If you've ever marveled at the look of concentration on the face
of a child who tries to fit a square block into a square hole or
catch a ball in mid-air, you know that playtime isn't just about
fun and games. It's serious business — and toys are the tools of
the trade. But when it comes to playthings that educate as well
as entertain, not all are created equal. Here is an age-wise
guide to how kids play, and to the toys that not only thrill but
also help kids understand the world, learn social and emotional
skills, and stimulate a developing brain. Babies: How They Play
Play in the first year of life is all about exploration. Babies
use their five senses to learn about the interesting new world
around them: Does an object feel hard or soft? Sticky or rough?
What does it do if I drop it? Or put it in my mouth? Most play
consists of "tasting" or mouthing an object and shaking,
banging, or dropping it. When your baby develops new motor
skills, play becomes more coordinated and complex. For example,
at about 4 m