It's important to consider age recommendations when purchasing a toy for your child, as these indicators serve several purposes, with the first being safety. "Toys with small pieces that could pose a choking hazard are labeled only for older children who have progressed past developmental stages where they are likely to put toys in their mouth, nose and ears," explains Dr. Kirkilas.
Age recommendations can also help guide parents on which toys their children will likely enjoy."Purchasing toys outside of the recommended age range can lead to frustrated children (when purchasing toys with age ranges above their children’s age) or bored children (when purchasing toys with age ranges below their children’s age)," he says. "That being said, every child is different, with some advancing to developmental stages slower or faster than others."