Toys and Infant Development: Biological, Psychological, and Social Factors

Infants spend much of their waking time exploring toys and other objects. Although there is a great deal of research supporting the importance of object play for cognitive development, we tend to be casual about toy selection and use. The author's experience directing a toy research program for the Johnson & Johnson Baby Products Company showed how profoundly the physical features of objects affect the play opportunities they provide. This paper presents arguments for a more thoughtful approach to toy research, toy selection, and toy use.