside toys allowing plenty of room to safely run, jump, and climb:
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