Post by Laura Hull on Apr 24, 2017 19:45:40 GMT -8
Toys and classroom materials should be selected according to the age group and abilities/tendencies of the children within the group. In general, look for toys that are safe (rounded corners/edges, nothing with sharp metal or splintered wood, nothing that can be swallowed if the age group is composed of around 4 years old or younger, nothing that obviously is or is meant to represent a weapon). Children need furniture that is their size/accessible to them. Low chairs and tables, for example, are a good idea, as well as pillows and stuffed animals placed on the floor near a low bookcase. Children also need variety. Blocks and dramatic play items such as toy animals and toy people, and trains and cars (all forms of transportation) will be stimulating and interesting to most children. Having age appropriate free art supplies such as paper and crayons or chalk, is also appropriate. In general, to determine appropriateness in toys, games, and activities beware of safety hazards, overt stereotypes, and toys that are too focused on electronics/passive play/entertainment. Pull in a variety of materials for fine and gross motor, and try to have toys that will engage a range of skill sets since kids need to be challenged but they also need times of play that will just be fun, easy, and relatively mindless.