5 Types of Toys I DO NOT Recommend as a Child Psychologist

As parents, we often want to give our children the best of everything—especially when it comes to toys. Bright, musical, high-tech, and trendy? Feels like a win. But as a child psychologist, I’ve come to notice that not all toys support your child’s development—some can even hinder it.

Do NOT purchase that toy only because:

• It keeps your child occupied
• It is the latest trend
• Your child is crying for it
• Because everyone has it

Apart from these reasons, there are 5 categories of toys that I DO NOT recommend as a child psychologist, read on to know why: 

1. Toys With Excessive Lights and Sounds

We have always seen these toys, stopped in our tracks to see them again—the flashing lights, constant music, buttons that do it all.

Why I don’t recommend them:

• While these toys are exciting, they offer too much stimulation to your child without having them or their mind being active for it. 
• It is dangerous especially for younger children, under 5 years for whom it can be POTENTIAL TRIGGER FOR SEIZURE.

2. Screen-Based Toys for Young Children

Whether it’s an educational tablet, a talking book with a screen, or a “learning app” for toddlers—screen-based toys are not complete play for a child. WHO has issued guidelines for permissible screen time according to age. While some screen in moderation is okay, adhere to the guidelines for a more cautious and holistic development.

Why I don’t recommend them (especially under age 5):

• Limits hands-on exploration. Screens make the child more passive, reducing body movement and physical development.
• Screens also hamper language and social development as a child is not interacting with another human and is engaged in 2D interaction.
  

3. Toys that have ‘One’ way of playing or has “Right”/“Wrong”

Think of toys that have you can only play in one way, not much to do with them. For example, quiz-style toys, flashcards, and even some learning games that offer only yes/no feedback. Remember, flash cards are for absolutely great learning time, however, a child cannot ‘play’ with them.

Why I don’t recommend them:

• It stresses the child to ‘perform’ instead of actually enjoying play.
• It does not encourage creative thinking. As the child does not learn to apply various ideas or problem solve.
  

4. Violent or Aggressive Toys

Toy guns, swords, or figures that promote violence—even in fantasy—can subtly influence how children express anger or frustration. Ofcourse, completely doing away with such toys is also not practical or encouraged, but one should be mindful of heightened emotions while using these toys.

Why I don’t recommend them:

• Normalizes aggression and desensitizes children to violent behavior. May also interfere with emotional regulation and empathy development for some children.
• Encourages rough play that can harm other children. Sometimes, guns come with small pellets that can be choking hazards.
  

5. Overly Informative Books

While books are a great way to boost a child’s learning, books are supposed to be age appropriate. Textured, sensory books and SINGLE picture books are good for younger ones, however, if there is more than a single picture/too much text in a book, then it is not good for younger ones who are just starting to learn or look at books. 

Why I don’t recommend them:

• Do not offer appropriate stimulation and may end up hindering the speed of learning for a child.
• With so much on one page, a child may not be able to focus on one thing or have sustained attention, thereby losing interest and sitting for long. 

          Remember every toy may look attractive, or may have its claims, but choose wisely to see which toy is best for your child! You don’t need a house full of toys—just a few good ones that help your child play and learn!