Your Child’s Developmental Stages and Outdoor Play

Parents of young children have so much to look forward to. They can watch their child learn and develop through the years. Knowing what to expect will help you prepare for the next stage and ensure your child stays on track.

Specifically, you may be wondering what toys your child is ready to play with based on their development. This article will review the various stages to help you find the ideal indoor and outdoor play equipment.

Newborn 0-3 months

During the first three months, children develop survival skills. They shift their heads from side to side, cry to indicate a need, and improve their focus. By three months, they may begin to smile.

Play toys should be limited to those that promote stimulation, featuring bright colors or playing music. However, their interaction may be limited to grabbing and staring at the object.

Infants 3-12 months

Your child will experience considerable development during these months as follows:

·  3-6 months: The child will recognize faces, babble, and develop some motor skills.

·  6-9 months: Infants sit without support, may react when their name is called, and will communicate through gestures.

·  9-12 months: Children may imitate sounds and gestures, pick up objects, crawl, and even stand or walk.

At this age, children can interact with any toy rated safe for their age group. However, in terms of outdoor play, they may be limited to singular activities such as swinging in age-appropriate swings.

Toddler 1-3 years

A toddler can stand and walk, although they may be unsteady on their feet. They will also be able to communicate in short sentences.

Although toddlers can play with just about any age-appropriate toy, they are not ready to interact with others. They engage in parallel play, watching others play, but typically do not join in.

Preschool 3-5 years

By the time children reach preschool age, their motor skills become much more refined. They can dress themselves, throw a ball, write, draw, and read. Most can use the toilet independently by age four.

At this stage, children can play with a wide range of age-appropriate toys and games, including those that involve complex strategies. They are also ready for a range of children’s outdoor play equipment, including trampolines and swings.

School Age 6-17 years

In this final stage of childhood development, children will develop a wide range of emotions. Their speaking and writing skills will become more established. They will also go through puberty and sexual development.

You will see children go through various aspects of play interests, with some developing into athletes and others pursuing other hobbies. Likely, they will eventually lose interest in their outdoor play equipment, so enjoy them while you’ve got them. P.S. Trampolines are ideal for fitness at any age!

Little Tacker Toys Will Help You Find Outdoor Play Equipment for All Development Stages

Are you wondering which outdoor play equipment items best suit your child’s stage of development? Don’t hesitate to reach out to Little Tacker Toys. We have a wide range of quality products and can guide you in finding one that’s ideal for your family.

Contact us to learn more about our wide selection.