Some parents find the money spent on toys a bit unnecessary, believing that the abundance of toy varieties in the market is a kind of money trap. To some extent, this is true; so many options can whet children's appetites, and they may want everything they see; if you say 'no', they may cause problems, and if you give in to their every wish, they can become insatiable. However, toys are never completely unnecessary. The right toy selection has a significant impact on children's development, and it is up to you to set a limit on purchases. Toys stimulate children's creativity, develop their imagination and skills, and help them learn concepts like size and color. Toys with different features are also beneficial for intellectual development in children. However, we are not talking about random toys or items purchased solely for their fancy appearance; toys must be carefully selected to have these positive effects on children. Toys for children aged 0-3 are generally chosen by parents. After this age, children begin to prefer toys they are interested in and want to acquire, and it is important to respect their preferences as long as they do not ask for excessive items. Babies aged 0-6 months are sensitive to form, color, and shapes; therefore, toys should be things that stimulate their visual and auditory senses. Toys that move around the bed and make sounds are suitable for this period. For babies aged 6-12 months, toys can include picture rattles with bells, medium-sized rubber dolls, pull-along toy animals, vehicles, and toys that consist of large colorful shapes that can be placed in a box. When selecting toys for babies aged 12-24 months, it is necessary to choose from toys that can be ridden on, pushed and pulled, make sounds, and soft plush animals. From the 18th month onwards, babies' exploratory and inventive instincts emerge; therefore, it is appropriate to buy them blocks and boxes that they can build, combine, and separate. For children aged 2-4, when choosing toys, it is necessary to focus on dolls, puppets, kitchen-carpentry-cleaning tools, gardening tools, doctor kits, hairdresser sets, and toy phones. Legos, puzzles, pastel crayons, and chalks are also suitable for this period. In the 4-6 age range, children develop socially and begin to form a circle of friends. Their interests lean towards outdoor games, board games, cutting and pasting activities, and creating shapes from materials. Activity materials aimed at fine motor skills are ideal toys for 5-year-olds. At the age of 6, interest in imaginative play increases, and the ability to imitate peaks. Toy sets containing gardening tools and various professional tools attract the interest of children in this period. During this time, children experience rapid physical and social development; therefore, it is advisable to frequently take them outdoors and provide them with toys like balls, ropes, and hoops that they can use in outdoor environments, as well as bicycles and skates. Various reading materials such as interactive books are also suitable for preschool children.
Child Development and Education
