Your young child's playtime is his first real learning experience, and toys can act as catalysts in your child's growth. The benefits of educational toys are many and varied, and by choosing the right toys, you create an environment that is fun and conducive to learning vital skills.

But currently it is hard to find what you need if you do not know what you are looking for. With a million toys on the market today, it is tough to pick out the best combinations of fun and learning. However, every beneficial toy should be fun, safe, and help the child develop and exercise some skill. When faced with so many choices, asking yourself some simple questions about your child's development can help you make the best selection.

The following is a list of characteristics you should look for in a good, educational toy:

1. Sensory attraction: How many senses will the toy occupy? Does
it respond to and with lights, sounds, or movement? Is it colorful? Does it have a smell or a texture?

2. Activation method: Will the toy provide a challenge without frustrating your child? Will it be a fun and rewarding
experience?

3. Self-expression: Will the toy allow your child to express
himself, be creative, and make choices?

4. Success potential: How many "correct" ways are there to play
with the toy? Can play be open-ended with no right or wrong
responses? Will the toy adapt to your child's ability and style?

5. Ways of use: Can the toy be used in many different positions?
Can it be used in different kinds of play?

6.Popularity: Is it a popular toy? Can it be tied-in with other
media such as storybooks, television or movies?

7.Flexibility: Does it have adjustable volume, speed, and level
of difficulty?

8.Opportunities for interaction: Does the toy provide a chance
for you or other children to be involved? Will it build social
skills?

9.Individuality and growth: Will the toy engage your child in
activities that indicate the child's developmental age and
growth? Does it reflect the child's interests?

10.Safety and durability: Is the toy durable, considering your
child's age and strength? Is it safe?

So, giving your child the right toys will be benefit for all.
Your child's play time is not only a time of fun and development
for them, but can also be a great way for you to relax and enjoy
your child's company. With educational toys, you can follow,
supervise and direct your child's development, and find great
thrill and amusement in their playtime activities.

Author: Michelle Andrews

About the author:
Michelle Andrews, a former middle school teacher who now stays
home with his three children. He wrote "Parent's Guide on How to
Raise a Smart Child by Choosing the Right Educational Toys."
Visit his Website EducationaltoysGuide.com at http://www.educationalto ysguide.com