Age recommendations on toys

tee18

I'm curious - what do you think the guidelines for age limits on toys are for - safety? developmentally appropriate? 

I'm looking for some wooden blocks for LO & they're all rated 2+ (some 3+). Some of the 2+ ones seem large enough to not pose a chocking hazard, but maybe not?? 

Shoegal36

That's a really good question. I used to think it was a safety thing, but now that I've been looking at toys for LO I'm thinking it could depend on the toy. I wanted to get her some stacking cups for Christmas because my friend's LO loves them. I don't think she would use them right now, but over the next few months probably. Anyway, all the ones I've looked at say 18+ months so I'm like "what the...?! they're plastic cups!" 

So, I'm really not sure but I'm curious too! 

michelle04us

Last year we got James(6 months at the time) wooden blocks and the stackable bowls that also can be made into balls. We got the large blocks so if he did stick them in his mouth they wouldn't be a problem. The stackable bowls were all large enough to not have any safety concerns. I just think most of the age recommendations are based on developmental and not safety(unless small parts). 

I know a couple of things we are getting Alexander are for 12mo+. However, he has been playing with some of James toys(18mo) already so I don't see a problems with the toys we got him. 

FmrAFBrat

Do the toilet paper test...if it fits in the roll it's a choking hazard; but if it doesn't than it is okay.

I have had a hard time finding wooden blocks that pass the test for my 2 year old. We have been using Mega Bloks since he was 8 months old and no problem. YDS is already playing with the trucks..so it's a decent (non choking hazard) toy for the boys out there. They do have girl versions too.