December 11, 1998

The Pediatric Nursing Staff offers MGHers some helpful hints to help choose gifts for children this holiday season. Created by Mary Lou Kelleher, RN, MS, pediatric clinical nurse specialist, and nursing graduate student Trisha Jackson, RN, from Regis College, these guidelines suggest toys that are fun and developmentally appropriate. All toys should be eye-appealing, well constructed, durable and safe. For a more complete set of guidelines, call 4-5720.

• Ages 1 to 3
  Children enjoy physical activities and imitative play. They are increasing their vocabulary and beginning to develop fine motor skills and an understanding of the world through their senses. Gift examples include: picture books, blocks, balls, puppets and toy kitchens.
• Ages 3 to 5
  Little ones are learning to share and play with others. They have vivid imaginations, enjoy role play and physical activities, and are continuing to develop fine motor skills. Gift examples include: dress-up clothes, paper, glue and children's scissors, musical toys and instruments, beginning board games, wagons and tricycles (with helmets).
• Ages 6 to 8
  Youngsters are interested in group play with other children of the same sex. They are developing reading skills and showing interest in numbers and exploring. Gift examples include: craft and science kits, computers, bikes (with helmets), dolls and watches.
• Ages 9 to 12
  Kids enjoy competition in sports, games and physical activities. They are developing a sense of logic and enjoy activities they can perform independently. Gift examples include: sports equipment, models, construction sets and games requiring strategy, concentration and skill.