300 Longwood Avenue Boston, MA 02115 (617) 355-6000 My Child Has: Toddler Play Programs related to this topic Children's Hospital Primary Care Center   Young Parents Program (YPP)   Related Video: Toy Safety Claire McCarthy, MD View an interview with Claire McCarthy, MD, director of Pediatrics at the Martha Eliot Health Center on how to keep up-to-date with toy recalls, toy hazards parents should be mindful of, and what other things parents should look for when toy shopping. What can I do to help promote play in my child? While all children are different and may enjoy different toys and interactions, the following are suggestions for activities and toys for the preschooler: needs space in which to play and explore likes sandboxes, swings, and playgrounds likes to imitate others by pretending to perform adult tasks likes to play in the water What you can do as a parent: allow your child to help with chores read to your child regulate your child's television watching provide your child with a toy vacuum, pots and pans, and other housekeeping or work toys Toys for the toddler: toys that can be pushed and pulled rocking horse toys that can be ridden safely balls playground equipment shovel and bucket music toys that can help with housework, such as brooms, a vacuum, and dishes dolls puzzles The information on this website should not be taken as medical advice, which can only be given to you by your personal health care professional. Copyright © Children's Hospital Boston. All rights reserved.