Here is the good article from Toy Industry Association in the U.S. which we’d like to share with you:Play is universal.  Children of every culture engage in play; anthropologists have found evidence of toys dating as far back as there is record of human life.  Though play differs from culture to culture, generation to generation, it is clearly an instinctual, essential part of growing up.

While play has existed since ancient times, only recently have we come to appreciate its importance to a child’s development. Too often, we dismiss playtime as simply entertainment for our children. Yet, experts consider play to be a child’s work. Truly, there is no more constructive pastime for a child. While play is the essential joy of youth, it is also the primary way in which children learn about themselves, others and their world.  Through play, children develop the physical, mental, social, emotional and creative skills needed for life.

Given the many benefits of play, parent and caregivers naturally want to make the most of it for their children – to choose appropriate toys, encourage positive play experiences and, above all, ensure safe play.  This booklet will help you do that.