The choice of toys for children ranges from baby toys and toys that develop motor skills to large outdoor play equipment. However, a high price, lots of features or bright colours say little about whether a product will suit your family’s everyday life. What matters is your child’s age, the space available, the materials, how much care the product needs and the specific safety information provided.
A toy with a slide, basketball hoop, climbing wall and tunnel sounds versatile. But it can take up too much space in a small home. Accessories that are rarely used can also add to the amount of storage needed. So, before you buy, consider:
Toys for children aged 3 and over may contain small parts that aren’t suitable for younger children. Conversely, a very simple product may quickly lose its appeal for older children. The age recommendation isn’t just a minor marketing detail; it’s an important guide to how the product should be used.
With baby toys, adults should also check whether any parts could come loose, whether there are any cords or ribbons, and whether the product will be used on a stable, level surface.
Fabric play mats, baby playpens and water toys regularly come into contact with dirt or moisture. Before you buy, find out about:
A product can become impractical for everyday use if it’s difficult to clean or hard to put away after use.
Check more than just the age recommendation: look at weight limits, the maximum number of children and the intended use too. For example, the roba Little Stars playpen has a maximum load of 15 kg and is intended for use from birth to around 24 months, or until your child can climb out – whichever comes first.
For a play area for children or a bouncy castle with a slide, you should also check the maximum total load and the number of children who can play at the same time. These limits must not be exceeded.
Measure the intended area, including space for safety and movement. A product measuring 100 × 190 cm needs more than just the space it occupies; you’ll also need room around the sides. For outdoor toys, consider the ground surface, distance from fences and exposure to the weather too.
Indoor toys such as play mats for children are best used on clean, level floors. Large play equipment should be kept away from stairs, windows, radiators and the sharp edges of furniture.
For toys sold in Germany and the EU, product information, labels and safety warnings should be clear and easy to understand. EN 71 sets out safety requirements for toys. According to the product information, the roba playpen is designed in line with EN 12227:2010-12. These details don’t replace the instructions for use, but they do give you a specific point to check when choosing a product.
Also read any warnings about small parts, choking hazards, water, electrical connections and the need for supervision. A reference to a safety standard is no reason to leave children unsupervised while they play.
Why it suits this need: The reversible mat has a road scene on one side and animals on the other. It’s suitable for toy vehicles, figures and shared activities.
Its simple design focuses on a usable play area rather than lots of separate pieces. It can be rolled up and cleaned with a damp cloth.
Reversible design, measures 100 × 190 cm and has a polyester surface; intended for children aged 2 and over.
Why it suits this need: This wooden baby playpen has three adjustable base heights, so you can adapt it to changing needs around the home.
The 15 kg weight limit, age guidance and instructions for checking the brakes and screws are clearly specified.
Solid beech wood, a 100 × 100 cm lying area, four castors with brakes and a washable fabric insert.
Why it suits this need: This manual game is suitable for level surfaces indoors or outside, and works well for family get-togethers, children’s birthday parties or group activities.
The minimum age of 3 and warning about small parts are clearly stated. Direct adult supervision is recommended during use.
Two ways to play, ten skittles and five rings; manual play with no batteries required.
Why it suits this need: For families with plenty of space, this play set combines a slide, climbing wall, tunnel, basketball hoop, ring toss and telescope in one design.
Before you buy, check that the stated age range of 3 to 8 years, the space required and the assembly requirements are all suitable for the intended location.
HDPE construction according to the product information, a wide triangular base and a platform with a stated load capacity of up to 60 kg.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations in force in the EU.
Age-appropriate baby toys, simple grasping toys, play mats or a suitable playpen can all be options for babies and toddlers. Check the manufacturer’s information, make sure there are no small parts, and use the product on a level surface with adult supervision. Toys labelled “3 years and over” should not be given to younger children.
That depends on the material, how well it’s cared for and how your child plays with it. A reversible polyester play mat can last for a long time with regular cleaning, provided it doesn’t develop any tears, loose parts or signs of heavy wear. Check the surface regularly and store the mat somewhere dry.
As well as the purchase price, you may need to factor in electricity, water and storage. Models with a blower need a continuous power supply while in use. If you use water, you’ll also need a garden hose and will use additional water. Before buying, check the space required, protection from the wind, maximum load and everything included – for example, whether a blower comes with it.