Both solitary and social play is necessary for a child's development. A child can play with a building toy by himself and, in the process, develop independence, self-sufficiency and persistence. Playing with the same toy with others, he or she acquires social skills such as sharing, empathy and cooperation. Quality materials, fine workmanship and simplicity of design will assure that a toy will withstand the rigors of children's play. Little is more disappointing to a child than the lost opportunity for play that comes when a toy breaks.
Safety is the most important consideration when selecting toys.
Consider the home environment and the ages of other, particularly younger, children in the home. A toy intended for an older child may be unsuitable and possibly dangerous in the hands of a younger child. Be especially careful when selecting toys for children younger than three. Avoid toys with small parts that could be swallowed or inhaled, including small balls and uninflated balloons, and those with sharp points or rough edges. Make sure that soft rattles, squeakers and teething toys, even in their most compressed state, are too large to fit completely in an infant's mouth.