A rule of thumb: Less is more. The less a toy does, the more opportunity a child has to create and learn from it. Simple toys are easier for children to use, require less supervision and last longer.

1. SAFETY FIRST
Toys should match a child’s developmental level and age and should not contain unsafe, toxic or flammable materials, sharp corners or small, detachable parts. They should also be clean.

2. DURABILITY
To survive a child’s repeated handling, a toy must be made of sturdy, reliable materials.

3. EASY TO USE
A child must be able to work a toy by himself in order for him to enjoy it. Generally, simple toys are the easiest to operate.

4. ENTERTAINMENT VALUE
Ideally, a child should find a toy fun to play with now and as she grows. Look for toys that a child can experiment with in many ways.

5. EDUCATIONAL VALUE
Play teaches a child to think, create and imagine. Choose toys that allow for pretending, role-playing, problem-solving and practicing skills.

6. SOCIAL VALUE
Children learn important social skills, like cooperation, negotiation and compromise, by playing with other children. Choose toys that children can use with others.