Three Important Criteria for Selecting Play Equipment for Young Children

Selecting Based on Safety

• While it's obvious that safety is key when it comes to play equipment selection, you need to know the specifics in order to make an informed decision. For example, even though choosing a wooden climber that isn't splintered or splitting is a no-brainer, you need to look at the finer details. Openings on the equipment should be less than 3 1/2 inches wide or greater than 9 inches wide to avoid the risk of a child's head becoming entrapped, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. All "S" hooks should close tightly. Open "S" hooks on swings or other equipment can cause chains to detach or snag your child's clothes. Paint or covering is also an important feature. All equipment should be made of non-toxic material. Anything with lead-based paint should be avoided. Electronic components should be labeled "UL Approved."

Encouraging Emerging Skills

• Your child's play equipment should go beyond meeting his current developmental needs. Even though it should meet age-graded guidelines, the items should help your child to reach the next level, according to the National Association for the Education of Young Children. For example, toddlers are just starting to develop a sense of imagination and are beginning to engage in pretend play. If you have a 2-year-old you might want to select equipment that feeds into her growing ability to engage in pretend play. This may include a puppet theater or a kitchen set. While these play items are also appropriate for preschoolers, if your child is 3 years old or older you could also include equipment that builds more sophisticated skills. After age 3 most children have the motor abilities to play on slides, climbers and swings, notes the Consumer Products Safety Commission.

Choosing Age-Rated Items

• Some play equipment isn't safe or appropriate for children of all ages. Manufacturers put age ranges on toys and other play items in accordance with Consumer Product Safety Commission guidelines. This legal requirement can help you to make selections that are safe for your child. The commission also provides guidelines for picking safe equipment. It notes, for example, that a 4- or 5-year-old can ride a bicycle, provided that there is constant adult supervision.

Reviewing Other Considerations

• Not every child has the same abilities at the same age. This is where knowledge of your child's growth comes into play. Even if a slide is approved for kids age 3 and up, a child who has just turned 3 may still need some time before she's ready to use it. While there are milestones that most children meet, this doesn't mean that your child will hit the mark by a specific date. Your child's individual abilities and needs are crucial elements of the equation. You're choosing the equipment for your child -- not for the "average" or "typical" child mentioned on a label.