186 Toys

Consider these easy pointers before you start your search for toys that’ll catch any kids’ fancy.

A dollhouse or a rocking horse: How to buy age-appropriate toys

Help your toddler discover new things with toys that pique her curiosity - pool toys that squeak, puppets that dance, and other toddler toys that open, close and rattle are good picks. As she reaches the ages of three and four, pretend play is more like it: pick dolls, a toy kitchen, a dollhouse, toy trains, and toy robots - all fit the bill.

Kids between the ages of three and five tend to prefer role play, which transitions to the need to create. This is when board games with word play and puzzles would be quite exciting. Even puppets or a doll that the child can control and transform into different characters is a fascinating proposition. Role playing is also a lot of fun with props like dolls and toy trains.

Board games for all age groups

Bring some family time home with board games designed for group play. Whether it’s the classics: Twister, Guess Who, Kerplunk, Mouse Trap, Boggle or the seriously loved Scrabble and Monopoly - board games are a rite of passage for every young family.

The appeal of wooden toys

Wooden toys are fast gaining favour over PVC and plastic toys that might or might not be certified as safe play for kids. These are light, accident-proof, lack any sharp edges, and come in all the shapes and sizes you could want. Choose an elephant, a rocking horse, hippo, kangaroo or platypus - wooden toys are fun and can also come with rattles.

Pool toys for the summer

Make the outdoors more interesting with inflatable pool toys like large noodles or water-slides. Out for a day at the beach? Take some beach toys like a bucket or sand mill along.

Choosing toys for kids can be fun as well as loaded with responsibility. They will get quite attached to those stuffed animals and toy planes so pick them with care. If, instead, the toys are for older kids (such as perhaps yourself!), you can use them as decor pieces; who doesn't love a good wooden chest or ship with open sails?