Lesson 6: Choosing Toys

What makes a toy safe and effective for preschool children?

Safety Standards: Understanding the importance of safety regulations in toys (e.g., non-toxic materials, age-appropriate designs).

Durability: Evaluating the longevity of materials and toys, considering how they withstand daily use in a preschool setting.

Cost-Effectiveness: Analyzing budget constraints while ensuring quality and educational value.

Learning Outcomes: Identifying the developmental skills (cognitive, social, emotional, physical) that toys can support in preschool-aged children.

Standard 1.1: Analyze and apply principles of child development and learning to support children's growth and development.

Standard 3.2: Evaluate the impact of consumer choices on individual and family well-being.

Students learn about what to look for when choosing toys for the classroom.

Students pick one toy for each learning center they designed in their "creating a classroom" assignment. Students will add a link and the justification or the toy.

Toys are not just fun. They are learning tools.

Flexible Small Groups
Time Modifications
Scaffolding/Tiered Instruction
Task Lists
Rubrics
Choices

• Students will explore an online retailer and find toys they think would be appropriate for preschool centers. They will write a short justification for their choice, including safety, cost, and educational value.

Teachers can set up toy stations around the room for students to explore "good" and "bad" toys for the classroom. They can determine which toys are not suitable for the classroom but more suitable for the home.